Participating in the Leashes and Beaches K9 competition for the first time was an exhilarating experience. The event draws a crowd of enthusiastic dog lovers and competitors, creating an energetic but intimidating atmosphere. Running the course with my dog Nauti first was physically exhausting, but it was a great way to warm up and settle nerves before my turn with Ghoul. What stood out most during the competition was how crucial it is to maintain calm and focus under pressure—not only for ourselves but also for the dogs who look to us for confidence. Bite sports and other working dog competitions require rigorous training and strong teamwork. I found that practicing specific drills that simulate event scenarios helped Ghoul perform confidently despite the noise and distractions from the crowd. Also, the sense of accomplishment after hitting every target makes all the preparation worthwhile. For anyone new to dog sports or considering joining a similar event, my advice would be to prepare both physically and mentally. Familiarize your dog with various environments and people to build their focus. Practice target runs frequently, and remember that nerves are normal—embracing them can actually enhance your performance. Events like these not only test the dogs’ skills but also strengthen the bond between handler and dog. I am already looking forward to future competitions with Ghoul and Nauti and continuing to improve our teamwork and techniques.