I know a local dog who could be an awesome dock diver. He’s strapping, agile and can leap doghouses in a single bound. Only one problem: He’s afraid of water. So this year, at least, he’s no threat to DockDogs competitors at the Puyallup Spring Fair (April 17-20) -- the briefer, more intimate sibling of that big fair in September.

If you’ve never seen a dock-diving competition, you’ll want to catch this. Amateur, semi-pro and pro pups sprint down a 40-foot runway and vault headlong, muscles taught and legs extended, into a 27,000-gallon pool. The exuberance and athleticism of these canine Greg Louganises will make you want to turn your back on bipedal sports forever. Thrills, fur, and no steroids: What more could a spectator want? (Coincidently enough, Louganis has gone to the dogs. He trains and breeds Harlequin Great Danes, and even wrote a book about it. Who knew?)

Big Air (like the long jump) and/or Extreme Vertical (like high jump) competitions take place every day, culminating in finals on Sunday. Water-loving amateurs are welcome to compete. Check the schedule.

Keep in mind, dogs are just one species of fun at the Puyallup Fair Grounds this week. In addition, Swifty Swine Racing Pigs, a reptile show, display gardens, lifestock demos and Cherry Cherry, a Neil Diamond tribute band, should keep most tails wagging.

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