Border Collie Prove-It Wins Westminster Agility Title

Prove-It the Border Collie blazed through an obstacle course in just 29.81 seconds to win the 2026 Westminster Kennel Club Masters Agility Championship, proving once again why her breed dominates this high-speed competition.

The talented athlete and her handler Amber McCune navigated tunnels, jumps, weave poles, and a seesaw without a single mistake during Saturday's finals at the 150th annual Westminster Dog Show. Their perfect performance earned them the top prize among 50 finalists competing across five different height divisions.

Border Collies now hold 10 of the 13 all-time Westminster agility titles since the event launched in 2014. The breed's natural intelligence, intensity, and nimbleness make them perfectly suited for the split-second decisions required in agility competitions.

Prove-It competed in the 20-inch height class and delivered the championship run, though she didn't quite match last year's record-breaking time of 26.49 seconds set by another Border Collie named Vanish. Still, her 29.81-second run placed her among the fastest winners in the event's history.

The competition brought together dogs of all sizes and backgrounds, each showing off their unique talents. Fan-favorite Nimble, an All-American mixed breed who won the championship in 2024, returned this year and claimed first place in the 12-inch division with a speedy 29.19-second run.

Iron Man, another All-American dog, earned special recognition as the top mixed-breed competitor after completing the course in 29.60 seconds with handler Merritt Speagle. The award highlights how dogs of any pedigree can excel in agility when they've got heart and training.

From tiny Gabby the Papillon in the 8-inch class to Gerard the Poodle in the 24-inch division, every winner showcased the remarkable bond between dogs and their handlers. These teams train for countless hours without ever seeing the course ahead of time, relying entirely on trust and communication.

Why This Inspires

Westminster's agility championship celebrates what happens when dedication meets natural talent. These handlers and dogs prove that with patience, practice, and partnership, amazing things become possible.

The event also gives back, with Westminster donating $5,000 to an AKC training club of Prove-It's choice, plus $1,000 donations honoring each height division winner and the top All-American dog.

Prove-It and Iron Man will face off in an exciting agility race at Madison Square Garden on Tuesday, giving fans another chance to watch these incredible athletes in action.