Kirkbourne National Gundog Team Challange

Kirkbourne Spaniels held their 5th national gundog team challenge, it was held at Aske Estate Richmond By kind permission Lord Ronaldsay.

8 teams with 32 dogs from all over the country gathered together to find the best team of dogs in the uk . All the tasks are made to represent a shoot day using cold game. The scenarios were set by the judges for the teams that include blind retrieves up to 250 mtrs. With water, jumps and distractions. The tasks were difficult but soon it was clear the top dogs were the only ones that would make it. The 2 day even unfolded with some fails but some success too.

Every dog had to be on form or they would get a fail from the judges. One retrieve will stick in my mind from Andy Booth with his springer spaniel, he was asked to send his dog across land that had previously held cold game to a blind that was measured at 250 mtr through thick and long grass. I was there when it happened he lined her up gave her one cast and she nailed it giving him a pass plus score. It was a day to remember for Andy.

Both days came to an end and the all ladies team Magic Movers won the weekend, here were clear 1st second and 3rd places awarded, 2nd Place being won by our very own Kirkbourne team M Martin, P Purnell, A Beal and L Eggleston. This was so nice when I opened the envelope and read out their team name.

There was a run off for top dog and handler with S Tait and S Townsend with a evry testing blind retrieve with a distraction and mr Townsend came out on top winning a dog box sponsored by Mad about Pets. Many sponsors help the weekend along including Brandecosse www.brandecosse.com Swillington Shooting Supplies. We also raised money for ABF Soldiers charity. We can only thank you all for your support.

Regards Darren Kirk