INTERNATIONAL PHEASANT CHAMPIONSHIP

Dresden, Ohio—Erin’s Kentucky Gambler, three-year- old white and black pointer male owned and handled by Sean Derrrig of Bannockburn, Ill., prevailed over a field of 37 other dogs to win the Pheasant Championship Club’s International Pheasant Championship at the Tri Valley grounds near Dresden, Ohio. Rock Acre Rambo, first year all-age dog owned by Dr. Fred Corder of Corinth, Miss., and handled by Randy Downs, was named runner-up.

In the Open Derby with 16 dogs, the winner was The Fly Peddler, white and orange pointer male owned by Blake Kukar of Somerville, Tenn., and handled by Downs. Second was Game Mission, pointer male owned by Dr. Corder and handled by Downs. Third was Erin’s Little Drifter, pointer male owned and handled by Sean Derrig.

Judges for the Championship were William Smith of Moscow, Tenn., and Vernon R. Vance of Winchester, Ky. Ted Goodyear of Centerburg, Ohio teamed with William Smith for the Derby.

MID-AMERICA CHAMPIONSHIP

Longton, Kan.—Named winner of the 2011 running of the Mid-America Open All-Age Championship was Prairieland Pride, pointer male owned by Dr. Robert G. Cook of Kenosha, Wis., and handled by Randy Anderson. Runner-up was Conecuh Station’s Black Rock, owned by Tony Gibson of Union Springs, Ala., and handled by Steve Hurdle. Each dog had a two-find performance.

In the Dr. Minor E. Gordon Derby Classic, the winners were: 1st–Westfall’s Rampage, pointer male owned by Ryan Westfall of Liberty, Mo., and handled by Andy Daugherty; 2d–Stardust Chaz, setter male owned by Robert Craig of Hatchechubbee, Ala., Scott Kermicle of Dry Ridge, Ky., and John Sayre of Richmond, Ind., and handled by Steve Hurdle; 3d–White Dollar, pointer male owned by Scott Griffin and handled by Anderson. The first and second placed Derbies each had one find; White Dollar was placed on ground effort.

NEW ENGLAND FUTURITY

East Windsor, Conn.—Calico’s Touch of Class, handled by George Tracy, bred by Calico Kennels and owned by Calico Kennels, Pete Del Collo and Dale Hernden, was named winner at the 2011 New England Futurity held at Flaherty Field Trial Area, East Windsor, Conn. Thirty-two pointers and setters were drawn for this breeders’ classic which turned into two full days due to torrential rain which delayed the running by one-half day. Second was Covey Up Woodie, handled by Jeanette Tracy, bred by Ladywood Kennels and owned by Eugene and Keith Thomas of Elkton, Md. Third was Willie Rail, owned and handled by Gene Casale, Jr. of Pine-wood, S. C., bred by Warren Parrott of Scranton, S. C. Named to fourth was Silver Hill Big Brutas, handled by Pat Casey, bred by Jim Bush of Mansfield Center, Conn., and owned by Ed and Patricia Marin of Ansonia, Conn.

— Margaret Drew

NEW ENGLAND OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Pomfret, Conn.—With six finds and a powerful race, Klee's Handsome Hank, a pointer male owned by Roger and Susan Duerksen of Pittsburgh, Pa., and handled by Mike Tracy, was named champion of the 2011 New England Open Championship held October 16-17 at Harry Townshend's Ragged Hill Farm, Pomfret, Conn. Runner-up was also last year's runner-up, Great River Ice, pointer male owned by Great River Kennels, Long Island, N.Y., also handled by Mike Tracy. Ice had six finds and handled well.

Judges were Pat Casey of South Hill, Va., and Dave O'Brien of Marlborough, Conn.

— Margaret Drew

NORTHEASTERN OPEN SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP

East Windsor, Conn.—The 2011 Northeastern Open Shooting Dog Championship was held October 10-13 at the John E. Flaherty Field Trial Area , East Windsor, Conn. Forty-six of the finest shooting dogs from around the country were drawn to run in this prestigious event. Weather was beautiful, cool in the morning with unusually warm temperatures in the afternoon, upper 70s to low 80s for Monday, Tuesday, and most of Wednesday; Thursday was a little cooler and cloudy. Rain followed late Thursday.

Occupying the judicial saddles were Richard Bembenek of Webster, Mass., and Gary Miller of Jackson Springs, N. C., who gave each dog their undivided attention. They named R J’s Carbon Copy champion. The pointer male is owned by Allen Linder of Livingston, Tenn., and handled by George Tracy. Carbon Copy came from the 9th brace with five well spaced handsome finds, an unproductive and a forward ground race. He ran through the country reaching the front and hunting hard.

Runner-up came from the 7th brace—Our Big Bully, pointer male owned by Ernie and Karen Sangia of Nottingham, Pa., and handled by Mike Tracy. Big, as he is affectionately called, had a breathtaking woodcock find right off the breakaway as well as five other nice finds, a back and a classy forward ground race. Big stood his game tall and proud and displayed what a great bird dog does, hunt.

— Stacey Goodie

REGION 17 AMATEUR ALL-AGE CHAMPIONSHIP

Dexter, Kan.—The worst possible conditions prevailed October 7-9 during the running of the Region 17AmateurAll-Age Championship. Temperatures were mid- to high-80s, winds of 40 mph every day, 10 inches below normal on rainfall for the year, and over 50 days this summer of 100°+ left all the creeks and ponds dry on the 10,000-acre Radcliff Ranch at Dexter, Kan. That said, one dog out of 31 entries emerged as the 2011 champion. Frontline Mike, white and black pointer male owned and handled by Chris Livingston of Vandalia, Mo., running in mid-afternoon on the first day, nailed birds on the No. 2 course to win the Championship. After three days of running it turned out Mike was the only dog to point birds. Therefore, our astute judges, Don Arnold of Rogersville, Mo., and Dr. Stan Wint of Gardner, Kan., were not able to name a runner-up in this event.

— Don W. Beauchamp

STILLWATER OPEN TRIALS

Longton, Kan.—The Stillwater Open All-Age started October 3, and was concluded October 7. The trial drew 48 all-age dogs and 24 Derbies. First in the All-Age Stake was Erin’s Special Force, pointer male owned by John C. May of Dubuque, Ia., and handled by Luke Eisenhart, who also handled second place winner Erin’s Brave Heart, pointer male owned by Sean Derrig of Bannockburn, Ill. Barshoe Osama Ben earned third for Oklahoma owners Bob Gum and Lee R. West and handler Allen Vincent.

The Derby was won by Webb's Twisted Knot, owned by Danny Webb of Glasgow, Ky., and handled by Eisenhart. Ironstone Rolex, setter male, earned second for owner Elias Richardson of Uxbridge, Mass., and handler Steve Hurdle. Third was Erin’s Top Gun, owned by Tucker Johnson of Hobe Sound, Fla., and handled by Eisenhart.

— Jon Humphrey

OHIO PHEASANT TRIALS

Dresden, Ohio—Quality entries were received the evening of October 11 for the series of ringneck stakes at the TriValley grounds near Dresden, Ohio.

The Seventy-Eighth American Field Pheasant Futurity attracted a field of 20, the International Pheasant Championship, 38, and the companion Derby, 14; the National Open Pheasant Championship has 32.

Judges for the lead-off breeders’ classic are John P. Russell of Bowling Green, Ky., and Paul L.Wright ofWest Point, Ind.William Smith of Moscow, Tenn., andVernon R.Vance ofWinchester, Ky., will adjudicate the International Pheasant Championship, andMorris “Buck” Barley ofWashington, Ind., will team with Don Jones of Velpen, Ind., for the National Open Pheasant Championship.

NATIONAL AMATEUR PRAIRIE CHICKEN SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP

Wisconsin Rapids,Wis.—Emerging from the 22nd renewal of the National Amateur Prairie Chicken Shooting Dog Championship on the Buena Vista grasslands of central Wisconsin is 2011 champion pointer female Homemade, owned by Frank and Jean LaNasa of Isanti, Minn., and handled by Frank. Her brother, Ihrke’s Winchester, owned by George and Ann Ihrke of Buckley, Ill., and handled by George, was titled runner-up under the astute judicial team of Mike Wrenn and Luke Eisenhart.

— Frank LaNasa

NATIONAL PHEASANT SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP

Baldwinsville, N.Y.—The National Pheasant Shooting Dog Championship at Baldwinsville, N.Y., drew 52 dogs. The judges were Randy Hopkins of Ashville, Ohio and Ray Wheeler of Shelby, Ohio.

The named champion was Our Big Bully, pointer male owned by Ernie and Karen Saniga of Nottingham, Pa., and handled by Mike Tracy. Runner up was Buffalo Bill, pointer male owned by Ernie and Karen Saniga, and Chris and Heather Palmer of Exeter, R. I., who acquired part ownership of Bill just before the trial. Bill was handled by Mike Tracy.

— Mary Ann Schreck, Secy.

REGION 2 AMATEUR SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP

Baldwinsville, N.Y.—Thirty-eight dogs competed for the title in the Region 2 Amateur Shooting Dog Championship at the Three Rivers GMA, Baldwinsville, N.Y. Judges Jeff Smith of Loudon, N. H., and George Doyle of Plympton, Mass., named pointer female Kraftman’s Southern Lady, owned and handled by Kevin Stuart of Schenectady, N. Y., the champion. Runner-up was Calico’s Tom Thumb, pointer male owned by Great River Kennels and Lea Ray and handled by Brian Sanchez.

— Mary Ann Schreck

STILLWATER AND MID-AMERICA CHAMPIONSHIP TRIALS

Independence, Kan.—The Stillwater Open Derby has drawn 24 Derbies, and 48 dogs are slated to compete in the Open All-Age. Advertised judges are Everett Brannan of Powderly, Tex., and Dr. Jim Mills of Searcy, Ark.

Barring any delays, the Mid-America Open Championship will start Saturday, October 8, with the Dr. M. E. Gordon Derby Classic which has 16 dogs; there are 42 entered in the Championship.

Advertised judge Ken Blackman of Williston, Tenn., suffered injuries (five broken ribs) in a horse mishap before the trial and the services of Jack Murphy of Nowata, Okla., were secured. He has joined Edmond James of Collierville, Tenn., in the judicial saddles.

— Randy Anderson

FORTY-EIGHTH NATIONAL SHOOTING DOG FUTURITY

Baldwinsville, N.Y.—The 48th renewal of the National Shooting Dog Futurity drew a gratifying entry of 36 Derbies. The trial was conducted at the Three Rivers Wildlife Management Area near Baldwinsville, N.Y. Judges Randy Hopkins and Ray Wheeler of Ohio named Covey Up Woodie first, he a male pointer owned by Gene and Keith Thomas of Elkton, Md.; Becky Johnson bred the litter, and Jeanette Tracy handled Woodie to a hard driving race and four well handled pheasant finds. Second was Caladen’s Pistol Pete, pointer male owned and bred by Ross Callaway of Chester, S.C., and handled by Mike Tracy to a far ranging forward race coupled with two nicely handled pheasant finds. Third was Glenmere’s Sentinel, pointer male owned by Jeff and Mat Haggis of Glencoe, Ontario, Canada and handled by Jeff Haggis to a powerful ground heat and one pheasant find. Sentinel was bred by Sean Derrig of Bannockburn, Ill. Fourth was awarded to Backcountry Sid the Kid, male pointer owned by Chris Catanzarite of Scenery Hill, Pa., and handled by Mike Tracy to a reaching forward ground heat and three pheasant finds. Frank Joyal of Fairfax, Vt., was the breeder.

Conditions for the trial were on the warm side and the cover was still lush and green but several of the Derby-age contenders performed very impressively.

— Mike Husenits

REGION 9 AND IDAHO OPEN CHAMPIONSHIPS

American Falls, Ida.—Kim Sampson of Payton, Utah, won her first regional championship with her precocious coming three-year-old pointer female West Mountain Sunny Days by topping 19 other contenders in the Region 9 Amateur Shooting Dog Championship. Sunny had a snappy reaching race and two clean finds, one on a Hungarian partridge, the other on two sharptail grouse. A strong runner-up was Doug Favor’s German Shorthair male H B V Dunfur’s Plan B for his always strong searching race and two clean finds on single sharptail grouse. Ridge Creek Cody, three-year-old setter male owned by Larry Brutger of Saint Cloud Minn.,, and handled by Shawn Kinkelaar, was crowned champion of the Idaho Open Championship over 28 other contenders. Cody ran a wide, nicely patterned, handling race and had one find on sharptails during his hour. The close runner-up was Railita, pointer female owned and handled by Austin Turley of Laurel, Mont. She also had a wide, strong race and a superb find on a sharptail.

In our Everton Derby Classic, with a disappointing number of 4 entries — the first time below 10 entries in over twenty years of running it — we did have four solid performers. The winners on race, though two dogs made game and chased at wild flush of a sharptail, were Harold Chadwick’s pointer male Skyhi’s Whose Yo Daddy, first, with a bit more handle showing in his big swings. Dr. Charlie Hjerpe’s Sand Creek Holly, pointer female, had a reaching forward effort patterning well during the 45-minute brace.

— Glen Wiese

MANITOBA TRIALS

Broomhill, Man.—The Manitoba stakes are the finalé of the Canadian fall season trials. The Manitoba Championship began on September 8 with an entry of 24 dogs. The winner was Chinquapin Speck, white and orange pointer male owned by E. L. “Ted” Baker of Jacksonville, Fla., and handled by Hunter Gates. Speck won the John S. Gates Memorial Open Derby here in 2010. Named runner-up was Phillips Time Line, pointer male owned by Rick Stallings of Montgomery, Ala., and handled by Colvin Davis.

The John S. Gates Memorial Open Derby followed with 7 dogs drawn. The winner was White’s Scattergun, pointer male owned by Danny White of Heflin, Ala., and handled by Robin Gates; runner-up was Neely’s Rollin Thunder, owned by John Neely of Leesburg, Ga., and handled by Robin Gates

The Pelican Open All-Age Classic began immediately after the Gates Classic with 26 dogs. The winners were: 1st—In The Shadow, pointer male owned by Carl Bowman of Louisville, Ky., and handled by Robin Gates; 2d—Patriote, owned by Gary and Sally Lockee of LaGrange, Tenn., and handled by Colvin Davis; 3d—Shadow’s Effigy, pointer male owned and handled by John Neely.

The Pelican Open Derby followed with 8 dogs drawn. Judges Joe McCarl of Guys MIlls, Pa., and Mazie Davis named the following: 1st—White’s Scattergun, handled by Hunter Gates; 2d—Circle Masquerade, pointer female owned and handled by Shannon Nygard of Bozeman, Mont., and 3d—Onpoints Ball Bust’n Bubba, owned and handled by John Reid of Mallorytown, Canada.

Judges for the Manitoba Championship were as advertised.

— Mazie Davis

NORTH DAKOTA CLASSICS

Columbus, N. D.—The North Dakota Classics at Columbus, N. D., wrapped up the prairie trials for the season. The North Dakota Classic drew 36 dogs and the companion Open Derby, 10. In the Derby the winner was The Fly Peddler, pointer male owned by Blake Kukar of Somerville, Tenn., and handled by Randy Downs. Second was Last Survivor, pointer male owned by Drs. Robert Rankin and Nick Knutson of Edmond, Okla., and handled by Allen Vincent. Third was Game Master, also a pointer male, owned by Dr. Fred Corder of Corinth, Miss., and handled by Downs. Randy Downs dominated the 36-dog Open All-Age Classic, taking the two top places, first with Survivor’s Little Bill and second with Ben Adams. Both pointer males are owned by Blake Kukar. Third was South’s Late Night, handled by Rick Furney.

Judges were Scott Johnson of Winfield, Kan., and Tom Tracy of Chase City, Va.

In Hawthorne Derby, Randy Downs prevailed again, winning first with Game Watch, pointer male owned by Dr. Corder. Second was Utah Express, handled by Rich Robertson. Third was Shadow Powder Bud, pointer male by Steve Hurdle.

The D. E. Hawthorne All-Age Classic (46 dogs) was won by Rapidan, white and orange setter male owned by James and Mary C. McConnell of Rapidan Va., and handled by Rich Robertson. Second was Connor’s E Z Button, pointer owned by David O’Connor of Bullard, Tex., and handled by Steve Hurdle. Third was Game Time C, carrying the colors of Dr. Fred Corder and handled by Randy Downs.

Judges were Jim Michaletz of Goodman, Mo., and Ike Todd of Somerville, Tenn., the latter stepping in for Skip Cobb who was called away on business.

—Allen Vincent

BROOMHILL TRIALS

Broomhill, Man.—Twenty dogs were drawn in the early-season opener Broomhill Open All-Age at Broomhill, Manitoba. The winner was Shadow Oak Bo, sparkling setter male owned by N. G. (Butch) Houston of Nashville, Ga., and Dr. John Dorminy of Fitzgerald, Ga., and handled by Robin Gates. Second was Patriote, pointer male owned by Gary and Sally Lockee of LaGrange, Tenn., and handled by Colvin Davis. Phillips Time Line garnered third for owner Rick Stallings of Montgomery, Ala., and handler Colvin Davis.

Eleven dogs competed in the Open Derby which followed the All-Age. The winners were: 1st—White’s Scattergun, pointer male owned by Danny J. White of Heflin, Ala., and handled by Robin Gates; 2d—Circle Grit N’Grace, pointer female owned by Tom and Shannon Nygard of Bozeman, Mont., and handled by Hunter Gates; 3d—Sanvista’s Zackly, pointer male owned by Wilbur G. Maxwell of Pageland, S. C., and handled by Hunter Gates.

Judges were Larry and Karen Jones from nearby Tilston, Manitoba.

The Manitoba Championship began September 8; 24 dogs were drawn. The John S. Gates Memorial Open Derby drew 7, the Pelican Open All-Age has 26 and the Pelican Open Derby drew 8 juvenile entries.

The advertised judges are officiating.

— Mazie Davis

NATIONAL AMATEUR CHICKEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Mortlach, Sask.—The National Amateur Chicken Championship drew 22 entries for the 2011 renewal at Mortlach, Sask.

The winner was Boxwood Bandana, white and orange pointer male owned and handled by Michael Shears of Franklin, Tenn. Runner-up was Sounding Creek Annie, white and liver pointer female owned and handled by Dr. Charles A. Hjerpe of Davis, Cal.

Judges were Roger Shelswell of Woodstock, Ont., and Louis Qualtiere of Saskatoon, Sask.

— Linda Hunt

REGION 19 AMATEUR SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP

Danbury, Wis. —Judges Dan Voss of St. Francis, Minn., and Ray Marshall of Stillwater, Minn., named Homemade, three-year-old white and liver pointer female owned and handled by Frank LaNasa of Isanti, Minn., champion. Poor Willie, two-year-old white and black pointer male owned and handled by Chuck Wingard of Blackduck, Minn., was named runner-up.

The trial was held on native sharptail grouse on continuous courses at the 5,000-acre Namekagon Barrens just north of Danbury,Wis., on September 7.

— Frank LaNasa

SOUTHWESTERN OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Trail City, N. D. —Strut, six-year-old white and liver pointer male co-owned by Eddie Sholar and Tommy Davis of Leesburg, Ga., bested a field of 57 contestants to wear the Southwestern crown for the second time in his life (also winning in 2007). He was expertly handled by Luke Eisenhart due to grave illness in the Davis family. Erin’s Black Fury, four-year-old pointer male owned by Tucker Johnson of Hope Sound, Fla., bested all save the champion to gain the runner-up position. He was also handled by Eisenhart.

The field of 24 Derbies was topped by Erin’s Riptide, pointer male flying the shamrock colors of the irrepressible Sean Derrig of Bannockburn, Ill. Eisenhart blew the whistle over the precocious youngster. Second was Sholar’s Honey Bee, pointer female owned by Eddie Sholar and handled by Jamie Daniels. Third was awarded to Prisoner, pointer male owned by Tommy and Laura Davis. All youngsters were placed on race showing all-age potential.

— Lamont Cranston

ALL-AMERICA PRAIRIE CHAMPIONSHIP

Kennebec, S. D.—The 95th All-America Open Prairie Championship and companion stakes were contested August 26-31 on the Madsen Ranch and Lower Brule Sioux Nation, Kennebec, S. D. The main event drew a record 51 entries. Lester’s Storm, pointer male owned by Drs. Ron and Davey Deal of Macon, Ga., and handled by Lee Phillips, was named the All-America Champion on the basis of an outstanding ground effort combined with a spectacular find. Runner-up honors were awarded to his bracemate, Erin’s Special Force, pointer male owned by John May of Dubuque, Ia., and handled by Luke Eisenhart in his inaugural all-age championship event.

Judges for the Championship and Derby were Dr. Pat McInteer of Falls City, Neb., and Larry Cox of Randleman, N. C.

The R. A. Weber Open Derby drew 30 contestants and was won by Erin’s Silver Wings, owned by Allen R. Linder of Livingston, Tenn., and handled by Eisenhart. Timber Lake, owned and handled by Tommy Davis of Albany, Ga., was second. Pearl Again, owned by David Williams of Cordova, Tenn., and handled by Jamie Daniels, was third.

The Leon Covington Open All-Age was won by Frontline Solid Bat, owned by E. Kohler of Lehi, Utah and handled by Rich Robertson, who also handled second place Rivertons Funseek’n Abby for owner Jeremy Skousen of Ontario, Okla. Chinquapin Rip, owned by E. L. Baker of Jacksonville, Fla., and handled by Bobby Taylor, was third.

Jamie Daniels of Arlington, Ga., and Keith Bryant of Aurora, Colo., judged the junior all-age event.

— Dr. Ron Deal

ALL-AMERICA SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP

Carson, N. D.—The running of the All-America Shooting Dog Championship was completed after four days of competition. Touch’s Hard Times, pointer male owned by John Roswech of Chester, N. J., and handled by Shawn Kinkelaar, was named champion. Setter male Ridge Creek Cody, also handled by Kinkelaar, and owned by Larry Brutger of St. Cloud, Minn., was runner-up.

In the accompanying Open Derby, Doug Ray won first with Rex and second with Molly. Margo placed third for Kinkelaar.

Judges for both stakes were Fred Scherock of Alabama and David Taylor of Iowa. Full particulars to follow.

— David Taylor

BORDER INTERNATIONAL CHICKEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Stoughton, Sask.—Ransom, white and orange pointer male owned by Bob Walthall of Tallahassee, Fla., and Thorpe McKenzie of Lookout Mountain, Tenn., and handled by Steve Hurdle, won the Border International Championship at Stoughton, Sask. Runner-up was Praireland Pride, pointer male owned by Dr. Robert G. Cook of Kenosha,Wis., and handled by Randy Anderson.

The Championship attracted a fine entry of 41 dogs, with 18 others in the Open Derby.

Judges were Doug Vaughn of Saskatoon, Sask., and Colin Kennedy of Calgary, Alberta.

— Paul Falkowsky

DOMINION OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Mortlach, Sask.—Winner of the Dominion Open Chicken Championship, which followed the Saskatchewan stake at Mortlach, was Phillips White Twist, white and orange pointer male owned by N. G. Houston of Nashville, Ga., and handled by Robin Gates. Runner-up was Senator’s Chicken Hawk, white and liver first year dog, owned by R. T. Henderson of Flagstaff, Ariz., and handled by Andy Daugherty.

We had 51 entries in the Championship. Particulars to follow.

— Dawn Feist

UNITED STATES CHICKEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Kennebec, S. D.—The 2011 renewal of the United States Chicken Championship, under the auspices of the Northern States Amateur Field Trial Association, followed on the heels of the All-America Prairie Championship on the Madsen Ranch at Kennebec, S. D. The winner was Rivertons Funseek’n Scooter, white and orange pointer male owned by Matt Cover-dale of Blackfoot, Ida., and handled by Rich Robertson. Scooter combined a prairie ground effort with good bird work to earn the title. Runner-up was Lester’s Pretty Boy, also a white and orange pointer male, owned by Drs. Ron and Davey Deal of Macon, Ga., and handled by Lee Phillips. Forty dogs were entered

The Derby drew 18 starters. First was Webb’s Twisted Knot, pointer male owned by Danny Webb of Glasgow, Ky., and handled by Luke Eisenhart. Bennett’s Cowboy Fever was second for Lee Phillips, and Erin’s Top Gun gained third for owner Sean Derrig.

Judges were John P. Russell of Bowling Green, Ky., and the writer, who stepped in for Steve Messick of Greenbrier, Ark., who had to withdraw.

— Scott Jordan

SOUTHWESTERN CHAMPIONSHIP

Trail City, S. D.—The Southwestern Championship drawing was held Friday, September 3, as advertised. Fifty-seven contestants were drawn to compete in the Championship, with 24 entered in the Derby. The Derby began Labor Day, Monday morning, September 5, with the titular stake to follow.

Judges are Wallace Reichart of Whitesburg, Ga., and Jadie Rayfield of Mt. Pleasant, S. C.

An abundance of rain has left the country exceptionally green for this time of year. Water has caused a late hatch with more grouse showing up on a daily basis.

— Lamont Cranston

MONTANA OPEN SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP

Circle, Mont.—Dogwood Meg, seven-year-old white and orange pointer female owned by Miles Watkins and Clay Nalley of Thomasville, Ga., and handled by Shawn Kinkelaar, was named winner of the 2011 running of the Montana Open Shooting Dog Championship at Circle, Mont. Railita, white and black pointer female owned and handled by Austin Turley of Laurel, Mont., was named runner-up.

Judges were Richard “Butch” Nelson of Dentin, Mont., and Jarry Walton of Reno, Nev.

— Butch Nelson

NATIONAL AMATEUR PHEASANT SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP

Circle, Mont.—The Big Sky Field Trial Club completed its 2011 renewal of the National Amateur Pheasant Shooting Dog Championship on the bird blessed grounds north of Circle, Mont., near the Signal Rocks Ranch. Fifty-five dogs came to the line and after the stellar crop of sweet clover was spread the victor emerged in Railita, pointer female owned and handled by Austin Turley of Laurel, Mont. Runner- up honors went to Breakstone, Irish setter male owned and handled by Dr. Roger W. Boser of Seven Valleys, Pa.

The grounds saw dozens of rigs, all occupied by hearty owners and friendly observers.

The judges were Tim Fullerton of Rigby, Ida., and Jim Tande of Park Rapids, Minn.

The club can boast particular care was taken to ensure that everyone had a good time and no one left hungry. We are anxiously looking forward to the
2012 renewal.

—Tom Nygard

BORDER INTERNATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

The Border International Chicken Championship was initiated in 1951, and this season celebrates its 60th anniversary.

The roster of winners of this prairie fixture features a lineup of field trial stars: Wayriel (1951), Lone Survivor (1954), Susay Peters (1955 and ’57); Rambling Rebel Dan (1964), Flush’s Country Squire (1970), The Kansas Wins (1973), Barshoe Buzzsaq (1981), Redemption’s Reward (1987); Farm Hand (1992), Law’s High Noon (2002), and Connor’s E Z Button (2010).

The title was withheld for the 1952 running, and the stake was not held in 1968 and 1969.

The trial has been held under the auspices of the Canadian Legion for several seasons. Peter Piper has done yeoman’s service for more than 20 years in terms of pre-trial arrangements and overall management the stake. He has turned the reins over to Paul and Tracey Falkowksy of Calgary, Alberta, who inform that the 2011 running will commence 24 hours after the Dominion stakes at Mortlach, Saskatchewan, but not before September 1. The stake has been advanced on the Canadian calendar to facility an orderly flow of prairie trials.

NORTH AMERICAN WOODCOCK CHAMPIONSHIP AND FUTURITY

The death of Mikel Jackson in January left a large void in the New Brunswick field trial community. We are pleased to advise a strong group has come together to re-form the Maritime Bird Dog Club. We are focused on continuing the North American Woodcock Championship and Woodcock Futurity in New Brunswick with dates established for this fall.

As previously advised, Austin Parsons will be handling the Futurity.

Our group is very committed on the sustainment of the Championship and Futurity and will soon provide details pertaining to the fall running.

— Bob Little

CANADIAN OPEN SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP

Clinton, Ont.—“Play it again, Sam” might well have been the refrain of the recently concluded Canadian Open Shooting Dog Championship in Clinton, Ont. The Insider and Our Big Bully, winner and runner-up at the Michigan Shooting Dog Championship a week before, were placed again in the same order at the Canadian Championship.

The Insider, white and black setter male owned by John Fort of Camden, S. C., was handled by Luke Eisenhart; Our Big Bully, white and liver pointer male owned by Ernie and Karen Saniga of Nottingham, Pa., was handled by Mike Tracy.

Fifty-two dogs were entered and 52 started. Weather was far from favorable, heavy rain occurring at times.

Judges were Virginians Ellen Clements and Gary Winall.

— Don Frigo

WESTERN OPEN ALL-AGE CHAMPIONSHIP

Reno, Nev.—The Western Open All-Age Championship started Monday, April 18, and concluded the following day. There were 20 entries, 14 pointers and 6 setters.Winning the stake was Highground Jax Jabba, seven-year-old setter male owned by Chuck and Kara Kunde of Fossil, Ore., and handled by Lori Steinshouer. Runner-up was Silverado’s Blew Bi You, five-year old pointer male owned and handled by Glenn Johnson of San Dimas, Cal. Adjudicating the stake were Craig Thompson of Kingston, Ariz., and Ron Shuman of Woodland, Cal.

The Western Open Derby Classic had 16 entries, 13 pointers and 3 setters. First was Barbara’s Investment, pointer male owned by Robert Tennant of San Jose, Cal., and handled by Sheldon Twer. Second was secured by setter male Skydancer Dancing Bull, owned by Dennis Lutynski of Dousman, Wis., and handled by Travis Gellhaus. Third place went to Sand Creek Holly, pointer female owned and handled by Dr. C.A. Hjerpe of Davis, Cal. Judges were Jarry Walton of Reno, Nev., and Glenn Johnson.

— J. Tappero

CANADIAN OPEN SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP

Clinton, Ont.—A field of 52 dogs was drawn for the 2011 renewal of the Canadian Open Shooting Dog Championship at the Hullett Wildlife Area near Clinton, Ont. The running commenced Tuesday, April 26. Weather for the start was wicked, with rain, wind and tornado warnings.

Judges are Gary Winall and Ellen Clements of Virginia.

The Region 13 Amateur All-Age Championship follows on the weekend (April 30-May 1).

— Don Frigo

MICHIGAN OPEN SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP

Ionia, Mich.—Seventy-eight dogs came to the Ionia Recreation Area near Ionia, Mich., to vie for the Michigan Open Shooting Dog Championship title.

The Insider, white and black setter male owned by John Fort of Camden, S. C., and handled by Luke Eisenhart, emerged as the winner. Our Big Bully, white and liver pointer male owned by Ernie and Karen Saniga of Nottingham, Pa., and handled by Mike Tracy, was named runner-up.

Judges were John Burrow of South Fulton, Tenn., and Jim N.White of Bowling Green, Ky.

In the Michigan Derby Classic, with 22 dogs, the winner was Erin’s Little River, pointer male owned by Tom Downs of West Grove, Pa., and handled by Eisenhart. Runner-up was Spitfire’s Jack, white and black setter male owned by Jeffrey Phelps of Alexander, N.Y., and handled by young Canadian pro Spencer Ray. Judges for the Derby were Dan Long of Perrysville, Ohio and Jeff Potter of White Cloud, Mich.

Weather in Michigan at this time of the year can be dicey; it proved to be deplorable, the worst in the history of the stake.

— Jim Cipponeri

NATIONAL AMATEUR CHUKAR SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP

Red Rock, Nev.—The 2011 National Amateur Chukar Shooting Dog Championship attracted a good entry of 31 dogs. The running took place at the
BLM’s Red Rock, Nevada (Reno) field trial grounds, beginning on Friday, April 15, and finishing during the early afternoon on Sunday. The winner of the Championship was setter male Worry Be Gone, owned and handled by Tom Griffin of Watsonville, Cal. The runner-up was Tucalota’s Ruby, pointer female owned and handled by Ed Mayhew of Winchester, Cal. The winner had an exceptionally strong race with three finds and amannerly stop to flush on chukars. The runner-up had four crisp chukar finds and a good, but less consistently forward and distant, ground heat.

The stake was adjudicated by Sheldon Twer of Oakdale, Cal., and Jarry Walton of Reno, Nev.

— Dr. C. A. Hjerpe

REGION 1 AMATEUR SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP

East Windsor, Conn.—Stone Dor, white and orange pointer female, and Threshold, white and orange pointer male, both owned and handled by Tom Tracy of Lebanon, Conn., were named champion and runner-up, respectively, at the 2011 Region 1 Amateur (horseback) Shooting Dog Championship held April 23-24 at Flaherty Field Trial Area. Twenty-two dogs were entered in the two-day event.

Judges were Steve Merton of Manchester, Conn., and Patrick Callahan of Winsted, Conn.

— Janice Gregory

WESTERN OPEN SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP

Reno, Nev.—The Western Open Shooting Dog Championship started Thursday,April 21, and was concluded the following day. Vying for the title were 12 pointers and six setters. Indian Head Cabernet, pointer female owned and handled by Jared Tappero of Chester, Cal., was declared the champion. Wells Fargo Molly, pointer female owned and handled by Paul Wells ofWilton, Cal., was named runner-up.

Adjudicating this event were Craig Thompson of Kingston, Ark., and Sean Kelly of Auburn, Cal.

— I. M. Stuck

NBHA NATIONAL OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Grovespring, Mo.—The NBHA National Open Championship was concluded the afternoon of April 17 at the excellent Sportsmen’s Association grounds near Grovespring, Mo. Taking the championship title after the two-hour finals series was handsome white and orange pointer male Gailen’s Lotto Kipp, in the ownership of Shannon Shields of Reading, Kan. Kipp had an excellent finals series with an anxious wait at the end as scout Gailen Cooper searched long and hard to locate Kipp on point. This stylish find was Kipp’s seventh after having run a reaching race with five finds in his qualifying hour.

Running in very warm conditions, Daniels Creek John, piloted by handler Buck Daniels from Wisconsin, was named runner-up with six finds in the two hours and a finish indicating he was still searching.

Nehawka Blackjack, pointer male, could have changed things but a mistake on birds at 1:53 shocked both those riding and handler Buck Daniels. Also finishing the two hours and braced with the runner-up was Fairchase Jiggs, pointer female handled by Tom Woods from Oklahoma with a nine-find effort. Jiggs’ finish showed the effects of the 75° temperatures, although she had her final find at 1:56.

Other callback dogs incluced Notorious Bodacious for Daniels and Hobbs Silver Belle for Keith Foreman. I’m Wrong Too, setter male for Iowan Dennis Ireland and handler Ryan Eichelberger, and All That Jazz, pointer female for owner-handler Mike Duvall of Wisconsin, were given honorable mention by judges Scott Crawford and Chris Livingston.

The Missouri Bird Hunters Association, led by Chairman Chris Gebhardt, did an outstanding job hosting this trial. Kevin Western of Greentop, Mo., headed up the tailgate parties each evening cooking smoked pork chops one night, burgers and brats another and then Chris Gebhardt stepped in to wrangle a fish fry Saturday night. We also enjoyed visits from numerous field trialers and previous NBHA officers, including former NBHA President Gene Swadley, Don Vice, Don Arnold, Jerry Hailey, Jamie Euliss and his mother, Andy Daugherty, Dennis Kennedy and Dick Fortner.

Purina was well represented with both Steve Grossman and Gailen Cooper in attendance.

— Doug Meyer

INDIANTOWN GAP TRIALS

Petersburg, Pa.—The Indiantown Gap trials were held April 5-10 at the Keystone Bird Dog Trust grounds near Petersburg, Pa. The featured stakes were the Keystone Open Shooting Dog Classic, the Keystone Derby Classic, and a one-hour Amateur Shooting Dog Stake. Judges were Ken Huyser of Thurmont, Md., and Roger Boser of Seven Valleys, Pa, for the Shooting Dog Classic, and Ken Huyser and Keith Thomas of Elkton, Md., for the Derby.

Roger and Keith filled in for our other advertised judge, George Habacker, who had a family emergency the afternoon before the trial.

Winners in the 44-dog Shooting Dog Classic were: 1st—Our Big Bully, pointer male owned by Ernie and Karen Saniga of Nottingham, Pa., and handled by Mike Tracy; 2d—Mt. View Decision Maker, pointer female owned by Wayne and Gail Stover of Howard, Pa., and handled by Jeanette Tracy; 3d—Big’N’Rich, owned by Tommy and Bonnie Hamilton of Springfield, Ky., and handled by George Tracy.

The twelve-dog Derby was won by Chiseled in Stone, pointer female owned by Joe McHugh of Binghamton, N.Y., and handled by Jeanette Tracy; second was Art Hower’s pointer female Bullish Pride, handled by Mike Tracy, while third went to Frank Joyal’s Moonlight in Vermont, handled by George Tracy.

In the Amateur Shooting Dog Stake, Judges Gus Allimonos of Tabernacle, N. J., and Ken Huyser named Brian Sanchez’s pointer male Great River Magnum the winner. Second was Breakstone and third was Touchstone, both red setters handled by Roger Boser.

— Ernie Saniga

REGION 1 AMATEUR WALKING SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP

Exeter, R. I.—True Patriot, setter male owned and handled by Kellie Short of Buxton, Me., was named champion at the Region 1AFTCA Amateur Walking Shooting Dog Championship held Saturday, April 9, at Arcadia Management Area in Exeter, R. I.

Runner-up was Sugarknoll Jack, pointer male owned and handled by John Fino of Mendon, Mass.

Sixteen dogs were entered in the Championship. Fourteen ran.

Judges were Richard Bembenek of Webster, Mass., and Jim Curtin of Bridgewater, Mass. Chairman was Richard Giuliano of Hope, R. I.

— Janice Gregory

EGYPTIAN OPEN SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP

Rend Lake, Ill.—The Egyptian Open Shooting Dog Championship was held at the Wayne Fitzgerrell Area near Rend Lake, Ill. Judges were Dennis Sneed of Ewing, Ill., and Jim Champagne of Maurice, La., subbing for John “Buz” Daugherty who could not attend.

They named as winner Lawless Playboy Sam, white and liver pointer male owned and handed by Jim Lawless of Sparta, Ill. Runner-up was Merrihill’s Carolina, white and black pointer female owned by Bill Merrifield of Kinsman, Ohio and handled by Shawn Kinkelaar.

In the Derby, with ten starters, handler Luke Eisenhart took the top two places with pointer males Erin’s Little River and Kraftsman’s Black River. Little River is owned by Thomas Downs of West Grove, Pa., and Black River by Kevin Stuart of Schenectady, N.Y. Third was Covey Rise’s Rascal, pointer male owned by Drs. Thomas and Robin Morgan of Holly Springs, Miss., and Dr. Wade and Amy Rosenberg of Houston, Tex., and handled by Shawn Kinkelaar.

— Gerry MacKenzie

MIDWEST OPEN SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP

Browning, Mo.—The running of the Midwest Shooting Dog Championship was completed March 26 after six days of competition. Sixty-two shooting dogs were drawn for the Championship; the accompanying Derby drew seventeen.

Tom Milam of Elm Mott, Tex., and Jack Murphy of Nowata, Okla., occupied the judicial saddles.

Fearless Little Bit, pointer female owned by Carol Fox of Licking, Mo., and handled by Marvin McDowell, was named champion. Erin’s Backstreet Affair, pointer female owned by Thomas Downs of West Grove, Pa., and handled by Luke Eisenhart, was runner-up.

The Derby was won by Blackhawk’s Flight Risk, pointer male owned by Mitch Solt of Central City, Neb., and handled by Harold Gearhart. Pointer males Westfall’s Coin Toss and Westfall’s Black Cloud placed second and third, respectively, for owner-handler Ryan Westfall of Liberty, Mo.

— David Taylor

MISSOURI OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Grovespring, Mo.—The Missouri Open Championship concluded April 1 with the naming of Touch’s White Out as the 2011 champion. This pointer male is the current National Champion; he is owned by Keith Wright and Ike Todd and was handled by Ike Todd. He bested a field of 46 to take the title.

Quester, pointer male owned by Jim and Peg Fornear and handled by Ray Warren, was named runner-up.

The advertised judges, John P. Russell of Bowling Green, Ky., and Paul K.Wright of West Point, Ind., officiated.

— Bonnie Hidalgo

PACIFIC VIZSLA FUTURITY

The second running of the Pacific Vizsla Futurity was held on alternate grounds approximately 250 miles south of the advertised grounds due to extreme weather in Northern California in March (approximately 250% of our average rainfall flooded the grounds). After much scurrying and large consumption of cellular phone minutes, the event took place in California City.

The winner was BK's Mudbone Scheherazade, female, owned by David Awbrey, bred by Carol Burjan and handled by Warren Eizman. Second was Mudbone Ruger Dos, male, owned by Justin Reden, bred by David Awbrey and handled by Eizman. Third was Mudbone Firestorms Burning Oak, male, owned and bred by David Awbrey and handled by Warren Eizman. Fourth Equinox Gus' Nickel, female, owned by Tom and Cindy Pescod, bred by Ken Hart and handled by Cindy Pescod

We had visitors from Texas, Arizona, California and Washington. Judges were Mike Eisen and Jim Searles. Reporter was Rod Michaelson. A huge thank you to all the participants and past participants like Riccardo and Georgette Spacarelli who generously donated $200 to a guaranteed purse!

Spread the word. Register that litter!

— Ken Kuivenhoven

REGION 17 AMATEUR SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP

Salem, Neb.—Topping the field of 50 dogs (42 pointers, 6 setters, 2 Irish setters) was Westfall’s Black Cloud, pointer male owned and handled by Bill Westfall of Liberty, Mo. Runner-up was Ninnescah Nicole, pointer female owned and handled by Dr. Richard Steckley of Witcha, Kan.

Judging the Championship where Pat Sheehan of Jacksonville Ill., and Mike Majewski of Greene, Ia., who subbed for the injured Phil Tiller of Gillespie, Ill.

— Mike Majewski

NORTH CAROLINA OPEN QUAIL CHAMPIONSHIP

Hoffman, N. C.—Soggy Bottom Reward, six-yer-old white and liver pointer male owned jointly by Fred C. Robinson and his mother, Mrs.Winnie C. Robinson, of Dayton, Tenn., and handled by Fred, won the 42nd renewal of the North Carolina Open Quail Championship at the Sandhills Field Trial Area near Hoffman, N. C. Reward had one all-age find and a spectacular all-age race.

Mohawk Mill Pirate, also a white and liver pointer male, owned and handled by Gary Winall of Powhatan, Va., won runner-up honors with one dug-up all-age find and a race to the limits.

The judges were Tim Hammons, Berea, Ky., and Harvie Pendergest, Lexington, Ky.

— Carroll S.Wilkins

SOUTHERN PINES CLASSIC

Hoffman, N. C.—The Southern Pines Classic ran March 18-20 at Hoffman, N. C. Topping the field of 29 entries in the Open All-Age was South’s Late Night, pointer male owned by Gary and Becky Futch, John Milton and Franz and Karen Rowland and handled by Rick Furney. Late Night ran a searching race under extremely dry, hot conditions. The powerful pointer male scored a true field trial find at 55 with a swashbuckling finish.

Earning second was Raincrow Beau, pointer male owned by G. B. Hatcher of Clinton, N. C., and handled by Jimmy Edmundson. Beau ran a true allage race with two pieces of bird work. Placed third was Survivor’s Real Deal, pointer female owned by Howard Brooks of Dayton, Tenn., and handled by Mark McLean. Deal ran a classic race with a creditable piece of bird work after the call of pickup.

Judges were Charles K.Young of Cassatt, S. C., and Don Price of Bryceville, Fla.

The companion Derby (11 entries) was won by Cape Hickory Buster, pointer male owned by Grace Andrews. Kimrey, pointer male owned by Dwight Smith, was second. The second and third place dogs were handled by Mack Hilliard. Third was Arcanum’s Sir Winston, pointer male owned by Dr. Aubrey Morgan and handled by Bruce Jacobs.

Judging the Derby were Don Price and Jadie Rayfield of Mt. Pleasant, S. C.

— Jadie Rayfield

SPRING VALLEY TRIALS DOUG SANDERSON OPEN ALL-AGE

Hoffman, N. C.—The Spring Valley fixture was concluded after three days of running. The Open Derby drew 18 hopefuls. Judges were G. B. Hatcher and Ruth Hill. First place went to Marques Miss Judged, pointer female owned by John and Susan Ivester and handled by Lefty Henry. Second was Quick Marksman Wheeler, owned by Don Frigo and handled by Mike Hester. Third went to Rebel’s Polly Sims, pointer female owned by William C. Sanderson and handled by Jimmy Edmundson.

The Doug Sanderson Memorial Open All-Age also attracted 18 entrants. The winner was Tall River’s Chico, pointer male owned by Adriano Gazzola of Mississauga, Ont., and handled by Mike Hester. Second was Marques Hustler, pointer male owned by John and Susan Ivester of Huntersville, N. C., and handled by Lefty Henry. Awarded third was Belfield Silver, pointer male owned by Don Frigo of Caledon, Ont., and handled by Hester. Judges were Sandy Gale and Jimmy Edmundson,Winterville, N. C.

The Amateur All-Age had 6 starters. Topping them was Arcanum High Maintenance, pointer female owned and handled by Aubrey F. Morgan of Suffolk, Va. Second was Stoney Run’s Abbey, pointer female owned and handled by Dennis Snyder of Thomasville, N. C. Third went to Stoney Run’s Millie, pointer female also owned and handled by Dennis Snyder. Judges were again Sandy Gale and Jimmy Edmundson.

—William C. Sanderson

MISSOURI OPEN TRIALS

Grovespring, Mo.—The Missouri Open All-Age and the Don Fox Memorial Derby were concluded Monday, March 28, at the Field Trial Sportsmen’s grounds at Grovespring, Mo. These stakes are hosted by the Sportsmen’s Association of Southwest Missouri. Winning the one-hour National qualifying all-age stake was Survivor’s Little Bill, pointer male owned by Blake Kukar of Somerville, Tenn., and handled by Randy Downs. Barshoe Busy, pointer female, owned by Tom Faller of Springfield, Ill., and Lee R. West of Edmond, Okla., was second for handler Andy Daugherty. Whippoorwill Wild Spec owned by Earl Connolly of Memphis and handled by Larry Huffman was third. Fifty-three of the nation’s top all-age contenders vied for the purse. Advertised Judges Kipp Linard of Silex, Mo., and Jake Waddell of Brownsville, Tenn., officiated.

In the companion Don Fox Memorial Open Derby, under Judges Kipp Linnard and Austin Mann, twelve dogs were drawn. The winner was Solar Eclipse, pointer male, owned and handled by Edmond James of Collierville, Tenn. Senator’s Chicken Hawk, pointer male handled by Andy Daugherty, placed second for owner R. T. Henderson of Flagstaff, Ariz. Salty Dog Bullet placed third for handler Mike Lundy and owners Jeff and Ingrid Fraser of Teton Village,Wyo.

The Missouri Open Championship, hosted by the Missouri State Field Trial Association will commenced March 29. It drew an entry of 46 for review by advertised Judges John Russell of Bowling Green, Ky., and Paul Wright of West Point, Ind.

— Bonnie Hidalgo

KENTUCKY OPEN ALL-AGE CHAMPIONSHIP

ALL-AMERICA QUAIL CHAMPIONSHIP

Galatia, Ill.—Forty-four dogs competed in the All-America Quail Championship held at Mr. Jim Fornear’s Outland Ranch in Galatia, Ill. Topping the field was Game Maker, pointer male owned by Dr. Fred Corder of Corinth, Miss., and handled by Randy Downs. Game Maker had six finds and a powerful race with a beautiful finish. House’s River Fever, pointer female owned by Eddie Sholar of Leesburg, Ga., and handled by Billy Wayne Morton, earned the runner-up spot. River Fever looked good on multiple finds.

Judges were Cecil Rester of Angie, La., and Nathan Phillips of Francisco, Ind.

— Jim Atchison

AMERICAN DERBY INVITATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

Galatia, Ill.—The American Derby Invitational Championship was contested again at Mr. Jim Fornear’s Outland Ranch near Galatia, Ill. Twelve of the season’s best Derbies were drawn and competed for the coveted crown.

The winner emerged in Lester’s Skywatch, white and orange pointer male owned and handled by Gary Lester of Gracey, Ky. Runner-up was Rock Acre Rambo, white and black pointer male owned by Dr. Fred Corder of Corinth, Miss., and handled by Randy Downs.

Judges Andy Daugherty of Grove-spring, Mo., and Billy Wayne Morton of Oakfield, Ga., also called back two other dogs for the championship finals, namely: Oakspring Big Time, pointer male owned by Jeff Miller of Guthrie, Okla., and handled by Allen Vincent, and Lester’s Snow Games, pointer male owned and handled by Gary Lester.

— Jim Atchison

MIDDLE ATLANTIC OPEN SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP

Clarksburg, N. J.—The Middle Atlantic Championship was held at the Assunpink Wildlife Management Area in Clarksburg, N. J. Judges for the Championship were Mike Fox of Pennsylvania and Kevin Joyce of New York. Klee’s Shooting Star, pointer male owned by Andrea Clark of South Carolina and handled by Mike Tracy, emerged as champion with six stylish finds and one divided find. He hunted hard to the front, handled well and had a strong race. Heritage, pointer male owned by Tom Hance of Maryland and Jack Sanchez of New York, also handled by Mike Tracy, was runner-up. He had six beautiful finds in terrible conditions, hunted hard and finished strong.

In the Bill Beyer Open Derby Classic, The Thrill is Gone, pointer female owned by Dave Breslin of Massachusetts and handled by Jeanette Tracy, earned first. Second was Bullerina, pointer female owned by Dennis Hood of Alabama and Ernie Saniga of Pennsylvania and handled by Mike Tracy. Bullish Pride took third for owner Art Hower of Pennsylvania and handler Mike Tracy. Bullerina and Bullish Pride are littermates.

— Joseph A. Lordi

NATIONAL AMATEUR CHUKAR CHAMPIONSHIP

Sunnyside, Wash.—The National Amateur Chukar Championship was held on the Sulphur Creek Ranch of Rick and Sharon Anderson at Sunnyside, Wash., on March 19-20. There were 22 entries consisting of 2 German Shorthairs, 1 Irish setter, 3 setters and 16 pointers. The judges were Sheldon Twer of Oakdale, Cal., and Jeff Anderson of Sunnyside,Wash.

Named champion was Thunderbird Punch Buggy, setter male owned by Dave Anderson of Bloomfield, N.Y., and handled by Jim Michaletz of Goodman, Mo. Runner-up was Idaho’s Lucky Strike, pointer male owned and handled by Rich Heaton of Boise, Ida.

— Herb Anderson

NATIONAL GERMAN POINTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIPS

Pinckneyville, Ill.—The Championships commenced March 13 with sunny skies and pleasant weather all week except Monday. It rained all day and the Championships had to be shut down for a day. We started out with the Shooting Dog judged by Tom Davis and Phil Tiller.

The winner was Jak’s Miles Away, owned by Dennis Canterbury and handled by Rich Barber. Runner-up was Chicoree’s Jackie V Nuke, owned by
Fred Ryan, DVM, and handled by Daniel DiMambro.

The National Championship was judged by Marc McKinley and Ned Myers. Earning the title was C J’s Anastacia v Rostic, owned by Keith and Bobbie Richardson and handled by Dennis Brath. WT R Hightaling Ruby, owned by Robert Reynolds, DVM, handled by Chris Goegan, was runner up.

The Amateur Championship was judged by Ned Myers and Bud Walters. Topping the field was Jim Kath’s Havoc, owned by Jim and Kathleen Yates, DVM, and handled by Jim. Named runner-up was Snowy River Sambo Smokin, owned by Chase and Mark Verdoorn and handled by Chase.

The Derby Classic was judged by Joe and Frank Vicari. Placed first was PrairieWind Back to Zack, owned by Keith and Bobbie Richardson, handled by Dennis Brath. Second was Bye Bye Billy Joe, owned by Jerry and Michaelene Albanese, handled by Jerry Albanese. Burr Oaks Lilac Lucy, owned by Tom and Kim Amend, handled by Kim Amend, was third.

— Pennie Willis

ALABAMA OPEN SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP

Union Sprigs, Ala.—A single, beautifully rendered find punctuated a smooth, forward hour by six-year-old pointer male Nonami's Bobby Jones, meeting judicial criteria to earn the 2011Alabama Open Shooting Dog title at Union Springs, Ala., Sedgefields Plantation on March 14. Ray Pearce handled the winner for owner Ted Turner of Nonami Plantation at Albany, Ga. Doug Ray piloted three-year-old pointer male Cassique's Boss to the runner-up spot for owners Fred and Bernice Rowan of Atlanta, Ga.

The newly formed Sedgefields Field Trial Club hosted the titular event, which commenced on March 10 with a roster of 44 pointers and 5 setters. It was a change of venue for the popular stake, now permanently based on these historic grounds outside Union Springs where owner Raymond Harbert has recovered much of the original property in his effort to restore the plantation to the glory days of bobwhites and bird dogs.

Judges were Billy "Scope" Renfroe of Union Springs and John Fuller of Cherokee Plantation outside Tallahassee, Fla. Of interest is the fact that Renfroe and Fuller both grew up bird hunting on Sedgefields, where Fuller's grandfather, Hall-of-Famer George L. Hardin, Jr., was the manager for many years.

MASTERS OPEN QUAIL CHAMPIONSBHIP

Albany, Ga.—Lester's Jacked Up, pointer male owned and handled by Gary Lester of Gracey, Ky., was named winner of the 28th running of the Masters Open Quail Championship at Albany, Ga. Runner-up was Lester's Bodacious, pointer male owned by Gary and Becky Futch and Franz and Karen Rowland and handled by Rick Furney. These two dogs are littermates.

Advertised judges Don Price of Bryceville, Fla., and Greg St. John of South Fulton, Tenn., presided over the 56 entries. The trial was run on historic Blue Springs Plantation in Albany, Ga.We appreciate the generosity of the Montcastle Family for the traditional use of their grounds.

—Alan Powell

MISSOURI OPEN SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP

Grovespring, Mo.—Chuck Stretz made a clean sweep of the 2011 Missouri Open Shooting Dog Championship with his charges. Ninnescah Nicole, owned by Dr. Richard Steckley of Wichita, Kan., captured the championship title with 4 clean, stylish finds and Lock N Load took runner-up. In the ownership of Bob and Cathy Reynolds of Kansas City, Mo., Lock N Load had 7 finds and a stop to flush in her hour. Both females ran good ground patterns and finished the hour strong.

There were 62 competitors that went to the line in the stake, judged by Tony Gibson of Union Springs, Ala., and Charlie Beeler of Lancaster, Mo.

The open derby stake of 20 entries was judged by Missourians Fred Smith of Marshfield and Steve Gill of Jefferson City. They awarded first place to Espionage, setter male owned by James Raikos of Zionsville, Ind., and handled by Stacy Perkins. "Sam" had two really nice finds and an excellent race. Second place went to Ninnescah Trumpeter, handled by Stretz and owned by Dr. Steckley. He scored once on game and ran a good ground pattern. Stacy Perkins got the nod for third place with his young pointer, Terry Hart. Terry had no bird contacts but his race and application were excellent, always to the front.

— Peg Herriage

NORTH CAROLINA TRIALS

Two major stakes were drawn Sunday evening, March 13, at the Hoffman grounds clubhouse in North Carolina. The North Carolina Open Quail championship attracted an entry of 42 dogs and the South Pines Classic, 29. Ten dogs were drawn for the Open Derby.

Judges for the Quail Championship are Tim Hammons of Berea, Ky., and Harvey Pendergest of Lexington, Ky.

Charles K.Young of Cassatt, S. C., and Don Price of Bryceville, Fla., will preside for the Southern Pines stakes.

— Jadie Rayfield

DIXIE FIELD TRIAL CLUB OPEN ALL-AGE CLASSIC

Fitzpatrick, Ala.—The Dixie Field Trial Club National Qualifier drew 23 pointers and started Monday, March 7, as advertised. Chief Two Feathers, pointer male owned by Bob Walthall of Tallahasse, Fla., and Thorpe McKenzie of Lookout Mountain Tenn., and handled by Steve Hurdle, won first place.

Touch’s White Out, pointer male owned by Keith Wright of Covingotn, Ind., and Ike Todd of Dancyville, Tenn., and handled by Todd, took second. Third was Game Maker, pointer male owned by Dr. Fred Corder of Corinth, Miss., and handled by Randy Downs.

There were 31 contacts with game during the two days of running.

Judges were Frank Rutland of Fitzpatrick, Ala., and Rick Stallings of Mathews, Ala.

— Rick Stallings

ILLINOIS OPEN SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP

Chandlerville, Ill.—The Illinois Open Shooting Dog Championship was held at Jim Edgar Panther Creek, Chandlerville, Ill. The Championship was concluded March 3.

With 48 entries, the winner was Ninnescah Nicole, pointer female owned by Dr. Richard A. Steckley of Wichita, Kan., and handled by Chuck Stretz. Runner-up was Waubeek Brutal Sin, pointer male owned and handled by Mark Livingston of Central City, Iowa.

Judges were Jay Lewis of Ashland, Mo., and Eddie Berendzen of Higbee, Mo.

MASTERS OPEN SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP

Albany, Ga.—The famed grounds of Wildfair and Nonami Plantations were host to the 2011 Masters Open Shooting Dog Championship. The Southern Field Trial Club manages this event along with sponsorship by Eukanuba.

The champion was found in the exciting seven-find performance of Gypsy’s Elhew Hannah, pointer female owned by Jamie and Jessica Fisher of Eagle, Colo., and handled by Jason Williams. Runner-up was claimed by Bridges Lake Pat which stood for game five times. The pointer female is owned by Fred Rowan and Tim Moore and was handled by Doug Ray.

The judging duties were carried out by Mason Ashburn of Trenton, Tenn., and Nathan Phillips of Oakland City, Ind.

— Steve Standley

MISSOURI OPEN SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP

Grovespring, Mo.—The 2011 Missouri Open Shooting Dog Championship will commenced Saturday, March 5, at Grovespring, Mo. There were 62 shooting dogs drawn in the Championship and 20 Derbies in the companion stake, which follows.

Judges for the Championship are Tony Gibson of Union Springs, Ala., and Charlie Beeler of Lancaster, Mo., Steve Gill of Jefferson City, Mo., and Fred Smith of Marshfield, Mo., will judge the Derbies.

— Peg Herriage

NATIONAL AMATEUR DERBY CHAMPIONSHIP

Greenville, Fla.—The National Amateur Derby Championship was held at Greenville, Fla. Judges were John Russell of Bowling Green, Ky., and Fred Rayl of Sylvester, Ga.

Named winner was Lester’s Snow Games, pointer male owned and handled by Gary Lester of Gracey, Ky. Runner-up was Shadow’s Effigy, pointer female owned and handled by John Neely of Leesburg, Ga.

— Linda Hunt, Secy.

NATIONAL AMATEUR QUAIL CHAMPIONSHIP

Greenville, Fla.—The National Amateur Quail Championship was held at Dixe Plantation, Greenville, Fla. Judges were Torben Hansen of Reno, Nev., and Fred Rayl of Sylvester, Ga., who evaluated an entry of 55 dogs.

They named as winner Mohawk Mill Blaze, pointer male owned and handled by Gary Winall of Powhatan,Va. Runner-up was Boxwood Bandana, also a pointer male, owned and handled by Michael Shears of Franklin, Tenn.

— Linda Hunt, Secy.

REGION 17 AMATEURWALKING SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP

Havensville, Kan.—The Region 17 Amateur Walking Shooting Dog Championship had a strong field of 26 contenders run over the three one-hour farm country courses north of Havensville, Kan.

Judges Garvin Collins of Liberty, Mo., and Vagas Mathiesen of Rising City, Neb., named Bittercreek Top Grade the champion for his proud owner and handler Frank Schoenborn of Wichita, Kan. Grade ran a smooth shooting dog race with three broke finds to claim the title. Cloudhunter, pointer male in the ownership of handler Jim Fry of Rossville, Kan., was named runner-up after an unscouted race punctuated with three upfront finds.

The judges also commended three honorable mention performances in Palmer’s Blue Lotto for Josh Palmer; Treeline’s Sandra for Dan McClellan and Skyview Ace, handled by Greg Gibson for owner Jason Patty. There was support from those who rode for all three of these dogs named by the judges as close to the winners.

The farm families from the Greenwood Community were again gracious in allowing access to some 1,500 acres of their property used for this trial and many attended a banquet in their honor Saturday evening.

— Doug Meyer

SOUTHEASTERN ALL-AGE CHAMPIONSHIP

Albany, Ga.—The 21st running of the Southeastern All-Age Championship was run over Chickasaw and Abigail Plantations and was concluded after two braces on Sunday, March 6. Fifty-two entries competed.

House’s River Fever, owned by Eddie Sholar of Leesburg, Ga., and handled by Billy Wayne Morton, was named champion. She had a strong ground race and a spectacular second find. Runner-up honors went to Strut, handled by Tommy Davis who co-owns the dog with Eddie Sholar. Strut had a strong smooth effort on the ground punctuated by three finds.

Judges were Wallace Reichert of Georgia and Scott Jordan of White Bear Lake, Minn.

— Dr. Ron Deal

WEST COAST OPEN SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP

Jamestown, Cal.—The West Coast Open Shooting Dog Championship started March 8 at Jamestown, Cal., and was concluded the following day. Vying for the title were ten pointers and six setters. Affirmed, setter male owned and handled by Tom Griffin of Watsonville, Cal., was declared the champion.

Named runner-up was Super Express Coco, pointer female owned by Ivaylo Gotzev of North Hollywood, Cal., and handled by Sheldon Twer.

Adjudicating the event were Dr. Hal Meyer of Kingsburg, Cal., and Mike Wilkin of Reno, Nev. Mike was filling in for Terry Zygalinski who was delayed at another judging assignment.

— I. M. Stuck

MISSOURI OPEN SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP

Grovespring, Mo.—The 2011 Missouri Open Shooting Dog Championship will commence Saturday, March 5, at Grovespring, Mo. There were 62 shooting dogs drawn in the championship and 20 Derbies in the companion stake, which follows.

Judges for the championship are Tony Gibson and Charlie Beeler; Steve Gill and Fred Smith will judge the derbies.

— Peg Herriage

CARROLL COUNTY (TENN.) TRIALS

Huntingdon, Tenn.—The Carroll Country trials at Huntingdon, Tenn., followed hard on the heels of the National Championship, attracting a field of 36 for the Lynn Taylor Memorial Open All-Age. Touch’s White Out did not lose a beat, adding to his already prestigious win at Grand Junction, Tenn., with first in the Open All-Age. The young white and orange pointer male is owned by Keith A.Wright of Covington, Ind., and Ike Todd of Dancyville, Tenn., and was handled by Ike. Second was Dellinger C, recently acquired by Dr. Rosser Wall of Shelbyville, Tenn., and handled by Randy Downs. Third was Mohawk Mill Ride, owned by Connie and Dave Breslin of Medfield., Mass., and handled by Ray Warren.

The Derby drew 15 dogs. First was House’s Ring of Fire, owned by Keith Wright and Joe Don House and handled by Todd. Second was Solar Eclipse, owned and handled by Edmond James of Collierville, Tenn., and third was Game Tuff, owned by Dr. Fred Corder of Corinth, Miss., and handled by Downs.

Judges for the Lynn Taylor All-Age were John Burrow of South Fulton Tenn., and Chris Livingston of Vandalia, Mo. Weldon Bennett of Huntington, Tenn., teamed with John Burrow for the Derby.

Birds were plentiful during the trial. A day of running was lost to a strong thunderstorm that damaged a crossing on the courses.

— Jim Atchison

Union Springs, Ala.—Miller’s Calamity Jane Lady, pointer female owned and handled by Mike Moses of Lake City, Fla., won the 2011 National Amateur Free-for-All held at Sedgefields Plantation, Union Springs, Ala., with six quail finds and a back. Runner-up was Cecil, Ala., resident Brian Peterson’s pointer Time Line Lane which had two quail finds and a strong race.

The 62nd running had 52 entrants for the qualifying series. Choirboy, owned and handled by Rick Stallings of Mathews, Ala., was named Top Qualifier and returned to the finals series along with last year’s winner, Jamback’s Sugar, owned and handled by Johnny Capps of Banks, Ala., and ten other pointers: Black Eyed Suzie, Fran Miller; It’s Only Money Honey; Fran Miller; Doc A’s Six Gun, Hunter McDuffie; Conecuh Station’s Short Stop, Tony Gibson; Chambliss Mill Pepper, Tony Gibson; Lester’s Avalanche, Moses; I B Anxious, Shannon Nygard; and Hardup Road Jessie, Tim Moore.

Judges were Harold Ray of Waynesboro, Ga., and Don Price of Bryceville, Fla. The running commenced on the traditional February 22.

— Max & Hope Eberle

UNITED STATES SHOOTING DOG INVITATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

Conway, Ark.—Judges Jerry Hailey of Buffalo, Mo., and Tom Liesfeld of Waynesboro, Ga., named Great River Ice for owner Brian Sanchez of Central Islip, N.Y., and handled by Mike Tracy, the 2011 United States Shooting Dog Invitational Champion.

On February 19-21, twelve of the country’s top Purina Points earning shooting dogs converged on the Camp Robinson Wildlife Management Area to compete in this invitational endurance shooting dog championship. For three grueling days, totaling three and a half hours of performance, Mike Tracy piloted Great River Ice to a decisive victory over the country’s best shooting dogs. Throughout this event, Mike and “Mac” wowed the large galleries with their performances totaling six finds, two backs, outstanding ground applications and breathtaking finishes. In the final ninety-minute series, Mac was still going strong when the call of “pick ’em up” was heard.

Also competing in this year’s event were: • Covey Rise’s Offlee Amazin, Shawn Kinkelaar, handler; Gary Hertz and Drs. Thomas and Robin Morgan, owners; • Erin’s Backstreet Affair, Luke Eisenhart, handler; Tom Downs, owner; • Merrihill’s Carolina, Shawn Kinkelaar, handler; Bill Merrifield, owner; • The Insider, Luke Eisenhart, handler; John Fort, owner; • Erin’s Little Engine, Luke Eisenhart, handler; Tucker Johnson, owner; • Ninnescah Nicole, Chuck Stretz, handler; Dr. Richard Steckley, owner; • Serious Threat, Mike Tracy, handler; Greg Strausbaugh, owner; • Buffalo Creek, Mike Tracy, handler; Roland Kane, owner; • Gypsy Elhew Hannah, Jason Williams, handler; Jamie and Jessica Fisher, owners; • Hardup Road Jessie, Doug Ray, handler; Tim Moore and Fred Rowan, owners; • Hot Topic, Shawn Kinkelaar, handler; Bill and Mary Sand, owners.

—Tony King

Dancyville, Tenn.—Topping the field of forty-one dogs (39 pointers and two setters) in the Open All-Age Stake was Mann’s Power Stroke, pointer male owned by Bradford Mann of Brownsville, Tenn., and Jeff Vincett of Sylvan Lake, Alberta, Canada, and handled by Austin Mann. Placed second was Barshoe Osama Ben, pointer male owned by Bob Gum and Lee R.West of Oklahoma City, Okla., and handled by Allen Vincent. Miller’s Happy Jack, pointer male owned and handled by Gary Lester of Gracey, Ky., was third.

Judging the All-Age Stake were Perry Lacy of Elkton, Ky., and JakeWaddell of Brownsville, Tenn., who stepped in for advertised judge Dennis Auping.

Seventeen pointers were drawn for the Open Derby. Earning first was Whippoorwill Red Rage, pointer male owned by Earl Connolly of Memphis, Tenn., and handled by Larry Huffman. Second was Lester’s Skywatch, pointer male owned and handled by Gary Lester. Game Tye, pointer male owned by John Holland of Ponchatoula, La., and handled by Randy Downs, placed third.

For the Open Derby, judges Jake Waddell and Jim Waddell, Jr., presided.

— Jim Atchison

ALABAMA OPEN ALL-AGE CHAMPIONSHIP

Blue Mountain, Miss.—Coldwater Warrior, pointer male, handled by Weldon Bennett, and owned by Gary McKibben of Hernando, Miss., has won the 2011 Alabama Open All-Age Championship. Runner-up was Survivor’s Little Bill, pointer male, handled and owned by Blake Kukar of Somerville, Tenn.

We drew 25 dogs for the running at the Hell Creek Wildlife Management Area, Blue Mountain, Miss.

Our outstanding judges were Jimmy White from Bowling Green, Ky., and Burke Hendrix from Hernando, Miss. Weather varied from cold with some rain, snow, and sleet, to approximately 55° and sunny. Quail were found on all courses; several coveys were moved.

The Open Derby, with hour-long heats, had 16 dogs. First Lester's Snow Games, pointer male, handled by Keith Bollendorf, and owned by Gary Lester. Second was Whippoorwill Blue Blood, pointer male, handled by Larry Huffman, and third place went to Whippoorwill Red Rage, pointer male, also handled by Huffman. Burke Hendrix and Leland Dye served as excellent judges for the Derby.

—Tessa Hughes

FORTY-SEVENTH UNITED STATES QUAIL SHOOTING DOG FUTURITY

Hoffman, N. C.—The 47th running of the United States Quail Shooting Dog Futurity drew a starting field of 55 dogs. The trial was conducted at the Robert Gordon Sandhills Wildlife Management Area near Hoffman, N. C., concluding February 4.

Judges John Ray Kimbrell of Fort Mill, S. C., and Charles K.Young of Cassatt, S. C., presided and had a most challenging task due to less than ideal weather plus the fact that harsh winter conditions this year have most likely taken a toll on quail populations throughout the southern states.

Winning first with an outstanding two-find ground-devouring performance was the liver marked pointer male More Than Words, owned and handled by Dr. Hunter Wilcox of Lumberton, N. J. The litter was bred by Lefty Henry of North Carolina. Second was Moonlite In Vermont, a liver marked pointer female owned by Frank Joyal of Fairfax, Vt., bred by Tim Moore of Colquitt, Ga., and handled by George Tracy to a fine ground effort and one find.

Third was Marques Limited Edition, litter brother of the winner, owned by John Ivester of Huntersville, N. C., bred and handled by Lefty Henry to a one-find effort plus a stop to flush. Fourth was Bullerina, liver marked pointer female in the ownership of Ernie and Karen Saniga of Nottingham, Pa., and Dennis Hood of Valley, Ala., bred by Roger Dvorak and handled by Mike Tracy to a one find and two unproductive performance plus a stop to flush.

Birds were hard to come by and all four were worthy winners given the cold rainy conditions that prevailed for three of four days.

— Mike Husenits

NORTH CAROLINA OPEN SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP

Hoffman, N. C.—The North Carolina Shooting Dog Championship drew an entry of 38 dogs. The winner was Tall River’s Chico, owned by
Adriano Gazzola of Mississauga, Ont., and handled by Mike Hester. Runner-up was Caladen’s Rail Hawk with Ross Callaway of Hopkins, S. C.

— Margaret Drew

CONTINENTAL ALL-AGE CHAMPIONSHIP

Greenville, Fla.—Shadow Oak Bo, white and orange setter male, was named champion and Clovis Point Chism, runner-up, in the Continental All-Age Championship. Shadow Oak Bo is owned by N. G. Houston and Dr. John Dorminy of Nashville, Ga., and was handled by Robin Gates and scouted by Hunter Gates. Clovis Point Chism was handled by owner-handler Mike Furney of Chipley, Fla., and scouted by Mike’s brother Rick Furney.

The starting lineup consisted of 70 pointers and 6 setters and was run, as always, on the storied grounds of Dixie Plantation near Greenville, Fla. The grounds were in wonderful condition and the wild quail were abundant.

Judges Jerry Black and Garland Priddy, both of the Jackson, Miss., area, presided. The all-age running began Friday morning, January 21, and ended Saturday afternoon, January 29. A half-day was lost to rain.

—Tommy Stargell

REGION 16 AMATEUR SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP

Thomasville, Ga.—Five-year-old pointer female Hardup Road Jessie claimed the top spot at the 2011 Region 16 Amateur Shooting Dog Championship, which wrapped up on February 1 on Melrose Plantation west of Thomasville, Ga.

Owner Tim Moore of Blakely, Ga., handled the winner, co-owned with Fred Rowan of nearby Cassique Plantation. It was a clean sweep for Moore, who also piloted his first-year female, Cassique’s Linda Rondstadt, to the runner-up win. The full sisters, out of Elhew Fibber McGee, vied closely for the title in this premier wild bird event, judged by Bubba Moreland of Coney Lake Plantation, Leesburg, Ga., and Mike Cheely of Fayetteville, Ga.

Sixty-three were drawn to compete; 57 pointers and 2 setters came to the line.

— Barbara Teare

CONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

Greenville, Fla.—The Continental Derby Championship was concluded Thursday afternoon, January 20, at Dixie Plantation, near Greenville, Fla. Named winner was Natural Bottom, white and black pointer male owned by Bart Goodson of Tallahassee, Fla., and handled by Phil Napier. Bottom was credited with four mannerly finds and a good finish. Runner-up was Cavalryman, owned by Bill Goodwin of Prattville, Ala., and handled by Bubba Moreland. The white and orange pointer male tallied three good finds in a forward effort.

Four days were required to dispose of the 44-dog entry (two dogs were withdrawn). Judges were Howard Brooks of Dayton, Tenn., and Dr. Robert McDavid of Tallahassee, Fla. Opening morning was lost to weather (rain), and fog delays occurred on two subsequent mornings.

The Continental All-Age Championship drew 76 dogs. An afternoon of running was cancelled on Tuesday, January 25, after 27 braces had been run when rain arrived. Judges are Jerry V. Black of Jackson, Miss., and Garland Priddy of Terry, Miss.

GEORGIA SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP

Waynesboro, Ga.—The Georgia Derby Classic (22 starters) was concluded January 14. First was Kraftsman’s Black River, pointer male handled by Luke Eisenhart for owner Kevin Stuart of Schenectady, N.Y. Two finds and a forward race earned him top honors. George Tracy handled Calico’s Gossip Girl, pointer female, to second for owners Calico Kennels, Frank and April Henderson. Girl had a divided find, a back and a point. John Ray Kimbrell handled Caladen’s Rein Dancer, pointer male, to third place for owner Ross Callaway of Chester, S. C. Dancer finished to the front with three nice finds.

Advertised judges Lee Avery and Benjie Stephens presided.

From an entry of 55 dogs in the Georgia Open Shooting Dog Championship, pointer female Erin’s Backstreet Affair, handled by Luke Eisenhart, was named champion. She is owned by Tom Downs of West Grove, Pa. Affair had a nice race and carded three finds. Caladen’s Rail Hawk, pointer male owned by Ross Callaway, was runner-up with two finds and a strong race.

Occupying the judicial saddles were veteran judges Larry Cox of Randleman, N. C., and Til Hankley of Mechanicsville, Va.

— Nell Mobley

NBHA NORTH CENTRAL REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

Mt. Vernon, Ill.—The NBHA North Central Regional Championship had a competitive entry of 30 shooting dogs running in very cold January temperatures with snow on the ground at the Wayne Fitzgerald State Park grounds south of Mt. Vernon, Ill.

Judges Jim Lawless and Dennis Sneed named Wild Covey Heatwave, four-year-old pointer male owned by Tony King and Jason Kemna of Missouri, the new champion after a quality four-find performance. Tony handled Heatwave to the win. Treeline Sandra, Derby age pointer female, claimed the runner-up spot for owner-handler Dan McClellan of Garner, Iowa. Sandra also tallied four finds while speeding between objectives.

Interestingly, these two winners were named in exactly the same order the previous week after the Region 5 Walking Championship in Missouri.

Chairperson Rick Stanford and Keith Lowry kept everything well organized and running smoothly with lots of help from the Mid-South Bird Hunters contingent. There were others with solid performances.

— Doug Meyer

CONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

Greenville, Fla.—The Continental Championships, held at Dixie Plantation in Greenville, Fla., began Monday, January 17, with the Derby Championship. Forty-four dogs were drawn, with one dog withdrawn due to illness.

Judging the Derby Championship are Howard Brooks of Dayton, Tenn., and Dr. Robert McDavid of Tallahassee, Fla.

The Continental All-Age Championship has an entry 76 dogs. Jerry Black and Garland Priddy of the Jackson, Miss., area will be in the judicial saddles for the All-Age Championship.

A half day was lost for the Derby Championship on Monday morning due to rain. The Derby likely will not be concluded until Thursday afternoon, January 20.

GEORGIA QUAIL CHAMPIONSHIP

Waynesboro, Ga.—From the field of 64 entries in the Georgia Quail Championship, Thunder Snowy, pointer female owned by Doug Arthur of Eads, Tenn., and handled by Steve Hurdle, was named the winner. Snowy had a good back and three memorable finds. Runner-up honors went to Shadow Oak Bo, setter male owned by N. G. Houston of Nashville, Ga., and Dr. John Dorminy of Fitzgerald, Ga., and handled by Robin Gates. Bo was credited with three good finds. Point was called 11 minutes after the hour with good results.

Judges were John Lee of Statesboro, Ga., and Fred Rayl of Sylvester, Ga.

— Nell Mobley

TEXAS OPEN SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP

Ardmore, Okla.—The Texas Open Shooting Dog Championship was completed January 14 on the Lake Murray field trial grounds near Ardmore, Okla.

Amazingly, Covey Rise’s Offlee Amazin did it again! “Braxton” was declared the 2011 champion with his kennelmate, Four Rivers Covergirl, being named runner-up. Both were handled by Shawn Kinkelaar.

The champion had three finds and a stop to flush with a forward, flowing race for the entire hour. The white and liver pointer is co-owned by Drs. Thomas and Robin Morgan of Holly Springs, Miss., and Gary Hertz of Bismarck, N. D. This was the coming six-year-old’s eighth championship title, the second in less than a week.

Four Rivers Covergirl, callname Kate, white and orange pointer female, also had three finds and a stop to flush to her credit. She performed with a nice forward race and hunted all the right places. This was her third championship title. She is owned by Jack Harang of Mobile, Ala.

The 29-dog stake was judged by the advertised judges, E. J. Hall of Gunter, Tex., and Larry Garner of Oak Point, Tex.

Following snow a couple of days before the trial started, the weather cooperated, although cold temperatures were the order of the day.

— Peg Herriage

Lake City, Fla.—The Florida Open Championship at Chinquapin Farm near Lake City, Fla., drew 77 dogs. A half day was lost to rain early in the week, but the trial should be concluded by Friday, January 14.

Judges for this renewal are Jim Crouse of Dixon, Ky., and Jim N. White of Bowling Green, Ky. Nineteen different handlers are competing, and birds are plentiful.
—Tom Word

ILLINOIS BRITTANY CHAMPIONSHIPS

Pinckneyville, Ill.—The Illinois Brittany Championships commenced January 8, as advertised. We ran the Amateur All-Age Championship and the Open Derby Classic.

Winner of the Championship title was Trademark’s Iceman, Brittany male owned by Ed and Donna Janulis of Manhattan, Ill., and handled Donna. Runner-up was Ru Jem’s A Touch of Bourbon, Brittany male ownd by Jerry and Ruth McGee of Steward, Ill., and handled by Jerry. There were 20 starters.

In the Derby Classic, the winners were: 1st—Gambler’s Double Down, Brittany male owned by Ed and Donna Janulis and handled by Chad Holman; 2d—Black Creek Blaze, owned and handled by Ron Harling, Jr. of Holley, N. J.; 3d—Miss Abby Meadows, owned by Joe, Kim and Rose Marlatt of Villa Grove, Ill., handled by Kevin Stonehouse. There were ten starters.

We were prepared to start the running of the Open All-Age Championship January 10 at noon; however, at that time the field trial committee made the decision to cancel the running of the Open Championship because of forecasted snow, blowing winds and cold temperatures. The grounds at Pyramid have many ditches, washouts, etc., that can make riding dangerous if you cannot see the ground. We also knew that with cold temperatures forecasted for the next few days that delaying the trial a day or two was not an option. We hope to reschedule the running of the Open Championship at a later date yet to be determined.

Sure enough we received a couple of inches of snow overnight and the wind is gusting 20-25 mph on January 11, which is only making grounds conditions worse.

— Janet Chase

MIDWEST SHOOTING DOG DERBY CLASSIC

Ardmore, Okla.—The Midwest Shooting Dog Derby Classic, successor to the Midwestern States Shooting Dog Futurity, drew 17 young prospects to the Lake Murray grounds, Ardmore, Okla. The winner was Shortgrass Free Spirit, pointer female owned by Gary Reid of Kingfisher, Okla., and handled by C.W. “Chuck” Taylor. Runner-up was Prairie River Ike, pointer male owned by Roger Duncan of Augusta, Kan., and handled by Gordon Hazlewood.

The stake features thirty-minute qualifying heats and one-hour finals, similar to what prevailed for the earlier Futurity.

Judges were George Newcomb of Allison, Tex., and Virgil Moore of Canyon, Tex.

REGION 6 AMATEUR SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP

Conway, Ark.—The Region 6 Amateur Shooting Dog Championship was concluded January 10 at the Camp Robinson Wildlife Management Area, near Conway, Ark. An outstanding field of 50 contenders vied for the championship title.

The winner emerged in Winning Combination, eight-year-old white and orange pointer male owned by Harold Woodward of Vilonia, Ark. “Pete” appeared in the fifth brace of the trial and ran an exciting forward, far-reaching race, handling for Woodward, and put on a bird-finding performance unmatched by any of the other 49 contenders. His four finds were perfection, as were his style and intensity. Runner-up laurels went to Panther Creek Avalanche, pointer male handled and owned by Frank Rutland of Fitzpatrick, Ala. He, too, had an excellent race and four class finds.

Judges were David Lewis of Spiro, Okla., and Floyd Cagle of Alma, Ark. The reporter is Jim Martin of Wooster, Ark.

— Joyce Taylor

Waynesboro, Ga.—The Georgia Championships at Waynesboro, Ga., kicked off the New Year and the second half of the all-age field trial season. The winners of the Georgia Derby Championship were announced at noon on Wednesday, January 5. Judges Tim Moore of Colquitt, Ga., and Harold Ray of Waynesboro, Ga., picked the best of the best from an entry 42 dogs.

Touch’s Hard Times, pointer male, was named champion for handler Ike Todd and owner Keith A.Wright of Covington, Ind. Hard Times had two finds, one a wild covey at 20, and finished strong. Lester’s Knockout, also a pointer male, was named runner-up for owner-handler Gary Lester of Gracey, Ky. Knockout had three stylish finds and a good ground race.

The Georgia Quail Championship, with an entry of 64, commenced after lunch on Wednesday. Judges are John Lee of Statesboro, Ga., and Fred Rayl of Sylvester, Ga.

— Nell Mobley

TOOTSIE HURDLE TRIALS

Blue Mountain Miss.—The 2010 renewal of the Tootsie Hurdle All-Age and Derby was held December 27-30 at the Hell Creek Wildlife Management Area near Blue Mountain, Miss. Judging both stakes were Brian Peterson and Hunter McDuffie, both from Cecil, Ala.

Taking top honors in the Open All-Age was Touch’s White Out, pointer male owned by Keith Wright of Covington, Ind., and handled by Ike Todd. Second was awarded to Thunder House, pointer female owned and handled by Myres D. Gray. Third was Quicksilver Magic Man, pointer male owned by Rick Stallings of Mathews, Ala., and handled by Randy Sanderson.

Winning the Derby was Rock Acre Rambo, pointer male owned by Dr. Fred Corder of Corinth,Miss., and handled by Randy Downs. Second was Cocklebur Treasure Quest, pointer female owned and handled by Bubba Spencer of Medon, Tenn. Placed third was Sky Miles, pointer male owned and handled by Steve Hurdle.

— Elton Bray