08/06/2024
Received word late yesterday of this great honor and while I would love to accept this achievement in person on behalf of Ace we are traveling for baseball so hopefully the following will express my gratitude.
I am deeply honored and humbled to articulate my appreciation before you today as the recipient of this prestigious recognition on behalf of Ace, being inducted into the Kansas Field Trial Hall of Fame. To be counted among the exceptional canine athletes who have graced this Hall is truly a momentous privilege.
First and foremost, I must express my heartfelt gratitude to the Kansas Field Trial Hall of Fame committee for bestowing this tremendous honor upon me and my beloved companion, Skydancer Skyview Ace. This recognition not only celebrates our achievements but also pays homage to the dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment that Ace and I have shared throughout our journey.
To my family, friends, and supporters, your encouragement and support have been the driving force behind every triumph and milestone we've achieved. Your belief in us fueled our determination and inspired us to push the boundaries of what we thought possible. Many of you in this room, along with a few others not here today, believed in Ace as a young puppy under the whistle of a rookie handler that in spite of his handler would stand in the winners’ circle many times over. During his derby campaign the competition was stiff yet we managed to nudge the other competitors and finished the season winning derby of the year, Setter of the year, and capped off the season winning the Derby Classic. Our sights were set on figuring out how to win on the biggest stage and began competing in as many championships as we could. Ace spent some time on the road while being campaigned on the open horseback shooting dog circuit and a stint in South Carolina before coming home. With a few close calls and several years later, we finally reached the podium as RU-CH in the Region 17 Walking Championship, the following year Ace was named Champion at the same trial. Ironically, this would be the last time I handled Ace as shortly after the trial I sold him into retirement at 8 years old to live out the rest of his days being and everyday bird dog hunting quail in the South. After his first hunting season I got a call from the new owner saying even though hundreds of birds had been shot over him, Ace would not break point and after every covey flush he would have to be tapped to move on. This really wasn’t conducive to the style of hunting they were doing so I bought him back in co-ownership with Chuck Kenney who had recently entered the field trial game. The plan was to have Chuck handle Ace in broke dog stakes to give him some experience beyond handling puppies and derbies. Unfortunately, Ace died that Summer and Chuck was never able to handle him.
I must extend my deepest appreciation to Ace himself. He was not just a remarkable dog but a loyal friend, an unwavering companion, and an extraordinary athlete. His boundless spirit, exceptional talent, and unyielding devotion have been the guiding light in the subsequent years that followed, developing what has become Skyview Setters. His memory lives on in his progeny and can be found in our foundation females. It is quite fitting that June 2024 marks his induction into the Hall of Fame and the birth of a frozen semen litter of puppies as well.
I also want to acknowledge the incredible mentors who have played pivotal roles in shaping Ace’s career and helping us navigate the highs and lows of competitive field trials. Your expertise, guidance, and support have been invaluable, and I am forever grateful for your contributions to our success.
Lastly, I would like to dedicate this honor to all the dedicated individuals who share a deep love and appreciation for the timeless tradition of field trials. Your passion for the sport enriches our lives, strengthens our community, and ensures the legacy of excellence endures for generations to come.
In closing, I am honored to accept this induction into the Kansas Field Trial Hall of Fame on behalf of Ace. May our journey continue to inspire others to reach for the stars, chase their dreams, and embrace the boundless possibilities that lie ahead.
Thank you.
