Just one more time, Ursula managed to overcome her stage fright and win the Pro-Novice class at the Rocky Ewe Stock Dog Trial in Roy. She and Pete worked well together dropping only 12 points out of 90. Trudy Vickland and her lovely dog Tick also had a nice run of 78/90. Ties are first broken by the outwork where Urs and Pete had a slight advantage.
Jenn Kunkel and Zoe also ran in the Novice class. Their first trial! Zoe put her big girl pants on and didn't lose her sheep. She did quite well on a new field with new sheep. Hazzah!
We are so happy and honored to have Norman Close, the 2005 Canadian National Champion, at our little farm March 14 & 15. Norm will be providing a clinic for young or inexperienced dogs and their handlers.
I have had the pleasure of working with a few of the young dogs Norm has started and can only say HOLY SMOKES!!!! Norm has a very special way with young dogs. I believe we have one working spot left but lots of room for auditing. If you are interested please call or email Ursula so we get you on the list. Lunches and dinner are provided for attendees so come on out and join us for what promises to be a great weekend. And one more thing... Becki Maloney has graciously offered her farm in Onalaska for Norm to provide private lessons. Much larger fields... up to 40 acres. So far we have three people signed up for Monday, March 16th. Let us know if you would like a lesson with Norm. If we have enough requests we may be able to convince him to stay for Tuesday as well.
Norm's enchanting wife, Vickie, will be joining him with camera in hand when he comes for the clinic. Vickie is an extraordinary photographer as can be witnessed at www.vickieclose.com. Folks are signing up with Vickie for portrait work for their dogs while she is here. You can contact her directly at vickie@vickieclose.com or let us know so we can connect you.
Don't miss out!!!! (i have always wanted to use the word 'enchanting')
A bit of topic but Dave will be providing a Competitive Marskmanship Clinic in Spanaway March 7th.
Dave has been instructing clinics on the west coast for approximately 16 years. He has won a few national championships, set a few national records and just generally hits what he is shooting at. Once again, email Ursula if you have interest.
Just back from the Jack Knox clinic up at Joe & Heather Hayne's Island Crossing Farm in Arlington. The first time I was able to work with Jack a few months ago I was impressed. This second opportunity left me with a slightly different feeling...
Jack is brilliant.
It was one of the best weekends I have spent in my never ending effort to get better. If you are willing to let go of what you know or think you know for two days, it is a thought provoking and rewarding experience. We will again announce the next time Jack is coming and drag as many of you along as we can.
