2007 NRC - Morgan Hill, CA

2007 NRC Callbacks

2007 NRC Qualifiers

2007 National Retriever Championship Qualifiers

Qualification Requirements: A 1st place carrying five Championship points plus two additional Championship points in Open, Limited, Special, or Restricted All-Age Stakes in AKC Member or Licensed Trials in the current calendar year. Winners of the previous year’s National Championship, current year’s Canadian National, current year’s National Amateur, and the current year’s Canadian National Amateur Championship Stake are automatic qualifiers — but the last two named must be handled by an Amateur in the National.

   1. '06 NFC-AFC DR. COPPER PHD MH, LF, Wayne Dodson, Thomasville, GA
   2. FC WORLD FAMOUS MAGICAL MISCHIEF, LM, Joe and Gretchen Augustyn, Claremont, CA
   3. FC RED LABEL TRUE GRIT, LM, Danny Widner, Lake Jackson, TX
   4. FC-AFC PURE LABS SKYS THE LIMIT, LM, Pete and Donna Goodale, Eugene, OR
   5. FC-AFC LACROSSE MAX Q JAKE JH, GM, Andy Whiteley and John Gassner, Collierville, TN
   6. FC-AFC WOOD RIVER’S FRANCHISE, LM, Bill and Gay Fruehling, Ketchum, ID
   7. FC SANDMAN’S TICKET, LF, Larry and Linda Bozeman, Haughton, LA
   8. FC RUF SEA’S ANGUS, LM, Bill Bowen, Albuquerque, NM
   9. FC-AFC VOLWOOD’S PEACHES & CREAM, LF, Jack and Florence Vollstedt, Junction City, OR
  10. FC CK’S MADAM GOLDIE, LF, Marion Stroud and Clint Swingle, Elverson, PA
  11. FC-AFC CREEK ROBBER, LM, Ken Jackson, Duvall, WA
  12. PENMARK’S MIGHTY HUMVEE, LM, Penny Youngblood and Susan Spalter, Dallas, TX
  13. FC-AFC BARTON CREEK’S O MUSTAD, LM, Mike Haring and Loren Morehouse, Katy, TX
  14. FC-AFC LONGSHOT BLACK TALON, LF, Robert Willow and Paul Mocciaro, Colonia, NJ
  15. FC-AFC CROW RIVER’S COUGARS MAD MAX, LM, Roger Weller, Belgrade, MN
  16. FC TWO RIVERS LUCKY WILLIE, LM, Brady Oman and Mary Howley, Austin, TX
  17. FC TAYLORLAB DOWNTOWN DUSTY BROWN, LM, Fred Brown and Dan Heard, Overland Park, KS
  18. FC-AFC MEBA’S MS CHIEF, LF, Rob Hanssen and Claudette Klein, Webster Groves, MO
  19. FC PIKE OF CASTLEBAY, LM, Marion Stroud-Swingle, Elverson, PA
  20. FC THE TIDE RIDE, LF, Randy Whittaker, Petersburg, MI
  21. FC-AFC JAMESTOWN’S PERFECT TEN, LF, D. and K. Maronge, Slidell, LA
  22. FC-AFC CITORI’S ACCEPT NO SUBSTITUTE, LF, Michael and Lynn Moore, Carmel, CA
  23. '05 NFC-AFC CLUBMEAD’S ROAD WARRIOR, Frank Kashevarof, Woodinville, WA
  24. FC-AFC THE PREACHER MH, LM, Rex Bell, Ossining, NY
  25. SOUTHAMPTON’S WIGGLE TRACE, LM, Susan Gray, The Woodlands, TX
  26. FC-AFC GIMME FIVE MORE, LF, JM and LK DuBose, Hillsborough, NC
  27. FC NITRO’S LIVE WIRE, LM, Andrew Anderson, Sardis, MS
  28. FC-AFC RUBIE BEGONIA, LF, Barton Clark, Harrington, DE
  29. FC-AFC FREERIDIN VAMPIRE SLAYER, LF, Ted Shih, Golden, CO
  30. FC-AFC IT’S ALL OVER NOW BABY BLUE, LM, Kip Kemp, Pontotoc, MS
  31. CASTLEBAY’S NIGHT ROBBER, LM, Dave Seivert, Everly, IA
  32. FC CANDLEWOOD’S YADDADADDA DO IT, LF, John Brooks and Joan Fine, Cross Plains, WI
  33. FC-AFC-CFC-CAFC MISSION MOUNTAIN NINJA, LM, Armand Fangsrud, Missoula, MT
  34. FC-AFC CANDLEWOOD’S SOMETHING ROYAL, LF, Ken Neil and Brenda Little, Jupiter, FL
  35. FC FARGO II, LM, Jane and Jerry Patopea, Junction City, OR
  36. FC TIMBERTOWN TRIFECTA, LF, Scott Anderson, Portland, OR
  37. FC PINEHURST’S TRUE BLUE, LM, James and Debbie Hurst, Denver, IA
  38. FC BIG BUCKS BADGER, LM, Robert and Jeanne Wright, Chippewa Falls, WI
  39. FC MAD RIVER’S MAGGIE MCBUNN, LF, Mike Molthan, Palestine, TX
  40. '07 NAFC-FC GOOD IDEA’S WHOA NELLIE, LF, Ken Neil and Brenda Little, Jupiter, FL
  41. CNAFC NORTHERN DANCER II, LM, James Harvie, Pensacola, FL
  42. AFC FARGO N. DAKOTA, LM, Gary Zellner, Scio, OR
  43. FC-AFC TIGER’S GOODNESS GRACIOUS, LF, Steve and Jan Helgoth and Joel Harris, Anderson, TX
  44. FC-AFC JOEY’S ZOOM ZOOM, LM, Jim Carlisle, Ames, IA
  45. FC-AFC MIZPAH MISS, LF, Kathy Berdan, Ft Collins, CO
  46. FC-AFC WEEZER RETREEZER, LM, Robert Johnson, DeForest, WI
  47. FC JAZZTIME’S HANGING CHAD, LM, SD Bechtel Jr, San Francisco, CA
  48. FC-AFC GREAT BUNNS OF FIRE, LF, JM and LK DuBose, Durham, NC
  49. FC-AFC WINDY CITY’S SECRET SIGNAL, LF, Charlie Hines, Hinsdale, IL
  50. FC-AFC EVA-ETHEL PROBY-WEBER, LF, Alanson Brown III, Banks, AL
  51. FC TROUBLESOME HIGHSEA’S JACQUES, LM, Marion Stroud-Swingle, Elverson, PA
  52. FC FOUR LEAF’S ICE BREAKER, LM, Pete and Kelly Hayes, Colfax, WI
  53. AFC FAT CITY PACER, LM, JD Boice, Boulder, CO
  54. FC-AFC NEBO’S ONYX TORNADO, LM, Al Wilson, Logandale, NV
  55. FC EMERALD BAY’S MISS ABBYCADABRA, LF, Mayo and Julie Rude, Somerset, WI
  56. FC-AFC TRUMARC’S LEAN CUISINE, LF, Judith Aycock, Sanger, TX
  57. FC DIXIE CITY JAM II, LM, Wm and Sara Goldstein, Florence, SC
  58. ESPRIT MADE IN THE SHADE, LM, James and Geraldine Hoddy, Indian River, MI
  59. FC BLUENORTH’S DAVEY CROCKETT, LM, John and Anne Marshall, Addison, ME
  60. FC-AFC REAL SOUTHERN GENTLEMAN, LM, Mark Menzies, Charlotte, NC
  61. FC-AFC NICK OF TIME LONE RANGER, LM, Charlie Hines, Hinsdale,IL
  62. FC-AFC FREERIDIN SMOOTH OPERATOR, LF, Ted Shih, Golden, CO
  63. FC CATALINA’S PARDON ME, LM, Bradley and Diane Clow, Casper, WY
  64. FC FEN WIZARD, LM, Brian Johnston, Riverton, UT
  65. FC CAPROCKS COOL HAND LUKE, LM, Lee Smithwick, Lubbock, TX
  66. FC BEE-LINE BUTCH, LM, R. Cordell, Danville, CA
  67. FC-AFC CAROLINA’S SMOKE ON THE WATER, LM, Clint and Kay Joyner, Smithfield, NC
  68. FC WOODY CREEK’S POETIC JUSTICE, LF, Jimmy Banks, Waco, TX
  69. FC HAWKEYE’S RED WHITE AND BLUE, LM, Marion Boulton Stroud, Elverson, PA
  70. FC-AFC STEEPLE HILL RANGER, GM, Judy Rasmuson and Ron Wallace, Madison, FL
  71. FC-AFC TRUMARC’S STORMIN NORMAN II, LM, Mark Rosenblum, Celina, TX
  72. FC BLACK RIVERS BAD MEDICINE, LM, John and Anne Marshall, Addison, ME
  73. FC JUSTIN TIME MR. MOTO, LM, J Scott Anderson, Portland, OR
  74. FC-AFC HUNTERS EDGE WILLY BREAK, LM, Roy Redifer, Anchorage, AK
  75. FC-AFC SMALL CRAFT ADVISORY, LM, Gary Unger and Elizabeth Dixon, Newport, NC
  76. FC PRICE CLUB, LF, Ann Rauff, Portland OR
  77. FC-AFC BLUE EARTH’S HURRY SUNDOWN, LM, John Terraciano, Billings, MT
  78. '06 & '07 CNFC BIGGUNS BIG CHILL, LF, Kippy Stroud, Elverson, PA
  79. FC-AFC ENO RUN JAKE, LM, Brenda and Thomas Parrish, Clinton, SC
  80. SHADOWS SWEET SOMETHING, LF, Keith Dutton, Eatonton, GA
  81. CASTLEBAY’S WREN DELL, LM, Hank McNeil, Philadelphia, PA
  82. FC-AFC VOIGTS DYNA-MAXX, LF, JM and LK DuBose, Hillsborough, NC
  83. FC HARLEY’S SUPER TRIVEN MAC, LM, Ronald Stainback, Jr, Middleburg, NC
  84. FC ROCK RIVER LEICA, LF, Bruce Sampson, Smithville, MO
  85. FC RUNNIN DOWN A DREAM, LM, John Sherman, Raleigh, NC
  86. FC-AFC TRUMARC’S PUDGIE MAC, LM, Mike Kammerer and William Bowen, Montgomery, TX
  87. FC-AFC NICK OF TIME WILD WIND DUSTY, LM, C Hines III, Hinsdale, IL
  88. HARDSCRABBLE’S MOJO, LM, Toni and Freeman Boyett, Monroe, WA
  89. FC ROCKY GROVE’S ACES HIGH, SH, LM, Cynthia Williams, Lincoln, MA
  90. FC DASHWOODS SECOND CHANCE, LM, Donald Eiler, Dayton, OH
  91. FC CANDLEWOODS ROKEE ELY-JAH, LM, John and Ashley Wilson, Parkville, MO
  92. FC-AFC GREENWING BRIGHT EYES, LF, Craig Stonesifer, DVM, Dover, DE
  93. FC-AFC WORLD FAMOUS TELLIPATH, LF, Ryan Gelardi and Gary and Mary Ahlgren, Winters, CA
  94. LONGLEAF CANDLEWOODY, LM, Marshall Dunaway and Lyle Norwood, Columbus, GA
  95. COSMO’S COOKIE CUTTER, LF, Starkey Smith, DeKalb, TX
  96. WORTH IT’S PT CRUISER, LM, Vicki Worthington, Homer Glen, IL
  97. FC BUTCH’S DREAM CODE OF TCR, LM, Butch Statham, West Monroe, LA
  98. WESTSHORE GUNNER, LM, Jerald Kamphuis, West Olive, MI
  99. FC-AFC SHOOTER’S SUGAR COOKIE, LF, Joan Conover and Nick Elam, Jr DVM, Powhaten, VA
 100. FC-AFC MARSH PRAIRIE QUICK PICK, LM, Joe and Tal Broyles, Baton Rouge, LA
 101. FC-AFC JAMESTOWN’S PERFECT TEN, LF, D & K Maronge, Slidell, LA
 102. FC-AFC CROPPER’S HIT AND RUN, LM, Newt Cropper, Ocean City, MD
 103. MISS TEAL, LF, Richard Ronalter, Plainville, CT

2007 NRC Stake Info

2007 NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP STAKE INFORMATION

Dates: Sunday, November 11 to Saturday, November 17, 2007

Location: Meade Ranches, Morgan Hill, California 

Field Trial Secretary: 
Tony Snow 
PO Box 6 
Ronan MT 59864
Phone: (406) 676-5227
Cell: (206) 419-0386
Fax: (406) 676-5226
    
Entry Fee: $300.00

Judges: 
Lynne DuBose, Hillsborough NC
James Cope, Rowlett TX
Cliff Garland, Defiance MO

Information on Premium: The preferred method of entry in this trial is the Field Trial News entry system. The system can be accessed at www.rftentry.com; if you encounter problems entering your dog on this website, please contact Nicole at the News 262-278-4201.
In addition, for those who are unable to use the new system, Premiums and Owner/handler information will be mailed to the owner of each dog qualified beginning September 15, 2007 and, thereafter, will be mailed to each qualified owner immediately upon receipt of confirmation from Retriever Field Trial News of the dog’s qualification.
Handler’s packets will be available at the Holiday Inn Express, Morgan Hill, on Saturday, November 10, 2007.

Entries Close: 12:00 Noon MST Thursday, November 1, 2007 for dogs that have qualified through October 28, 2007. For entrants that must use paper entries, send paper entries to:
    Retriever Field Trial News
    PO Box 371097
    Milwaukee, WI 53237-2197

For dogs which qualify at: Metro Alliance Ret. Club, Palmetto Ret. Club, Mobile Amateur Ret. Club, Southern Arizona Ret. Club, and Tidewater Ret. Club:

The entry must be phoned to Field Trial News at 262-278-4201 no later than Noon M ST on Monday, November 5, 2007. They may also be entered electronically via the method described above. For entrants using paper forms, these forms must be given to the Secretary prior to running the National Championship Stake.

Do not send entries by method that requires signature

NRC Officers

President:                           Kirk Naisbitt, Reno, NV
Vice President:                   Mike Kammerer, Montgomery TX 
Secretary/Treasurer:           Tony Snow, Ronan, MT
Zone Representatives:
       William Goldstein      Gary Ahlgren       Lee Jolley
       Florence SC              Winters CA         Lafayette LA

Field Trial Committee:
Chairman:   Gary Ahlgren
                    28968 County Road 26
                    Winters CA 95694-9027
                    (530) 662-1264 (H)
                    (916) 837-9324 (C)
               
Members:   William Goldstein     Tony Snow
                   Lee Jolley                 Gary Zellner
                   Bill Kolstad    
                                             
Headquarters:   Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites
                         David Dworkin, Mgr
                         17035 Condit Rd
                         Morgan Hill, CA 95037
                         Toll Free (877) 776-7670
                         www.hiexpress-morganhill.com
**A block of rooms has been reserved for the National Retriever Club from November 5th, through November 17, 2007. These rooms will be held at the NRC discounted rate until October 16, 2007. Any rooms that have not been guaranteed with a guest’s credit card will no longer be held after October 16, 2007.
**Room Rate: $79.00 plus applicable taxes, per night, for single or double occupancy

Additonal Motels:
Best Western Country Inn
16525 Condit Rd
Morgan Hill CA 95037
408-779-0447

Comfort Inn
16225 Condit Rd
Mogan Hill CA 95037
408-782-3400

Ramada Limited
360 Leavesley Rd
Gilroy CA 95021
408-848-1467

Microtel Inn & Suites
16245 Condit Rd
Morgan Hill CA 95037
408-782-5000

Morgan Hill Inn
16250 Monterey Rd
Morgan Hill CA 95037
408-779-1900

Many others in the area

Campgrounds:
Maple Leaf RV Park
15200 Monterey Rd
Morgan Hill CA 95037
408-776-1818

Thousand Trails
12895 Uvas Rd
Morgan Hill CA 95037
408-779-6396          

COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS
     
Marshals Committee:
Chief Marshal -- Gary Zellner                        
39300 Montgomery Dr                              
Scio OR 97374                                        
(503) 394-2139 (home)                                                              

Co-Marshal -- Bill Kolstad
1314 South Magnolia Ave
Ontario CA 91762
(503) 393-0955 (cell)

Gunners:                                                                       Hostess Committee:
Chair -- Dick Fenner                                                           Chair -- Robin Gulvin
             Fairfield CA                                                                         Modesto CA
             (707) 422-3022                                                                   (209) 572-4772
Co-Chair -- Ron Foley                                          
                   Auburn CA
                  (530) 569-3314


Traffic Committee:
Chair -- Shawnee Bassett                          Co-Chair -- Christy Gonzales
             Gustine CA                                                       Gilroy CA
             (775) 750-50656
           

Bird Throwers Committee:
Chair -- Chester Koeth                                        Co-Chair -- Mike Bassett
             Montrose CA                                                             Gustine CA
             (818) 249-0381                                                         (209) 854-6565
           
Corporate Sponsors Liaison:
Dennis Bath
600 South McKinley Dr.
Belleville IL 62220
(618) 233-5619 (home)
(618) 426-9044 (farm)

Merchandising Committee:                                    Grounds Committee:
Merchandise Purchaser -- Ginger Cope                              Chair -- Larry Mike Smith
                                           Rowlett TX                                             Sparks NV
Merchandise Sales -- Charlene Koeth                                              (775) 425-4838
                                   Montrose CA                                    Co-Chair -- Julie Cole
                                   (818) 249-0381                                                    Yuba City CA
                                   Meg Beck                                                             (530) 674-9465
                                   Pebble Beach CA


Game Stewards Committee:
Chair -- Bill Daley                             Co-Chair -- Barry Cruikshank
            Torrance CA                                         Livermore CA
            (310) 532-4075
           

Special Committee:
    Steve F Bechtel Jr                 Gary Bechtel               Don Shaw                 Jeff Torrey             Suzie Torrey
    San Francisco CA                 Morgin Hill CA             Gustine CA               Morgin Hill CA        Morgin Hill CA

Announcer:
Dean Ellis
Meridian ID
   
Training Areas
Training areas will be allocated each day by lottery drawing starting Tuesday evening, November 6, 2007 through Friday evening, November 9, 2007. The drawing will take place in the Holiday Inn Express Lobby at 6 PM.

A list of training areas with descriptions and photos of each will be available along with maps, directions and rules and regulations pertinent to each area.


Bird Supplier:                                               Food Wagon:
Northwest Game Birds                                   Food will be available on the grounds each day.
Jerry and Linda Collingham                                                
Caldwell ID                                      
208-454-8282                                         
208-454-8270 (fax)
                                                                                                       
Official Veterinarians:
Lori Kayashima, DVM and Richard McCormick, DVM
Orchard Veterinary Hospital
1205 1st St
Gilroy, CA 95020
408-842-1333
www.orchardvethosp.com

Official Reporter:                                 Official Photographer:
Jean Wu                                                     Roger Byrd
Prescott AZ                                                Whitehourse TX
(928) 899-1996                                          (903) 714-8949

Bitch Check :
Bitch check will be conducted on Saturday November 10, 2007, after the National Retriever Club annual meeting in the parking lot of the Holiday Inn Express.

Contestant and Workers Packets:

Contestant Packets and Workers Packets can be picked up at the Holiday Inn Express Saturday morning, November 10, 2007 at 10 PM.

Schedule of Meetings & Social Activities:

NRC Board Meeting: Saturday, November 10, 2007 at 9 AM at the Holiday Inn Express in Morgan Hill.

Retriever Advisory Committee (RAC) Meeting: Saturday, November 10, 2007, at 2 PM at the Holiday Inn Express.

General Meeting: Saturday, November 10, 2007 at 3 PM. Following RAC meeting.

Cocktail Party: Saturday, November 10, 2007, 6 PM at the Holiday Inn Express, in Morgan Hill. Cocktail attire for women, Jackets for men.

Workers Party: Wednesday, November 14, 2007 -- 6:30 PM.

Shipments to Ranch: Address to:
Suzie Torrey, Meade Ranch Manager
17410 Uvas Road
Morgan Hill, CA 95037
       

Saturday, November 10, 2007

Saturday is a time for socializing, last minute training and attending the meeting of the Retriever Advisory Committee and the National Members. This will be a brief overview of what was discussed. The full report will be in the January issue of the Retriever Field Trial News.

The RAC was called to order at 1:05 pm by President Nelson Sills. Attending were Lisa Carroll, Jerry Mann, and Bill Daley. They reiterated the changes that were discussed in spring. This included quality of judging, movement of guns, and poison bird blinds, and Canadian dogs in AKC stakes. There are several amendments to existing rules. Ballots will be distributed to the clubs and must be returned by end of January 2008.

Lisa Carroll reminded delegates that clubs must submit 2 copies of their premium to the AKC prior to their stake. If not, there would be a fine. This year the fine may be waived, but next year it won't.

Due to a question concerning fee increases for recording and event service fees, the following was announced:
AKC has voted (unanimously) to maintain the current Recording Fee for all sports and increase all Event Service Fees from $1.50 per first entry to $3.00 for each applicable sport. Additional entries of the same dog will be increased to $3.00 Recording and/or Event Service Fee as applicable in all AKC licensed and member events held after January 1, 2008, with the exception of Field Trials and Hunting Tests. For Field Trials and Hunting Tests, the Event Service fee for additional entries of the same dogs is to be $1.50, effective January 1, 2008 and $3.00 effective January 1, 2009.

With that, the meeting adjourned at 1:25 pm.

There was a half hour before the annual National membership meeting. During this time, people socialized, caught up on news, and speculated about the upcoming stake. At 2:05 pm, President Kirk Naisbitt called the meeting to order. Officers also present were Gary Ahlgren, Bill Goldstein, Tony Snow, Lee Jolley, and Mike Kammerer. Kirk requested that a moment of silenced be observed for those who are no longer with us.

Tony Snow reported that there was a quorum present. Motions were made to accept the minutes and the Treasurer's report, as copies had been passed out prior to the meeting. There was no old business and no new business. Dennis Bath, the sponsor liaison, then awarded plaques to all the sponsors and explained what all had donated. He also gave a brief description of the new RFTEntry service and how it can benefit clubs and members alike.

Then Tony explained that Dennis was retiring and that he would switch positions with Mark Rosenblum, who would be the new Editor-In-Chief as of January 1, 2008. After, he announced that Mary Knapp was also retiring. Dennis presented Mary with a gorgeous bronze lab statue sitting on green polished granite base with a plaque. In turn, Mary and new Managing Editor Nicole Hahn, presented Dennis with a designer garden bench with sculptured ducks and a plaque.

Mary Knapp & Dennis Bath

The 2008 slate of officers was then announced by Tony. It included President Mike Kammerer, Vice President Bill Goldstein, Secretary/Treasurer Tony Snow, and Zone Representatives Lee Jolley and Gary Ahlgren. Bill Totten, president of the PRTA, announced that seven clubs had applied for land improvement grants. They were all accepted and approved. In 2007, 3 clubs will receive the grants. They are Port Arthur, Lincoln Trail, and Jacksonville. In 2008, Red River, Wisconsin Amateur, and Manitowoc will be the 3 recipients of grants. In 2009, Minnesota Iron Range will be one of the recipients, with the other two yet to be announced. He also mentioned that the PRTA will host 8 field trials in 2008.

Mike Kammerer, field trial chairman for the 2008 stake, announced that the stake would take place from November 9-15 in Montgomery Texas. The land consists of rolling pastures, tree stands, and small to medium ponds. Headquarters would be the same as 4 years ago. The judges will be Jane Paul, Charles Hayden, and Gary Zellner.

The current stake test dogs were announced as Dual AFC CH Genny's Yakity Yak Don't Talk Back, ChesF, handled by Linda Harger and FC Inherit the River, LM, handled by Rob Reuter. The current judges were introduced and included Jim Cope, Lynne DuBose, and Cliff Garland. Next, a unique starting number selection was held. 90 key chain dummies were spilled onto the floor and 2 very eager little puppies were encouraged to pick one up. Each dummy bore a dog's number. After a couple unsuccessful retrieves, one finally returned with the lucky winner's number. The starting dog would be number 88, FC-AFC Shooter's Sugar Cookie, handled by David Jensen.

And the winner is...#88

The first series would be a land double and a blind. Test dogs would start at 7:15 am with the first running dog on line at 8:00 am. Several other announcements ensued and committee meetings were to be held after the meeting. At 2:40 pm, the meeting was adjourned, leaving people time to visit, shop, and get ready for the Cocktail Party at 6:00 pm.

Sunday, November 11, 2007

The morning arrived cool and calm after an evening of light rain. After breaking day, the handlers were greeted with overcast skies and a cool 56 degrees. The wind was from the NW up to 10 mph. At 7:09 am announcer Dean Ellis welcomed everyone to the trial and wished the best to all. It was announced the first test dog would run at 7:15am.

Test 1

The 1st test was a double with a blind.  The line was on a rise facing to the North.  The right hand dead bird was a pheasant hen thrown from right to left (225 yards) along the down slope of the hill into a small dry, rocky creek-bed. The guns retired behind a tree and a small hillside.  The pheasant hen flyer to the left was thrown right to left 120 yards from the line. After the dogs picked up the two marks, they ran a blind between the marks and off the back side of the flyer. The blind (hen pheasant) was planted in front of a rock pile (263 yards). 

At 7:15 Test Dog #1, “Yakity” (CF) came to the line.  She recovered both marks without a handle and picked up the blind. Test Dog #2, “Cutter” then came to the line.  He recovered the flyer and handled on the right hand bird then picked up the blind. Dean then announced that the first running dog, #88, should report to the first holding blind at 7:50am. At 7:52am dog #88 was called to the line. The weather conditions have remained fairly consistent with clouds moving in and out and the wind up to 12 mph.  

The Gallery

As of 11:00 am PDT, 32 dogs have completed the test of which 6 have handled. The majority of the dogs are doing very well on the flyer. The right hand bird has seen work from a pin to large hunt to handles. The afternoon brought forth more consistent winds. The sun had an effect on visibility in the late afternoon. Handler visibility caused a few to work extra hard at completing the blind. At 5:15pm dog #84 completed the series. The judges called it a day as visibility could have become a problem. There are 3 dogs left to run, dogs 85, 86 and 87. There will be 1 test dog run in the morning at 7:00 am with the running dogs to follow. At the end of the day, 87 dogs have run, 23 have handled and 2 have picked up.

See you tomorrow!

Monday, November 12, 2007

Conclusion of 1st & 2nd Series 

The morning arrived a brisk 38 degrees but with sun overhead and calm winds.  Test dog “Cutter” handled by Rob Reuter ran to test at 7:00 am sharp.  Dogs 85, 86 and 87 followed shortly thereafter and the first two series of the 2007 National are in the books by 7:30 am.  Call Backs came quickly and announcer Dean Ellis called out 83 numbers.

Those not called back are dog #’s 6, 15, 29, 44, 55, 58 and 61.

Marshals: Janice Olson, Lorna Kolstad and Lynn Moore.

Linda Erwin and Dean Ellis reviewing the callbacks.

3rd Series – Triple

The 3rd Series was set up very quickly as the line from the preceding series was turned 180 degrees facing the south. The long center hen mallard (first bird down) is 240 yards from the line towards the south east and is thrown right to left.  The line to the bird is down the hill, across land into a pond with the bird lying on the side of the levy.  The gunners are retiring behind the levy. The second bird down is to the left of the center bird thrown left to right 185 yards from the line.  The hen pheasant lands in a ditch where the gunners retire.  The line to the bird is down the hill across the corner of a pond and on to the ditch.  The hen mallard flyer, off to the right of the center bird is thrown right to left 155 yards from the line.  The dogs go down the hill across another hill to the bird. 

                                                                                   Left 

Middle

Flyer

The first test dog, (LM) picked up all three birds and ran at 8:00 am.  The second test dog (CF) also picked up all three birds cleanly.  The first dog #20, FC AFC Meba’s Ms Chief  was called to the line at 8:10 am.  It is taking around 8 minutes per dog.

This series is definitely challenging.  As of noon, 31 dogs have run-some very stellar work and others with handles.  The left hand bird seems to be giving the dogs the most trouble.  Eleven (11) dogs have handles, of which 3 are double handles.

The judges called it a day with the running of dog #3 at 4:20 pm.  Out of the 69 dogs that have run, 28 have handled, 6 of the handles were double handles and there was 1 pickup.  There are 14 dogs left to run in the morning starting at 7:00am with 1 test dog.

Tuesday, November 12, 2007

Conclusion of Series 3

Test dog Inherit The River (LM), ran the test at 7:00 am sharp. The weather is beautiful today, scattered clouds with the winds out the NNW at 0-8 mph. Temperatures early this morning were in the mid 40's but it is warming up nicely. We are looking for high's in the mid to hi 60's for the day with plenty of sunshine mixed in.

Linda Harger and test dog Yakity

Dog #4 was the first on line and received a no bird. He was to come back in 6 dogs. The remaining dogs ran the 3rd Series and finished the test at 9:00am this morning. Of the 14 dogs that ran, 6 dogs handled. After running the last dog of this series, Dog #19, the trial moved in a caravan to the site for test 4. It was announced that call backs would be given at the next site prior to running the test dogs.

After moving about a mile over the hill, Dean Ellis announced the call backs. He read off 70 numbers. Those not included were dogs # 3, 21, 30, 32, 57, 66, 69, 70, 78, 84, 88, 89, & 90. Test dog #1 was called to the line for Series 4, a Water Blind. 

Series 4 - Water Blind

Test 4 - Long View

 Test 4 - Close Up

Test 4 is a Water Blind. The line is on the hillside looking towards the south. The dog goes down the hill, over a road about 20 yards from the line, through a dry runoff creek and into the first small water. After swimming the water, he has to go over the dam, back into the water, over the grassy point, back into the water, across and out of the water up the hill to a large rock. The hen mallard is lying on the right side of the rock. The blind is around 235 yards long. The first test dog ran a very nice blind, and both test dogs successfully got the bird. Dog #43 will start the 4th Series.

The handlers check out Test 4

There was some very good dog work as well as tremendous handling jobs.  The test concluded at 3:00 pm today with only one pickup.  At 6:20pm this evening, the judges posted the call backs with 60 dogs on the list.  Those not on the list were dog #’s 10, 22, 27, 36, 37, 39, 56, 64, 80, & 82.  Series 5 test dogs will run at 7:00am on Wednesday morning.  The first competing dog to run is dog number 65, FC AFC Barton Creek’s O Mustad. 

Everyone disbursed from headquarters for dinner and a well deserved good nights rest.

Wednesday, November 13, 2007

Test 5 – Land Quad with Honor

We all woke up to a little bit of California fog this morning.  The temperatures are in the low to mid 50’s and the winds are calm. 

Judges

As we waited on the hillside for the fog to rise, looking to the North, four gun stations appeared on the far hillside.  Today’s challenge will be a land quad with two flyers, a rooster pheasant and a drake mallard. As the visibility increased, so did the excitement in the crowd. The first test dog, Inherit the River, was called to the line.

Long Retired (left) and Short Retired (right)

The long retired gun to the right is 395 yards from the line and is the first bird down. The guns are standing on the right side of a run off creek in front of a small grove of trees where the hen mallard is thrown across the run off ditch right to left on the edge of a large rock pile with the guns retiring in the trees. (This first bird was originally a hen pheasant, but was changed to a hen mallard after the test dogs ran.) The second bird down in down the creek from the long bird, 295 yards from the line. The guns are standing on the right side of the creek and throwing the hen pheasant 45 degrees back left to right, then retiring in the creek bed. The third bird down is a rooster pheasant flyer to the left of the retired guns 135 yards from the line. The flyer is thrown left to right and land on a slight hillside. The last bird down is a drake mallard flyer off to the left of the pheasant flyer and is thrown left to right 200 yards from the line.  The bird lands up the hill and on the side of the hill. 

The first test dog handled on the rooster flyer and the two retired guns. Yakity, the second test dog, picked up all four birds without a handle.  At 8:05 am, the first running dog was called to the line. It appears it will take between 7 and 9 minutes per dog to run this test.

To get you all up to date on where we stand as of this morning, here’s how the competition is stacking up:

#2 Boone            Handled on the center bird in the 3rd Series
#8 Sugar              Handled on the center bird in the 3rd Series
#11 Gus               Handled on the left hand bird in the 3rd Series
#12 Dusty          Handled on the memory bird in the 1st Series
#13 Banner       Handled on the memory bird in the 1st Series
#14 Streak         Handled on the left hand bird in the 3rd Series
#19 Chad            Handled on the center bird in the 3rd Series
#20 Megan        Handled on the center bird in the 3rd Series
#26 Charlie       Handled on the memory bird in the 1st Series
#31 Willie          Handled on the center bird in the 3rd Series
#33 Norman     Handled on the center bird in the 3rd Series
#35 Davey         Handled on the left hand bird in the 3rd Series
#43 Cutter        Handled on the memory bird in the 1st Series
#47 Cody           Handled on the memory bird in the 1st Series
#49 Brook         Handled on the center bird in the 3rd Series
#50 Trace          Handled on the memory bird in the 1st Series
#51 Dakota      Handled on the memory bird in the 1st Series
#53 Tide             Handled on the center bird in the 3rd Series
#71 Yadda         Handled on the left hand bird in the 3rd Series
#74 Gunner      Handled on the left hand bird in the 3rd Series
#75 Blue             Handled on the left hand bird in the 3rd Series
#79 Ely                Handled on the center bird in the 3rd Series
#83 Twister      Handled on the left hand bird in the 3rd Series

By 10:00 am this morning, the sun has warmed the valley and the breeze is stirring out of the NW. Eleven dogs have run the test so far. Number 71 has had two no birds and 83 just had a no bird. Dogs number 67 and 68 had double handles, and 73, 74, 75, and 76 handled as well.

The large space between the retired guns and the flyers is very inviting and the dogs are going between the flyers and the retired guns. If they keep driving up the hill, they appear to be getting lost and thus the handles. So far, the weather hasn’t had much effect on the marks, but the wind is starting to pick up.

The folks at Swing Time Café have been here to feed the hungry crew. Breakfast and lunch are being served daily and they always have a smile on their faces and are eager to cure any hunger pains. Stop by the wagon and check it out! The food is great!

The volunteer fire department from Uvas is on site daily to see to any fire and medical emergencies. They are ready to go if they are needed.

Update - 1:30 pm (PST)

The breeze is increasing slightly out of the NW. It isn't quite a wind yet, but it is helping keep the heat down. The dogs need quite a bit of courage and perseverance to finish out this test. They are running an average of 5 dogs an hour. As of noon time, 22 dogs have completed the test. Handles on the long retired guns came from dogs 87, 5, and 7. Dogs 83 and 1 handled on the short retired gun and number 8 handled on the pheasant flyer. The flyers are both being thrown with the wind so they are long and very enticing. Let’s see how the rest of the field fairs through the rest of the day. It is thought this test will not finish today and will run into tomorrow.

The gallery has really increased today. It seems the interest is growing every day. Those coming early are getting front row seats.

Update - 4:00 pm (PST)

It appears that the terrain is the toughest factor on the long bird. Winds are only 2-4 mph, so are not a real factor.

In my opinion, dogs number 23 and 35 did an excellent job in the 5th series. Dogs 12, 38, and 40 handled on the long bird; Dog 24 handled on the short bird; and dog 7 handled on the pheasant flyer. Unfortunately, dog 13 broke on the pheasant flyer and dog 17 had to pick up.

Update - 6:45 pm (PST)

Nine more dogs ran this afternoon before the evening set in. Of the last nine dogs to run today, one, # 48, had a double handle. The last running dog of the day was #49. 10 more dogs are left to run the 5th Series tomorrow morning. The test dog is scheduled to run at 7:00am.

Everyone has left the grounds and is looking forward to the Worker's Party this evening.

Worker's Party

The Worker's Party was held at Headquarters Wednesday evening. As usual, the Hostess Committee, chaired by Robin Gulvin, planned a great evening for those who have contributed their time and effort into making this National great. The buffet had a plentiful affair with salads, fruit, vegetables, chicken and beef. There was live music in the background for all to enjoy. After the meal, Field Trial Chairman, Gary Ahlgren thanked everyone for their help and then started the raffle. Several prizes from Tri-Tronics, Dogtra, Purina, Eukanuba and Brenda Little were raffled off. Dessert of ice cream and pie was served as the band sang Happy Birthday to Glenda Brown. The photographer was on sight to take pictures of all the committees and their members. A good time was had by all.

Good night!!

Chester Koeth, co-chairman of the Throwers Committee, hard at work

Thursday, November 15, 2007

Conclusion of Test 5

The test dogs reported to the line at 7:00 am, but due to the weather conditions (a little bit of fog then sunshine), the first running dog, #50, did not run until 7:45 am. The final ten dogs for series 5 finished the test at 9:30am. Of the ten, 3 dogs handled. These were dogs 47, 53, and 59 handled.

After the last dog ran, everyone caravanned to the next test site for Series 6, a water blind. After all had arrived and parked on top of a hill, Dean Ellis announced the callbacks from the 5th Series.  He read off 42 numbers. The unfortunate 18 dogs that he did not call were 8, 9, 12, 13, 17, 24, 26, 38, 47, 48, 53, 54, 59, 67, 68, 74, 75, or 83. Of the 42 dogs remaining, one lucky one will be crowned the 2007 NATIONAL CHAMPION.

Series 6 – Water Blind

The 6th Series is a water blind, where the line is on top of a hill looking towards the North.  At the bottom of the hill is a road for the dogs to cross. After crossing the road, the dog must cross an open grassy area and enter a pond to the right of a downed log. After entering the water, the line to the hen mallard takes them skimming a point to the right of the tule clump. Angling across the pond to the left side, you swim along the reeds then exit the pond. About half way up the hill is a small log and beside it lies the duck 330 yards from the line.

View from the line 

Close up view

The wind is blowing out of the NW between 4-9 mph, which would make the wind coming across from left to right of the line.  It is estimated 10 dogs can be run an hour. Therefore, Series 6 should conclude around 2:30 pm PST today. 

Bob Reuter and test dog Cutter

Mac DuBose & Scotty Seward watch the Test Dog

Due to the visibility from the gallery, we will spend some time in the gallery and with the contestants to get some perspective on the trial.

Update - 12:40 pm (PST)

Dog 49 is coming to the line, which is the 20th dog to run this blind. The first running dog was dog 11. It is taking a little more time than estimated. The wind is picking up a bit to 10 mph and is shifting a little more to the North. The wind doesn’t seem to be having much effect on the working dogs. All of the dogs have picked up the blind so far, so we’ll just have to wait and see what happens.

Ken Neil in the last "holding blind," 
uncomfortably close to the facilities. 

Ginger Cope, marshalling the first holding blind.

In roaming through the gallery this morning, there is a distinctly diversified prospective of the trial. Some of the folks here said they have been coming to the Nationals for over 500 years! Well, a big exaggeration I’m sure, but the point being, he’s been present at a lot of the trials over the years and has seen the sport grow and grow. I also met a very nice young lady who has never been to a retriever trial. She has a hunting, dog but has never observed the work of dogs and handles to this caliber. She was in utter amazement and could hardly believe her eyes.

Professional trainers in the gallery were pleasantly surprised at the challenges of the tests, bird placement and terrain for this trial. The dogs and handlers must put forth their best efforts as a team in order to meet the challenge of these well thought out marking tests and blinds. This is the first time this location has been used for a National trial. The change in scenery is welcome and, almost all agree, they get their daily cardio workout just walking up and down the hills!

Here are some photos of the gallery as they watch the 6th Series:

Some of the visitors here at Mead Ranch are just here to see one of their favorite dogs competing at such a high level. Folks are in awe just watching the tremendous work the dogs and handlers are putting forth to meet the challenging requirements to finish a test.

For me, this is my first National stake that I have had the privilege of attending. The work, coordination, and herd of volunteers working together to make the trial run smooth is incredible. Watching all the dogs I have read about over the past few years and seeing people from other parts of the country has been an extremely rewarding experience for me. It makes all the hard work of training, running trials, throwing birds and planting blinds all the more worth it.

Brenda Little, of Lucky Lab Pins, with her wares. 

Dogtra banner, National Sponsor.

Rumor has it that the 7th Series will be a land blind in a new locations. Guess we'll just have wait and see!

Update - 4:00 pm (PST)

Series 6 water blind finished at 3:00pm today.  The test for Series 7 is a Land Blind with a Dry Pop. After moving just over the hill to the new location, Dean Ellis announced the call backs; 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, 14, 16, 18, 19, 20, 23, 25, 28, 31, 33, 34, 35, 40, 41, 42, 43, 46, 49, 50, 51, 60, 62, 63, 65, 71, 72, 73, 76, 77, 81, 85, 86, and 87. These thirty-eight (38) dogs are on to the next series. The four dogs dropped were numbers 7, 45, 52, and 79.

Series 7 - Land Blind with a Dry Pop

Series 7 is a land blind with a dry pop.  The dog is being called to the line and signaling the judge for the dry pop.  After the dry pop, the judge gives the number and you are free to run the blind. The blind is 310 yards from the line and in order to pick up the bird the dog must first go down the hill across a smaller hill, through the tree entrance and up the side hill which has rolling hills. The grade on the side hill is very steep and both dog and handler must work very hard to stay on the up hill side. The wind is pretty consistent at 4-9 mph and is blowing left to right across the test.

In the photo, the arrow in the upper left hand corner indicates the wind direction. The little white square in the photo marks the origin of the dry pop. The 1st test dog, Cutter, was called to the line at 3:30. He did a nice job and picked up the bird. The 2nd test dog, Yakity, came to the line and she did a very nice job on the blind as well. The first dog to run is dog 23, FC-AFC Small Craft Advisory, handled by Gary Unger.

It is a challenge just getting to the line from the parking lot. The dog and their handlers climb a steep hill around 300 yards before they even get to the first holding blind. Nine dogs have run in the last 30 minutes as the test is running very quick. We have roughly an hour of running time left in the day, so it appears this test will finish in the morning.

Contestants walk to the line on the 7th Series

Have a great evening and we’ll see you in the morning!

Friday, November 16, 2007

Conclusion of Series 7

Dog 20 ran the land blind at 8:00am this morning, concluding test 7. Everyone caravanned back to the top of the hill from yesterday 6thSeries. At 8:15am Dean Ellis announced the call backs. Dogs 1, 5, 14, 16, 19, 20, 23, 25, 28, 31, 33, 34, 35, 40, 41, 42, 46, 49, 60, 63, 65, 71, 72, 73, 86, & 87 were invited to run the 8th Series.  Unfortunately 12 dogs were dropped. These were dogs 2, 4, 11, 18, 43, 50, 51, 62, 76, 77, 81 & 85.

Series 8 – Land/Water Quad with Honor

Series 8 is a land and water quad with 2 retired guns. Test dog Yakity handled on the right retired gun and the long flyer. The judges were contemplating changing to a triple and had test dog Cutter run the triple. He completed the test without a handle. In the end, the judges decided to keep the quad and dog #35, FC Bluenorth’s Davey Crockett came to the line.

This is a beautiful test set in the valley with two pieces of water. It is a cool morning here in Northern California with the breeze a bit variable. The green arrows indicate the varying direction of the wind. It is overcast this morning which should help keep the dogs cool as they run this very intense and lengthy set of marks.

Left Retired Gun, Center Flyer Station, Right Retired Gun

Short 4th bird (to left of other marks)

The line for this test is on a hillside overlooking a valley with a tree topped hill in the distance. The first bird down on the right is a mallard hen. The bird is being thrown right to left across the front corner of the small pond. The bird is landing on a grassy clump towards the edge of the water. This mark is 270 yards from the line and the guns retire to a holding blind well camouflaged amongst the trees. The second bird down, a mallard drake, on the left and 200 yards from the line, is thrown on the long spit in the large pond left to right in the medium height grass. These guns are retiring behind the spit and are well blended with the environment. The center bird is a flyer thrown next and is a drake mallard thrown left to right. It is 340 yards from the line. The 4th and final bird down is a short 70 yards from the line off to the right of the three other marks. The guns are sitting in a rolling ravine where they can be seen from the line when they are standing to throw. This short bird is being thrown up the hillside left to right and is a rooster pheasant.

The first few dogs have run the test. After picking up the short rooster pheasant, they are picking up the left hand bird on the spit. The line to this bird is almost directly at the flyer station sitting out on the hillside. In order to pick up the right hand retired bird, the dogs must run off the back side of the short gun. The terrain to this bird is a downward run to the left edge of the pond. Some have climbed up the hill on the right behind the hidden guns, but they are figuring out the mark and getting into the water to make the retrieve without a handle. The cover where the center flyer falls is thicker and taller than we have seen throughout the trial.  We have seen some hunts for this bird and the dogs are coming up with the duck.

It is anticipated this test will conclude between 2:00 – 3:00 this afternoon and the next test will get started today. Let’s see how it goes from here!

Update - Noon (PST)

The wind is changing and is now blowing from the North. The previous wind was blowing the scent of the right retired bird across the pond from left to right. With the wind change, the scent is being blown straight back along the left edge of the pond. Fourteen dogs have run the test and the right retired bird appears to be giving the dogs the most trouble. The dogs are staying right of the pond on the side where the holding blind is, putting up a hunt and finding their way across the pond to the bird. A couple of dogs are going for the left retired bird on the spit and are wide of the spit on the line to the flyer. They wind the spit bird, turn left and find the bird. Dogs that are sent for the flyer are wide right and are putting up quite a hunt to find the bird or they drive too deep between the flyer and right retired bird requiring assistance from the handlers. The sun is starting to appear with the clouds moving out.  We’ll have to wait and see the effect it has on the marks.

Of the 14 dogs that have run, #42 handled on the right retired bird, sadly #60 was picked up, #65 handled on the right retired bird, and two handled on the flyer. This test is taking longer than expected with a few no birds on the right retired mark. If the mark hits the water, the judges are calling a no bird on that mark.

For those of you who don’t think this is an emotional sport, I can tell you not only is it exciting for the handlers and dog owners, it is just exciting for those watching these wonderful animals with their handlers run. Today, I think my heart stopped when I watched a dog pick up all four marks in the 8th series about as perfect as you can get. Even the gasp in the gallery was full of emotion and awe.  

Update - 4:00 pm (PST) 

The 8th series finished at 3:30pm with the running of dog #34. We caravanned through the 8th series test to the next valley for the 9th Series, a Land/Water quad with two flyers. Dean Ellis announced the call backs for the, starting with 5, 14, 16, 20, 23, 28, 33, 34, 35, 40, 41, 36, 49, 63, 72, & 86.  Sixteen dogs will run the 9th series. Unfortunately, 10 dogs did not get called back, 1, 19, 25, 31, 42, 60, 65, 71, 73, & 87. The first running dog will be dog 72, FC-AFC Joey’s Zoom Zoom.

Series 9 – Water/Land Quad with 2 Flyers

The line for the 9th is on a small hill overlooking a valley with a large pond approximately 300 yards away from the line. Through the pond and on a dike, the first bird down, a hen mallard, is thrown left to right on the back side of the dike. The guns retire behind the dike and are completely out of the site. The dogs have to go down the hill across the long downward slope to the pond, across the pond and to the bird which is 385 yards. The gun station for the second bird is on the left side of the line and on the left side of a dry ditch which runs through the test to the pond. The terrain is steep and rolling with moderate cover. The second bird, a hen pheasant, is thrown into the ditch from left to right, 200 yards from the line. After all the birds are down, the guns from this station sit with the guns from the rooster flyer station.  The rooster flyer station is position to the left of the hen pheasant station and is the 3rd bird down.  The bird lands up the hill to the left of the guns 190 yards from the line. The last bird is to the right side of the line and is positioned on the right side of a meandering road. The hen mallard lands on the right side of the road 230 yards from the line. The wind is light and blowing left to right across the test. (Wind direction is noted with a green arrow in the photograph).

Test 9

Test dog, Cutter, was the first test dog to run at 3:50 pm. He handled on the duck flyer, and the long center retired gun but picked up the other two birds cleanly. Test dog, Yakity did a very nice job on all four marks. At 4:00pm, the first running dog, 72, was called to the line.  Due to the late hour of the day, only five dogs were able to run the test. The first two running dogs completed the test, as did the last two dogs that ran today. Dog #5 retrieved the marks by handling on two birds. The final dog to run today was 16 so the first dog to run in the morning will be dog 20. Test dogs will be called to the line at 7:00 am sharp.

Everyone left for dinner and good nights rest, well for the most of us anyway.  There are 16 handlers thinking about tomorrow. Good night and we are all looking forward to Saturday!

Saturday, November 17, 2007

Conclusion of Series 9

The test dog was called to the line promptly at 7:00 am.  FC AFC World Famous Tellipath, handled by Mary Williams-Ahlgren picked up all 4 marks without a handle.  The first running dog was dog 20.  The remaining 11 dogs concluded test nine around 9:30 this morning.  We were told to stay at the site of test 9 to wait for the call backs.  Dean Ellis announced 12 dogs will via for the 2007 National Championship title.  Dogs call back are 14, 16, 20, 28, 33, 35, 41, 46, 49, 63, 72, and 86. Those dropped were 5, 23, 34, and 40. The first dog to run the 10th series will be dog #33. Dean asked everyone to caravan to the site for the 10th series except the remaining competitors. As we left, 12 dogs and their handlers waited for their new instructions.  

Series 10 - Land/Water Quad with Three Flyers

As we arrived at the new site for the final series on this championship, gun stations were in the field and ready to go. The remaining contestants were the last to arrive at the new site and, when they did, they drove through the gallery to loud cheers and good wishes. After Dean congratulated and thanked everyone for such a special trial, he made a special note to the owners, trainers, and handlers of the spectacular pleasure it has been sharing these magnificent dogs with us this week. He closed by congratulating all the contestants and wished the remaining ones the best of luck.

The Contestants arrive

Test dogs were called to the line. The National Anthem began playing and the test dogs were driven through the gallery is their very own cart and enjoyed the cheers from the crowd for their fantastic efforts all week.  This will be their last test of the trial.

The gallery cheers on the Test Dogs

Test Dogs Arrive on Line

Yakity was the first test dog and all of her birds had very long streamers on them as if to kick off the last series.  She picked up all of her birds.  Cutter finished his last test with assistance from his handler on two of the four birds.  A very nice job for the week by both test dogs. 

After a few adjustments to the test the first running dog, #33, was called to the line at 11:50am.

The test - The test is a quad with three flyers. The first bird down is a drake mallard flyer and falls 215 yards from the line. The mallard is thrown left to right. The birds go down around the horn from right to left. The 2nd bird is a hen mallard thrown right to left from the back side of the pond to the edge of the pond behind an island 260 yards from the line. The gunners retire in natural cover. The 3rd bird is a hen pheasant flyer shot right to left, 280 yards from the line with the guns retiring behind a mound. The final bird is a rooster pheasant thrown left to right from the line and is 160 yards away from the line. The cover is denser and taller than we have seen most of the week.

Last bird -rooster flyer - Left 

Right Middle (2nd bird down Dead Duck)

 Left Middle - hen pheasant flyer

Right - Flying Duck flyer   

This test is proving to be a big challenge for both the dogs and their handlers. The judges have continued their challenging approach to the trial. Most of the dogs are getting the rooster pheasant (last bird down) and the duck flyer (first bird down), The left middle flyer, hen pheasant, falls into the grass with plenty of area to hunt. The dogs are hunting the bird and after a long hunt have a tendency to run to the right middle station. Handlers are blowing the whistle and handling back to the hen flyer. The middle right gun is a mark with several water entries and re-entries. There are a few handling on this bird as well. It is taking approximately 15 minutes per dog to run the test. After the first 5 or 6 dogs had run the wind started picking up. It did not have a huge effect on the work, but in my opinion, helped a little in recovering the birds. The last dog to run, dog 28, finished running at 2:45pm. After all the dogs ran only two dogs completed the 2007 National without handling on a mark.

The gallery is a buzz about the work today and the work over the past week. The trophies are being moved to the winners table along with all the ribbons over the hill behind where the gallery was sitting for the tenth series. Who will it be? Who will be crowned the 2007 National Field Trial Champion?

Announcer Dean Ellis announces the judges are making their way to the award site. A huge round of applause ensues as the three judges, who put forth an excellent set of tests, made their way down the hill. Following the judges were the 12 finalists, all announced individually in numeric order. Yes, all the dogs that ran the 10th series completed the test and were declared, 2007 National Finalists. The suspense is building and the judges, workers, volunteers, sponsors, and contributors were thanked again for the mighty effort put forth to made this National a huge success.

Then the moment we have all been waiting for – and the winner is – FC-AFC CANDLEWOODS SOMETHING ROYAL, LF DOG #63. Owned by Ken Neil and Brenda Little and Handled by Ken. As Brenda came running out of the crowd to hug Ken and Windy, the crowd erupted with cheers and congratulations. After official photographs were taken, congratulations were spread by all.

Some of the Finalists

This is the conclusion of the 2007 National Field Trial Championship. Congratulations to all the contestants, the finalists and especially the winner. The dedication of the owners and trainers exhibited this week was absolutely overwhelming. The courage, talent, and performance by all the dogs was breathtaking and almost unbelievable. Thank you for sharing this past week with us.

2007 NRC Winner & Finalists

November 11-17, 2007 - Morgan Hill, California

THE WINNER IS

63. FC-AFC Candlewood’s Something Royal, LF

Owners, Ken Neil & Brenda Little
Handler, Ken Neil  

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Finalists

14. FC Dixie City Jam, LF, Owner, William & Sara Goldstein – Handler, Al Arthur

16. FC-AFC Mizpah Miss, LF... Owner Kathy Berdan – Handler, Kenny Trott

20. FC-AFC Meba’s Ms Chief, LF... Owner R Hanssen / C Klein – Handler, Bill Eckett

28. FC Big Bucks Badger, LM... Owners, R and J Wright – Handler, Wayne Curtis

33. FC-AFC Trumarc’s Stormin Norman II, LM... Owner Mark Rosenblum – Handler, Danny Farmer

35. FC Bluenorth’s Davey Crockett, LM... Owners, John and Ann Marshall – Handler, Alan Pleasant

41. FC-AFC Weezer Retreezer, LM... Owner, Robert Johnson – Handler, Robert Johnson

46. FC-AFC Wood River’s Franchise, LM... Owners, B and G Fruehling – Handler, Jim Gonia

49. FC-AFC Citori’s Accept No Substitute, LF... Owners, M / M Moore – Handler, Bill Sargenti

72. FC-AFC Joey’s Zoom Zoom, LM... Owner, Jim Carlisle – Handler, Bobby George

86. FC-AFC Real Southern Gentleman, LM... Owner, Mark Menzies – Handler, Alan Pleasant

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Stake Information
National Qualifiers
Summary of Starters, Callbacks, and Drops by Series

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Daily Reports of the Stake
By Tammy Zahornacky

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For a complete report of the 2007 National Championship, subscribe to The Retriever News, N8W22195 Johnson Dr., Ste. 105, Waukesha, WI 53186. Voice: 262-278-4201, Fax: 262-278-4204, e-mail: [email protected]

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2006 Defending National Champion

NFC-AFC DR. COPPER PHD MH, LF
Owned and handled by Wayne Dodson