American Sighthound Field Association (ASFA)

The American Sighthound Field Association (ASFA), established in 1972, stands as the premier national organization dedicated to the promotion and advancement of the sport of lure coursing within the United States. As the first nationally recognized association of its kind, the ASFA has spent over five decades fostering an environment where sighthounds can engage in their natural instinct to hunt in a safe, humane, and controlled manner.

Core Mission and Activities

The primary mission of the ASFA is to provide a structured platform for the sport of lure coursing. Unlike traditional hunting, lure coursing utilizes a plastic bag attached to a motorized string system to simulate the movement of live game. This allows hounds to demonstrate their natural speed, endurance, agility, and follow-ability. The organization facilitates field trials across the country on most weekends, offering a community-focused experience for owners and their dogs. These events are designed to be enjoyable for the entire family while highlighting the athletic prowess of the participating breeds.

Breeds and Recognition

The ASFA is committed to the inclusion of various sighthound breeds. The association maintains a list of eligible breeds and continuously updates its standards to reflect the evolving landscape of the sport. Notably, the organization recently expanded its recognition to include the Peruvian Inca Orchid as a fully-recognized breed, demonstrating its dedication to the growth and diversity of the sighthound community.

Governance and Standards

To ensure the integrity and safety of the sport, the ASFA operates under a comprehensive set of guidelines. Key aspects of their organizational structure include:

• Rule Book and Policies: The ASFA maintains a formal rule book that governs all sanctioned trials, ensuring consistency and fairness across all events.
• Trial Management: The association provides extensive resources for clubs, including standardized entry forms, trial scheduling, and result reporting, which are updated monthly to maintain accurate records.
• Leadership: The organization is governed by a dedicated board of officers and directors who oversee regional activities, audit committees, and the overall strategic direction of the association.
• Recognition and Awards: The ASFA celebrates excellence through various programs, including the Top 20 rankings, the Hall of Fame, the Gary Forrester Award, and the Excellence in Performance Incentive Award, which honor the most accomplished hounds and participants in the field.

By participating in ASFA-sanctioned events, owners can be confident that they are engaging with a well-regulated, professional organization that prioritizes the well-being and natural abilities of their sighthounds.