New Member Columnby Jeremy Thompson |
This members only event combines both show and field competitions to
determine the "Top Dog" in our club. Shorthairs, fun, competition,
camaraderie, and bragging rights are all stirred together to make
this event enjoyable and memorable. And as this club has some truly
outstanding dogs it really is an honor to take a turn holding the
coveted John Sarna hand carved woodcock perpetual trophy!
There are actually three dog categories and therefore three winners
on the day of the event. Puppy Championship for 6 to 15 month old
dogs, Intermediate Championship for aspiring dogs with some field
and/or show talent, and Club Championship for top level dogs. Each
dog category holds a conformation (show), water, and field event.
Prizes are awarded to all categories, but the "Top Dog" and winner of
the coveted John Sarna hand carved woodcock perpetual trophy goes
only to the Club Championship category. Bragging rights are liberally
bestowed upon all winners and may be exercised at will. Of course,
some discretion is advised of the winners lest they eat crow at the
next year's event.
My dog has never been in the field/show ring. Should I attend?
There is something for just about every member at the Club
Championship. If you are new to the club or dogs and hesitant to try
your hand at competition, then come on out, see what its all about,
meet some fellow shorthair lovers, and get an eye full of good dogs.
Better yet, call one of the organizers listed in the flyer and offer
to lend a hand as one of the many helpers needed to pull this event
off and you'll learn a lot while having front row seats to the
events.
If you're a little more seasoned, but most of your dog's experience
is in the show ring only or field only, don't be put off. Most of our
members concentrate their efforts on one or the other, with a
sprinkling of agility, obedience, etc. aficionados around, so you'll
be in good company. Be forewarned, though, that if you show up in the
show ring in hip boots and red suspenders or in the field in a skirt
and blazer that your picture may end up in the next newsletter. But
remember, whatever the outcome of the events, good times are had by
all, so come on out!
So in closing…
Hopefully, if you've stuck with me this far, you realize this event
is about our members and their dogs and won't be seen on ESPN anytime
soon, but is definitely significant within our own club in that the
dog that does win has bested some mighty fine competition, in a broad
category of events, and will certainly be held in high regard by
those who know. So why not give it a try. Who knows, the coveted John
Sarna hand carved woodcock perpetual trophy could someday be
yours!
