Abstract: A dog performance apparatus and method for competition trial runs has an enclosed area divided into a series of communicating passages forming an endless convoluted course that each dog must run. Distributed in series along the course are a number of obstacles the dog must traverse. The obstacles may include tunnels, jumps, apertured partitions, hurdles, A-frames, teeters, and constricting arches. A lure attached to an endless cord loop is remotely pulled along the course by a mechanism. Guides direct the lure through the course in such fashion as to encourage the dog to properly traverse the obstacles in the passage. The time the dog takes to make the run is measured.

Abstract: A track runner pacing device is provided including a running track. A pacer housing is adapted to move around the running track. A control mechanism serves to effect the movement of the pacer housing about the track at a speed calculated from a distance and time entered into the control means by a user.

Abstract: Disclosed is a substitute ground surface material comprising a granular component comprising sand and at least one of clay or silt, wherein the granular component is treated with a binder comprising an interpolymer dissolved or dispersed in a non or low aromatic oil and wherein the binder is generally fluid at the treating conditions. In a process for treating existing dirt tracks or existing synthetic tracks, an aqueous emulsion of the interpolymer/oil bind is sprayed on the existing dirt track to form the substitute ground surface in-situ.