United Retriever Club – Essex Area
On Sunday 31st August we held our Open Sugar Beet Working Test at Siam Hall, Boxford. We are extremely grateful to be able to return and run the test at this fantastic venue by very kind permission of the Taylor family.
Our thanks to SKINNER’S dog foods for sponsoring the day and for their continued support of working tests up and down the country!
Our impeccably turned-out Judges on the day were Craig Horwill and Mick Elsey. Many thanks to you both for your fairness and professionalism throughout the day.
A huge thank you to our non-committee helpers for giving up their Sunday to make the day run so well. Along with the committee, these days wouldn’t happen without you all and we count ourselves fortunate to have your support.
The Stewards, Cathey Elsey and Mari Jackson set out four tests. The first being a four dog walk up with two retrieves each. The first being a mark out front to shot and the second across the line. Both into the wind which helped scenting, for those dogs the right side of it!
We then turned with the wind to our backs for the second test. Both retrieves behind the line to shot. The first a mark straight behind and the second a blind across the line.
After lunch, there were two single retrieves. The third a longer retrieve from the top of the hill in the beet, down to white grass in a gap in a hedge. Most dogs needed some handling to exit the beet.
The Fourth test had a nice twist. A long mark out front, which was left, with a walk up to what we were told was a blind along a hedge. However, we then returned to the original point to be sent for the memory.
We witnessed some excellent work from the dogs and once again the scores were close. After a run-off for second place, we finished the day with the customary tea and cake and the raffle.
RESULTS:
1st Place for the Cresthaven Cup Willowmount Goldikova of Brockaghs- LRB Jim Collins
2nd for the Pathfinder Cup Dapplebrook Laxtons Superb - LRB Andrew Cooper
3rd for the Crosspath Cup Tudorcourt Elberberry - LRB Michael McInally
4th Place Lyebreach Golden Eagle of Riverlily – LRD Abbie Reid
CoM Bakers Lad Robin - LRD Linda Gray
Royanne Cup for the Best Essex Entry went to the winner Jim Collins
The Oysterbed Cup for Judge's Choice went to Jim Collins