18/12/2024
It was fun to have this photo pop up in my memories.
I was waiting until I had a free moment so I could gush about the World Wide Rally-FrEe Trial that was just completed a few days ago.
As the sport continues to grow its always fun to take part in the world wide events to see how you stack up against dogs at your level from all over.
Well the results are in and I have to say, those who entered certainly stacked up! How proud I am can't be put into words. The sport is so challenging but the fact that we don't have a legal size facility (yet) to compete in means we need to find somewhere and use it no matter how distracting the space may be. This includes outside.
Joanne and Millie started their Rally-FrEe journey not all that long ago, just as something to do for fun and exercise. (Let the addiction begin🫣) They entered their first Novice level (after smashing pre Novice) run, which means food is no longer allowed in the ring. This is the big time!
They competed against 16 others from around the world and claimed a 194/200 for second place!
She's a long way from this little puppy in puppy social in this photo 😍😍
Joanne Riley ..
Mr. Ziggy
No stranger to the spotlight but what it takes for a bird dog to stick with his human and perform when reinforcers are not to be found is hard af. Yeah I said it.
Entered into their second intermediate run and smashed out a first place with a PB of 187! A title is around the corner for sure!
Maryl Barclay DeJong ..
My Mr Silo.
Though our score was nothing to brag about the journey has been. I suspect a longer post about this later but for now, My senior perfect boy that started his RF journey just 2.5 short years ago simply because he was feeling left out and nosing Sail out of the way to show off he could do this too, has become, the first rescue boy to achieve his Alt Grand Champion title. Alt is a category available to those who have seniors/disabilities etc, it ensures certain requirements are less so the dog can realistically still achieve success. I think he might be a senior but,
To quote the judge (thanks for this Jamie) "this dogs got try" that's a quote that could go on his grave stone because boy does he ever. Each level I planned to retire him. But he kept wanting more. Now we've reached the top 😍 thanks for the push Si. I needed it.
Candice Shute ..
Sue and Chevy.
The quiet as a mouse team. Chevy's always had impressive heeling skills, he glides through these courses with a smile and a prance that is something most dream to train but just comes so naturally to him. Such ease.
They are continuing up the ladder, trying to dodge away from Advance for as long as possible even though we all know they are more than ready. 😉
Adding more positions to our heel work (advance marks needing 5 heel positions, pop quiz for those reading, can you even name five?) and distance behaviours still all under verbal control, it's a tough mountain to conquer. They are ready. Nice score for them in the encore intermediate level and a first place with some nice judge comments as well. Way to go team!!
Susan Bowman ..
And last we need to take a moment to acknowledge our new local judge for Rally Freestyle Elements Christine James-Surgeoner who was one of the judges for this competition. Very exciting! Hard work on her part to get there too. If she's not working her beautiful pups she's still working behind the scenes to support this amazing sport.
Congratulations everyone. Take a bow. Feel free to share the links to your runs in the comments.
So I can watch and rewatch them ;)
