Updated June 6, 2008
GRAND NATIONAL GROUSE CHAMPIONSHIP
The voting in the selection process for judges and reporter for the Grand National Grouse Championship has been completed. Judges will be Dr. Harold Holmes of Flint, Mich., and James Tande of Park Rapids, Minn. Reporter will be David A. Fletcher of Morrice, Mich.
The Grand National will be held in Michigan at the Gladwin Field Trial Area near Meredith, Mich., beginning November 4, following the Grouse Futurity which will prevail on the weekend prior to the start of the Grand National.
— David A. Fletcher, Secy.
COLORADO SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP
Colorado sportsman Ralph Millie advises that the Dearing Ranch south of Arnett, Okla., has been very much improved.
Leaseholders Mark Atwood, Brad Calkins, Randy Shook and Ralph have shared their lease for field trials for several seasons. They, along with ranch owner Robert Dearing, are striving to return the grounds to equitable field trial conditions.
Pastures two and three have been burned with remarkable success. Pasture three, while being improved, again will not be used this year, and the three one-hour courses on pastures one and two will be used. Headquarters remain at the Colorado Camp just north of the lease, which holds pleasant memories of get-togethers during their annual field trials.
The 21st renewal of the Colorado Open Shooting Dog Championship will begin October 6 followed by the companion Open Derby. The 27th renewal of the Raymond Rucker Classics (all-age, Derby and shooting dog) will start October 10. Judicial saddles have yet to be filled; however, “applications are now being accepted.”
— Conrad Plevnic
CANADIAN OPEN SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP
Clinton, Ontario—Phillips High Line, white and orange pointer male owned by Bob Leet of Kalamazoo, Mich., and handled by David Grubb, won the Canadian Open Shooting Dog Championship in a field of 34 pointers and 9 setters. Talisman, white and liver pointer male owned by Susan Duerksen of Pittsburgh, Pa., and handled by Mike Tracy, was named runner-up. Judges for this concluding major circuit shooting dog stake of the season were Bill Fowle of Gretna, Va., and Steve Mills of Mayodan, N. C.
The companion Derby drew 22. Great River Heritage, pointer male owned by Tom Hance and Jack Sanchez and handled by Mike Tracy, gained first. Second was Easy Terms, pointer male owned by South Carolinian Larry S. Earls and handled by Mike Hester. Third was Kung Fu, pointer male owned and handled by Shawn Wright of Woodstock, Ontario.
— Don Frigo
INDIANTOWN GAP TRIALS
Petersburg, Pa.—The Indiantown Gap trials were held April 8-13 at the Keystone Bird Dog Trust Grounds near Petersburg, Pa., and featured the Keystone Open Shooting Dog Classic and the Keystone Derby Classic. The Shooting Dog drew 40 entries, the Derby, 21.
Enhancement Trey, pointer male owned by Joe McHugh and Paul Ulich and handled by Jeanette Tracy, won first in the Shooting Dog Classic. Second went to Flash Dancer, Rick Goebel’s pointer female handled by Mike Tracy. Dom Conicelli’s setter male Voyager placed third. He was handled by George Tracy. All had strong races and three finds.
Smokin Hot Trouble won the Keystone Derby Classic for Roland Kane and Roger Dvorak, who were here to watch. He was handled by Mike Tracy to a five-find effort. Second was Hidden Thrill with two finds, owned by Ted and Joan Foust of Harrisburg, Pa., and handled by Jeanette Tracy. Our Big Bully, owned by Ernie and Karen Saniga, was third with a single find. He was handled by Mike Tracy. All three are pointer males.
Judges were Daryl Thomas of Aiken, S. C., and Regis Linn of Indianola, Pa.
— Ernie Saniga
REGION 13 AMATEUR ALL-AGE CHAMPIONSHIP
Clinton, Ontario—The Region 13 Amateur All-Age Championship, held in conjunction with the Canadian Open Shooting Dog Championship at Clinton, Ontario, attracted a field of 20 contenders. Judges Billy “Scope” Renfroe of Union Springs, Ala., and Eddy Taylor of Red Banks, Miss., named Hailey’s Comet the winner. The white and liver pointer female is owned by Brian Sanchez and Charles Samperisi and was handled by Brian.
Runner-up was Belfield Silver, nearly all white pointer male owned and handled by Don Frigo of Caledon, Ontario.
GARDEN STATE AMATEUR CLASSIC
Lacey Township, N. J.—The English Setter Club’s Garden State Amateur Shooting Dog Classic winner was N Y P D, pointer male, owned and handled by Brian Sanchez.
He won over a field of 22 top shooting dogs judged by Troy Terlizzi of Wake Forest, N. C., and Larry Craig of Schwenksville, Pa.
Second was Silver Stone, pointer male, owned and handled by Alene LeVasseur. Third was Ravenwood Riley, setter male, owned and handled by Joe Cincotta.
— Lloyd Miller
MICHIGAN OPEN SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP AND DERBY CLASSIC
Ionia, Mich.—The Michigan Open Shooting Dog Championship and Derby Classic gave those in attendance seven days of great competition April 14 through 21 over the fine courses at the Ionia State Recreation Area near Ionia, Mich. The 45-minute Michigan Derby Classic was first on the program, won by Awsum Class Act, pointer male handled by Luke Eisenhart for owners Bill and Margie Ricci of Englishtown, N. J. Runner-up was Quickmarkman’s Hard Times, pointer male in the string of Mike Hester, owned by Larry Earls of Blacksburg, S. C. There were 36 entries in the Classic. Judges were Billy “Scope” Renfro of Union Springs, Ala., and Roger Shellswell of Woodstock, Ont.
The Michigan Shooting Dog Championship boasted 75 entries and was won by Mohawk Mill Dana, pointer female, a contestant from the very last brace piloted by Luke Eisenhart for owner Tom Downs of West Grove, Pa. Runner-up was Tall River, pointer male owned by Don Frigo of Caledon, Ont., handled by Mike Hester. The winning dogs had standout ground efforts and superb bird work. Judges for the Championship were Dale E. Bush of College Station, Tex., and Dan Long of Perrysville, Ohio.
— Dave Fletcher
MID-STATES WALKING SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP
Blairsville, Pa. —The Mid-States Walking Shooting Dog Championship was contested April 17-20 near Blairsville, Pa. Forty were entered in the and were evaluated by Judges Tommy Brigman Jr. of Maryland and Connie Riley of Pennsylvania. Named champion was setter male Taz, owned by Phil Gould of Bernardsville, N.J., and handled to a front running six-find performance by Robert Ecker in hot and dry conditions. Runner-up was Thunderbird Punch Buggy, also a setter male owned by David and Sue Anderson of Bloomfield, N.Y., and handled by Travis Gellhaus to a hard driving six-find hour in wet and muddy conditions.
The companion Derby Classic had 17 entered with first place awarded to a pointer female called Ellie, handled by Tony Bingham. Second went to Indian Creek Lizzy, a pointer female owned and handled by Garry Malzone of Franklin Lakes, N.J., and third place was Nell, a setter female owned and handled by Howard Kerr. All three placed with bird work. A detailed report will follow later.
— Mike Husenits
NATIONAL AMATEUR CHUKAR SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP
Reno, Nev.—The National Amateur Chukar Shooting dog Championship started April 18 and concluded April 20. Thirty-five pointers and 5 setters started.
The winner was Kelly’s Laser Eye, pointer male owned by Sean Kelly of Auburn, Cal. Runner-up Vintage Crush, pointer male owned by A. Mack Smith of Yuba City, Cal.
Judges Jarry Walton of Reno, Nev., and Austin Turley of Laurel, Mont. A full report to follow.
— I. M. Stuck
REGION 1 AMATEUR SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP
Pomfret, Conn.—With six finds and a cover-hitting, hard-driving race, Ironstone Sam, a tri-colored setter male handled by Dick Bembenek of Webster, Mass., earned the blue rosette at the recent Region 1 Amateur (horseback) Shooting Dog Championship. The setter is co-owned by Bembenek and Elias Richardson III of Uxbridge, Mass.
Runner-up honors went to Chasehill Little Bud, a white and liver pointer male handled by Elias Richardson and owned by John Stolgitis of Ashaway, R. I. Bud, which logged seven finds and ran a strong, forward race of his own, was fresh off his first-place win at the Region 1 Amateur Walking Championship the previous weekend.
Honorable mention was given to Ben’s Blue, a pointer male handled by Toby Tobiassen of Catskill, N.Y.
The event was held April 18-20 at Harry and Deb Townshend’s Ragged Hill Farm. Judges were Ivan and Ronnie Clark of Howell, N. J. Thirty-two dogs were drawn for the three-day event.
— Janice Gregory
NATIONAL AMATEUR CHUKAR CHAMPIONSHIP
Reno, Nev.—The National Amateur Chukar Championship has drawn a great entry — 42 dogs — for the running at Reno, Nev., which commenced April 18. This bodes well for the Western Open Stakes which will follow. Judges for this stake are Austin Turley of Laurel, Mont., and Jarry Walton of Reno, Nev.
— Torben Hansen
NORTH CAROLINA QUAIL CHAMPIONSHIP
Hoffman, N. C.—Thirty-four dogs answered the call at the recently concluded North Carolina Open Quail Championship. The winner emerged in Mohawk Mill Sportster, fleet pointer male owned and handled by Gary S. Winall of Powhatan, Va. Runner-up was Belfield Silver, almost all-white pointer male owned by Don Frigo of Caledon, Ontario and handled by Mike Hester.
Judges for this 39th renewal were John P. Russell of Bowling Green, Ky., and Jadie Rayfield of Mount Pleasant, S. C.
— Carroll S. Wilkins
REGION 4 AMATEUR ALL-AGE CHAMPIONSHIP
Berea, Ky. —The Region 4 Amateur All-Age Championship was held at the Central Kentucky Wildlife Area near Berea, Ky., where an outstading roster of 38 dogs was drawn. The winner was Erin’s Tin Soldier, white and black pointer male owned and handled by Sean Derrig of Bannockburn, Ill. Runner-up was Welsh’s Playtime, white and orange pointer female owned and handled by Lonnie Welsh of Summer Shade, Ky.
Judges were Dr. James Jarvis and Jim N. White of Bowling Green, Ky. The judges and the head marshal commented to this reporter that there were 10 to 12 quality dogs that had performances that could have won most trials.
— Randy Hopkins
REGION 1 AMATEUR WALKING SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP
Exeter, R. I.—Chasehill Little Bud, pointer male owned by John Stolgitis of Ashaway, R. I., and handled by Mike Flewelling, was named champion at the Region 1 Amateur Walking Shooting Dog Championship held April 11-13 at Arcadia Management Area. Runner-up was Keystone Red Rage, setter male owned and handled by Craig Peters of Rising Sun, Md. Thirty-six dogs were drawn for the event; 35 ran.
Judges were Dom Preite of Franklinville, N. J., and Dave Marshall of Hope, R. I.
— Janice Gregory
REGION 5 AMATEUR WALKING SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP
McLeansboro, Ill. —A strong forward ground performance and multiple finds garnered Alabama Dixie Go, pointer female, the crown in the Region 5 Amateur Walking Shooting Dog Championship. She is owned by Jay Dee Wirth of Bridgeport, Ill. The trial was conducted over the Hamilton County Wildlife Area near Dolan Lake on April 12.
The runner-up was Ramey’s Barwater Bud, pointer male owned by Larry Holman and Mike Hewing of Teutopolis, Ill., and handled by Larry Holman. Bud rendered a steady forward pattern and handled birds with championship manners.
The judges were Scott Miller, Greenfield, Mo., and Dr. Stan Wint, Gardner, Kan.
— Bill Zeisset
AMERICAN DERBY INVITATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP
Broughton, Ill.—After torrential rain in Southern Illinois in mid-March forced a rescheduling, and another day’s delay, the American Derby Invitational Championship was finally underway Saturday, April 5. It turned out to be a beautiful day at Outland Ranch near Broughton Ill. At the close of the day the four finalists announced were no surprise to anyone.
Lester’s Thunder Storm was braced with Three Ten to Yuma on Sunday morning which was a repeat of Saturday’s weather. Handler Ray Warren repeated a commendale job showing confidence in his charge and Yuma again did an excellent job of using the country keeping all high in the saddles. Add to this two well done finds and all knew they had seen a great performance. With Ike Todd piloting Thunder Storm, he seemed intent enough in his purpose but did not score on game.
In the following brace, Ike Todd handled House’s Memphis May, whose effort went unreward in the 90-minute grind. Lester’s Storm, handled by owner Gary Lester, put on a bird-finding exhibition, scoring four times, once on a woodcock, and showing nice manners around game. Storm had very adequate ground coverage, albeit receiving a little more direction from handler. Overall this could well be the best two combined performances of this championship’s history.
Judges for the event were Harold Ray of Waynesboro, Ga., and Mark Haynes of Brownsville, Tenn.
— Linda Hunt
REGION 2 AMATEUR ALL-AGE CHAMPIONSHIP
Steubenville, Ohio —The Region 2 Amateur All-Age Championship finished Sunday, April 6. The stake drew a quality field of 24 dogs.
Winning with three finds and a strong race was Virginian Gary Winall’s six-year-old white and liver pointer male Mohawk Mill Sportster. Runner-up, also with three finds and a back, was Small’s White Storm, seven-year-old white and orange pointer male owned and handled by Mike Small of Evansville, Ind.
Judges were Brad Harter of Athens, Ohio and Daryl Thomas of Aiken, S. C.
— Regis Linn
SOUTHEASTERN CHAMPIONSHIPS
Albany, Ga. —Featuring a star-studded lineup of competitors and several challenging performances, the Southeastern Open All-Age Championship was concluded when Judges Garland Priddy and Wallace Reichert named Chickasaw Pride the champion and Lester’s Snowatch the runner-up. Pride is owned by Dr. Ron Deal and was ably handled by Lee Phillips. Snowatch is owned and equally well handled by Gary Lester.
The Southeastern Shooting Dog Championship winner emerged in Dogwood Meg, pointer female handled by Shawn Kinkelaar, as the champion. McLean’s Multi Mile, pointer male owned by Neil and Sandy Walker and handled by Neil Walker, the runner-up. Judges were Dr. Ron Deal and John Thompson.
Please keep our reporter, Susan Mullins, in your thoughts and prayers. Her mother suffered a stroke just prior to the end of the Southeastern Championships. After initial improvement, she suffered another stroke and passed away on April 5.
— Lamar Childers, Secy.
GARDEN STATE SHOOTING DOG CLASSIC
Clarksburg, N. J. —The Garden State Open Shooting Dog Classic was run on the Assunpink Wildlife Management Grounds in Clarksburg, N. J., after a change of venue due to a controlled burn of the Greenwood Wildlife Management Area by state officials.
The classic attracted 35 top shooting dogs. Hifalutin, pointer female owned by Dr. Roger and Susan Duerksen of Pittsburgh, Pa., and handled by Mike Tracy, placed first. Second was Erin’s Little Engine, pointer male owned by Auddie Brown of Kingstree, S. C. The Insider, setter male owned by John Fort of Camden, S. C., was third. Little Engine and The Insider were both handled by Luke Eisenhart.
The judges for the classic were Lloyd Miller of Bensalem, Pa., and Raymond Gubernat of Hartley, Del.
— Joseph A. Lordi
INDIANA OPEN SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP
Berea, Ky.—The Indiana Open Shooting Dog Championship started March 25 at the Miller Welch Wildlife Area, Berea, Ky. The Championship drew 74 dogs — 60 pointers, 11 setters and 3 red setters.
Winning the Championship was Mohawk Mill Dana, six-year-old white and liver pointer female owned by Thomas Downs of West Grove, Pa., and handled by Luke Eisenhart. Dana had five finds and just kept getting better and stronger on the ground.
Runner-up was M’s Kid Rock, two-year-old white and black pointer male owned by William and Muriel Primm of Cream Ridge, N. J., and handled by George Tracy. He had four great finds and a nice race.
— Hope Eberle
KENTUCKY OPEN ALL-AGE CHAMPIONSHIP
Richmond, Ky.—The Kentucky Open All-Age Championship was held at the Central Kentucky Wildlife Management Area outside of Richmond, Ky. The trial drew a field of 34 all-age dogs.
Flatwood Silver, nine-year-old white and liver pointer male owned by Dr. and Mrs. Everett Crouch of Jacksonville, Fla., was named champion. Earning the runner-up spot was In The Shadow, four-year-old white and orange pointer male owned by Carl Bowman of Louisville, Ky. Robin Gates handled both winning dogs.
Judges were David Sparks of Berea, Ky., and Ken Taff of Georgetown, Ky.
— Robert Napier
MISSOURI OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP
Grovespring, Mo. —The Missouri Open Championship was completed April 2 with the naming of Sooner Grace, white and liver pointer female owned by Joseph and Brenda Nowlin of Grove, Okla., and handled by Randy Anderson, as the champion. Runner-up was Jackson’s Static Line, white and orange pointer male owned by Mike Jackson of Battle Ground, Ind., and handled by Steve Hurdle. The Championship attracted 48 dogs to run at the popular Sportsmen’s Association Grounds near Grovespring, Mo. Gary Cowell and Charles Beeler, both of Lancaster, Mo., officiated.
The one-hour National qualifying Open All-Age Stake drew 51 entries. The winner was Thunder Mac, pointer male owned by Doug Arthur of Eads, Tenn., and handled by Steve Hurdle. Second was Amarige, pointer male owned by Dr. Fred Corder of Corinth, Miss., and handled by Randy Downs. Pointer female Whippoorwill Whirl placed third for owners Dale Bush and Wyatt Huffman. Larry Huffman handled. Judges were Lynn Oxendine of Joplin, Mo., and Lynn Bennett of Paring, Tex.
The Open Derby (23 pointers) was won by Blackrock Mojo, owned by Ken Lane of Guymon, Okla., and Virgil Moore of Canyon, Tex., and handled by Andy Daugherty. Second went to The Prez, pointer male owned by Joseph and Brenda Nowlin and handled by Randy Anderson. Pointer male Blackhawk Chopper was third for owner-handler Kendall Schmidt of Defiance, Mo. The judges were Lynn Bennett and Bonnie Hidalgo of Brighton, Colo.
— Bonnie Hidalgo
NATIONAL BIRD HUNTERS FUTURITY
Lavergne, Tenn.—The 22nd NBHA Futurity and Jerry D. Kilgore Puppy Classic concluded at the Percy Priest WMA on March 28 under favorable weather conditions.
From a field of eight Derbies called back for the one-hour final series, Judges Kevin Western of Queen City, Mo., and Jason Kemna of Columbia, Mo., named Smokey Rise Kattie, strongly built white and orange setter female, first for owner-handler Donald Terrell of North Carolina. Kattie ran a powerful race and scored seven finds in her hour. Second was awarded to Kozican, setter male owned and handled by Bobby Taylor of Alabama. Third was Greypointe Gladiador, pointer male owned and handled by Doug Meyer of Kansas. Named fourth for Bobby Phillips of Tennessee was pointer female Bob’s Elhew Wendy.
In the Jerry D. Kilgore Puppy Classic, pointer female Hi Tide Jill placed first for owner Delano Powell of Alabama and handler Bruce Norris. Shak’s Kozican, setter male owned by Alabamans Bobby and Mildred Taylor, placed second, with pointer female Stoney Run’s Queen taking third for Dennis Snyder of North Carolina. Donald Terrell completed his week by taking fourth with Terrell’s White Power.
In the companion Futurity Shooting Dog Classic, named first was Greypointe Fandango for owner-handler Doug Meyer. Bruce Norris placed last year’s NBHA Futurity winner Taylor’s Buster Brown second, and Shadow’s High Country was piloted by Bobby Taylor to third.
— Doug Meyer
SOUTHERN PINES CLASSIC
Hoffman, N. C.—The 2008 renewal of the popular Southern Pines Classic was held March 24-28 at Hoffman, N. C. Topping the quality field of 38 dogs was White’s Solid Ben, Derby age pointer male owned by John Ivester of Huntersville, N. C., and handled by Lefty Henry. The Ivester-Henry team also earned second with pointer female Marques Gold Lady. Placing third was Mohawk Mill Ride, pointer male owned and handled by Gary Winall of Powhatan, Va. Each winner had great bird work, with Solid Ben having a more extreme race.
The Open Derby had a whopping 27-dog entry. Awarded first was R J’s Count Down, pointer female owned and handled by Tom Liesfeld of Rockville, Va. Count Down’s bracemate Why Wait, pointer male owned and scouted by Mike Moses of Lake City, Fla., and handled by Slade Sykes, placed second. Mack Hilliard handled third place Elvis, pointer male owned by Til Hankley. All three Derbies had exceptional ground races under extremely hot windy conditions.
The C. H. Burgess Puppy Classic had a talented field of 16 dogs. First was Arcanum’s Spitfire, pointer female owned and handled by Dr. Aubrey Morgan of Suffolk, Va. Earning second was Steadfast, owned and handled by Tom Liesfeld. Classy pointer female Arcanum High Maintenance placed third for handler Barbel Fetkoter.
Judges for both stakes were Charlie Frank Bryan of Collierville, Tenn., and John Seawright of Bigelow, Ark.
— Jadie Rayfield
MIDWEST OPEN SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP
Browning, Mo.—The running of the Midwest Open Shooting Dog Championship was concluded March 23. Fifty-four dogs were drawn for the Championship, and 23 for the companion Open Derby.
Judges Bill Burton of Carrollton, Mo., and Francis Clasen of Garden Plain, Kan., named Rock Acre Dreamgirl, white and liver pointer female handled by George Newcomb for owner Ric Peterson of Gilbert, Ariz., the champion. Westfall’s Black Ice, white and black pointer male owned by Bill Westfall of Liberty, Mo., and handled by Gordon Hazlewood, was named runner-up.
In the Derby, Westfall’s Challenger, pointer male owned by R. J. VanLerberg of Shawnee, Kan., and handled by Marvin McDowell, earned first. Second was Purpleline Dan, pointer male owned and handled by George Hill of Wentzville, Mo. Trip, pointer male handled by Jerry Hailey, placed third.
— David Taylor
MISSOURI OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP
Grovespring, Mo. —The Missouri Open Championship has drawn a field of 48 dogs. The Missouri Open All-Age has 51 entries, with 23 in the Open Derby.
Advertised judges Charlie Beeler and Gary Cowell, both of Lancaster, Mo., are presiding for the Championship. The Open All-Age and Open Derby are being judged by Lynn Bennett of Paring, Tex., and Lynn Oxendine of Joplin, Mo.
The running started March 25, and should be completed Wednesday, April 2.
— Sharleen Daugherty
NATIONAL BIRD HUNTERS ASSOCIATION NATIONAL OPEN WALKING CHAMPIONSHIP
Conway, Ark. —L’s Busy Bee returned to the winners’ circle as she won the 2008 title with seven finds in the two-hour callback series after a stunning one-hour performance to make the finals under the whistle of Oklahoman Tony Falley and owner Joe Nowlin of Grove, Okla. Runner-up Eboga Cracker Jack, winner of this Championship in 2007, also did a nice job in the first series with seven finds, a stop to flush, retrieve and properly handled set up back. Jack was under the guidance of owner Ron Kimberly of Pell City, Ala., and handler Ken Tolbert.
Notable dogs that were called back in the second series were Eboga’s Gogo Ann, owned by Mr. Charles Aston and handled by Ken Tolbert; K C’s Shrimpboot, owned and handled by Ken Sauer. Additional dogs called back as alternates were Skyview Hustler, owned and handled by Woody Touchstone, and Eboga’s Repo, owned by Ron Kimberly and handled by Ken Tolbert.
Judges for this renewal were Doug Meyer of Tonganoxie, Kan., returning from last year’s National Championship assignment, and Harold Woodward of Vilonia, Ark., who is a fixture at the Camp Robinson venue.
— Ken Sauer
OREGON OPEN SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP
Sunnyside, Wash.—The Oregon Open Shooting Dog Championship was held March 12-14 at Sulphur Creek Ranch, Sunnyside, Wash. Judges were Larry Floyd of Grandview, Wash., and Brian Hill of Vancouver, Wash. Twenty-four dogs were entered.
Named champion was Justa Bullett, pointer male owned and handled by Mack Smith of Yuba City, Cal. Runner-up was Super Express Coco, pointer female owned by Ivaylo Gotzev of Lompoc, Cal., and handled by Sheldon Twer.
— Amanda Schaaf
REGION 3 AMATEUR SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP
Patrick, S. C. —The Region 3 Amateur Shooting Dog Championship (46 entries) was held at the H. Cooper Black Area and was concluded March 21 after four days of running.
Judges Larry Cox of Randleman, N. C., and J. C. Turner of Casar, N. C., named Doc’s Haven Jill, white and black pointer female owned and handled by Dr. Billy McCathern of Columbia, S. C., the champion. Jill turned in a strong forward race with four finds. Runner-up was A Tarheel Git’r’Done, white and liver pointer male owned and handled by Larry S. Earls of Blacksburg, S. C. He had two finds and a good race.
— Dr. Billy McCathern
ALL-AMERICA QUAIL CHAMPIONSHIP
Broughton, Ill.—The All-America Quail Championship at Peg and Jim Fornear’s Outland Ranch near Broughton, Ill., had an entry of 64 dogs, with 57 actually going to the line. Topping the field was Shell Creek Coin, white and orange pointer male owned by David O’Connor of Bullard, Tex., and handled by Steve Hurdle. Prairieland Pride, pointer male owned by Dr. Robert Cook of Kenosha, Wis., and handled by Randy Anderson, earned runner-up laurels.
Judges were Ben S. Adams of Hopkinsville, Ky., and Michael Shears of Franklin, Tenn.
The trial was concluded on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, a day before record rainfall visited the area, soaking Southern Illinois.
— Jim Atchison
AMERICAN DERBY INVITATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP
Broughton, Ill.—Southern Illinois was socked (and soaked) with heavy rain March 18, the scheduled starting date for the American Derby Invitational Championship at Outland Ranch near Broughton, Ill. The rain arrived shortly after midnight. At nearby Galatia, a record 7.8 inches of rainfall was recorded, and when the rain finally stopped a total of 11.5 inches had fallen. Crop fields near the grounds appeared as 300-500-acre lakes. It was determined that it would take a week for the country to dry out sufficiently for the trial to proceed. The stake was rescheduled for March 31, or following completion of the Missouri Championship trials at Grovespring. Trial patron Mr. Jim Fornear offered handlers and officials assistance with their travel expenses.
Judges Buddy Smith of Collierville, Tenn., and Harold Ray of Waynesboro, Ga., agreed to be on hand for the resumption at the end of the month.
Jim Atchison, reporter for the preceding All-America trials, was ready to leave that morning, and faced torrential rains as he drove west to Missouri.
MASTERS OPEN SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP
Leslie, Ga. —Winner of the Masters Open Shooting Dog Championship was Cassique’s Bohicket, white and liver three-year-old pointer male owned by Fred and Bernice Rowan of Atlanta, Ga., and handled by Doug Ray. Runner-up was Southdown’s Free Safety, five-year-old white and liver pointer male owned by Tom Downs of West Grove, Pa., and handled by Luke Eisenhart. There were 35 pointers and 1 setter competing in the stake.
The advertised judges, Geoff Beane of Donalsonville, Ga., and Greg St. John of South Fulton, Tenn., presided.
— Heather Klinck
MASTERS QUAIL CHAMPIONSHIP
Albany, Ga. —The 2008 Masters Quail Championship has concluded with handler Robin Gates sweeping both placements. The winner was Distant Shadow, white and orange pointer male owned by Jed Dempsey of Palm City, Fla., and Tom Nygard of Bozeman, Mont. Runner-up was Broadway Drifter, white and liver pointer male owned by Jimmy Honea of Lewisburg, Tenn. Hunter Gates scouted both dogs.
The advertised judges, Don Price of Bryceville, Fla., and Gary Lester of Gracey, Ky., presided. The trial was held on well known Blue Springs Plantation in Albany, Ga.
— Allen Powell
MISSOURI OPEN SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP
Grovespring, Mo.—Sixty-five dogs competed in the Missouri Open Shooting Dog Championship. Earning the title was Blackhawk Wiley, four-year-old white and black pointer male owned by Dr. Phil Maloley of Holdrege, Neb., and handled by Dean Lord. The runner-up placement went to Merrihill’s Carolina, coming four-year-old white and black pointer female owned by William Merrifield of Kinsman, Ohio and handled by Shawn Kinkelaar.
Handler Gordon Hazlewood took first and second in the Open Derby (23 entries) with littermates Westfall’s Quick Gold and Westfall’s Red Line, respectively. The two dogs are owned by Bill Westfall of Liberty, Mo. Owner Kendall Schmidt handled his Blackhawk Chopper to third place.
Ivan Breckenridge of Atlanta, Kan., and Ken Chenoweth of Fair Grove, Mo., judged both stakes.
— Peg Herriage
PACIFIC COAST CHAMPIONSHIPS
Sunnyside, Wash.—The Pacific Coast trials have begun at Rick and Sharon Anderson’s Sulfur Creek ranch near Sunnyside, Wash. The Pacific Coast All-Age Championship has attracted a strong field of 32, the Derby drawing 6, and the Pacific Coast Shooting Dog Championship attracting 24. The Louis Tippett Puppy Classic has 18.
— Herb Anderson
REGION 5 AMATEUR SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP
Ashland, Ill.—Betty Boo, white and black pointer female owned and handled by Ron Ward of Centralia, Ill., was named the Region 5 Amateur Shooting Dog Champion at the conclusion of the 2008 renewal with a consistent ground race and one good find. Runner-up was awarded to New Threat, white and orange setter male owned and handled by Larry Langan of Pana, Ill.
The judges for this stake were Richard Leake of Springfield, Ill., and Phil Tiller of Gillespie, Ill. Region 5 appreciates the time spent by these two gentlemen to bring this Championship to a successful conclusion!
Jim Edgar-Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Management Area was the venue for the Championship and was in very good shape.
— Bill Zeisset
ALABAMA OPEN SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP
Hurtsboro, Ala. —Enon Plantation near Hurtsboro, Ala., was the venue for the 2008 renewal of the Alabama Open Shooting Dog Championship, which commenced March 5 with thirty pointers and one setter brought to the line. Veteran performer Elhew Hannabell laid down a fast-paced, front-running hour with two covey finds to ace the competition. It was the twelfth title for the seven-year-old pointer female, handled throughout her career by Shawn Kinkelaar for owners Drs. Thomas and Robin Morgan of Holly Springs, Miss.
Runner-up honors went to Calico’s Dyno Mite whose class and polish belied his youthful status. Bold and forward, the two-year old pointer male accounted for three stylish finds under the whistle of George Tracy, for owner Mary Tracy of Hurtsboro and Brodbecks, Pa.
Judges Collier F. Smith of Hatchechubbee, Ala., and Billy “Scope” Renfroe of Union Springs presided.
— Barbara Teare
ALL-AMERICA CHAMPIONSHIPS
Broughton, Ill.—Outland Ranch near Broughton, Ill., was the venue of the 2008 running of the All-America Derby Championship which attracted a field of 37 dogs. The winner emerged in Thunder Snowy, white and liver pointer female owned by Doug Arthur of Eads, Tenn., and handled by Steve Hurdle to a wide all-age race and two finds. Runner-up was Lester’s Storm, white and liver pointer male owned and handled by Gary Lester of Gracey, Ky. Storm was credited with one find. The two winners are littermates.
Judges for the juvenile stake were Dr. Rick Carlisle of Grand Junction, Tenn., and Larry Garner of Oak Point, Tex.
The All-America Quail Championship has attracted 64 dogs and commenced March 13 with Ben S. Adams of Hopkinsville, Ky., and Michael Shears of Franklin, Tenn., in the judicial saddles. That stake will likely be concluded on or about March 18, and will be followed by the American Derby Invitational Championship which will wrap up nearly two weeks of running at Jim and Peg Fornear’s Outland Ranch.
— Jim Atchison
ILLINOIS OPEN SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP
Chandlerville, Ill.—The revival of the popular Illinois Open Shooting Dog Championship was concluded Saturday, March 8, with 46 dogs having been drawn.
Judges Dr. George Ihrke of Lockport, Ill., and Kendall Schmidt of Defiance, Mo., named Blazing Glory the champion. The white and liver pointer female is owned and handled by Jeff Wagoner of Brimfield, Ill. Runner-up was Everbreeze Drummer, white and orange setter male owned and handled by Bob Corliss of Endeavor, Wis.
— Mary Ann Day
LONE STAR OPEN SHOOTING DOG CLASSIC
Allison, Tex.—Topping the 40-dog field in the Lone Star Open Shooting Dog Classic was Arapahoe Beauregard, pointer male owned by Ralph Millie of Denver, Colo., and handled by Gary Hill. Beauregard had two prairie chicken finds and a strong race. Seahorse’s Max Jack, pointer male owned by Dr. Bob Dow of Norman, Okla., and handled by Jack Herriage, earned second. Max Jack had one covey find and a good race. Placing third was Stock Broker, owned by Dennis and Tricia Adams of Polo, Mo., and handled by Jerry Hailey. The pointer male had one stop to flush.
The companion Open Derby (14 entries), was won by L S K Cash, pointer male owned by Charles Barbaree of Pryor, Okla., and handled by George Newcomb. Second was Diamond M Sue, pointer female owned by Mike McClanahan of Lee’s Summit, Mo., and handled by Jack Herriage. Placed third was Grace, pointer female owned by Brad Calkins of Englewood, Colo., and handled by Gary Hill.
Judging both stakes were Ken Lane of Guymon, Okla., and Virgil Moore of Canyon, Tex.
— Peg Herriage
NATIONAL GERMAN SHORTHAIRED POINTER ASSOCIATION CHAMPIONSHIPS
Booneville, Ark.—The National German Shorthaired Pointer Association convened once again at the J. Perry Mikles Wildlife Area near Booneville, Ark., for the annual running of its National Championships and Futurity.
The NGSPA National Championship drew a field of 11 dogs, judged by James Kermott of Jamul, Cal., and John Steger of Knox, Ind., who withheld placements in this headline event.
Judges Kermott and Steger also presided for the NGSPA Futurity which had a starting lineup of 30 German Shorthairs. The winner was Monkeyshines Solo, male owned by Mario DiMambro of Leroy, Ill., and handled by Dan DiMambro. Second was Outbak’s No Reins, also a male, owned and handled by Rich Barber of Reynolds, Ill. Third was Hadlock’s She’s For Me, female owned by Linnea Hadlock of Huntley, Ill., and handled by Rich Barber.
Ivan Black of Howell, N. J., and Robert Creaney of Kenosha, Wis., presided for the NGSPA National Amateur Shooting Dog Championship which had a starting field of 33. They named Council Mountain Buzzsaw, male owned and handled by George Wilson of Council, Ida., the winner. Runner-up was What’s The Point Jake, male owned by Peter Coppens of Collinsville, Ill., and handled by Tom Arnold.
Dan Hoke of Cheney, Wash., and Ned Myers of Mt. Vernon, Ia., were scheduled to judge the NGSPA National Shooting Dog Championship, but that stake was cancelled when weather intervened.
— Jean Armbrust
REGION 5 AMATEUR ALL-AGE CHAMPIONSHIP
Williamsburg, Mo.—Although much of the Midwest had been ravaged with ice and snow the Williamsburg area skated by without getting hit. The All-Age Championship, after having to cancel in February due to the weather, was conducted successfully March 7-9 at the Whetstone WMA.
Westfall’s Black Ice, white and black pointer male owned and handled by Bill Westfall of Kansas City, Mo., was declared this year’s champion. Erin’s Traveling Soldier, white and liver pointer male, was named the runner-up. Soldier is owned and handled by Sean Derrig of Bannockburn, Ill.
The judicial saddles for this stake were occupied by Dennis Burgess of Springville, Ia., and Stan Wint of Waverly, Kan. They had to brave cold and windy conditions to bring the Championship to a successful conclusion and it is much appreciated by Region 5.
— Bill Zeisset
NATIONAL AMATEUR QUAIL CHAMPIONSHIP
Greenville, Fla. —The National Amateur Quail Championship was concluded Monday afternoon, March 3. Judges Jim Waddell of Brownsville, Tenn., and Mac Conyers of Halls, Tenn., named Dubose’s Flash as the new National Amateur Quail Champion. No runner-up was named.
The white and black four-year-old pointer male owned and handled by Bobby Dubose of Baker, Fla., turned in a strong, wide, forward race with three coveys of birds being flushed in front of his stylish points. This was done during a trial full of hot, blue bird days and east winds at famed Dixie Plantation near Greenville, Fla. There were 32 entries in this stake.
— Alan Powell
REGION 4 AMATEUR SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP
Paducah, Ky.—Forty-one dogs answered the call at the recently concluded Region 4 Amateur Shooting Dog Championship held at the West Kentucky Wildlife Area near Paducah, Ky. The winner emerged in Drakes Creek Reward, coming four-year-old white and black pointer female owned and handled by Dr. James Jarvis of Alvaton, Ky. Runner-up was Betty Boo, also a white and black pointer female owned and handled by Ron Ward of Centralia, Ill.
Judges for this renewal were Dennis Auping of New Melle, Mo., and Kipp Linard of Silex, Mo.
— Jim Crouse
TEXAS OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP
Inola, Okla. —The Texas All-Age Championship was concluded March 5 with Judges Dr. Jim Mills of Searcy, Ark., and Everett Brannon of Powderly, Tex., naming Jackson’s Static Line the champion for his two finds with an all-age effort. He was handled by Steve Hurdle for owner Mike R. Jackson of Battle Ground, Ind. Runner-up Barshoe Busy had one find and was handled by Andy Daugherty for owners Tom Faller of Springfield, Ill., and Lee R. West of Edmond, Okla. Forty-five dogs were entered.
In the Derby, with 21 entries, the winner was Barshoe Eclectic, pointer female owned by Dr. Robert Rankin and Sooner Squire Kennels of Edmond, Okla., and handled by Allen Vincent. Second was Mann’s Power Stroke, pointer male owned and handled by Austin Mann of Brownsville, Tenn. Third was Praireland Hank, pointer male owned by Dr. Robert Cook of Kenosha, Wis., and handled by Randy Anderson.
The running was moved to the McFarlin-Ingersoll Ranch near Inola, Okla., for the 2008 running. A day and a half was lost to inclement weather.
— Margaret Pinalto
ARIZONA AND REGION 12 SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIPS
Kingman, Ariz.—The Arizona Open Shooting Dog Championship was held February 6 near Kingman, Ariz. The winner was Super Express Coco, pointer female owned by Ivaylo Gotzev of Lompoc, Cal., and handled by Sheldon Twer. Runner-up was No Limit Belle, pointer female owned and handled by Jim Schultz of Flagstaff, Ariz. There were 17 entries.
Judges were Terry Erickson of Laguna, Cal., and David Hayes of Buckeye, Ariz.
In the Bill West Derby Classic (13 entries), first went to Big Z’s Superstition Dan, pointer male owned and handled by George Musser of Tempe, Ariz. Placed second was Bold Venture, pointer male owned by Bob Blythe of Calgary, Alberta and handled by Bill Gibbons. Super Blue Squirt, pointer male owned and handled by Sheldon Twer, was third.
Judges were Dave Hayes and Jim Schultz of Flagstaff, Ariz.
The Region 12 Amateur Shooting Dog Championship was held February 10. Named winner was Hunter’s Pride Hanna, pointer female owned and handled by Ed Dixon. Runner-up was Hale’s Rise N Shine, pointer female owned by Bruce and Lisa Hale, handled by Bruce Hale.
Judges were Lyle Christensen of Phoenix, Ariz., and Sal Satallante of Williams, Ariz.
— Tamara Gibbons
NATIONAL AMATEUR DERBY CHAMPIONSHIP
Hernando, Miss.—Topping the field of 16 contenders in the National Amateur Derby Championship was S F Pocketknife, white and orange pointer male owned and handled by Larry Smith of Altoona, Ia. Boxwood Bandana, white and orange pointer male owned and handled by Michael Shears of Franklin, Tenn., was named runner-up.
The venue was Black Prairie WMA in Hernando, Miss. The judges were Johnathan Birch and Burke Hendrix of Hernando, Miss.
— Linda Hunt,
UNITED STATES SHOOTING DOG INVITATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP
Conway, Ark.—The United States Shooting Dog Invitational Championship was held February 17-19 on the Camp Robinson Wildlife Management Area grounds near Conway, Ark. The trial was delayed one day due to rain and inclement weather, but pleasant conditions were enjoyed on the two days of one-hour qualifying heats and the 90-minute finals on the third day.
The winner emerged in the white and orange pointer male Sugarknoll Buckshot, handled by Luke Eisenhart and owned by Peter and Chris Del Collo of Newtown Square, Pa. Peter and Chris were present for the three days of running and crowning of their celebrated champion which was also last year’s Purina Shooting Dog of the Year. Buckshot was braced in the finals with Westfall’s Black Ice, handled by Gordon Hazlewood and owned by Bill Westfall.
Also competing in the finals were Stone Tavern Matrix, handled by Mike Tracy and owned by Dr. Joseph P. Trovato of Allentown, N. J., and Belfield Silver, handled by Mike Hester and owned by Don Frigo of Caledon East, Ont. All four of the dogs had exciting races and outstanding bird work. The judges let it be known that ultimately the thinnest of margins separated Sugarknoll Buckshot and Westfall’s Black Ice. These two champions battled it out right up to the end and the three days of endurance competition ended with a true “photo finish. “
The twelve contestants, their handlers and their owners included: Serious Threat (Mike Tracy), owners Greg and Maggie Strausbaugh; Sugarknoll Buckshot (Luke Eisenhart), owners Peter and Chris Del Collo; Weber’s Little Bullet (John Ray Kimbrell), owner Bruce Weber; High Drive Kate, (George Tracy), owner Allen Linder; Hifalutin, (M. Tracy), owners Roger and Susan Duerksen; Elhew Hannabell (Shawn Kinkelaar), owners Drs. Thomas and Robin Morgan; Stone Tavern Matrix, (M. Tracy), owner Dr. Joseph P. Trovato; Talisman (M. Tracy), owner Susan Duerksen; Elhew Snowflake (G. Tracy), owners Tommy and Bonnie Hamilton; C Note (M. Tracy), owner Allen Linder; Belfield Silver (Mike Hester), owner Don Frigo; Westfall’s Black Ice (Gordon Hazlewood), owner Bill Westfall.
The judges were Chuck Stretz of Blackwater, Mo., and Floyd Cagle of Alma, Ark.
— Joyce Taylor
NATIONAL CLUB’S CHAMPIONSHIPS
Catherine, Ala. —The National Derby Championship was the lead-off stake of the National Field Trial Club’s program at Shell Creek Plantation in Catherine, Ala.
T
opping the field of 21 Derbies was Lester’s Thunder Storm, white and orange pointer male owned by Gary Lester of Gracey, Ky., and handled by Ike Todd. Runner-up was Dellinger C, white and orange pointer male owned by Dr. Fred Corder of Corinth, Miss., and handled by Randy Downs.
Judges for the juvenile stake were Dr. Jerry Champion of Hueytown, Ala., and Donnie May of Hanceville, Ala.
In the time-honored National Free-for-All Championship, Shell Creek Coin, coming five-year-old white and orange pointer male owned by David O’Connor of Bullard, Tex., and handled by Steve Hurdle, emerged victorious in a field of eighteen contenders. No runner-up is named in this stake. The Championship followed the Derby fixture at R. W. “Bud” Moore’s Shell Creek Plantation.
Judging the National Free-for-All Championship were Eddie Sholar of Leesburg, Ga., and Jake Waddell of Jackson, Tenn.
— Ruth Morton
NATIONAL OPEN SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP
Hoffman, N. C.—Hailey’s Another Buddy, white and orange pointer male owned by Jerry and Sharon Hailey of Buffalo, Mo., and handled by Jerry, was named winner of the National Open Shooting Dog Championship at the trial’s conclusion on February 10 at Hoffman, N. C.
Fifty-two of the top shooting dogs in the country competed for the championship title. Several good performances were given, but there were no questions by those who rode the entire championship about who the champion would be at the end of the trial.
Hailey’s Another Buddy had four finds, three of them really good ones. His race was strong and consistent.
The advertised judges Johnny Atkinson of Marion, S. C., Dr. Jerry Champion of Hueytown, Ala., and Til Hankley of Powhatan, Va., presided for the championship event.
— Dwight Smith
ALABAMA OPEN ALL-AGE CHAMPIONSHIP
Blue Mountain, Miss.—The Alabama Open All-Age Championship and companion one-hour Derby were held at the Hell Creek Field Trial Area, Blue Mountain, Miss.
Topping the field of 31 contenders in the Championship was Whippoorwill War Dance, pointer male owned by Glen Crutchfield and Dr. Jack Huffman of Memphis, Tenn., and handled by Larry Huffman. Maswood John, pointer male owned by Jerrell Bryan of Philadelphia, Miss., and handled by Mike Matney, was named runner-up.
First in the Derby (22 entries) was Longshot, owned and handled by Hoyle Eaton. Placed second was Forresthill Sportster, owned by Mark and Melanie Haynes of Brownsville, Tenn., and handled by Rich Boumeester. Don’t Wait, owned by Joe Barksdale of DesMoines, Ia., and handled by Ike Todd, was third.
Judging the Championship were Mac Conyers of Halls, Tenn., and Greg St. John of South Fulton, Tenn. In the judicial saddles for the Derby were Charles Bond of Montgomery, Ala., and Greg Bain of Town Creek, Ala.
— J. R. Page
AMERICAN QUAIL CLASSIC
Fort Campbell, Ky.—The Clarksville Pointer and Setter Club’s American Quail Classic drew a fine field of forty dogs (36 pointers and four setters) to the great grounds at the Fort Campbell Military Reservation. Judges for the All-Age and Derby were Shawn Kinkelaar of Effingham, Ill., and Michael Shears of Franklin, Tenn.
They named Chief Honcho’s Bill winner of the All-Age. Bill is owned and was handled by Ben S. Adams, Jr. of Hopkinsville, Ky. Second was Rockwood Chief, pointer male owned by Jim Fornear of Broughton, Ill., and handled Ray Warren. Placed third was Prairieland Pride, pointer male owned Dr. Robert G. Cook of Kenosha, Wis., and handled by Randy Anderson.
The Derby winner emerged in S F Pocketknife, pointer male owned and handled by Larry Smith of Altoona, Ia. Second was Prairie Scout, also a pointer male, owned by Eric Waltz of Cape Coral, Fla., and handled by Randy Anderson. Named third was Three Ten To Yuma, pointer male owned by Perry Lacy of Elkton, Ky., and handled Ray Warren. There were 24 in the Derby.
— Perry Lacy
CAJUN CLASSIC
Columbus, Miss.—The Cajun Open All-Age Classic ran January 27 to conclusion at the Black Prairie Area south of Columbus, Miss.
Judges were Michael Shears of Franklin, Tenn., and Dr. Pat McInteer of Falls City, Neb.
This National Championship qualifier drew 42 dogs. First was Hytest Sky Hawk, white and orange setter male owned by Jack Elliott of Knoxville, Tenn., and handled by Ray Warren. Steve Hurdle won second and third with pointer males Shell Creek Coin and Thunder Mac. Coin is owned by David T. O’Connor of Bullard, Tex.; Mac is owned by Doug Arthur of Eads, Tenn. All dogs ran good races and had bird work.
The Evangeline Open Derby drew 22 dogs. Larry Smith of Altoona, Ia., won first with S F McKenzie; Cecil Rester of Bogalusa, La., was second with Rester’s White Cap; Searchlight Mac was third for handler Randy Sanderson and owner Ken Sunday of Wisconsin. The first and second place Derbies had bird work.
— Dr. Pat McInteer
CONTINENTAL OPEN ALL-AGE CHAMPIONSHIP
Greenville, Fla.—Judges Jerry Black and Garland Priddy, both of Jackson, Miss., named Miller’s On Line, pointer male owned by Mike Furney of Chipley, Fla., and Chip McEwen of Alva, Fla., and handled by Rick Furney, the 2008 Continental Open All-Age Champion, and Flatwood Silver, owned by Dr. Everett Crouch of Jacksonville, Fla., and handled by Robin Gates, runner-up champion.
Recognized as the “top qualifying dog” was Funseeker’s Rebel, pointer male owned by Frank and Mercy Fonseca of Miami, Fla., and handled by Andy Daugherty.
Ninety-two entries (90 pointers and 2 setters) were drawn; the callbacks consisted of sixteen dogs.
Weather was excellent for the 113th renewal of the Continental trials. This Championship started Thursday morning, January 24, and was concluded Saturday afternoon, February 2.
— Tommy Stargell
FORTY-FOURTH UNITED STATES QUAIL SHOOTING DOG FUTURITY
Hoffman, N. C.—A whopping starting field of 93 dogs was drawn for the 44th running of the United States Quail Shooting Dog Futurity held January 29 through February 2 at the Sandhills Wildlife Management Area near Hoffman N. C. A number of quality Derbies demonstrated tremendous potential for the future.
From the starting field of 92 that ran an initial half-hour series, Judges John Ray Kimbrell of Fort Mill, S. C., and Keith Severin of Warrenton, Va., called back 16 finalists for the one-hour heats. Calico’s Dyno Mite was named the winner. Dyno Mite, pointer male owned and bred by Calico Kennels (Frank Henderson and Dick Quackenbush), rendered a superior ground race and had one find in his initial half-hour heat. Dyno Mite was handled by George Tracy. Second was Avalon Creek, pointer female owned by Roland Kane of Blackstone, Va., bred by Roger Dvorak and handled by Mike Tracy to a two-find performance coupled with strong races in both the initial 30 minutes and one-hour callback. Third was My Mustang Sally, pointer female owned by Georgians Tim Moore and Fred Rowan, bred by Tim Moore and handled by Doug Ray to a four-find, plus two other contacts, hard hunting ground race. Fourth was Apalachee Fibber Girl, pointer female owned by Darren Britt, bred by Dr. Wade Rosenberg and handled by Shawn Kinkelaar to two finds and strong ground coverage in both series.
— Mike Husenits
INTERNATIONAL ENDURANCE SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP
Ardmore, Okla.—Veteran Texas handler Frank Ford made a clean sweep of the 2008 International Endurance Shooting Dog Championship at Ardmore, Okla. He handled both the winner — I’ll B Buck — and the runner-up — Over and Out. Buck, nine-year-old white and liver pointer male, is owned by Bill King of Fort Worth, Tex.; Over and Out, six-year-old white and liver pointer male, carries the colors of Dr. Buck Neil of Houston, Tex.
The 26-dog field was judged by George Miller of Denver, Colo., and Tom Milam of Elm Mott, Tex. Both the judges and competitors braved cold and windy conditions.
— C. W. “Chuck” Taylor
NATIONAL AMATEUR SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP
Conway, Ark.—The National Amateur Shooting Dog Championship was held February 1-3 on the celebrated Camp Robinson Field Trial Grounds near Conway, Ark. The Arkansas Amateur Field Trial Association assisted the Amateur Field Trial Clubs of America with hosting duties. The trial attracted an entry of 39 dogs with participants representing ten states.
The winner emerged in Dunwell’s Mac, six-year-old mostly white pointer male owned by Les Rowell of Green Briar, Ark. Mac had an exciting strong forward race and an impeccable find to win the title. Birds were at a mysterious premium during the trial after an abundant showing only two weeks prior at a weekend trial. Named runner-up was Rapper’s Rappin Rambo, owned by Alan Worth of Prescott, Ia. This coming eight-year-old white and orange setter male also had a strong forward race and two dug up finds.
Judges were Hall-of-Famer Charles R. Jackson of Dallas, Tex., and Crazy Horse Kennels professional trainer Bill Richards of Boonville, Mo.
— Joyce Taylor
GEORGIA SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP
Waynesboro, Ga.—A fine line separated the winners of the Georgia Open Shooting Dog Championship.
Browntown Rolling Roxy, five-year-old white and liver pointer female, was named champion, and Browntown Investigator, four-year-old white and black setter male, was named runner-up. Descriptive of both winners was excellent ground work, consistent forward races, two finds, handling well on birds, and excellent finishes. In the final tally the judges named Roxy to the top honors stating she was a hair line stronger for the hour. Both dogs were handled by Luke Eisenhart and both are owned by Auddie Brown of Florence, S. C.
Twenty-two years ago (1986), Auddie Brown won this same title with Handsome Jack, white and liver pointer male handled by John Ray Kimbrell.
Occupying the judicial saddles for nine days during inclement weather were Mike Wrenn of Greenville, S. C., and John Neely of Albany, Ga. John Ray Kimbrell of Fort Mill, S. C., served as stake manager for 25 consecutive days of the three Georgia Championships (Derby, All-Age and Shooting Dog) and Derby Classic.
— Nell Mobley, Secy.
NATIONAL AMATEUR SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP
Conway, Ark. —The National Amateur Shooting Dog Championship has drawn a field of 39 contenders. Judging the stake are Charles Jackson of Dallas, Tex., and Bill Richards of Boonville, Mo. The trial began February 1 at the Camp Robinson grounds near Conway, Ark.
— Linda Hunt
CONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIPS
Greenville, Fla.—The 113th Continental trials featuring the Continental Derby and Continental Open All-Age Championships returned to Dixie Plantation near Greenville, Fla. The running commenced January 21 with the juvenile stake, which attracted a fast field of 36. The winners emerged in a pair of pointer females. Taking the title was Survivor’s Real Deal, owned and handled by Mark McLean of Doerun, Ga. Runner-up was Searchlight Patch, owned by Ken Sunday of Clearlake, Wis., and handled by Randy Sanderson. The winner was credited with a back, a divided find and an independent piece of work in a forward out-front hour. The runner-up had one find, appearing on a warm Wednesday afternoon, ending a showy effort with an impressive string of casts near the end of her bid.
A departure from the longstanding schedule occurred this year when six braces a day were run instead of the customary seven, affording a more leisurely pace to the Championship.
Judges for the opening stake were Howard Brooks of Dayton, Tenn., and John Thompson of Camilla, Ga.
The Continental Championship began January 25, 92 contenders slated for the one-hour qualifying heats. Judges Jerry Black of Jackson, Miss., and Garland Priddy of Terry, Miss., are presiding and will name the callback dogs that will compete in the one-hour and 50-minute finals.
GEORGIA DERBY CLASSIC
Waynesboro, Ga.—From a field of 44 entries Cassique’s Velocity, pointer male owned by Fred and Bernice Rowan of Atlanta, Ga., and handled by Doug Ray, took top honors in the Georgia Derby Classic with five finds, a nice forward race and a good finish. Second went to Awsum Angel, pointer female handled by Luke Eisenhart and owned by Bill and Margie Ricci of Englishtown, N.J. She displayed excellent manners on her two finds. Smokin Hot Trouble, pointer male handled by Mike Tracy for owner Roland Kane of Blackstone, Va., had nice manners to wing and shot, a good ground race and a nice finish for third.
Judges were Benji Stephens and Ron Lambert, both of Vidalia, Ga.
— Nell Mobley
REGION 6 AMATEUR SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP
Conway, Ark.—The Region 6 Amateur Shooting Dog Championship (56 entries) concluded January 9 at the Camp Robinson Field Trial Grounds near Conway, Ark. Judging were Tom Honecker of Findlay, Ohio and Dr. Fred Corder of Corinth, Miss. Blackhawk Jet, white and black pointer male, was named winner for owner Robby Robinson of Dardanelle, Ark., and handler John “Buzzy” Daugherty. Runner-up was Western Wishes, also owned and handled by Robby Robinson.
— J. Martin
FLORIDA OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP
Lake City, Fla.—Judges Leland Fischer of Jefferson City, Mo., and Dr. Jerry Champion of Hueytown, Ala., named In The Shadow, owned by Carl Bowman of Louisville, Ky., and handled by Robin Gates, the 2008 Florida Open All-Age Champion, and House’s Snake Bite, owned by Tom Faller of Springfield, Ill., and handled by Andy Daugherty, runner-up.
Fourteen dogs were called back for the one-hour finals from the 86 starters. No time was lost to weather despite threats of heavy rain through the week. Miller’s On Line was named top qualifier. The stake concluded on Thursday, January 17.
— Tom Word
GEORGIA DERBY CLASSIC AND SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP
Waynesboro, Ga. —The Georgia Derby Classic drew a total of 38 entries. Advertised judges Benjie Stephens of Vidalia, Ga., and Ron Lambert of Vidalia, Ga., will occupy the judicial saddles. The stake began January 12, with the Open Shooting Dog Championship immediately following.
The latter has 108 contenders. These entries will compete under the watchful eyes of John Neely of Albany, Ga., and Mike Wrenn of Greenville, S. C.
— Nell Mobley
GEORGIA QUAIL CHAMPIONSHIP
Waynesboro, Ga.—Emerging from a field of 65 contenders, South’s Late Night was named champion. Late Night is owned by Dr. David Dickey of Augusta, Ga. Handling Late Night was Rick Furney. The pointer male had several forward casts through the course, responding well to Furney’s commands. At 52 he was standing tall, picture-perfect as the birds were flushed, finishing nice with a forward race.
Close behind was Erin’s Prairie Princess, pointer female, for runner-up honors. Princess scored at 8 and 45. She traveled the country rendering a good forward race for handler Luke Eisenhart. The runner-up is owned by Tom Downs of West Grove, Pa.
Advertised judges Rick Stallings of Montgomery, Ala., and Jim Crouse of Dixon, Ky., named the winners.
— Nell Mobley
HOBART AMES MEMORIAL TRIALS
Grand Junction, Tenn.—The Hobart Ames Memorial trials began Monday morning, January 14, at Ames Plantation, Grand Junction, Tenn. The Open All-Age attracted a whopping 74 dogs — 65 pointers and 9 setters — while the companion Derby featuring one-hour heats has 31.
Judges are Russ Henderson of Claremore, Okla., and Jadie Rayfield of Mt. Pleasant, S. C. Barring any unforeseen delays, the trials should be completed on or about January 23. There is no running on Sunday at Ames Plantation.
— Margaret Pinalto
TEXAS OPEN SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP
Ardmore, Okla. —The Texas Open Shooting Dog Championship was held on the Lake Murray Field Trial Grounds at Ardmore, Okla., and drew an entry of 40 dogs. Judges for the Championship and companion Derby were E. J. Hall of Gunter, Tex., and Larry Garner of Oak Point, Tex. They named Master Hawk as the champion with one find, an unproductive and an extremely strong finish. The white and black pointer male is owned by Devoe Treadwell of Wichita, Kan., and was handled by Dean Lord. Named runner-up was Rock N Roxey, handled by Jack Herriage and co-owned by Mike McClanahan of Lees Summit, Mo., and Charles R. Jackson of Dallas, Tex. The white and orange pointer female had one find and a good forward race throughout.
Conditions were almost perfect field trial weather with a little Oklahoma wind thrown in.
Winning first in the 14-dog Derby was L S K Cash, pointer male handled by George Newcomb. Cash is owned by Charles Barbaree of Pryor, Okla. Claiming second was Diamond M Sue, pointer female owned by Mike McClanahan and handled by Jack Herriage. Broadway Striker, pointer male handled by Chuck Taylor, placed third. All Derbies placed on consistent forward races.
— Peg Herriage
GEORGIA DERBY CHAMPIONSHIP
A pair of littermates took top honors at the Georgia Derby Championship. Twenty-five-year-old Ike Todd from Gracey, Ky., had double reasons to be happy, this being his very first championship. Ike piloted House’s Memphis May, pointer female, to win the title for his owner Joe Don House of Clinton, Ky. A picture-perfect find at 41 showed the performance of an all-age Derby. May could always be seen to the front with a classy race. Very close behind May was Three Ten To Yuma, pointer male with perfect finds at 27 and 47 for handler Ray Warren. Yuma ran an excellent all-age race and finished going away. Yuma is owned by Perry Lacy of Hopkinsville, Ky. Both winners ran on course No. 2.
Advertised judges Tony Gibson of Montgomery, Ala., and Johnny Capps of Banks, Ala., braved temperatures in the high teens and twenties.
The Georgia All-Age Championship (65 entries) started immediately afterwards.
— Nell Mobley
SOUTHERN CHAMPIONSHIP
Columbus, Miss.—The initial one-hour series of the Southern Championship was concluded on Sunday, January 6, after 44 had vied for their chance to move to the next level — the championship second series — which requires contestants to compete for two hours.
Judges Frank LaNasa of Isanti, Minn., and Scott Jordan of White Bear Lake, Minn., named six dogs for the two hours and put two dogs on standby. The lineup for the callback: Sir Lancelot handled by Wade Griffin when Hoyle Eaton suffered an injury after a horse fell with him, braced with Whippoorwill Wild Agin (Larry Huffman); Lester’s Absolute (Colvin Davis) with Erin’s Tin Soldier (Sean Derrig); White Powder Pete (Davis) with Top Crude (Allen Vincent). The standby brace was Erin’s Bad River (Derrig) and Heyu Two Pete (Vincent).
The weather for the initial running started with 16°, then climbed each day eventually reaching the high 70s. The heat and humidity played a big part in some performances.
The demands of the second series, a grueling test of all-age ability, grit and heart, was realized when the six callback dogs had finished their bids. Three finished the two hours: Whippoorwill Wild Agin, Lester’s Absolute, and White Powder Pete. The judges commented at the conclusion that either of three could have won championships today.
The winner of the 2008 Southern Championship was Whippoorwill Wild Agin, coming five-year-old pointer male which did a fine job on the ground, showing plenty left at the end of the two hours. He chalked up six good finds, all handled with class and manners. Larry Huffman handled the new champion for his father Dr. Jack Huffman and co-owner Dr. Terry Terlep.
Runner-up was Lester’s Absolute, a worthy of entry into the winners’ circle. Absolute was handled by Colvin Davis and owned by Rick Stallings and had three good finds showing class and manners on all.
The warm, humid conditions were tough on the dogs and horses. A steady southeast wind prevailed. Partly cloudy skies helped some to shield the dogs from the hot sun.
Judges LaNasa and Jordan were applauded for their dedicated efforts in searching for the best of the best in this Southern Championship.
— Mazie E. Davis
TOOTSIE HURDLE TRIALS
Blue Mountain, Miss.—The 2007 Tootsie Hurdle trials came to the Hell Creek Area near Blue Mountain, Miss., December 27, the Open All-Age drawing 35 contenders and the Open Derby with 21.
Judges Steve Butler of Somerville, Tenn., and C. W. “Bud” Moore of Toronto, Kan., presided for both stakes. In the Open All-Age, the winner was Jackson’s Static Line, white and orange pointer male owned by Mike Jackson of Battleground, Ind., and handled by Steve Hurdle. Second was Crystal Water, white and liver pointer female owned by Earl Connolly of Memphis and handled by Weldon Bennett. Third was Shell Creek Coin for owner David O’Connor of Bullard Tex., and handler Steve Hurdle.
Sir Robin Hood, pointer male owned by D. Hoyle Eaton of Booneville, Miss., and handled by Wade Griffin, prevailed in the Open Derby. Forresthill True Cody, pointer male owned by Mark and Melody Haynes of Brownsville, Tenn., and handled by Mark Haynes, was second, while Thunder Snowy, pointer female owned by Doug Arthur of Eads, Tenn., and handled by Steve Hurdle, was awarded third.
— Margaret Pinalto
GEORGIA ASSOCIATION TRIALS
Waynesboro, Ga.—The Georgia Field Trial Association has drawn a banner entry for its 2008 open all-age stakes at Waynesboro, Ga. Ninety-nine dogs were entered for this renewal, which began January 2 with the Georgia Derby Championship, attracting a field of 44. The Georgia Open Quail Championship has a formidable lineup of 65.
Six braces are run each day, and barring any undue delays, the trials should be concluded on or about January 11.
Judges for the Derby fixture are Johnny Capps and Tony Gibson of Union Springs, Ala.; for the All-Age, Jim Crouse of Dixon Ky., and Rick Stallings of Montgomery, Ala., will preside.
— Nell Mobley
SOUTHERN CHAMPIONSHIP
Columbus, Miss.—January 3, 2008 marked the 54th anniversary of this high-status all-age championship. With 44 drawn to compete and the temperature falling to 15° for the opening day of the trial, it will once again require a “tough” all-age dog to take the silver home for an owner.
Frank LaNasa of Isanti, Minn., and Scott Jordan of White Bear Lake, Minn., will ride to judge the contenders as they show their worth for an hour, and if deemed worthy will have two hours in the finals to show their grit on the true all-age venue of the Black Prairie Wildlife Management Area near Columbus, Miss.
— Mazie E. Davis
