Maryland Border Collie mix ‘Nimble’ steals the show at Westminster’s dog agility competition
In a groundbreaking achievement, Nimble, a 6-year-old Border Collie mix from Ellicott City, Maryland, has become the first mixed-breed dog to win the agility competition at the Westminster Dog Show. This historic victory comes as mixed-breed dogs were recently allowed to compete, breaking a long-standing tradition that favored purebreds. Cynthia Hornor, Nimble's trainer and owner, shared her joy over the win, highlighting the pride it brings to their home state of Maryland. The competition saw Nimble outperform 50 other dogs with a remarkable run time of 28. 76 seconds, showcasing her agility and skill.
Hornor admitted to feeling more nervous than Nimble, especially as they entered the renowned USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York. The event not only emphasizes Nimble's exceptional capabilities but also signifies a shift in the competitive landscape, welcoming mixed-breeds into the spotlight. The win is a testament to the potential of mixed-breed dogs, challenging the prevailing notion that only purebreds can excel in such competitions. As a result, Nimble’s success may inspire other mixed-breed dogs and their owners to pursue agility training and competitions in the future.