First USBCHA Trial – Vista, CA

WooHoo…we made it through our very first USBCHA field trial.  And boy was it a challenge.  Scottish Highland Games in Vista, CA.  Narrow, uphill outrun was the start out.  I am so proud of Sassy.  She is 2 yrs old and handled it well, even though her handler was very nervous…oh yeah that was me.  Everyone at the trial was so supportive.  Anne Mock was the judge and such a true wonderful “Lady”.  You put in the time at home, go to lessons, go to clinics and then pay your money to enter the trial.  You get there early and look around and think “what was I thinking…”  My goal was simply to get through  each phase of the run.  Outrun, Lift, Fetch, Around the Post, Fetch/Drive Panel and Pen.  Not hard..practiced it a million times and yet…I forgot how to do it…but Sassy didn’t.  Yes, I know who names there dog Sassy…well its really her nickname…Scottish Lass whose real name is Shannon.  And not only did she help her handler get through the course but she took 3rd doing it on Day one.  When Day 2 arrived I was ready to actually help her through the course, but by then the sheep had a whole different idea and decided to go back to the setout pens.  Oh well…it was a great lesson to work through and good time to meet amazing people who love these wonderful animals….

USBCHA Novice Preparation Clinic, Caldwell, ID

Mom and I made the trip to Caldwell today.  What a varying drive.  We came thru Las Vegas then up Highway 93…lots of country with lots of nature in it…but not a great deal of green until we came into Twin Falls, ID.  It was beautiful along the Snake River.  Arrived in Caldwell around 4..due to a ton of construction traffic.  One of the differences in traffic…Idaho drives actually use the right lane.  In Arizona so many come from California that the right lane is seldom used.  It was great!

We are kicking off in the morning with 18pp at the clinic.  Patrick Shannahan and Dianne Deal have their work cut out for them.  Mostly looks to be young dogs and very novice handlers from all over.  We met some of them…5 from Arizona, 2 from Houston, 1 from Washington.  Looking forward to meeting more tomorrow.  

Will keep you all posted.  Away to Idaho!!!  Come Bye and Visit!