As a Girl, She Dreamt of Competing in Dog Sports, Then She Met the Canine Who Made it a Reality (Exclusive)

Girl Achieves Childhood Dream of Competing in Incredible Dog Challenge

Rachel Sample, a dedicated dog lover, had a unique dream growing up – to compete in the prestigious Purina Pro Plan Incredible Dog Challenge. Her journey from a young girl with big aspirations to a talented handler in the competitive dog sports world is nothing short of inspiring.

As a child, Rachel was captivated by animal shows on TV, especially the Incredible Dog Challenge. The agility segment, in particular, sparked her passion for dog sports. Fast forward to adulthood, and Rachel’s dream became a reality as she and her border collie/whippet mix, Flynn Rider, made their mark on the competition circuit.

The Incredible Dog Challenge is an annual event that showcases the athleticism of dogs in various thrilling events like dock diving, flying disc, and agility. Now in its 28th year, the competition has become a platform for extraordinary dogs and their handlers to demonstrate their skills. Rachel’s journey, chronicled in the Amazon Prime docuseries “A Different Breed,” highlights her commitment and love for the sport.

Flynn Rider, named after the character from Tangled, possesses a unique blend of intelligence and athleticism that makes him a perfect partner for Rachel in competitions. Their bond and dedication to training have propelled them to success in events like dock diving, freestyle flying disc, and agility.

With guidance from legendary competitor Mark Faragoi, Rachel honed her skills and embraced the challenges of the Incredible Dog Challenge. Through hard work and sheer determination, she and Flynn have become regular participants in the prestigious event, captivating audiences with their dynamic performances.

For Rachel, the journey has been transformative, shaping her career as a dog trainer and performer. Her passion for dogs has led her to foster and rehabilitate countless animals in need, a fulfilling endeavour that she cherishes. The Incredible Dog Challenge has not only unlocked new opportunities but also deepened her connection with dogs and the canine community.

Beyond the thrill of competing, Rachel acknowledges Flynn’s pivotal role in her success. Describing him as a ‘once in a lifetime’ dog, she recognises his talent and unwavering support as instrumental to their achievements. Together, they have wowed audiences at NFL games and various events, showcasing their incredible bond and talent.

Rachel’s story serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring animal lovers, especially those facing challenges like autism. Her message of perseverance and self-belief resonates with anyone striving to overcome obstacles and pursue their dreams. Despite initial self-doubt, Rachel’s passion and dedication propelled her towards her goals, proving that resilience and determination can lead to extraordinary accomplishments.

As Rachel and Flynn continue to inspire audiences with their performances, their story underscores the power of passion and partnership in achieving remarkable feats. Their journey from a childhood dream to a reality showcases the transformative impact of pursuing one’s passion with unwavering dedication and belief in oneself.

To witness Rachel and Flynn’s inspiring journey and explore the world of competitive dog sports, viewers can tune in to “A Different Breed” on Amazon Prime. Join them on their adventure filled with love, dedication, and the unbreakable bond between a handler and her exceptional canine companion.