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Photo Credit: Yumiko Hatori

Freestyle Showdown Heats Up at Hokkaido’s Legendary Bamboo Field

By The UFO | July 10, 2025

Nakamura Dominates Open Combined at Northern Japan UFO Qualifier

Naoya Nakamura and his dog Troy held firm at the Northern Japan UFO Qualifier this past weekend, claiming the overall win in the Open Combined division at the historic Bamboo Dog Field in Hokkaido. Known for its lush bamboo groves and storied past in Japan’s disc dog scene, the venue provided a striking backdrop for a weekend of high-stakes competition. While Nakamura extended his dominance in the technical rounds, the freestyle segment offered plenty of surprises, as out-of-town challengers brought flair and energy to the field.
-The Open Division Podium

Out-of-Town Challengers Shine in Freestyle Amid Heat

Takako Nakamura & Cari and Keiko Morita & Marco made the trip to Hokkaido to test their skills against the hometown favorite. Despite trailing in the Throw & Catch segment, both women delivered standout freestyle routines that captivated spectators and outscored Naoya in that portion of the competition. The soaring temperatures added an extra layer of challenge, but the competitors’ precision, athleticism, and creativity drew enthusiastic applause from the crowd. Their performances underscored the depth of talent in Japan’s disc dog scene and hinted at a rising generation ready to challenge established champions.

Bamboo Dog Field: A Historic Venue Celebrating Disc Dog Legacy

Bamboo Dog Field is more than just a competition venue—it is a symbol of Japan’s disc dog heritage. Owned by a former Japanese disc dog champion, the expansive private property has been a cornerstone of the sport for over three decades. From hosting competitions to supporting sled dog racing and lure coursing, the field has shaped generations of elite performers. For event organizer Yachi, returning to Bamboo Dog Field for the qualifier was more than logistical—it was a tribute to the sport’s heritage.— The UFO