Stock Dog Trials

It couldn't have been a better day for the Stock Dog Show- the sunshine was softened by a few clouds, and there was a little breeze too.The setting was absolutely gorgeous. Here is a video of the 360 degree view.

The big mountain peak that you can see from Janice's place, that is featured in her sunrise and sunset photos, Fisher Peak, was just beautiful.

Janice and I got to watch the open class. The sheep were 400 yards from the handler; the dog was to do an outrun, then lift the sheep and start them on a straight line to the handler (the fetch) taking them through two gates. The gates were just white fence panels, set widely apart.
Then around the handler, and start the drive, diagonally away from the handler, through one set of panels, then across the field and through another set of panels, back to the handler. The next element is the split, in which the handler separated two of the sheep and the dog drives them away from the remaining sheep. Then, on into the pen.
We didn't see anyone get all of the elements completed in the 12 minute time limit, but apparently Dennis Gellings and his dog Jan did. We left before all the dogs had competed though.
Unfortunately, Penny didn't have the greatest day with Quill and Moss. On the fetch Quill wouldn't take the commands, and seemed to be a little off, not running at his usual speed, so Penny stopped the run.

Penny and Quill, waiting their turn.

And with Moss, he got a little frustrated with the sheep and gripped- an automatic disqualification.

Here are some of the competitors:

Gayle and her dog Meg at the pen.

Tuck trying hard to turn the sheep, who were determined not to go in the pen.

Maid on the fetch heading for the handler, Glen.

Joanne and Mik, who were successful in penning this bunch.

Mik cooling off in the water tub after his run- well done, Mik!

Dennis's second dog, Jake, bringing them in for the split.

Chris and her dog Jill working the split.

Joanne and her second dog, Soot, at the pen. Here is why he is named Soot:

His face looks like it's covered in soot. Doesn't he have the longest tongue!

Moss waiting his turn....

and Moss going in for the grip.

All in all we really enjoyed watching. Janice is planning on going again, as the competition is on until Sunday, so check her blog for more photos. I'm not sure if I can make it back there, but I'm sure glad I went and plan on voulunteering the next time the show is held there. Such a beautiful place!

The sheep wagon set up for the judge, Mr. Faansie Basson from South Africa.

Once again.... the beautiful view.