Updated Hall of Fame Nominations

Submitted by peers in the field trial community

August 5, 2022

Source: Dinora Wellmann
Department: UKC Hunting Ops/American Field
Email: dwellmann@ukcdogs.com

• Submitted by peers in the field trial community.
• Nominations received as of 8/5/22. As of this date, nominations are now closed.
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  UKC reserves the right to edit nominations for length.

  Hall of Fame / Field Trial Personality

  Nominee: Fred Rayl
  Submitted by: Chad Chadwell and Nancy Browne
  We would like to nominate Fred Rayl for the Field Trial Hall of Fame. Others have told the story of his successes in the field at the most prestigious events on the All-Age circuit, but we can speak to his support as a mentor and human being who is giving back to the sport. We first met Fred when we were looking for a training spot in 2016 and Fred and Inda have been gracious hosts and mentors to us and other amateur trainers over the years. Fred invited us to train with him and has always been supportive and willing to provide his wisdom and knowledge in training competitive field trial bird dogs. Fred is a first-class gentleman and sportsman and is dedicated to the sport of field trialing. We feel that Fred has and is contributing to the future of this sport, and should be inducted into the Field Trial Hall Of Fame.

  Nominee: Fred Rayl
  Submitted by: Robert Thomas
  Fred Rayl more than meets the qualifications for persons for consideration for the Field Trial Hall of Fame. Fred being up in the bird dog world and has been an integral part of his life. Having a father like Bill Rayl (HOF) guide you made the transition into to the bird dog profession for Fred appear seamless. Fred's career spanned over four decades competing across the country from Canada to Florida. He won the 1982 National Championship and the Purina Award with Heritage Premonition., making it the fourth time in field trial history that a father and son has won the National Championship. Fred Rayl developed twenty-eight dogs that won forty-nine championships beginning with his 1st championship in 1976 with Ch Strongman and his 49th championship in 2006 with Ch Pride's Alibi. Three of these champions are in the Hall of Fame: Ch Builder's Addition, Ch. Fiddler, and Ch. Fiddler's Pride. With the support of the late Dan Bonaquidi, Fred was instrumental in developing the Fiddler line of dogs. Over the years, Fred has offered his assistance to various clubs and served as judge at several amateur/open championship stakes. It is time the field trial community honor Fred Rayl for his lifelong dedication and contribution to the sport and support his nomination into the Field Trial Hall of Fame and recognized alongside his father, W. F "Bill" Rayl (HOF) and his three HOF champions: Builder's Addition, Fiddler, and Fiddler's Pride.

  Nominee: Fred Rayl
  Submitted by: John Lee
  With great pride I would like to nominate Fred Rayl for Field Trial Hall of Fame. Fred has truly given his life to bird dogs and field trials. He meets and exceeds all the standards set for inclusion into this group. As a trainer, Fred trained and handled 3 dogs which are currently in the Field Trial Hall of Fame- Fiddler, Fiddler's Pride and Builder's Addition. Fred won the National Championship twice. Once with Builder's Addition and once with Heritage's Premonition. He trained and handled dogs to 49 Championships and hundreds of other placements over a career spanning over 50 years. He's competed and won at the highest level of our sport and has won several major championships numerous times including the Continental, Continental derby, Florida, Georgia and Georgia derby championships. Fred has also given back to our sport in many ways. He's judged field trials at all levels, from Major championships such as the Continental and Georgia championship down to weekend trials. He's been involved in the founding and management of several major trials over the years and has helped many many people become interested and involved in the sport of field trialing Whether they became his customers or customers of another trainer he has treated them all as friends and family. Fred has truly been a great ambassador for the sport of Field Trialing! Please join me in supporting Fred Rayl for the Field trial hall of fame. His election is long overdue!

  Fred Rayl
  Submitted by Tom Word
  I second the nomination of Fred Rayl to the Field Trial Hall of Fame. He has earned the honor over many years training and handling all-age champions.

  Fred Rayl
  Submitted by Chris Mathan
  In 2012 as a member of the Black Ash Grouse Trial Club located in western Pennsylvania, I contacted Fred Rayl, who I had not met up till then, asking if he would consider judge our two-hour Armstrong-Umber Endurance Classic, it's fourth annual running. Without hesitation, Fred agreed to judge. That March he and his lovely wife Inday drove up from Georgia. Fred gave his all and thoroughly enjoyed judging a field trial on a wild bird he was not much familiar with. He was supportive of the club members strong beliefs in the importance of the endurance aspect of all field trial dogs and he was genuinely interested in our grouse dogs. Club members and trial participants enjoyed his company and the field trial stories he told, which were never centered on himself. Andrew Campbell reported our classic for the second time that year. It was Fred who invited Andrew to report the Masters Open Quail Championship in 2013 which he has now reported for the past 10 years, becoming one of our sport's most valued reporters of all-age dogs. As far as winning goes, Fred has made his mark winning prestigious all-age championships over many years. He handled the first Florida Open All-Age Championship winner, the great Builder's Edition in 1979, went on to win it again in 1982 with Fiddler's Bo and three more times as well as R-U three times. It's well time to honor Fred by inducting him to the Hall of Fame this year.

  Fred Rayl
  Submitted by James Spencer
  I have known the Rayl family over forty years and Fred is a good friend. I have gone to his camp and worked dogs. His accomplishments as a trainer and developer of all-age dogs are legendary. Hall of Fame dogs Fiddler, Builders Addition, and Fiddlers Pride are the foundation sires of the top pointer lines today. Fiddlers Ace was sold, and many bird hunters wanted his line for gun dogs. Fred has won over fifty open championships and seventy-five runner-up championships. His record at the Quail Championship Invitational is amazing. Fred has judged major championships, amateur trials, and cover dog trials. Fred volunteered to teach several gun dog clinics to our local gun dog club and two of the dogs reached number one in their respective breeds. Fred wanted his father Bill Rayl to win the National Championship before him. In 1980, Fred let his father run Builder's Addition and Fred scouted. Two years later Fred won the National Championship with Heritage Premonition and Bill Rayl scouted for him. He competed against legendary Hall of Fame handlers and some of the greatest Hall of Fame field trial dogs to ever run. Fred's desire is to be elected to the Hall of Fame based on his merits and not politics. He more than meets all requirements for the Field Trial Hall of Fame nominee and deserves to be in the Hall of Fame along side his father, W.F. "Bill" Rayl.

  Fred Rayl
  Submitted by Jesse Brown
  I would be honored to nominate Fred Rayl for the Field Trial Hall of Fame. I was rather fortunate to work bird dogs with Fred Rayl during the summer of 2015 in the Montana prairies. During that summer, I was able experience firsthand the skills and knowledge that he had accumulated during the decades of his lifetime spent developing high class bird dogs. That summer was definitely the best time of my life that I will never forget. Fred Rayl is always happy to provide some of his wisdom regarding bird dogs, especially with younger individuals such as myself. As long as I have known Fred Rayl, he has always been an encouraging mentor in my life as I learn more and progress in the sport of field trials. Fred Rayl, along with his father and brother, has also bred, developed, and campaigned some of the most distinguished pointers in the history of the sport. Many of those dogs have become the foundation of every bloodline of pointer ran in the American Field. Someone that has contributed as significant of an impact in the history of this sport as Fred Rayl most certainly deserves to be in the Hall of Fame.

  Fred Rayl
  Submitted by Ben Stringer
  Please strongly consider Fred Rayl for the Field Trial Hall of Fame. In the 66 years that he has been in the field trial sport, he has competed and won against several Hall of Fame inductees. His own father, Bill Rayl, has been inducted into the HOF; bird dog training and field trialing are in his blood. Fred was a year old when he started going to the prairies with his dad, Bill Rayl, and has been going ever since. When I was around 18 years old, Fred Rayl hired me to go the prairies with him. At that time Fred had already won more championships than I knew existed. When I went to work for Freddie, I knew how to feed and water dogs, but I did not know much about handling them. I still do not know everything there is to know but Fred has and is always there to answer my questions and advise me. It is not just his skills as a handler and trainer, but it is his willingness to help and share his knowledge with others in the industry and see they thrive as well. He is enthusiastic for the sport, and it is his passion to keep it alive and well. To date, Fred has won close to (if not more than) fifty championships and over seventy runner-up championships. His dogs, Builder's Addition, Fiddler, and Fiddler's Pride are in the HOF, and their bloodlines still greatly contribute to this sport. If you have not considered voting Fred Rayl into the Field Trial Hall of Fame, I urge you to do so. He is more than qualified and has more than earned the right to join the ranks of his father and others who earned this honorable title.

  Fred Rayl
  Submitted by the following families: The Rayls, The Snows and The Petries
  The love and passion the Rayl family has for the sport of field trials is exemplified in Fred Rayl, our uncle and brother. His love of birddogs runs a close second to his love of family and God. It is an honor and privilege to have Fred as a member of our family. Birddogs and field trials have been a part of our family for more than 75 years. We are immensely proud of our dad and grandfather Bill Rayl who is a member of the Hall of Fame and we would love for Fred Rayl to be bestowed the same honor. We could name a countless list of accomplishments in the Field Trial sport for Fred, but most importantly we would like to note Fred's selfless passion for the sport which can be seen on a daily basis since he was a young boy. We as a family ask for the support of each and every person who loves the Field Trial sport to join us in supporting Fred Rayl for his rightful place in the Field Trial Hall of Fame. Nothing would bring us more joy than to see Fred's picture next to Bill's in the Hall of Fame.

  Fred Rayl
  Submitted by: Winnie Jean (Rayl), Mike, Lucas and Hardy Martino
  It is my honor to nominate my dad, Fred Rayl. As a small child I slipped my feet into my dad's boots, several sizes too big, well-worn from flushing birds in front of countless career defining moments. Dad looking on and grinning, thinking that one day I would follow in his footsteps. I'm sure Papa Bill watched as Dad did the same. In my teen years, I realized how big of a feat that would be. His passion was immeasurable, and his accomplishments were too many to count. While I didn't follow the same career path as my Dad (Fred Rayl), Uncle (Eddie Rayl) and Papa (Bill Rayl, HOF), ambition, hard work and determination was driven into me by mirroring dad's hard work and dedication. I learned you earned what you needed and what you wanted was a privilege. Dad's boots walked the woods of tall pines in the south and land that stretched forever in prairies of the north. Defined by flushing countless birds, riding many, many miles on the back of two gray horses. I cannot remember a day when dad did not put his skills and talents to use to support the sport. I recall countless hours and days training, traveling, and competing. Dad's dedication to the field trial sport and accomplishments are surpassed by few. Dad's work was not just a successful career but a way of life for which there is no comparison. Let him know what it feels like to fill his father's boots.

  Fred Rayl
  Submitted by Robert Thomas
  In reaffirming Fred Rayl's nomination for the Field Trial HOF, his participation at the Quail Championship Invitational best illustrates his contribution to the sport. What is astonishing was Fred Rayl's ability to consistently bring outstanding dogs from the foundation sires developed from W.F. Rayl (HOF) string year in and year out and compete with the 'Best of the Best' handlers and 'Best of the Best' dogs in this grueling championship. Fred Rayl competed at the Quail Invitational 17 times spanning four decades (1977-2006). During those 17 years he competed against 53 Handlers (17 have been recognized in the HOF) and their 138 top dogs consisted of 11 National Champions (28 have been recognized in the HOF). Eleven of his twenty-eight champions earned invitations to compete for a total of 22 times. The results were 9 placements: 4 championships and 5 runner-up titles. The 4 championships won were by Hall of Fame inductees Builder's Addition (1977), Fiddler (1980) and Fiddler's Pride (1984 & 1985). He earned the 5 runner-up laurels with Builder's Addition (1978 &1979), Fiddler's Bo (1982), Builder's Free Boy (1983) and Pride's Alibi (2006).
  Fred Rayl also served twice on the judicial panel for the Quail Invitational Championship, in 1990 with Lee R. West (HOF) and Wayne Linebeck, and again in 1994 with E.L. "Ted" Baker (HOF) and Dr. Terry Terlep (HOF). For his contribution to this trial and to the sport of field trials as a whole, we need to honor Fred Rayl and support his induction into the Field Trial Hall of Fame.

  Nominee: Gary Lester
  Submitted by: Derek Bonner
  There are always a select few dogs, handlers, owners, and breeders, that when we think of them, we immediately place those individuals in a category of "a league of their own", based on their accomplishments in the sport of field trialing. This is certainly true of Gary Lester. Gary Lester's accomplishments as a handler need no introduction to the field trial community. Having won The National Championship six times, in and of itself is qualification to be elected to the Field Trial Hall of Fame. Besides his wins of The National, Gary's other notable wins include, but are not limited to, winning the Open Invitational Championship twice, the Open Free for All Championship three times, the Southern Championship twice, the All American Championship, and the All American Derby Championship numerous times, the US Open Championship twice, and the National Derby Championship three times. Individual wins of Championships include the Continental Derby Championship, the Masters Championship, the Southeastern Championship, the Missouri Championship, and the International Pheasant Championship. Gary Lester has also had two dogs win the Purina Dog of the Year. He also campaigned, and then sold two other dogs that went on to win the National Championship. Another notable accomplishment was having National Champion Lester's Snowatch elected to the Hall of Fame. As an amateur, before going pro, Gary won the National Amateur Derby Championship five times, the National Amateur Invitational Championship, the Amateur Quail Championship, the National Amateur Pheasant Championship, and several Regional Championships. Along with winning the Purina Amateur Dog of the Year. It's interesting to note that as a breeder Gary bred most of the dogs that he has won with. Gary Lester has given back to the sport in numerous ways. He has judged not only major Championships, but weekend trials also. Gary has quietly contributed financially as well helping clubs better their facilities, and helping sponsor both open, and amateur trials throughout the country. Gary has been an encourager, teacher, and mentor to anyone willing to learn from him. It is my pleasure to nominate Gary Lester for the Field Trial Hall of Fame, and to ask for your support of this most deserving individual.

  Nominee: Gary Lester
  Submitted by: Dr. Ron Deal
  I first met Gary Lester when he and Ferrell Miller came South before the Continental Derby one year. They needed a place to work and offered to take us hunting. Mr. Ferrell took the first hour and put down White Powder, True Spirit, and Kentucky Belle. The trio of multiple champions pointed twelve coveys. Gary was in the second position and followed with a pair of liver and white dogs that also did commendable jobs. A lot has happened since then and it has all happened with dogs that he and his crew have bred and developed. Gary has won the National Championship six times with five different dogs. Additionally, he has sold two other dogs that went on to win the National title. Shell Creek Coin (2006) was originally Lester's Gold Coin and Touch's Whiteout (2011) was initially Lester's Whiteout. The first dog that he handled to the National Championship, Lester's Snowatch, was elected to the Hall of Fame in 2017. Beyond the Ames Plantation, Gary also has an impressive win record. He has won Purina Dog of the Year twice and Amateur Dog of Year once. His dogs have excelled in endurance stakes. Besides the National, he has won the Open Invitational twice, the National Free- for- All three times, and the Southern twice. Dogs handled by Gary Lester have won in the piney woods (Southeastern, Master's, and Georgia) as well as in their more familiar edge country. Derbies are important to keeping the line moving and Gary Lester has excelled in that category as well. He has won three National Derby Championships, the Continental Derby Championship, plus multiple All America Derby and Invitational Derby Championships. Prior to concentrating on open stakes, Gary amassed an impressive record in the amateur category. He won both the National Amateur Quail Championship and the National Amateur Invitational Championship plus multiple regional titles. Gary and his associates have been instrumental in breeding and developing dogs with stamina that run and point birds with style. The prefix may be Lester or Touch, but the breeding program has made a big impact on the sport. Lester dogs have contributed to, and are continuing to contribute to, the betterment of the breed. When he was an amateur, Gary readily accepted judging assignments. He has judged the Southeastern Quail Championship twice and both the Masters' Shooting Dog and All-Age Championships among others. Based on his multiple contributions to our sport, Gary Lester is more than qualified for election to the Hall of Fame. Your vote will be appreciated.

  Gary Lester
  Submitted by Clarence Clowers
  Accomplishments: Six National Championships with five dogs. Two additional National Champions (Shell Creek Coin, Touch's Without) came from his program. Won 3 National Free-for-All, Open Invitational and Southern Championship twice, and Southeastern, Master's and Georgia Championships. Won 3 National Derby, Continental Derby, Invitational and All America Derby Championships multiple times. Won the National Amateur Quail, National Amateur Invitational and multiple Amateur Regional Championships. Won Purina Dog of the Year twice and Amateur Dog of Year. National Champion, Lester's Snowatch, elected Hall of Fame. Great ambassador for sport! Most important is Gary's love for the sport. He helps new comers feel welcome. He helps provide horses, etc. to ride at trials. He gives days of his time during events like "Puppy Day" and speaking. He shares training and breeding insight. He recognizes his mentors. He creates career opportunities and promotes beginning trainers, handlers, and breeders. Gary financially supports amateur clubs and led the Kentucky Lake trial for years. Gary is exceptional for our sport! Join me in voting Gary Lester into the Bird Dog Field Trial Hall of Fame.

  Gary Lester
  Submitted by Hunter, Mindy and Addison McDuffie
  When considering candidates for the Field Trial Hall of Fame we urge you to support Gary Lester. Gary has been in the Field Trial game since the early 1990's. He has been a major factor in perhaps the most successful breeding program in the history of our sport. I won't even begin to mention how many championships he has won or how many champions he has campaigned. The records are there to show and there are many. But what I will elaborate on is how much Gary supports and gives back to this sport. Many of you know that Mindy and I are deeply involved in the Alabama Youth Field Trial Association as well the Alabama Field Trial Association. Over the years, we have helped organize many fundraisers to benefit these programs and have been fairly successful in doing so. Financially, I'd venture to say that Alabama has the most successful youth program in America. Gary has been called upon time and time again as we always need something from him. Not once have we ever asked Gary for donations or support when his answer was anything but, "Yes, what can I do to help?" He can always be counted on when it comes to giving back to our sport, whether it be in the form of stud fees, monetary, or valuable useable items to help us support local trials here in Alabama-Youth, Amateur or Open. His generosity has been a major factor in making our Youth Association the best in the nation. He has never, ever, declined to help!! He is always willing to let these kids in Alabama pose for pics with National Champions whenever the chance arises. He gives his time to talk and tell stories when he is around our youth to encourage and support them. We need to see more of this in our sport. So please cast your vote for Gary Lester when considering worthy candidates for the HOF.

  Gary Lester
  Submitted by: Debra and Sean Hauser
  We may not have known Gary for as many years as others in the field trial world but we appreciate his friendship and knowledge of both dogs and horses that has helped us on the journey to develop the type of trial dog we want. Most significantly the great opportunity to purchase National Champion Miller's Dialing In. Gary has always made himself available whenever we have had questions or just wanted to talk about life in general. He has achieved many things throughout his years in this sport both as an amateur and currently as a pro. Most know of his six National Championship titles and he has won many other Championships: the Open Invitational Championship twice, the Open Free for All Championship three times, the Southern Championship twice, the All American Championship, and the All American Derby Championship numerous times, the US Open Championship twice, and this is not a complete list. Gary has also been on the Board of the Kentucky Lake Field Trial Club for many years and helps put on a quality trial. He is also generous financially in helping other clubs, judging, and helping others who want to learn more about field trialing by lending a horse or explaining what to look for in developing a great dog. Gary is fully qualified to be in the Hall of Fame and your vote would be appreciated. We would also like to add our support for Miller's Happy Jack to be inducted into the Hall of Fame.

  Nominee: Clinton "Joe" Bush
  Submitted by: Dr. Artavious J. Smith
  Clinton "Joe" Bush is a mentor, a teacher, and someone who has taught children for years as a responsible community member. Joe is a friend to many of us, and he has earned his right to be part of the Hall of Fame. Many people grew up and learned valuable lessons because of Joe. He is an expert at training bird dogs, fishing, riding horses, and hunting. These skills are tremendously helpful to young people growing up in a small town. Joe is a great dog trainer because of his dedication to the sport and the care and attention he pays to those whom he mentors. Anyone being trained by Joe knows about his kindness and how open he is to helping others. The honor of being in the Hall of Fame is an accolade that would make anyone proud. Joe has consistently shown over his life a willingness to support others, a keen interest in the outdoors, and most of all, an upmost dedication to the sport. Many of the children Joe mentored grew into pillars of the community who have become great success stories. Joe was a crucial part of my growth and pointed me in the right direction. He is a selfless and thoughtful leader and a teacher who considers others well-being. Joe should be inducted into the Field Trial Hall of Fame.

  Clinton "Joe" Bush
  Nomination submitted by Jimmy C. Strawn
  Write-up not provided.

  Clinton "Joe" Bush
  Submitted by Brent Murphy, Southpoint Outfitting and Kennels
  Clinton "Joe" Bush I asked Joe to teach me how to train bird dogs. He took me on and we worked every chance we got. The Continental was my first field trail and I was hooked. Joe knew every handler. He got me a summer job with Robin Gates. He opened so many doors for me. I run my own quail outfitting and kennels in South Texas. I have won shooting dog of the year. I have trained clients and their dogs that are winning in the American Field and the AKC. I have produced and developed puppies that have placed and won Championships with Professional Handlers in Shooting Dog Stakes. I learned how to fit it all together with Joe's guidance. Now I teach others as he did for me. He was the first Black man to qualify and handle his own dog in the National, there were around 100 entries in the International Pheasant Championship and he won it in the first brace, no runner up. He scouted and won Championships for numerous handlers and dogs throughout his career and is still trialing and judging whenever possible.

  David Johnson
  Submitted by Robert Franks
  Champion field trial dogs do not appear out of thin air. This takes talent, a knowledgeable handler, a devoted owner and a superior scout. Represented in the HOF are many deserving handlers and owners but only one scout, Ben "Man" Rand. The 1950s through the 1970s may be called the gold age of scouting. They exuberated incredible feats of horsemanship as well as reports of uncanny eyesight, hearing and tracking ability. It is past time for the Hall of Fame and voters to give another scout well-earned recognition in David Johnson. He is described as upright, honest, respectful, good around people, and all business. His philosophy was not to be a showman but to know your dogs well and to have the knack to figure a dog out. David believes he has scouted approximately 123 winners in his distinguished career. Among these dogs are: HOF Texas Fight, Flush's Wrangler, The Master Craftsman, Palariel Stormy Clown, Solid Reward, HOF Oklahoma Flush, HOF The The Texas Squire, and Special Duty. His scouted championships include the Free-for-All, Oklahoma, Georgia, Continental, Florida and the Invitational. Let's bring a piece of trial history and a true gentleman into the Hall of Fame.

  David Johnson
  Submitted by Kevin Dixon
  By any measure, by any standard, David Johnson exceeds any and every requirement for the Field Trial Hall of Fame. David Johnson is from the golden by gone era that pre-dated group efforts or conglomerations. From age seventeen to this day at age sixty nine; his life has been about bird dogs. Countless champions scouted. Countless Hall of Fame dogs scouted. David's contribution to the sport of field trials is unrivaled.

  David Johnson
  Submitted by Randy Anderson
  David started with the legendary program of John Rex Gates , after John Rex hung up his whistle David moved and help build a very successful program for the Texas businessman Stephen Harwood. This program produced the likes of Champion Classic Addition, and Hall Of Fame Champion Rebel Wrangler just to name a few. The entire Harwood program was purchased by Stephen Walker from the west coast. The program was put in the hands of Hall Of Fame trainer Bill Hunt. David made the move from Texas to Tennesee to work for the Walker / Hunt program with a lot of success. From there David went to another private program of the late T Jack Robinson and his son Fred. A place where David still calls home. David's life long dedication to the sport makes him very deserving to be elected to the Field Trial Hall Of Fame.

  David Johnson
  Submitted by Tom Word
  I write to endorse with enthusiasm David Johnson for the Field Trial Hall of Fame. I watched David scout at the Florida Championship many years, including for Solid Reward's win there and days later for his win of the National Free-For-All Championship at Jimmy Hinton's Sedgefields. More importantly, I watched him ride in the gallery at Chinquapin countless times. He always rode to the side and watching both dogs like a hawk. Again and again he would sing out to a handler or scout for a dog competing to tell him where his dog was or was going. He helped every other scout and handler, again and again, in every brace he rode, and he rode most. David Johnson is a total gentleman and richly deserves election to the Hall of Fame. He has scouted to victory and made or helped make some of the sports' greatest dogs, most memorably twice Purina Top Dog Rebel Wrangler, working with some of the greatest handlers. He started at age twelve driving Captain John S. Gates around Leesburg and continuing with John Rex on the major circuit.

  David Johnson
  Submitted by Michael D. Crouse
  The Bird Dog Field Trial Hall of Fame was established over a half a century ago to recognize high quality people and dogs who have set themselves apart by their conduct, accomplishments, and contributions to the sport of bird dog field trials. David Johnson, who now resides in Dayton Tennessee, is a man who is a fine fit for the Hall of Fame. David has compiled an amazing record of having scouted 136 Field Trial Champion Bird Dogs. His list of assisting with such dogs includes many canines now enshrined in the Hall of Fame such as Flush's Country Squire, Paladin's Royal Flush, Rebel Wrangler, Texas Fight, Texas Squire, and others. As a young man, David grew up near Leesburg Georgia. His first role with bird dogs was with the Gates family. I met David in the 70s and have know him since that time. In his early years as a scout at field trials he assisted John Rex Gates. His work continued year round as he trained dogs, developed puppies, and prepared horses for field trials. His wife Janie was from that Leesburg area also, and especially in the summers she assisted by traveling north to the Canadian prairies with David and the Gates family to Broomhill Manitoba for the summer training of bird dogs. She assisted in the training camp in many ways, especially with meal preparation and loading the snack basket for the days field work. David has worked with Steven Harwood, Bill Hunt, and T Jack and Fred Robinson in addition to the Gates family. The teams he assisted all posted significant field trial bird dog wins while he was a part of their operation. John Rex Gates has reminisced that David possessed remarkable vision and had a knack to anticipate where a dog should be. His style was to quietly do his part to help each dog and handler make the best showing possible. He judges field trials and this past year, 2021, was one three judges for the prestigious Quail Championship Invitational, considered by many as one of the crown jewel field trial championships. He is returning to judge in 2022. As a judge and person he is fair, attentive, and strives to foster our sport overall. He has a young dog he is developing and plans to enter in field trials, as his work schedule allows. David's contributions to our sport merit your vote for the Field trial Hall of Fame. Please join me in helping to elect this deserving man this year.

  Henry Weil
  Submitted by John Russell
  In May of 1952, a group of West Kentucky sportsmen formed an association to identify and secure the use of a suitable location to hold bird dog field trials. From this beginning, an important chapter in the history for bird dog field trials in America was begun. Working with the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources leases were obtained from the Atomic Energy Commission and the Tennessee Valley Authority for the use of some 1650 acres "for the purpose of developing wildlife upon and sponsoring the use of for field trials." In November, 1953 a field trial sponsored by the McCracken County (KY) Game and Fish Protective Association was the first trial conducted on the area. From that genesis, came ultimately the West Kentucky Field Trial Club, the West Kentucky Wildlife Management Area, the Kentucky Quail Classic, and the Quail Championship Invitational. The principal characters involved in the development, over time, of the West Kentucky area as a center of field trial activity were Arthur Curtis (Field Trial Hall of Fame, 1971) - long-time president of the West Kentucky Field Trial Club and chairman of the Kentucky Quail Classic, J. D. Boss (Field Trial Hall of Fame, 1983) - first manager of the West Kentucky Wildlife Management Area and chairman of the Quail Championship Invitational, 1979-1998, and Henry E. Weil - first chairman of the Quail Championship Invitational, 1964-1979. These men were the constants as sources of vision, standards, and leadership for the development of a venue and events that occupy special significance in the sport. Henry Weil was a prominent individual in the Paducah-McCracken County social and business arenas. He worked in insurance and real estate development in the Paducah region - he and his father built the iconic Irvin S Cobb Hotel, a longtime Paducah landmark. He was a WWII veteran achieving the rank of Major in the Army Air Corps. He served on a number of prominent boards including the Paducah Airport Board and the Tourism Commission. As a consequence, his political connections were instrumental in securing the support necessary to build the West Kentucky Wildlife Management Area (e.g. the support of Senators John Sherman Cooper and Thruston B. Morton to have Kentucky Ordnance lands deeded to the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources rather than sold as surplus). Without his influence the WKWMA would not have been established certainly not in its ultimate form. Henry Weil was a patron of John S. Gates, campaigning dogs such as Snow Storm, Dixie Melody, and Social Climber. His best known dog was Champion Susan Peters, the "Queen of the Prairies," Field Trial Hall of Fame 2011. Recognizing the potential of the WKWMA to support major trials, he, with John Gates, introduced open all age competition to the area in 1960 as the inaugural Kentucky Quail Classic. The Kentucky Quail Classic quickly became recognized as a significant trial in the Major Circuit of field trials serving as a National Championship Qualifier and Purina points earning trial for handlers and dogs. His association with John Gates was also instrumental in the resurrection of the Quail Championship contested at Albany, GA in 1941 and 1942 as the Quail Championship Invitational in 1964. Often described as the "Dream Trial" and the most equitable format for trials, the Invitational quickly became one of the most prestigious titles in the sport. Henry Weil's service as the first chairman was essential in establishing the standards under which the trial would be conducted. His standards were high and the sport was better because they were. There are few individuals who can be credited with influencing the establishment of a major venue for the sport, the creation of a major trial and the resurrection of one of the most prestigious championship titles in the sport. If recognition in the Field Trial Hall of Fame for individuals is based on contribution, then the recognition of Henry Weil is long overdue. Again, it is instructive that the other individuals who were significant in those accomplishments are all honorees of the Hall of Fame.

  Hall of Fame / Field Trial Dog

  Nominee: Miller's Happy Jack
  Submitted by: Stephen Bell
  Nominating Miller's Happy Jack for the Hall of Fame should be an easy task, but since he last ran five years ago perhaps he is not easily remembered. The reach of his breeding successes are now measured in the accomplishments of his great-grand progeny. I hope that the details that follow will jog your memory. Miller's Happy Jack won his first three championships as a derby in the spring of 2009. In the following eight field trial seasons, he would garner another four championships. He gained an additional nine runner-up titles. He would never go any year in his career without winning a championship or runner-up championship title. In total he had 40 placements. Miller's Happy Jack qualified and ran at the National Championship as a derby, and would re-qualify and run every year of his career. His nine runs there puts him in a very select club of "most durable" competitors. He also ran three of those years with both his son and grandson. They were Miller's Dialing In and Dunn's Tried N True, both winners of the National Championship, which should go far to suggest that his breeding career was stellar.

  Miller's Happy Jack
  Jim and Matt Pendergest, Oak Bridge Kennel
  The game changed for us in the spring of 2013, when Jim introduced a new player to our team, Claire, aka 'Dialed In'. Claire was purchased as a weanling pup, from Rester Kennel, and was planned to be our brood bitch and potential All-Age birddog based on her famed sire line. She was sired by N.Ch. Miller's Dialing In, making her a direct granddaughter of Ch. Miller's Happy Jack. The success of Miller's Happy Jack and his offspring is well known throughout the field trial circuit and we are blessed to have his blood as a staple in our success. Happy Jack's influence on our kennel has been abundantly clear through 'Dialed In' and her offspring throughout the last 9 years. Claire herself has won the coveted Purina Amateur All Age Dog of the Year in 2019. She is also a 5x All Age Champion, winning the pinnacle of the amateur circuit - the Amateur Invitational Championship, along with Region 3, 4(x2) and 6 All-Age Championships. Claire has taken our kennel to the next level with more than just her success on the circuit, she can also produce just as high of caliber dogs as she has proven to be. From her first litter in 2015, she produced 3 National Championship qualifiers. Those 3 offspring, Pendy's Good Grace, Marques Armed Robber and Ascension have won 11 All Age Championships and 6 Runner's Up, spanning from the Prairies, to the West Coast and the Deep South. Dialed In not only won Purina Dog of the Year but also produced the 2017 Purina Derby of the Year in Pendy's Good Grace. Claire has amassed a record of 48 wins, produced 7 winners with 102 wins of her direct offspring. Even now in 2022, Dialed In adds to the success of Happy Jack's lineage with her granddaughters, Awakened, the Top All Age Derby of the Year and Ch. Touch's Amazing Greyce, the 2022 National Amateur Shooting Dog Champion and 2022 Pacific Coast Derby Champion. The mother of these top derbies, 'Intentional' is out of Dialed In, proving to be a top producer in her own right, carrying on the strong genetics from the Miller's Happy Jack line. The Pendergest family is very grateful for the influence of Miller's Happy Jack in field trial bird dogs. His attributes and success are illustrated through his bloodlines for generations of winners and producers. We strongly support Miller's Happy Jack for the Field Trial of Fame.

  Miller's Happy Jack
  Submitted by Kevin Dixon
  Much has been written about the career and production record of Champion Miller's Happy Jack. It would be difficult to embellish upon his field trial career and the ever-growing win record of his progeny. If Open All-Age Field Trials are the benchmark standard to the betterment of the Pointer breed; then the many wild bird hunting dogs born from these dogs are the proving grounds of that standard. Millers Happy Jack heavily influences hunting dogs all over the country in storied places like the Red Hills Region of South Georgia-Florida, the Carolinas, Kansas, the Dakotas, California, West Texas and of course our favorite, Coastal South Texas. It's easy to put a number to the field trial win record's of Happy Jack and his progeny, however, it would be impossible to quantify the joy and the pride of the many hunters and guides who have had the privilege to own or hunt behind. If ever a dog has exemplified the goal of bettering the pointer breed by any standard of measure it is Champion Miller's Happy Jack. On behalf of all the many hunters and guides that turn loose the offspring of this great dog each fall to pursue the birds they hunt; it is an honor to endorse and recommend Ch Miller's Happy Jack for the 2022 Field Trial Hall of Fame.

  Miller's Happy Jack
  Submitted by Ike Todd
  He was as fine an athlete as I've ever run and his production record speaks for itself.

  Miller's Happy Jack
  Submitted by Randy Anderson
  Jack came to our program at a time when it needed a jump start, and that he did! We won the Cecil Proctor Open All Age and the Texas Championship, back-to-back just days after Scott Griffin purchased him. Jack had independence, unbelievable endurance, and a super nose. We are pleased to have won with him on the Canadian Prairies to the Deep South. Happy Jack placed 40 times in field trials. He is a champion producing sire that has contributed to three National Champions, two of which are Purina Award winners. His son, champion Valiant, was also a Purina Award winner and was elected to the Hall of Fame in 2021. Through Miller's Happy Jack, I have fostered friendships with folks I might not have ever come into contact with. Miller's Happy Jack has my endorsement.

  Miller's Happy Jack
  Submitted by Nancy J. Williams
  It is my honor and privilege to nominate Champion Millers Happy Jack for the Field Trial Hall of Fame. Since nominations opened, I have read a plethora in support of Champion Millers Happy Jack. I have re-read nominations by owners and handlers but the nomination written by Kevin Dixon sums up any nomination letter I can write. I see no need to reiterate his words. I am a spectator on horseback and attend any and all field trials from amateurs to the National Championship at Ames Plantation. Dogs such as Happy Jack have enhanced my dream, to one day own one of his offspring and join the circuit. There is no better compliment that can be paid to Jack. He is no longer with us but who wouldn't want to see such his offspring well representing him in the field. I strongly support this outstanding dog based on his competitive spirit as evidenced in many wins and awards too lengthy to mention. To quote Kevin Dixon, "If ever a dog has exemplified the goal of bettering the pointer breed by any standard of measure it is Champion Millers Happy Jack." I so agree.

  Miller's Happy Jack
  Nomination submitted by Jimmy C. Strawn
  Write-up not provided.

  Miller's Happy Jack
  Submitted by Derek Bonner
  In May of 2011 I traded Dereck Layne out of a beautiful solid white female by Miller's Happy Jack. That female puppy would become who you all know as Miller's Martha White. She was my first field trial dog, my first winner, and the mother of Bonner's Excalibur, Bonner's Bulletproof, and Bonner's Hot Rize. Gracey, as I called her introduced me to Ferrel Miller, Gary Lester, Chris Peek, Scott Griffin, and a host of other great people involved in our sport. It was through Gracey, and her offspring that I realized what an enormous influence Happy Jack had, and would continue to have on the pointer bird dog world for years to come. Happy Jack's blood flows, and will continue to flow through the pups that Deb, and I personally raise, and through many of the offspring we raise through "The Company". Without a doubt Miller's Happy Jack belongs in the Hall of Fame. Join me in helping elect "Jack" to his rightful place!

  Nominee: Just Irresistible
  Submitted by Chris Mathan
  Just Irresistible won early and won big, won decisively in the piney woods and on the prairie because he had ALL the characteristics that define "Class." His first generation progeny from 21 - not hundreds - of breedings have dominated the open shooting dog circuit as well as significantly the amateur shooting dog and amateur and open all-age circuits. An updated count of winners and wins to come. Field trial reports describe the consistency with which they win, find birds, exhibit stye pointing and in motion and always handle naturally to the front. They in turn, are passing Just Irresistible' s great qualities on to the next generations of pointers. Descending from the great Rebel line of pointers, grandson of HOF Funseeker's Rebel, Just Irresistible is himself a fountainhead. He has proven his worthiness through his own great wild bird championship wins over a sadly shortened career but more importantly for ALL the characteristics that define "Class" he has imprinted on countless first and second generation progeny winning in the most prestigious field trials around the country. It is a rare dog that has contributed so much in such a short time to the improvement of bird dogs and raising the level of field trial competition. Please join his many devotees in elevating this fine animal to his deserved place in the Field Trial Hall of Fame in 2022.

  Nominee: Just Irresistible
  Submitted by: Joel Norman
  I would like to formally endorse CH Just Irresistible for Field trial Hall of fame. His contribution to bird dogs and field trials will be seen for many years to come. He did not live long enough to amass as many wins as a lot of the other dogs, but his production record speaks for itself. Not only was he a great sire, but his good traits also continue to be passed down through his progeny. Intelligence, athleticism, class, front running, bird sense, superb nose, personality, trainability, willingness and ability to please are the traits I refer to. I have trained and handled dogs for over well 40 years and I can tell you that it is rare to find the whole package in a dog, much less see it passed on for generations. His offspring made my job easy and enjoyable. I ask you before you cast your vote, to consider CH Just Irresistible's accomplishments and legacy he continues to build in the field trial arena.

  Just Irresistible
  Ron Deal
  Just Irresistible first came to my attention in 2013 when he became the first derby to win the Southeastern Quail Championship. The young dog bested a stellar field of sixty-six contestants with a far-flung ground race and three limb finds all handled with extreme style. From the standpoint of weather, birds, and performances, it was one of our better renewals. Nine or ten other good jobs basically competed for the Runner Up position. That summer Just Irresistible convincingly won the Border International Championship. An encounter with a porcupine as a derby nagged him with infections throughout his competitive years and eventually resulted in an early death at age six. Despite his competitive career being cut short, Just Irresistible still managed to win Runner Up honors in the Florida, Masters and Southeastern Quail Championships. The physique, style, application, and bird finding ability shown by Just Irresistible at such an early age, plus his genetic background, did not go unnoticed by discerning breeders. They were not disappointed as the record shows. It is that production record which elevates the dog to Hall of Fame consideration. A total of only one hundred puppies were registered as sired by Just Irresistible. Of those, forty-four became winners and fifteen became champions, an amazing statistic. Progeny of Just Irresistible have won three Purina Top Dog awards and eleven national titles. One son is a rare two-time winner of the Continental Championship. Another won the National Derby Championship and later the Masters Open Championship twice plus Runner Up honors in the Florida and Southeastern Quail Championships (twice). Another son won the National Amateur Quail Championship. The 2022 Florida Champion was sired by Just Irresistible. The impact of Just Irresistible on the Shooting Dog category is even more impressive. His progeny has amassed two wins of the National Shooting Dog Championship, two wins of the U S Shooting Dog Invitational Championship, three wins of the Masters Shooting Dog Championship and two Southeastern Shooting Dog Championships. In addition, they have won the Gulf Coast, Atlantic Coast, Mid-Atlantic, Northeastern, New England, Egyptian, and Georgia Shooting Dog Championships. Mike Tracy has nine Champions sired by Just Irresistible in his string. The above lists do not include multiple regional amateur wins or Runner Up wins in either open or amateur categories. Bear in mind that the progeny of Just Irresistible are still winning and adding to his already impressive production record. This year his get amassed fifty more placements. Just Irresistible demonstrated at an early age that he possessed the traits needed to prevail in the toughest competition by winning two major championships. His production record proves that he was able to pass on these winning traits to his get. By doing so, Just Irresistible has made a significant contribution to our sport and deserves your vote for the Hall of Fame.

  Just Irresistible
  Submitted by Brian Sanchez, Great River Kennel
  When I think of dogs worthy of the hall of fame, the first dog that comes across my mind is just irresistible (Stud). The dog must be deceased. Not only the dog's record as a performer is considered, but also the record as a producer, contributing not only to the sport by the quality of their achievements but also their contributions to the pointing dog breed by their quality of their offspring. Stud is exactly that! I never had the pleasure of watching stud compete, unfortunately. His record speaks for itself. In just four short seasons, he has won all across the country. From the prairies to the hills of Kentucky to the Piney Woods of the south. Stud is truly a dog I regret I did not get to see compete. I have firsthand knowledge of his offspring. My father, Neil Walker and I are lucky to own one of his sons CH Millers Unbridled Forever, to date he has 26 placements; 13 of those placements are in championships. We also have grandchildren of Stud that are winning as well. From what I have seen, Stud produces the most natural front running bird dogs I have seen. When it comes time cast your votes, let's all help owner Mary Devos and trainer Jamie Daniels get this very worthy and deserving candidate in the hall of fame!

  Just Irresistible
  Submitted by Judd Carlton
  I would like to take this opportunity to ask for support in putting Just Irresistible, "Stud," in the Hall of Fame. Stud was blessed with stamina, speed, confirmation, bird finding ability and intelligence to spare. He showed his true potential capturing the Southeastern All-Age Championship to conclude his Derby year. From that point on, he was a consistent performer, winning from Canada to Florida. My fondest memories of Stud came while scouting him in field trials. It was during those times that he showed his true intelligence and willingness to please his handler. The wins he amassed in a short time are impressive, but the influence of his offspring are by far Irresistible's greatest contributions. Stud has produced numerous winners that continue to pass on his traits. His offspring have won in nearly all disciplines of bird dog competition across the country. Amassing some truly impressive win totals. I want to thank Jamie Daniels and Mary Devos for trusting me to scout Stud over the years. Just Irresistible is one dog I would like to have another chance to turn loose one more time. Please take the time to remember and consider him for the Hall of Fame.

  Just Irresistible
  Submitted by Frank & Jack Miller
  Without a doubt Just Irresistible has had one of the biggest impacts on the future of the Pointer breed. Besides his own stellar field trial career as a performer, he has proven himself as a producer. He has passed his many great attributes on to the next generation. We were blessed to have had the opportunity to breed one of our females Miller's Bring The Heat to him three times. These breedings produced sixteen dogs that between them have 58 championships and runner-ups. Nine of these were national title events and two dogs were Purina Dog of the Year winners. Their versatility is across the field trial spectrum with wins in open all-age, open shooting dog, amateur events and derby competition. The genetics he has left us with will be such a betterment for our sport for generations to come. Already he has several sons that have themselves produced futurity winners and champions. Please join us in putting "Stud" in the Hall of Fame to cement his place in bird dog history.

  Just Irresistible
  Submitted by David E. Williams
  Mary Devos chose an appropriate name for her first major circuit contender because Just Irresistible was every bit the epitome of his name. She also called him affectionally her Stud Muffin and Jamie Daniels, his trainer and handler, preferred just "Stud." His registered name belied his undeniable ability to perform at the top echelon of our sport and his call name is what he has become-a stud dog. When Tracy Haines and Jamie made the decision to breed her outstanding female pointer Just Wait Bess to Riverton's Funseekin' Scooter, they had high hopes for the litter. Jamie began walking the litter daily and soon glowered at their progress and ability. I was fortunate enough to watch the litter develop. Even in this outstanding litter, there was one precocious youngster that was consistently forward, independent, and classy as he floated through the country. That pup became Stud. That mating produced several winners and that continues today thru "Stud" and his scions. Others have cited his outstanding performances in field trial competition and his accolades as a winner and producer. They have eloquently illustrated his merits for inclusion into the annals of field trial history by including his name in the Hall of Fame. Suffice it say that I strongly feel he belongs in that hallowed fixture as well as in my heart. He was one of those special ones that you just don't forget. Thank you for your consideration and vote.

  Just Irresistible
  Submitted by Larron Copeland
  Just Irresistible is the kind of dog that was always destined for the Field Trial Hall of Fame. His outstanding record of achievements has amazed us all. The first time I saw Just Irresistible, I knew I wanted a puppy out of him. This dream soon became a reality, and I was lucky enough to get not one, but two incredible dogs from him: Showtime Sam Houston and Showtime Mockingjay. Sam is a 4-time championship winner and Jay is a Purina award winner and National Amateur Quail Champion. We hope to continue this trend with Just Irresistible's grandson, Showtime Gamechanger. Please consider this nomination when casting your vote.

  Just Irresistible
  Submitted by Ross & Caroline Leonard
  Prepotency among stud dogs is the rare ability to predictably and consistently throw the attributes that make them remarkable bird dogs into their offspring regardless of the breeding mate. It is a quality that is highly sought after and prized among bird hunters. Just Irresistible has demonstrated this quality in amazing fashion. Bred only 21 times, Stud's success as a sire has produced brilliant results. Three of the breedings were to Miller's Bring the Heat which produced outcomes that have been widely recognized and celebrated. Perhaps just as extraordinary, litters from seven other dams have produced champions. While Stud demonstrated outstanding physical abilities (stamina, speed, nose, etc.) during his short career - a career that made him a formidable and winning competitor from the prairies to the piney woods - it is the amalgamation of his intangible traits that produced his bird-finding skills. High levels of intelligence, drive, perceptiveness, desire to please - all culminated in Stud's ability to hunt and point birds. To the game's benefit, he was, and continues through frozen insemination, able to throw his traits into his pups regardless of dam. This is not to suggest that Stud's breedings were without thought. The dams of Stud's progeny were carefully selected for their quality and competitive success and unquestionably integral to his production accomplishments. We've been fortunate to own and compete with one of Stud's offspring. We consider our Domino a gift as he has given us the opportunity to compete in a sport that we love and meet new friends. He has provided us with many special memories for which we are grateful. Excusing our personal bias, we would appreciate your support of Just Irresistible's deserving candidacy into the Field Trial Hall of Fame. Recognition in the Hall of Fame represents the ultimate honor and would serve as a tribute to him and meaningful acknowledgement to Tracy Torey Haines, Jack Haines (breeders), Mary Devos (owner), and Jamie Daniels (trainer/handler).

  Champion Just Irresistible
  Submitted by Tom Shenker, Easter Plantation
  Without any doubt there are differences between good dogs, better dogs and the BEST dogs. Good dogs show they have ability but lack consistency and the desire to impress. Better dogs are more consistent and smarter in ground application and the style in which they compete. The Best dogs always have and keep your attention; they are the ones you can't wait to work and compete with. They are extremely smart, possess a great sense of smell and know how to locate and point all kinds of game in all types of conditions. The Best dogs also look the part both running and on point. They adjust to whatever type of country you're running them in, whether it's the open prairies of Canada and the Dakotas, edge country of Missouri, Tennessee, Kentucky and Mississippi or the piney woods of the south. In addition to all these important factors the Best dogs are also the great producers, they produce equal or better than themselves. Just irresistible "Stud" is one of the BEST! Stud successfully competed from the Canadian prairie and throughout the country to the Deep South. In addition to his competitive side, Stud produced equal or better dogs in all phases of field trial competition. He has made and continues to make a positive impact on the Pointer breed. Please join me in electing Champion Just Irresistible to the 2022 Hall of Fame.

  Just Irresistible
  Submitted by Mary Devos
  When looking at the criteria for election into the Field Trial Hall of Fame a dog's contribution must be both in performance and production. Many people of much more accreditation, experience and wisdom have spoken of Just Irresistibles' qualifications in both performance and production, that I would merely be repeating their sentiments. Instead, I would like to thank everyone for the support of Stud over the last several years. Many people believed in Stud well before I did, as my first ever dog on the All Age circuit at 19 years old, saying I was skeptical would be a massive understatement. Jamie Daniels, Allison Daniels, David Williams and Judd Carlton told me to stick with it more times than I can count. Their steadfast belief came to fruition in the spring of 2013 when Stud won the Southeastern Open All Age Championship. Richie Robertson scouted Stud to a few wins and even handled him in the second series and the additional call-back of the 2015 Florida Championship, in which Richie wrecked his horse riding to Stud on one of his finds where Richie placed Stud as runner up, almost beating one of his own dogs on his string who was the winner. Many people witnessed Stud's extraordinary performances and have recounted them on these pages, to them I am thankful, as his story will never die and we can relive it forever-Dr. Ron Deal, Ruthan Epp, Andrew Campbell, John Russell, Stephen Bell, Tom Word. The second part of the equation is production, which I think is Stud's biggest contribution to this sport today. Jack and Fran Miller and Tommy Rice saw Stud's talent early and bred to him, to them I am thankful for taking a chance as it has produced many winners that are still excelling today. I would like to thank everyone who bred to him, owned a dog out of him, and trained and/or handled a dog out of him. That list is long and I'm sure I'll forget someone for which I apologize ahead of time: Jamie Daniels, David Williams, Tommy Rice, Larron & Laura Copeland, Jack & Fran Miller, Mike & George Tracy, Nick Berrong, Reuben Richardson, Mark Mclean, Joel Norman, Benjy Griffith, Brian Sanchez, Neil Walker, Bill & Muriel Primm, Dennis Hood, Judd Carlton, Allen Linder, Jack and Tracy Haines, Casey Hollander, Stanton Harrell, Joe McHugh, Ross & Caroline Leonard, Keith Finlayson, Tommy Liesfield, Tony & Becky Gibson, Doug & Harold Ray, Jim & Theresa Morrell, Spero Manson, Steve & Bridget Bailey, and Marc Devos. Lastly, a giant thanks to everyone voting for Just Irresistible for the 2022 Field Trial Hall of Fame and even more thanks to Chris Mathan for spearheading the effort. Chris is doing so not because I or Jamie asked but because she truly believes the Hall of Fame is where Stud belongs. Many people in this sport also believe this and I ask you to take the time to read their much shorter but very convincing testimonies before casting your vote this year. Let's do the right thing and place Stud in the Field Trial Hall of Fame.

  Lundy's Red Bull
  Submitted by Stan Wint
  A dog is elected to the Field Trial Hall of Fame should have both a significant win record and an impressive production record. Lundy's Red Bull has accomplished both. Dual registered both in the American Field/Field Dog Stud Book and with AKC, he had 45 placements. He accumulated 19 placements in AKC National Championship events. In all breed American Field shooting dog stakes, he proved he was not only a great Vizsla, but a great bird dog. He won the AFTCA Region 19 Amateur Championship and became the first continental breed ever invited to the AFTCA National Amateur Shooting Dog Invitational. I had the privilege of judging Lundy's Red Bull several times. One time that stands out is 30 seconds off the breakaway out in Abilene, Kansas he slams into to point. His bracemate circles him flushing a rooster pheasant. Old Bull took all that in stride and never moved a hair. He was one of those dogs that would just beat you. The trial was never over until he ran. As a prepotent sire, he was an AKC Versatility sire in 2019 and a 2020 & 2021 Top Producing Field Sire. His get have earned Championship and National Championship titles. They are very successful in all breed competitions placing in AFTCA shooting dog and all age points qualifiers for the National Amateur Quail and National Amateur Shooting Dog Invitationals. Bull was one of those unique dogs that checks all the boxes. When casting your ballot for the Field Trial Hall of Fame, please consider this very worthy candidate, Lundy's Red Bull.

  Lundy's Red Bull
  Submitted by John Lewis
  A dog is elected to the Field Trial Hall of Fame should have both a significant win record and an impressive production record. Lundy's Red Bull has accomplished both. Dual registered both in the American Field/Field Dog Stud Book and with AKC, he had 45 placements. He accumulated 19 placements in AKC National Championship events. In all breed American Field shooting dog stakes, he proved he was not only a great Vizsla, but a great bird dog. He won the AFTCA Region 19 Amateur Championship and became the first continental breed ever invited to the AFTCA National Amateur Shooting Dog Invitational. As a prepotent sire, he was an AKC Versatility sire in 2019 and a 2020 & 2021 Top Producing Field Sire. His offspring have garnered Championship and National Championship titles as well as many FC & AFC titles. They are very successful in all breed competitions placing in AFTCA shooting dog and all age points qualifiers for the National Amateur Quail and National Amateur Shooting Dog Invitationals. Bull was one of those unique dogs that checks all the boxes. Please consider this great dog when casting your vote for the Field Trial Hall of Fame, Lundy's Red Bull.

  In The Shadow "Buster"
  Mark McLean
  I would like to show my support for In the Shadow, better known as Buster. I cannot sit here and tell you his exact win record, nor can I list all the winners he has sired. However, I can tell you he was a threat every time he was turned loose. I wish my buddy, Robin Gates, was here to write this instead of me but if I had to guess what "Big" would say. "Florida Championship, Continental Championship, National Championship, enough said.

  In The Shadow
  Submitted by Jim Reece
  It is both an honor and a privilege for me to support 2010 National for Champion In The Shadow. In The Shadow was known as "Buster" to his hall of fame handler Robin Gates as well as owners Carl and Dianne Bowman. In The Shadow possessed an incredible combination of intelligence, bird finding ability and the desire to work as a team with Robin. I could list many accomplishments. But his triple crown wins stand out. "In The Shadow" is the only dog in field trial history to win the National Championship (10 finds), the Florida Championship (86 entries), and the Continental Championship (89 plus entries). In The Shadow is the only dog in field trial history to win these three prestigious championships. Please join me in voting for In The Shadow for membership in to the Field Trial Hall of Fame.

  In The Shadow
  Submitted by Luke Eisenhart
  National Champion In The Shadow meets all the criteria to be inducted into the Hall Of Fame. He was a proven winner on the highest stage as well as a proven producer In The Shadow won the Triple Crown of birddog field trialing, the Florida Ch, the Continental Ch, and the National Championship. He won from Canada to Florida In The Shadow has produced a good number of champions to go along with his impeccable win record. Please join me in putting In The Shadow alongside his HOF handler Robin Gates by voting In The Shadow for the Field Trial Hall Of Fame.

  In The Shadow
  Submitted by Tom Word
  A few dogs shout to be elected to the Field Trial Hall of Fame the first year they are eligible. Ch. In the Shadow ("Buster") is one. Whelped March 17, 2004, St. Patrick's Day and his fond owner's Carl Bowman's birthday, he swept the four Canadian prairie open derby stakes in 2005. He was sired by Ch. Miller's White Powder ex Doerr's Clare's Shadow. At age three he won the Black Belt and the Florida Championship to gain eligibility for the National Championship which he won in 2010 with a ten-find race and a blazing finish. He also won the Southeastern Open All-Age in 2009 and the Continental Open All-Age spectacularly in 2012. No other dog has won the Florida, Southeastern, Continental and National Championships. With nineteen placements he was retired in great health at age eight and lived to almost eighteen, a beloved companion to Carl and Dianne Bowman. Buster has sired 51 winning offspring with 218 placements and eight Champions with 17 Championships. Buster was handled by Robin Gates and scouted by his son Hunter.

  In The Shadow
  Submitted by Brad Harter
  There is little question that there are a number of very deserving dogs being considered for election in the Bird Dog Hall of Fame in this year! All of these dogs have made great contributions to the sport of field trialing and to the pointing dog breeds. A dog that I would hope voters would consider is In the Shadow "Buster"! Buster first qualified and came to the National as a young dog in 2008. Three things became apparent in Buster's first attempt to win that title. The most obvious was Buster's willingness to connect and work for his handler, Robin Gates. The second was Buster's speed, his ability to always be to the front and his endless endurance. The third thing was Buster's intelligence, his ability to figure out where birds could be found on the Ames Plantation. In 2010 Buster re-qualified for the third year in a row. Buster's speed, his endless endurance, his uncanny ability to know where the front was and his connection to Robin all became apparent. Buster's 10 find performance, capping it off with his last find coming in the closing minutes 400 yards to the front earned Buster the National Championship title!

  House's Rain Cloud
  Submitted by Tom Word
  His nomination is long overdue. He is the only three-time winner of the Open Invitational at Paducah (1996, 97, 98) and on wild birds when they were scarce. His races were forward and deep, cast after cast, with dug up finds on the limb. Great judges admired him, one year so much they named no runner up! He won other championships and was a major producer. I reported his wins, watched every cast and find. Read about him in John Russell's great history of this ultimate endurance stake.

  House's Rain Cloud
  Submitted by John Russell
  Election of dogs to the Hall of Fame, like for people, is based on contribution. Contribution for dogs is based on accomplishments as a performer and as a producer. As a competitor, the number of wins alone is not a sufficient measure but there must also be consideration of the significance of the wins. There are a number of characteristics that may serve to signify significance, number of entries, quality of the field, quality of the grounds etc. Perhaps for the all age class, no factor is of greater importance than that of endurance. The "gold standard" for the all age class is measured in the traditional endurance trials, the National Championship, the National Free for All Championship, the quail Championship Invitational, the Continental Championship, and the Southern Championship. House's Rain Cloud met the standard for recognition in all respects. As a competitor, he won 37 placements primarily in major circuit competition. Included in his list of wins are six championships, including the Border International Chicken Championship, the Missouri Open Championship, the Alabama Open Championship, and the Quail Championship Invitational. Adding even greater significance is that House's Rain Cloud won the Quail Championship Invitational three times, the only dog to do so in the history of the trial. As a producer, House's Rain Cloud again met the test of volume and significance. He produced 74 winning offspring from 262 registered puppies. His winners earned a total of 387 placements including six championships. He was the sire of House's Hiplain Drifter, the 2003 Invitational Champion. He appears in the sire line of House's Snakebite and L J Confidential both Invitational Runners-up. House's Rain Cloud checked all of the boxes for recognition in the Field Trial Hall of Fame. Perhaps, just as important. He met the eye test. If you saw him perform, you, saw the epitome of the open all age performer, bold and powerful, displaying finished qualities but not pedestrian perfection, exciting throughout. House's Rain Cloud competed at the Invitational six consecutive years, not a record but a remarkable achievement of consistency.

  House's Rain Cloud
  Submitted by John Russell
  An earlier nomination for House's Rain Cloud listed his qualifying accomplishments. Such a listing lacks perspective, however. A more convincing story is told when one considers "who did you compete against" and perhaps "who did you beat." These questions can be examined for Rain Cloud in the context of his participation at the Quail Championship Invitational. During the period 1995-2000 inclusive, House's Rain Cloud competed at the Invitational six times. During that period House's Rain Cloud competed against 48 individuals, 47 pointers and one setter, The list of dogs included nine that would be recognized in the Hall of Fame, Miller's Silver Bullett, Quicksilver Pink, Brush Country Spectre, Silverwood, Millers Silver Ending, Lehar's Main Tech, Bear Creek Bess, Joe Shadow, and Law's High Noon. The list seven National Champions, Quicksilver Pink, Brush Country Spectre, Warhoot Rogue, Miller's Silver Ending, Marque's Gold Rush, Miller's True Spirit, and Law's High Noon. The list also contains every Purina award winner for the period 1993 - 2002. Other notables easily recognizable by the Hall of Fame electors are also included. The field each year averaged 36 placements including an average of 13 championship titles and 6.5 runners-up. To say that House's Rain Cloud answered the question of "who did you compete against" in an affirmative way is an understatement. The question of "who did you beat" is answered equally as affirmatively. During his three championship years, Rain Cloud competed against five of the Hall of Fame honorees, three of the National Champions, and four of the Purina award winners. Competing against the major circuit's twelve best each year to become the "best of the best" three times is a convincing demonstration of significance in House's Rain Cloud's performance.

  House's Rain Cloud
  Submitted by John P. Russell
  There have been 20 dogs that have won the Quail Championship Invitational and subsequently were recognized in the Field Trial Hall of Fame. The list is a veritable "who's who" of the canine element of the sport: The Texas Ranger (winner of the first Quail Championship), Safari, Oklahoma Flush, Wrapup, Texas Fight, The Kansas Wind, Miller's White Cloud, Builder's Addition, Fiddler, Barshoe Buzzsaw, Fiddler's Pride, Whippoorwill's Rebel, Rebel Wrangler, Miller's Silver Bullett, Lehar's Main Tech, Miller's Southern Pride, Funseeker's Rebel, Lester's Snowatch, and Valiant. Collectively, these dogs have won 25 of the 60 championships (including the 1941 and 1942 trials). Five of these won two championships each, Wrapup, Barshoe Buzzsaw, Fiddler's Pride, Rebel Wrangler, and Miller's Silver Bullett. House's Rain Cloud is the only three-time winner of the "dream trial" championship. It is past time that he be recognized with his peers in the sport by election to the Field Trial Hall of Fame.

  Erin's War Creek
  Submitted by George and Mary Tracy
  Erin's War Creek is a Hall of Fame caliber dog that we nominate and ask your support for his ultimate induction into the Field Trial Hall of Fame. War Creek's competitive record and winning progeny satisfy the requirements for this highest honor in our sport. Erin's War Creek, so aptly named, a true warrior for his remarkable strength, stamina, class and consistency. War Creek's competitive success was all but pre-determined by his pedigree which goes back to Sean Derrig's Hall of Fame, Erin's Southern Justice and Joe McCarl's multiple champions, Hard Driving Bev. Over War Creek's seven-year career, he amassed 51 wins in top tier shooting dog competition from Canada to Alabama. War Creek's Championship record, in both Open and Amateur competition, is as a 14-time champion and 9-time runner-up champion. War Creek's production has been equally impressive, with his first generation of offspring earning titles in horseback and walking competition before even reaching their prime competitive years. Sire of 29 winner with 179 placements. As War Creek's offspring continue to mature and reach their prime his legacy will continue to grow. We ask for your vote Erin's War Creek for the Field Trial Hall of Fame.

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