I was given a kind invitation by the Kennel Club to judge the Young Gundog Handlers Test and the Open Any Variety Spaniel test on the Sunday.
On the first day there was an excellent attendance by the young handlers and they brought with them 3 different breeds of gundogs – English Springer Spaniels, Cocker Spaniels and German Wire Haired Pointers.
The weather was unfortunately very wet and we were all soaked early on in the day, however this did not dampen the spirits and determination of the young handlers. The handling skills and bond that they had with their dogs was a pleasure to see as we worked through some open woodlands testing to see how well the dogs were handled.
They then had to complete a water test and some of the entries into the water were spectacular. All the handlers did exceptionally well and I feel sure that in a few years time we will see some of these young children in major competitions.
On the second day the rain still continued, but this did not dampen the enthusiasm of the large entry of handlers and dogs in the Open Test. Again the standard was extremely high with all 20 dogs doing well through the woodlands and all other testing exercises.
We only had one blip which was an exercise involving a blind being retrieved from inside a wood. Once the remaining handlers realised the direction of the wind 5 dogs were successful in going through to the final exercises.
The atmosphere for the whole two day event was fantastic, the facilities were excellent and the crowd were supportive which lifted all of our spirits. Many thanks go to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire for allowing such events to take place on the beautiful Chatsworth Estate.
Results can be found on the Kennel Club Website http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/item/2458
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