Held at Broad Oak Farm, Turners Hill on 13th May 2012
The KSS did well to pick a good date – yes, the sun shone for the first time in weeks ! The Tests – great for young puppies, could have been more challenging for the ND/NH and Veterans. There were not a great number of entries so everyone went through their 4 Tests in the morning with not too much hanging around. The emphasis was on achievement and enjoyment and the 4 judges went out of their way to make sure everyone benefitted from competing, with advice and encouragement along the way.
Test 1 was a mark into water. Standing a little way back on the bank, both dog and handler had a clear view of the dummy which landed about 20 yards out.
Test 2 was a Mark in a field. Thrown in a straight line ahead and in clear view, this caused problems if the dog went to the wrong side of the wind as the dummy was not visible to the dog in the long grass and had to be scented.
Test 3 was the Obedience. Walk to heel. Stop, and handler throws the dummy ahead. Then the handler leaves the dog in a sit stay whilst collecting the dummy themselves. Turn around and walk back at heel.
Test 4 was a Mark followed by a blind in the same place. Some of the puppies were still a bit hesitant on going back for the blind. Quite capable of doing this exercise at home, some puppies feel the pressure of being at a Test in a new environment which puts them off their stride. It will all come right with a bit more experience.
After a lunch break there was a final Test for the ND/NH and the Veterans. This was a 4 dog walk up. Veterans went for the Mark in front, going from the end, right across the line of dogs and then the ND/NH went for a blind with gunshot behind placed in the middle of the line.
A great day for Trish Taylor who’s puppy, Madam Zelda, went really well first time around to win the ND/NH Trophy with full marks and only dropped the odd point the second time around to take home as the Puppy Trophy as well.
John and Gill Dawson are welcoming and accommodating hosts, going out of their way to ensure that the day runs smoothly. Experienced in the gundog world themselves they are always ready to offer help and encouragement to all.
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