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Greypointe in the News
AFTCA National Amateur Walking Shooting Dog Championship, Havensville, KS November 3-5, 2006
Greypointe Espada wins over a field of 40 starters with four find performance
The 2006 National Amateur Walking Shooting Dog Championship was held over the time tested grounds of the Kansas Hunting Dog club north of Havensville, KS the first weekend in November. Weather was excellent for riding and for the dogs with AFTERNOON temperatures in the 50’s and low 60’s and lows at or Above freezing each morning. By and large, sunshine predominated but was accompanied by fairly STIFF Kansas winds at times. at least 10 wild covey contacts brought excitement as the northeast kansas bird population appears to have experienced a good hatch.
this was the fourth National Amateur Walking Championship hosted on these grounds and the fifth in Kansas since the inaugural AFTCA walking championship was held in 1987. Previous renewals at Havensville were 1994, 1996 and 2000. This trial was also held in the southern Kansas hills above Piedmont in 2003 to make kansas the state having hosted this trial more than any other. This Havensville venue is typical midwest farm country with cORN AND BEAN fields, CRP set aside ACRES AND PASTURES INTERSPERSED ACROSS THREE ONE-HOUR COURSES. BIRDS WERE NOT THOUGHT TO BE IN ABUNDANCE PRIOR TO THE START OF THE TRIAL But WILD QUAIL WERE MOVED WITH REGULARITY ON ALL THE COURSEs ALONG WITH PRE-RELEASE LIBERATED BIRDS TO EVEN OUT THE OPPoRTUNITIES. iT WAS A RARE BRACE THAT DIDN’T ENCOUNTER MULTIPLE FINDS AND SCOUTS REPORTED RIDING UP BIRDS IN EVERY DIRECTION. tHESE GROUNDS ARE ALSO HOME TO PHEASANT AND PRAiRIE CHICKEN POPULATIONS Although none were moved this year probably due to routing courses around the heavier Conservation set aside acres and unharvested crops.
The Kansas hunting dog club has a diverse membership that covers the age spectrum. Members range from the old timers who founded the organization and are still highly competitive to a cadre of young bucks in their 20’s and 30’s who are trying to beat the experienced guys at their own game. Despite the competition, everyone helps the other guy and are just as proud of a great performance whether it is their own or someone else’s. With that spirit guiding the Kansas Hunting Dog Club, they invited the AFTCA nationals back to these grounds to experience some kansas hospitality and the beautiful landscape. AFTCA Secretary Linda hunt charmed us with her presence and helped this trial go off without a hitch. trial chairman Jim smith and club president dave merritt had things organized to a “t’ from supplementing the course with released quail to excellent dog wagon and “mule” pick-ups for handlers. It is a well oiled machine and one every KSHDC club member should be proud for their support. several out of state handlers and the judges all commented on how well they were all treated by the hosts. Attendees came from 8 states (MN, IA, NE, KS, MO, OK, TX and Indiana) and Ronnie Kinard drove 16 hours to run a single dog which says a lot about these grounds and the KSHDC.
Enough cannot also be said about the landowners in the greenwood community north of havensville who have allowed field trialers access across their farms and fields, thru their dairy herds and to patiently wait with their farm equipment as we cross community roads. It is hard to imagine anywhere else in the country where permission from 17 different landowners could be received let alone maintained for all these years. Many joined us for lunch in the community center which doubles as the headquarters/clubhouse of the KSHDC. Speaking of lunch - what a treat at Havensville! After a long morning’s ride of several miles, it is like walking into a big farm kitchen for the noon meal. The ladies led my nelda melvin produced something like 3 gallons of chicken noodle soup, 3 gallons of ham and beans, chilli dogs, ham sandwiches and some 18 pies of all varieties to feed the masses for the 3+ days. someone mentioned they missed a certain kind of pie and it showed up the next day! helping nelda with the cooking and serving were husband henry melvin and their grandson stephen, kyle and glenda coe, helen and konrad coe and daughter rachelle.
Judges Dr. pat mcinteer and garvin collins held the respect of all who ran under them as they gave the utmost attention to every brace. they were off their horses to observe difficult flushes from heavy cover and gave every handler as much assistance as they could. You could also see that they were in synch as to what they expected in naming a national champion. Pat had graciously stepped in at literally the last minute when advertised judge don beauchamp’s father in law passed away suddenly two days before the trial. Our appreciation to both of these men for the excellent job they did in looking at these 40 entries.
tHE wINNERS AND oTHERS
Greypointe espada, solid built liver and white pointer male, drew the first brace after lunch on friday with moderate temperatures in the low fifties. a stiff 20-30 mph south wind had been strengthening all day and birds were moving friday morning. we were hoping this would continue. away quickly, espada rimmed the front on the edges, handling back each time for redirection and seen many times at 12 o’clock just where you’d want to have your dog. judge mcinteer later commented that his first 45 minutes were exactly where a dog should be, never scouted, and his three finds were perfect. continually going in to the wind finally tooks its toll and espada did shorten near the end. he never quit going forward though and his fourth and last find came at 52. these birds were again located directly in front – head and tail elevated with no let down whatsover - a repeat of his first three finds. it set an early standard that was never matched although several dogs had it going for awhile.
ninescah davis, statuesque white and black pointer male ran a beautiful forward race, scouted minimally and returning each time to the front on his own. he had three finds, two of which were immaculate with richard steckley flushing for the stylish davis. he also had an excellent finish with strength to spare. davis was predominantly moving north the majority of the brace and established point on his third find looking back into a fencerow. it was a long walk to this stand and davis looked like a million dollars for the over 5 minute walk. unfortunately, when steckley finally arrived, davis had lost a bit of intensity and tail carriage as these birds had no doubt moved far enough for him to lose scent. it was enough to separate him from first – still an oustanding performance and clearly above the other challengers.
Gailen’s lotto handled By jim corpening had excellent bird work and could have been in there but his race just wasn’t out front enough. dr. steckley also had ninescach nicole go on a bird finding exhibition in the last brace on friday with three wild coveys among her finds. her race had been a little erratic early but what a nice dog! barker’s blue jet was a hard luck dog as his race and bird finding were getting folks up in the saddle until steps on a third wild covey cost him dearly. There were other performances that were worthy also but ultimately contained enough flaws to eliminate them in such a competitive stake.
tHE RUNNING
fRIDAY MORNING STARTED WITH CRISP OVERNIGHT TEMPERTURES NEAR 30 AND AN EXPECTED HIGH IN THE LOW 50’S. bREAKWAY CAME PROMPTLY AT 8am INTO A FAIRLY LIGHT SOUTH WIND THAT WOULD QUICKLY STRENGTHEN. cLUB pRESIDENT dAVE MERRITT ANNOUNCED THE FIRST BRACE, THANKING JUDGES gARVIn cOLLINS OF lIBERTY, mo AND dr. pAT mCiNTEER (rEGION 17 tRUSTEE) OF fALLS CITY, ne for presiding. pAT STEPPED IN AT LITERALLY THE LAST MINUTE WHEN ADVERTISED JUDGE dON bEAUCHAMP HAD A DEATH IN THE FAMILY. oUR CONDOLENCES GO OUT TO dON AND HIS LOVELY WIFE linda ON THEIR LOSS. dAVE ALSO ACKNOWLEDGED aftca sECRETARY lINDA hUNT FOR MAKING THE TRIP FROM TENNESSEE again AND THANKED HER FOR HER CONTINUED SUPPORT OF FIELD TRIALS THRU HER EXCELLENT SERVICE.
tIMBER rIDGE wILDFIRE (l. sAMUELSON) WITH pINEHILL’S aBbIGAIL RERUN (g. mCwHERTER). bOTH POINTER FEMALES WERE AWAY SHARPLY AND TAKING TURNS PUSHING TO THE FRONT. wILDFIRE TRIED FIRST ALONG A FENCEROW BUT CORRECTED ON HER OWN PROCEEDING DOWN THIS EDGE TO BE FOUND BACKING abbi SECONDS LATER AT 10. mCwHIRTER EASILY LIFTED THESE BIRDS FROM THE COVER AND ALL WAS IN ORDER. wE WENT ACROSS A FAIR AMOUNT OF GROUND with BOTH DOGS ATTRACTIVE IN THEIR PURSUITS BUT GONE AND SCOUTED AT TIMES. sCOUT SPIED abbi AT 45 AFTER A LONG CAST DOWN FENCEROW BETWEEN TWO RECENTLY PICKED CORNFIELDS. a LONG WALK ENSUED TO THIS FIND ONLY TO HAVE IT END WITH NOTHING CREDITED AFTER abbi MOVED ON. AT 51, abbi SCORED A FIND AND WAS CAUTIONED AFTER FLUSH. aT 55, TOO MANY STEPS AFTER SHOT ENDED HER BID. wILDFIRE REQUIRED THE TRACKING UNIT AFTER 50 HAVING BEEN GONE AFTER THE HALF.
tRAILS eND dOLLY (r. dARDENNE) WITH tIMbER rIDGE rOCKY (j. sMITH). rOCKY, THE BYE DOG WAS MOVED UP WHEN bAYOU dIAMOND BUSTER (w.miLES) WAS NOT ON THE GROUNDS. oKLAHOMANS bOB cAFFEY AND jERRY mYERS WERE RIDING IN SUPPORT OF dOLLY. a SIZABLE GALLERY WAS FOLLOWING THIS BRACE TO WATCH jIM sMITH’s PRECOCIOUS DERBY MAKE HIS BID. dOLLY WAS BUSY AND WIDE EARLY AND THEN BEFORE THE HALF CAME IN FAVORING A FRONT LEG. tHE TEAM CONSULTED AND ELECTED TO PICK HER UP. rOCKY’S RACE WAS A LITTLE SHORT EARLY BUT HE GOT UNTRACKED AS THE BRACE WENT ON. hE SCORED A NICE FIND AT 6 IN FENCEROW WITH ALL STYLISHLY IN ORDER. hIS SECOND FIND CAME AT 18 WITH BIRDS ROUSTED FROM BRUSHPILE. hIS SWINGS BECAME WIDER AFTER THIS POINT AND HE WAS A HANDFUL TO KEEP ON COURSE THRU THIS MIDDLE PORTION. hE SCORED AGAIN AT 42 WITH A LITTLE LETDOWN AT THE FLUSH. aT 52, HE WAS LOOKING INTO A DITCH AND SMITH SENT THESE BIRDS FLYING WITH rOCKY WHIRLING AT FLUSH. a FINAL FIND AT 58 WAS CLEAN AND HIS FINISH WAS FORWARD - a nice job by a young dog.
fEMALE NAMED jIM (sAMUELSON) WITH pINEHILL’S rOCKY hUNTER (mCwHIRTER). jIMMY WAS FORWARD AT DISTANCE EARLY CONTINUING TO WIDEN OUT UNTIL WE LOST TRACK OF HER AFTER SEVERAL SCOUTINGS. sHE WAS COUNTED OUT AT 45. hUNTER RAN A NICE HANDLING RACE TO BE FOUND POINTED AT 50 ALONG A WOODED DRAW NEXT TO PICKED CORN. mCWHIRTER DIDN’T INITIALLY FIND THE BIRDS DURING FLUSH AND ASKED HUNTER TO RELOCATE. tHIS ENDED IN A WILD COVEY IN THE AIR AFTER HUNTER APPROACHED THEM WITHOUT aid of THE WIND ENDING HIS DAY.
gREYPOINTE eSPADA (d.mEYER) WITH bROUILLET’S cREEK eARL(d.dAVIS). tHE FIRST BRACE AFTER LUNCH GREETED US WITH SUNNY SKIES, SUSTAINED WINDS GUSTING AROUND 30 MPH AND NEAR THE DAY’S HIGH OF 50 DEGREES. eSPADA HAD HIS RUNNING SHOES ON EARLY WORKING THE EDGES AS he WENT FORWARD. eARL WAS BIRD HUNTING, CHECKING EVERY BIT OF HEAVY COVER TO THE FRONT. aT 7, eSPADA JUMPED A WHITETAIL DEAD CENTER AFTER A BIG CAST WITH HANDLER CALLING SHARPLY YO TRY AND AVOID THE SEEMINGLY UNAVOIDABLE. lUCKILY eSPADA RESPONDED AFTER A FEW SECONDS AND VEERED BACK TO THE FRONT WITHOUT LOOKING BACK. eARL MADE A STAND AT 10 IN A SUMAC COVERED HEDGEROW WITH NOTHING PRODUCED AFTER RELOCATION. eSPADA MADE A DEEP SWING HUGGING the CREEK BOTTOM ALL THE WAY AROUND TO CONTINUOSLY HANG TO THE FRONT. hE WAS CAUGHT HERE AND WATERED AND THEN CONTINUED TO HUNT DEEPLY AT SPEED BUT ALWAYS POPPING UP AT THE FRONT. AT 31, HE POINTED INTO A BRIAR THICKET WITH all in order at flush and shot. This was repeated at 34 as Judge mcinteer helped spot the birds prioir to flush and Espada stylish throughout. espada scored again at 40 with the breeze directly in his face from quail hiding in a fencerow. These birds flew directly over the motionless dog as handler shot. Espada now gamely hunted into the wind across open pasture to be found standing at 52 facing a brushpile on an embankment. All again in order as espada remained a statue throughout. The finish was forward but not nearly the same race that had excited for the first 45 minutes. Earl who never regained the front scored a covey at 27, a stop to flush at 32, a stop on a running bird at 35, a rabbit at 38 and three more finds at 40, 52 and 54. His race had been moderate though attractive throughout.
Easy Attitude Buddy (G. Mandernach) with Que Has Attitude (D. Merritt). The diminutive pointer female que with the bigger male Buddy was a contrast in running style for sure. The strong south wind kept them lateral early but directed them to birds in creek bottom. Buddy stood first on a wild covey that exited all around him prior to handler’s approach with manners above reproach. mOMENTS LATER, Que wasn’t so FORTUNATE having stabbed one of the SINGLEs FURTHER UP FROM bUDDY’S STAND AND TAKING STEPS TO END HER DAY. bUDDY HAD THE COURSE WITH A PROBABLE STOP TO FLUSH AT 31 IN AN OPENING along A CEDAR GLADE. aT 39, HE SCORED AT WOODS EDGE AND AGAIN AT 59 ON A DRAW EXTENDING INTO PICKED BEANFIELD. hIS RACE HAD BEEN FORWARD ALTHOUGH IMMATURE AT TIMES BEFITTING HIS YOUNG AGE.
ninnescah Nicole (R. Steckly) with Rapper’s Cold Cash (a.Worth). Nicole, an attractive pointer female was credited with a back off breakaway when both dogs were found standing facing each other at the top of a draw. Worth flushed for his setter but it turned out unproductive. At 3 and along the deep ditch below this draw, Nicole was standing and Rapper failed to acknowledge this stand. All was in order at the shot with Rapper on the leash. At 10, nicole stood intently in corn field for some time facing a road ditch only to correct as we aproached. At 14, she swapped ends on a wild covey along wooded draw with all in order as 15 birds burst towards safety. At 20, the gallery rode thru a covey and then Nicole was scouted beyond this area for a few minutes. She turned up at the front on her own and then stood another wild covey at 31. The birds were clearly moving at the end of the day. At 50, Marshall JIM fry redirected the course into another field as more course was needed and wild birds were seen in the air at 59 - Nicole standing for her handler’s shot. She finished ahead AT MODERATE RANGE. tHose riding were ALL COMMENTING ON THE NUMBER OF BIRDS MOVED AS WE RODE BACK TO CLUBHOUSE.
Saturday morning greeted us with sunny skies, 40 degree temperatures and a light southerly breeze. We would eventually reach the low sixties with light wind throughout. Scenting conditions proved tough as several dogs had trouble locating and handling birds as the day went on. This was also the opening day of pheasant season in Kansas and local hunters reported the same difficulty with their dogs finding birds.
Blue Valley Hank (m. Jordan) with mesaba Iron (d. dack). Hank was away quickly and spied on the woods edge directy to the front at 3. As we approached, Hank was looking a little unsure although his style was still adequate. Handler Mike jordan decided to relocate Hank and this ended up in flushed quail with hank stopping too late. Iron had the course to himself and scored a fencerow find at 7 with all in order. At 14, he styled up facing a ditch with handler easily flying these birds. He continued at a nice hunting pace to score one more time at 51 along a deep ditch. His race had been moderate throughout.
Royalty’s Babe (c. Buche) with Delaware River Cork (R. Short). Both broke away nicely with cork the wider early. Babe was trying a cedar brush pile at 4 when birds came up. She moved up a little and stood where buche raised a straggler. She stayed on the ground and was later picked up at 10 after too many steps at flush. Cork had his running shoes on, was consistently forward and bending to the course albeit at distance and his handler’s call. This continued for the entire hour with the gallery anticipating the call of point which never came despite the ambitious swings.
Ninnescah Davis (Steckley) with Barker’s Blue Horizon (b. barker). at 3, davis was spied pointing ahead along fencerow with exagerated style – a real picture. He was rock solid at flush and shot. Horizon scored at 22 and lowered slightly at the handler’s approach and flush. At 34, barker released Horizon after watering and she proceeded 20 yards to stab a pair of quail resting in the fenceline. Style was ok here. at 37, davis was again standing with arresting style along cornfield edge. This find had come after several nice casts to many objectives along the course. all was without fault at wing and shot. Horizon came into this area a few minutes later and pointed birds from this find further down the fencerow. All was in order here. at 45, davis made a westerly cast to the end of a fenceline, turned north and ¼ mile to the front stood majestically. It was a long walk in full view of gallery, judges and handler throughout. As we approached, davis had lost some intensity but remained imobile and had possibly lost scent after the delay. Handler approached and flushed putting these birds in the air although davis had lowered considerably from his lofty pose. His finish was forward at excellent range – a nice performance. Horizon’s race had been forward throughout.
Trail’s end terminator (j. myers) with timber ridge quickshot (j. smith). temperatures had reached the low sixties under sunny skies and still light winds from the south. Quickshot, former runner up in this trial at Conway, AR stood ahead at 3 facing the woodsline. Terminator had been down this line also and returned from the front to make contact with handler. He was turned away from Quickshot but then dug into the woods and turned back to cast directly in front of the stationary pointer. Miraculously birds did not flush and smith put a small group in the air wth Quickshot lowering some from the challenge. at 10, terminator was standing some distance from a brushpile on a creek embankment. all was in order as birds sprung from hiding. terminator scored another stylish find at 19 in a wooded bottom with quikshot honoring. at 35, both handlers sensed they weren’t moving anything and elected to pick up.
dardenne’s big shadow (r. dardenne) with max’s vunna (j. Streutz). shadow was wide early and stood at 6 where quail had been spied exiting but not seen officially. Dardenne elected to try for more but this proved unproductive. shadow had his running shoes on and ultimately the tracker was summoned at 32. vunna was happy on the ground and established point along pasture ditch but moved on before handler arrived with nothing credited. He failed to score on birds after a smooth handling unscouted race.
berg’s head turner (s. Berg) with Rapper’s rappin rambo (a. worth). both setters were flying to the edges early each taking turns leading the way. at 20, road gallery called point for rambo who was standing far to the left front along a low bush. Two released quail were sent airborne with all in order. at 33, head turner stood facing a brush pile and rambo came in to back. This turned out unproductive when relocation also failed. at 42, rambo scored a second find and was cautioned when he moved slightly at flush. at 50 birds were in the air and head turner’s day was through. Rambo was still motoring only to move on a find at 55 to end his day.
Sunday morning started with sunny skies, 35 degrees and a light southerly breeze for the 8am sharp breakaway. The high was expected to reach the mid sixties.
First Tee (j.Henning) with Honky Tonk Outlaw (m. Sword). All eyes were on Outlaw who had won on these grounds barely two weeks before along with a past region 17 championship here in havensville. Away quickly, first tee, a rapid moving irish setter was gOne early with SCOUT OUT LOOKING. oUTLAW STOOD A NICE COVEY OF BIRDS AT FOUR ON WOODSLINE WITH BIRDS EXITING IN VOLLEYS IN FRONT OF THE IMmOBILE POINTER. AT 15 BOTH DOGS WERE TO THE FRONT AND THEN FIRST TEE WAS GONE AGAIN AS oUTLAW STYLED UP AT 19 IN A CORNFIELD FAR FROM THE ADJACENT CREEK BANK. mAURY SWORD FLUSHED EXTENSIVELY AND RELOCATION WAS ALSO FOR NAUGHT RESULTING IN AN UNPRODUCTIVE. AT 29, OUTLAW SCORED FURTHER UP THIS CREEK BANK WITH THE BIRD FLUSHING AS HANDLER APPROACHED. MANNERS were PERFECT. AT 36, OUTLAW SCORED AGAIN ON CORNFIELD FENCEROW AND THEN AFTER A NICE EDGE RIMMING CAST, STOOD AT 41 ALONG WOODED DITCH. tHIS TURNED INTO A SECOND BLANK STAND AS EXTENDED FLUSHING AND RELOCATION WENT UNREWARDED. sWORD CONTINUED ON AND A SHOT CAME FROM THE FRONT AT 50. IT WAS REPORTED fIRST TEE HAD POINTED ALONG A FENCEROW. tHIS ENDED HIS BID AS during RELOCATION, birds FLUSHED. oUTLAW CAME IN TO THIS SAME AREA MOMENTS LATER AND ALSO ESTABLISHED POINT. sWORD ELECTED TO FLUSH AND A THIRD UNPRODUCTIVE RESULTED. Eighteen were riding this brace and an additional 15 followed in a road gallery of at least 8 vehicles.
delaware river slick (c. gatzmeyer) with pinehill’s katie jayne (mcwherter). released into bluestem pasture, katie was trying to establish point on a brushpile. When she finally stood, slick failed to back and was leashed. mcwherter elected not to flush here and took katie on. at 18, she established point looking into a deep ditch but her tail never was completely still. handler and judge collins both waded into the ditch and katie stood steady at flush and shot. at 30, handler elected to pick-up as katie wasn’t suiting him.
Trail’s End badboy (Myers) with berg brothers jack (Berg). Both setters were away quickly, jack the wider and badboy the more thorough in his search. at 10, a large whitetail buck exited cedar thicket and both dogs were standing where he had bedded. They were collared and sent on. jack was making some nice casts and swinging to his handler’s wishes to style up at 19 facing lone cedar on east-west fencerow. Badboy was also in the area and didn’t honor with myers pulling the leash. jack’s manners were excellent. jack was making tracks across a lot of ground and pointed prettily at 38. Nothing could be flushed and relocation wasn’t productive either. at 43 and further up this same fence, another unproductive was suffered although jack looked pretty positive. at 52, jack scored along solstice’ ditch and went on to finish well out front.
tommy rocket (p. roederer) with dizzy daisy mae (mcWhirter). daisy mae took a big forward cast early and then was seen returning from the side of course taking some time for her to return to the front. tommy was running a smooth, even race and darting in and out of likely cover eventually being rewarded at 38 with a good, clean find. daisy tried herself at 21 but this ended unproductively, the tracking unit was requested shortly after the half.
gailen’s lotto (j. Corpening) with singular rocket (roederer). tEMPERATURES WERE THE WARMEST OF THE TRIAL DURING THIS BRACE. Owner gailen Cooper was mounted to watch his multiple champion lotto. work commitments had kept Gailen from keeping lotto in top form so he had turned over handling the past couple months to jim Corpening. lotto established point at 5 facing a brush pile and some confusion arose as to where singular was located. She was backing but moved at the shot ending her bid. lotto had the course to himself and began an excursion of the avilable cover aLTHOUGH NOT ALWAYS AT THE DESIRED 10 TO 2 OUT FRONT. sEVERAL TIMES HE CAME BACK FROM THE SIDE AND MORE THAN ONCE FROM BEHIND AFTER THESE DEEP FORAYS. hE SCORED AGAIN AT 21 WITH A QUAIL EXITING FROM A TREE ABOVE THE DOG AND HIS MANNERS PERFECT. AT 24, HE ESTABLISHED POINT LOOKING INTO CEDAR LINED DITCH moving UP A FW FEET AS WE APPROACHED. cORPENING GOT THESE BIRDS AIRBORNE FROM THE DITCH EMBANKMENT AND LOTTO WAS STEADY THROUGHOUT. lOTTO CONTINUED TO TAKE BIG SWINGS THROUGHOUT THE HOUR BUT SCORED NO MORE BIRD WORK.
BARKER’S BLUE JET (BARKER) with ninescah blue (steckley). Clouds were starting to fill in and a cooling breeze began as we turned loose. as the brace progressed, it was clear that birds wer moving out to feed from the deeper cover and would be available. blue was spied pointing at some distance and a long walk ensued. He was looking a little unsure after we arrived and steckley could raise no birds. Meanwhile, jet was ahead and scored a find on a perpendicular fencerow at 6 with all in order. blue headed down this same fencerow moments later and whriled to a stop as birds flushed. it was recorded as an honest stop to flush. after the shot and handler collared the dog, more birds exited from the trees beside and in front. at 17, jet scurried ahead to stand facing the mid-point of Solstice’ ditch. Blue came in and backed on his own. in contrast to the previous find, Jet’s tail was nearly level. Barker put these birds up easily with both dogs standing mannerly. after crossing the road, jet ducked behing the cemetary and robert dardenne called point with the setter high on both ends. This wild covey blew out in a hurry and jet didn’t move a hair. at 24, blue scored a find along a wooded draw and jet came in to back. both were again well mannered. further along this same draw, jet verfified that birds were moving by nailing another wild covey. birds exploded around him but he held his ground. blue backed this stand also. at 33, on cornfield edge, jet was standing once more and blue was again backing. unfortunately, jet took too many steps as this covey took flight ending what had been a solid bid for the championship. when we reached the next road crossing, Dr. steckley decided to call it a day also.
Monday morning greeted us with a heavy fog and we were not able to get started until nearly 11am. Overnight temperatures remained in the 50’s and didn’t really rise at all during the two braces which remained. Despite reseeding of the course, abundance of wild birds, and cool moist conditions, scenting conditions apparently were terrible.
Spring Branch Sue (R. Kinard) with Rex’s Rocky Girl (Bill Seiter). Ronnie Kinard had traveled up from south texas and turned sue loose on this final morning. She scored first at 3 on woodsline with the bird finally getting airborne after extensive flushing. Girl had backed this stand. at 37, girl established point in picked corn with the birds visible in front. Temptation got the best of her and she was leashed. at 42, sue scored along wooded ditch looking like she was on tip toes as Kinard flushed. at 46, her final find came along treeline with all in order. Her race had been forward and she had a good finish.
Shield’s Big Attitude (S. Shields) with Smokin Stan (E.J. Hall). E.J. was also up from Texas to release his multiple champion Stan into what appeared to be ideal conditions to get something done. Attitude got behind a time or two early as she was thoroughly checking out available cover. the brace went on with neither dog looking like they couild find anything until Attitude etsablished point at 42 facing a brushpile. A single bird was spotted on a limb up in the brushpile and all was in order at flush and shot. E.J. threw in the towel at 50 having found no birds. Attitude had a good finish and we trailered horses back to the clubhouse for the decision.
Dog trainer finds winning formula
By Lisa Scheller
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
Two young quail had been placed just minutes earlier in the midst of a hayfield.
Yet Ace, a prize-winning English pointer fresh out of the barn, picked up their scent.
Like a bandit on the run, Ace's paws pounded the earth. He surged through the field, muscles rippling.
Clearly, Ace -- a first-place winner at this fall's National Walking Shooting Dog Championship competition -- was a top-notch bird dog.
And, as everyone knows, a good bird dog must have a good trainer -- one who knows how to handle him. Ace veered a little too far to the east.
Doug Meyer, his owner and trainer who lives just outside of Tonganoxie, whistled. Immediately, though a distance of several hundred yards from his trainer, the white and brown hunting dog obeyed. He made a sweeping turn to the west, paws still pounding on the ground. Within seconds Ace, whose real name is Greypointe Espada, bounded to a stop. He pointed, statuesque, motionless, his tail outstretched behind him.
And there Ace remained until Meyer approached. Here's what happens next. The handler, in this case Meyer, walks in front of the dog and flushes the bird. Then he shoots a blank pistol to symbolize having shot the bird.
"The dog is suppose to remain steady to wind and shot," Meyer said. "He doesn't move at all. He watches the bird fly away and the handler shoot his gun."
When a dog reaches the stage where he can track the bird, point and remain motionless while the handler flushes the bird and shoots the blank pistol, the dog is said to be "broke."
Getting to this stage takes some work. But it's the kind of work that Meyer, who lives just outside Tonganoxie, appears to enjoy doing as much as his dog enjoys the hunt.
And, clearly, from their recent win, the 55-year-old Meyer and his 5-year-old dog are good at it.
At the November National Walking Shooting Dog Championship, held in Havensville, Kan., 40 dogs from eight states competed. In one hour, Meyer walked, or ran behind Ace as the dog ran the course. The farm-to-farm jaunt took them up and down fence rows. Judges trailed the two on horseback as Meyer logged about four miles on foot in one hour. And Ace, who wove back and forth, traveled about twice that distance.
As owner and trainer accompanying the dog, it was Meyer's job to whistle to turn the dog or to shout directions if Ace was close enough to hear him.
The judges were impressed.
"One of the judges said his first 45 minutes were perfect," Meyer said. "The birds were located directly in front of where he pointed, about 10 to 15 feet away."
Ace spotted quail four times during the hour.
During the last 15 minutes of competition Ace was running into a 30 mph wind and didn't range as much. He was a little tired.
But Meyer wasn't.
"I was pretty fired up, actually," Meyer said with a grin.
Although it would be two or three days until he would know the official results, Meyer knew his dog had performed well. Ace also has won other competitions, in walking trials as well as trials in which Meyer followed on horseback.
"It's taken a long time to get him to this level of competition," said Meyer, a pharmacist who retired from the Veterans Administration four years ago. Meyer now works as a federal account manager for Novartis Pharmaceuticals.
In their spare time, Meyer and his wife, Grace, work with Ace and their other dogs. He's game for traveling with them, and earlier this year he took nine bird dogs to North Dakota and Montana to hunt sharptail grouse, sage hens, Hungarian partridges and other birds.
Along with the dogs on their farm, the Meyers keep two field trial horses, a Tennessee walker and a Missouri foxtrotter, which they ride to follow the dogs in riding competitions.
Ace is just one of the dogs Meyer has raised from a pup. He also raised Ace's mother and grandmother.
The Meyers, who moved to Tonganoxie in 2001, appreciate the fact that their rural location provides a place to train dogs. It's well worth the work, Meyer said.
"I really enjoy being outdoors watching a good dog work, developing a dog and just having a really good dog," said Meyer, who has a room of his home devoted to trophies and plaques.
Even so, this love of dogs has a drawback.
On Dec. 8, one of Meyer's favorite champion hunting dogs, Greypointe Cannonero, also known as "Bull," died of kidney failure. Meyer had raised Bull from the time he was born in the garage.
While Ace, his current champion, is a good dog, it was Bull who stole his heart. Bull was a people pleaser.
"Bull was a dog that just literally never wanted to do anything wrong," Meyer said.
He misses the dog.
"I don't know if a person can get totally attached to every one of their dogs," Meyer said. "But some of them you get attached to just like family and Bull was certainly that way."
2007 NBHA Futurity
National Bird Hunters Association Futurity
Shadow’s High Country takes First with 10 Finds for Alabaman Bruce Norris
By Douglas P. Meyer
The 21st NBHA Futurity program which this year included the initial running of a shooting dog classic and the 20th anniversary of the Jerry D. Kilgore Puppy Classic was conducted under unseasonably warm conditions at the Percy Priest WMA southeast of Nashville, TN. Pleasant riding conditions prevailed and the warmth didn’t deter most dog’s performance as birds were found throughout. Shadow’s High Country, lanky white and black pointer male went on a bird finding spree in the Futurity to claim first place for owner/handler Bruce Norris of Arab, AL. Country hunted the woods’ edges and fencerows intelligently, always positioning himself downwind of cover to score a total of 10 finds in the one hour call-back series. His race was reaching early with initial finds at the far edges of the course but shortened somewhat as the quantity of his finds had Country (and everyone else) thinking there were birds around every corner. His finish was solidly to the front still seining for quail. Bruce Norris was duly proud of his dog which also scored four broke finds in the initial 30 minute series. Brud Powell who was in attendance is the breeder of this litter which shows heavy influence of blood lines that have proven prepotent in other prominent shooting dog winners. (PLEASE PLACE A THREE GENERATION PEDIGREE OF SHADOW’S HIGH COUNTRY HERE – Thanks!)
The NBHA Futurity began this 21st renewal under aforementioned warm temperatures that remained in place throughout the running. During the Futurity’s first series, highs reached the mid-eighties with plenty of humidity in the air taking a toll on some competitors. The four braces in the one-hour finals were completed before the hottest part of the day with some cloud cover and a good breeze helping cool the dogs. Entries in the Futurity program were lower again this year as the combination of high fuel costs, reduced overall entries in NBHA stakes and fewer litter enrollments all were considered as possible culprits in the small turnout. The folks who did come brought competitive animals and had a good time which has always been the hallmark of the NBHA Futurity since its founding. Evening tailgate parties, good lunches and an opportunity to see old friends from across the walking field trial community all mark this event on the walking trial calendar. The Percy Priest grounds, just southeast of Nashville, TN were in good shape as early burning had taken place with new growth in evidence in the fields and woods. Wild birds were moved more than once and scenting conditions remained good overall despite the warmth and green vegetation.
Chairman Bobby Taylor, spouse Mildred, Tennessean Keith Pierce and NBHA Futurity Chairman emeritus Jerry Kilgore kept everything running smoothly from the announcements and advertising programs to bird planting, marshalling and dog wagon duties. NBHA President John Everett was on hand for the running and announced the winners of each stake. Visitors included former active Futurity participants Ken and Gaye Jordon who lived adjacent to the Percy Priest area for years prior to moving to west Tennessee. It was great seeing both of them and we hope to watch some of their dogs in the near future. Gary Williams of Lavergne also stopped by as did Carolyn ….. and Dick …..who was riding several days. Lots of stories about the good old days and the dogs of yesterday were told and enjoyed by all. Long time Futurity participant Mr. Charles Aston, 85 years young was again in attendance and watching his Eboga Gogo Ann run by Ken Tolbert. Mr. Charles was an early Futurity participant, loyal worker, a past winner and has been a constant support to the Futurity for years. Many who couldn’t attend were missed including Les Hobbs whose health didn’t allow him to make the journey this year. Hopefully, all will be together next year with winning dogs in tow!
Sponsors for the Futurity included Purina with monetary support and dog food to all entries and to the winners. Mike Witt, Purina representative was on hand throughout lending his support. SportDog provided e-collars to winners, Diamond A Embroidery with Judge’s gifts, Tracker radio location systems and Christie’s saddles with gift certificates and First Place Awards with beautiful trophies including the permanent statue that rotates possession to the winning owner.
The NBHA Futurity program added a shooting dog classic eligible to dogs that had been nominated and/or run in any past NBHA Futurity. Although it was a small field, the 10 dogs run brought back memories as Joe Norris handled Little Tom to first eight years after he won the 1999 Futurity. Tom has been a big winner for both Oscar Whitt and Joe with three championships and dozen of wins to his credit besides the NBHA Futurity win. Little Tom was the type of dog the NBHA Futurity founders wished to identify when the standard was written nearly 25 years ago – a dog that could go on to win important shooting dog events and championships.
Judges for the Futurity, Shooting Dog Classic and the Jerry D. Kilgore Puppy Classic were Doug Meyer from Tonganoxie, KS, long time Futurity reporter and Tom Pastula of Neeses, SC, frequent judge, long time breeder of bird dogs and former associate trainer with the late Bill Conlin, All-Age Setter pro from New England. Both judges gave each dog and handler their attention as well as assistance whenever possible.
Futurity First Series
The 30 minute initial series was run through dormant fields, hayed pastures and strips of winter wheat interspersed between wood lots and managed cover strips of lespedeza and brush. It is good place to show whether a dog wants to handle as well as hunt the available cover. Birds were released in pairs to provide ample opportunity for contacts and most derbies pointed birds. Breeders represented in the field included Ron Kimberly, Ottist Holderfield, Bobby and Mildred Taylor, Willie Satterfield, James Campbell, Larry Bowden, Jerry Raynor and Brud Powell. Conditions were sunny with a light breeze throughout the first series.
Shadow’s High Country (B. Norris) had four broke finds including one where birds were flushed back over his stylish point. He had a good finish after a moderate race to make the finals. Eboga Daisy (K. Tolbert) ran a strong race backing twice before scoring on her single find. She was tabbed for the call-back. Blue Devil Jill (L. Wade) had two good finds with a forward race to earn a chance in the finals. High Class Pattie (B. Powell) failed to contact birds after a moderate race. Big Leroy Brown (B. Norris) had a nice find early; was under a bird later after his race shortened. Eboga Repo (Tolbert) ran a powerful race although not always in cover. He did not contact birds but made the call-back. Alabama Jack Knife (O. Whitt) was lost at 5. Bad Buck (B. Norris) had two finds and a decent finish in the heat to make the hour. Taylor’s Chill Factor (B. Taylor) had a single find to the front and backed his bracemate to earn the final series. Sir Snowman (B. Norris) got behind early but showed strength and a single piece of bird work to gain the hour. Remlap’s Badeye Jack (B. Garner) backed his bracemate but two unproductives detracted. Eboga Gogo Ann (Tolbert) ran well with two finds and an unproductive to be called back. Leight Ann (B. Norris) was not suiting handler who picked up before the half. Pollyanna (O. Whitt) was lost before the half. Oscar Whitt said he likes them to run and the two he turned loose certainly did that. The eight call-back dogs were announced and redrawn at the tail gate party and the second series begun after a full days rest.
One Hour Final Series
The one-hour final series traverses across beautiful edge running country for the first 20-25 minutes. A dog wanting to show can really get them sitting up in the saddle here but one that doesn’t keep in contact with the handler can be a headache. After the first fields, tighter country requires negotiating sharp turns and then back into edge country for the finish. It’s a great place to show a handling shooting dog.
Shadow’s High Country with Eboga Daisy. An early 7:30AM breakaway had the temperatures a little cooler and a light breeze blowing. Country took a direct right turn off breakaway and when he didn’t return, scout was dispatched to find him pointed. This was a nice piece of bird work showing excellent manners in a keyed up situation. At 10, Country pointed along cover strip and a long walk ensued. Daisy came in to back on her own. Country appeared to move as we neared and the birds exited with the dog stopping on his own. He was shot over and taken on. At 15, Country styled up along an edge bordering the boundary fence and Daisy again backed this stand. All was in order as Norris easily put the birds in the air. Released from here, Country made a big cast to be spied far to the front at 19. Manners were again perfect for flush and shot. Finds at 23, 37, 42 and 45 were all handled with birds well located and everything acceptable as birds were moved. Daisy was unaccounted for after 20 and Tolbert requested the tracker at this point. Her card showed only the two backs of her bracemate in the time we saw her. Two more finds at 50 and 57 demonstrated that Country was still hunting and his finish was strong to the front.
Taylor’s Chill Factor with Bad Buck. Chill scored first at 9 along a fencerow with a few steps taken at flush and Taylor cautioning. Buck scored at 26 with Chill backing this stand. Buck pointed again at 36 with Chill honoringing. This stand required relocation and all was in order at wing and shot. Buck styled up along woodesdge at 40 with Chill again backing. Buck was scouted at 48 and found pointed with all again above reproach. A divided find at 56 along heavy cover finished the bird work with both dogs moving smartly to the front. This earned Buck the nod for second place and Chill a spot at fourth.
Eboga Repo with Sir Snowman. The sun had been warming the ground and it was nearing 70 degrees for the breakaway. Both dogs were away in a hurry with point called for Snowman at 8 facing cover strip. All was in order. At 15, Norris elected to pick up Snowman as he appeared to not be feeling well. Repo had the course to himself and was taking in great amounts of country. Scout found him at 18 in heavy cover with the birds rousted from their lair and Repo perfect throughout. He scored again at 39 on woodsedge. Along a fencerow, a wild covey erupted with Repo in the area but nothing could be determined. He was found again buried in thick cover at 56 with all in order at flush and shot. His finish was moderate – the heat taking its toll but enough on the good side to earn third place.
Blue Devil Jill with Eboga Gogo Ann. The heat was on as both charged hard to the front, down the edges and around the corner each showing attractively in the right places. Bird scent seemed to have disappeared as we reached the half, then 45 without any indication of bird scent. At 54, Ann tried in a place where birds had been pointed earlier but Tolbert could not find the quail. At 58, Jill tried but birds were ultimately in the air validating what appeared to be near impossible scenting conditions. Ann had a good finish.
Jerry D. Kilgore Puppy Classic
The Jerry Kilgore Puppy Classic has in years past been one of the largest Puppy stakes held in any level of trialing. Forty, fifty and sixty dogs have typically been drawn and many NBHA handlers got their start running a competitive puppy in this event and others. With litter nominations down, entries were lower than we had hoped but the field of 17 was still competitive.
Taking first place with a beautiful handling race on the edges throughout was Purdy’s Buddy Boy for owner and handler Keith Pierce. Bill Moore was the breeder of record out of the Tricky Dick line of setters that have been prominent shoot to retrieve competitors. Buddy Boy made excellent casts to areas where birds should be and had a nice finish to leave no doubt he won.
Second was Copper Top, white and orange setter male for Bobby and Mildred Taylor. Top ran a spirited race responding to his handler and had a big finish. Bobby and Mildred bred the litter utilizing their winner Shak’s Final Touch as the sire.
Third went to Edwin Cooley’s pointer female Thrillme Chillme who hunted with purpose during her thirty minutes. Some initial casts that put her behind kept her from rising higher in the placements. She looks to be a real prospect out of Calico’s Thrillogy.
Fourth went to another Taylor entry, CFIKARE braving the hotter part of the day and acquitting himself well. It was well over eighty degrees when he ran and he stayed active the whole trip.
Others in the field included Field Dream, Lancelot Larry, Lancelot Tag, Lancelot Lance and Lancelot Snow for Steve Lamphier, Texas Gold Duster for Danny Dodd, Thousand Dollar Rewind for Marty Moore, Shadow’s Dancing Attitude and Bishop’s Dancing Nell for Bruce Norris, Remlap’s Doc Feel Good for Bill Garner, Fly High and Kozican for Bobby and Mildred Taylor and Joes’s Snake Eye for owners Larry Wade and Ed Cooley.
NBHA Futurity Shooting Dog Classic
The first running of the NBHA Futurity Shooting Dog Classic starts a new chapter in the Futurity program by essentially creating an invitational trial for those dogs previously nominated in the NBHA Futurity. By showcasing past winners and others who might not have been quite on their game for the single shot at the Futurity prize, it brought an opportunity to see the finished form of past nominees. I personally enjoyed seeing the competitors together again as shooting dogs. While temperatures were warm, these shooting dogs handled the hour fairly well which was further testament to the selective breeding of their nominated litters. With Little Tom annexing first place for Joe Norris, it was déjà vu from Futurities past.
2007 NBHA National Championship
National Bird Hunters Association National Open Championship
Alabaman Ken Tolbert handles Eboga Cracker Jack to title for Ron Kimberly
By Douglas P. Meyer
Eboga Cracker Jack, 3 year old white and orange pointer male gave an inspiring seven find performance in the 2 hour finals to win the 2007 NBHA National Championship going away. Jack was really sharp in the finals, cruising the edges and wooded draws at perfect shooting dog range for handler Ken Tolbert; birds located directly in front of his stands where he never moved a hair until released to retrieve a single bird. His finish was strong at the two hour mark and his was just what a National Championship performance should be. All who rode knew they had witnessed the winner as Jack was still digging after the two hours in the third and final brace of the call-back. Ken Tolbert shared that this was the best young dog he had ever had his hands on and described Jack’s preparation workouts to develop both his obvious bird dog talents as well as his stamina.
This was the long time NBHA professional Tolbert’s first win of the National for steadfast owner Ron Kimberly and the “Eboga” nameplate which is a shortened version of Ken’s home area of Eastaboga, AL. Emotion ran deep at the announcement as Ken’s 94 year old father-in-law had passed during the running of the final series and his wife and daughter left the day previously to be at his side. Our condolences go out to the close-knit Tolbert family on their loss. To say Ken has “paid his dues” is a huge understatement as this year he undertook a personal treadmill training effort in the off season to get himself back in walking shape after the handicapped rule for NBHA was severely restricted. Ken was also heard consoling one of the younger professionals as he told him it was six years before he ever finished a dog in the first series at Conway let along to make the finals. He has obviously worked hard as fully half of the six dogs in the call-back were handled by Ken. The win seemed to please the NBHA faithful as well as a standing ovation for Eboga Cracker Jack and his devoted owner and handler ensued.
Stylish Rockin Robin, nicely built white and orange pointer female handled by Tom Curtsinger for he and his wife Cindy earned the runner-up spot by handling birds 3 times to earn the runner up spot. Robin executed a crisp back and good retrieve. Her race was to the front and well into likely cover to find birds with a single unproductive early in the brace as her only blemish. Both Tom and Cindy were clearly excited with the win.
Beautiful riding weather greeted all who attended the NBHA National Championship at the well equipped and time tested grounds of the Camp Robinson area east of Conway, AR. Sunny skies and high temperatures reaching the 70’s were the norm but water holes and small streams all along the courses kept dogs and horses cooled off for the most part. After the very cold temperatures of January and February, these balmy March days were a welcome respite.
The Camp Robinson area always impresses as the Arkansas Game and Fish department continues to groom the area for quail and field trials with food plots, strip disk areas and selected burning. This was the first time your reporter had seen the new horse barn with 30 bull-strong stalls inside and under roof paddocks further lining both sides the entire length. Also added, were two new 50 dog concrete decked kennel runs allowing more dogs to stretch out and be comfortable while waiting their chance to compete. Field trialers everywhere should check out Camp Robinson as a model for state wildlife officials working with sportsmen and women to create an environment that is welcoming, safe and competitive for the animals we spend so much time developing. The Clubhouse at Camp Robinson is one of warmth, spaciousness and functionality with a full operating kitchen, plenty of seating and the location of the Arkansas Field Trial Hall of Fame. Pictures of dogs and people from the past 50 years and before line the walls and it is great to look on the special times and events that have occurred on these grounds over those many years. These include premier walking trials for the NBHA and the AFTCA which has also held its National Walking Championship at the venue.
The NBHA National Championship returned to Conway for the 8th year in a row having moved after an extended run in Tennessee at the Percy Priest WMA southeast of Nashville and prior to that on private ground near Dancyville for many years. Back in the early eighties, Hot Springs, Arkansas was the location for the first NBHA National Championship in 1983 and then Camp Robinson held forth for a couple years when dogs such as Fiddler’s Ace, White Oak, Stephen’s Super Sport and Curvin’s Cloudy Knight were the talk of the day. The NBHA National Championship definitely has a story to tell in its 25 plus year history marked by keen competition, excellent dogs and a great tradition of camaraderie among the participants. NBHA pretty much put walking trials back on the map when it started in 1980 and helped spawn two other walking field trial organizations as well as new interest from AFTCA in sponsoring walking championships. Over the past decade, participation has decreased nationally for NBHA as older trialers began running horseback stakes or simply quit due the rigors of walking, etc. Fortunately, younger participants who are the lifeblood of the walking field trial clubs are starting to discover the NBHA encouraged by the organization’s veterans. Locally, each state is actively directing efforts to resurrect grounds and form new clubs with new leadership so the storied history and the complete bird dog that open NBHA stakes identify continues. It is a challenge that all NBHA board members and officers recognize and are putting a plan in place to address. It is taking a team effort and all field trialing and bird dog folks will be watching and encouraging this process.
Any national caliber event takes a lot of organization and assistance to pull off well. NBHA President John Everett of South Carolina and Secretary Bobby Taylor of Alabama toiled hard to carry the process through with the help of the Arkansas Bird Hunters and others. Chuck Davis, Iowa NBHA State Director was all over helping out by planting birds, marshalling, serving as Derby/Puppy judge, etc. Mitchell Spurlock, former NBHA president was around assisting everyone, Oklahoman Ronnie Miller stepped in to judge Derbies and puppies after Wayne Ingle had to cancel and Gearl Euliss drove down from Missouri with his mule to handle dog wagon chores. Judges for this Championship were Craig Thompson, former active NBHA pro now involved in real estate in Kingston, AR, Floyd Cagle, retired school administrator, frequent bird dog judge and horseman extraordinaire from Alma, AR – both returning from last year and Doug Meyer, retired pharmacist now in pharmaceutical sales and long time NBHA Futurity reporter from Tonganoxie, KS. The judges gave each dog and handler every assistance available as they rode the stake.
NBHA sponsors including Purina Dog Food (financial as well as dog food to winners), Innotek Collars - now part of the SportDog family of electronics (new Ranger collars to winners), Tracker recovery (collar to Champion), Christie Saddlery and Building Specialties, Dallas,TX (saddles to winners), Hathaway Drywall, Inc (beautiful silver belt buckles) and Diamond A embroidery (logo coats for workers, judges). Ed Rader, longtime Innotek representative and NBHA supporter was in attendance throughout and demonstrated the new line of Sport Dog/Innotek products to interested handlers. Wednesday evening festivities held after the first series running included an NBHA sponsored happy hour and dinner catered by Janice Stroud of Stroud’s Diner in Mayflower who also prepared excellent lunches each day. Afterwards, an auction was held in the clubhouse prior to the announcement of the six finalists for the call back series and bidding for knives, coats, shirts, decorative pieces and a special bottle of Jack Daniels commemorating the 2007 NBHA National Championship drew spirited bidding. I’m not sure Janice didn’t spend her profits at the auction but was happy when she won the bid on an item. Handlers came forward as each of the six dogs called back for the finals were announced. At the conclusion of the announcements, the dogs were redrawn for the second series which would begin on Friday giving all a day of rest between runs while the Derby and puppy strakes were contested..
One-hour First Series
The course used for the first series was the traditional breakaway point north thru the woods from the new horse barn. The country starts out flat with wood edges and food plots interspersed with broom sedge and cover strips maintained by the Camp Robinson staff. It is natural looking bird hunting cover and every effort is made to keep native bobwhite happy as well as released birds fed and thriving as long as possible. The course winds past small streams and the tight clay soil keeps water standing in low spots if there has been any recent rainfall. The course climbs over a ridge at its midpoint offering a nice view of the bottom beyond and then winds back thru tighter country to finish in more open fields. Dogs must handle and keep themselves in touch with their handler in order to keep absences to a minimum. Notably, there is a woven wire fence along the Camp Robinson perimeter that keeps energetic dogs from straying onto nearby roads and affords handlers a little peace of mind when one is gone too long.
Mossy Oaks Hammer (B. Boedeker) with Eboga Cracker Jack (K. Tolbert). Breeze was light and temperatures were already rising rapidly from the morning low of 40 degrees as President Everet welcomed the gallery, judges, and officials and introduced the handlers and starting dogs for the 8AM start. Both were off in a hurry with handlers singing to the charging pointers. Jack, a white and orange pointer was found standing to the front off breakaway intently focused on his quarry which Ken Tolbert rousted and shot. Jack was sent to retrieve and quickly brought the quail to handler. Hammer was out front rimming the edges and Jack was released forward to not be seen again for nearly 19 minutes. At 42, Jack had quail again with all in order for flush and shot. He had a good finish to make the finals. The white and liver Hammer also finished strong but did not contact birds during his hour.
Bayou Country Bitsie (H. Truxillo) with Iscream For Icecream (B. Taylor). Bitsie was charging to the front last seen at 4 with Henry Truxillo calling it a day when she couldn’t be located prior to the half. Iscream, a nice moving dog was making some nice casts and rewarded with two early finds before being lost with the tracker pulled at 45.
Skyview Hustler (Boedeker) with Eboga Slick Deal (Tolbert). Slick pointed at 4 but Tolbert could not raise game and an unproductive was tallied. At 10, Slick again established a stylish point with Skyview backing. Slick was asked to relocate and he moved up to reestablish point on a probable running bird. Tolbert shot this bird and sent the immobile Slick for a quick retrieve. At 25, Skyview made a deep cast and swapped ends along a thick cover strip. As we approached, Bayou Country Bitsie was spied pointed in a shaded area hidden on the other side of the cover not visible to Skyview. All was in order at flush and shot as Slick had come in to back this stand. Skyview continued to move nicely and was crossing a food plot when a single quail popped out of cover and flew about 30 feet into a brushy ditch. He locked up high on both ends for a few seconds and then moved towards the quail’s landing area to end his day. Slick continued to rim the country and was rewarded with a final find at 56. His finish was good and he would be called back.
Stylish Elhew Phantom (T. Curtsinger) with Bayou Country Sunblade (F. Rodrigue). Francis Rodrigue from Louisiana was handling Blade for owner Henry Truxillo who was scouting. Francis had handled a dog in the National for over ten years straight and the two good friends worked together to keep his streak alive. Oklahoman Tom Curtsinger had Iowan Alan Worth scouting Phantom. Temperatures had warmed considerably with both dogs hunting diligently in likely spots. Blade scored at 23 with a small step taken at flush. At 34, Blade looked positive but Francis could not fly anything. At 49, Phantom scored with all in order for flush and shot. Both dogs were scouring the cover when Phantom pointed into a tangle at 53 and Blade came in to back. Aggressive flushing sent a woodcock aloft with both dogs perfect throughout. Anticipation for these two was great and a set-up back and retrieve were ordered. Unfortunately, neither dog was able to seal the deal after two good efforts on the ground.
L’s Busy Bee (Boedeker) with Eboga Bud (Tolbert). Bee, a past champion in this event scored off breakaway at 7. She was hunting the front thoroughly while maintaining good contact for handler. At 18, she was found pointed in a likely spot but Brent Boedeker could not get anything in the air and relocation proved unproductive. Bud meanwhile was seen once off breakaway and Tolbert asked for his tracker at 30. Bee established point again at 59 and retrieved this bird. Unfortunately, a set-up back failed after a nice hunting effort.
Atchafalaya Billie (M. Spurlock) with Rapper’s Rappin Rambo (A. Worth). Some afternoon clouds had formed to take a little heat out of the air as these two were released. The white and black pointer Billie was cruising the edges to establish point at 21 along a scope of woods. Rambo volunteered a back and it was a pretty picture to any bird hunter. Birds were up easily and all was in order. Billie scored again at 29 with all in order and continued hunting the cover in excellent synch with handler with a strong finish. Rambo had an independent find at 31 along treeline just over the ridge. Released from here, he made a very nice sweep of the right side of the course to make the front for Worth. At 48, Rambo was ducking around a corner when a bird exposed in the path popped up and Rambo slamming on the brakes to maintain his bid. At 56, Rambo established point in a streamside tangle that was going to be a terrible place to flush. Worth called attention to the bird as two judges were both trying to assist but unable to see it. Rambo later established point at time which eventuated in an unproductive. Billie executed both a set-up back and retrieve and Rambo also retrieved at the conclusion of the brace.
Sooner Cruiser (Boedeker) with Eboga Bashful (Tolbert). The second morning started much as the first with the cool morning air rapidly disappearing as the brace commenced. Released at 8AM, Cruiser scored a stylish find at 3 between feedstrip and woods with all in order. Bashful was running a handling hunting race early searching likely places for birds. At 19, Cruiser’s promising start ended when he was under a bird. Bashful scored at 27 facing a feedstrip as Tolbert shot this bird with the immobile pointer released for a snappy retrieve. Bashful handled his set-up back after a strong finish to his hour.
Taylor’s Buster Brown (Taylor) with Rapper’s Cold Cash (Worth). Buster, the bye dog was moved up when Honky Tonk Rip (K. Sauer) scratched. Buster Brown was making a case for himself with finds at 3 and 10 and a good find at 57 where he made his retrieve. However, he failed the set up back to end his bid. Cash was gone off breakaway and Worth requested the tracker before the half.
Wade’s Awsum Star (Boedeker) with Eboga Star (Tolbert). The “Stars” were not aligned in this brace as Eboga Star was lost early and Tolbert pulled the tracker. The white and orange Awsum Star established point at 31 with feathers in the grass indicating a bird had been there with no further game contact rewarding his forward race.
Raf’s El Lobo (B. Anderson) with Stylish Rockin Robin (Curtsinger). The white and liver Wolf ran a nice race in the heat but was picked up at 54 when he didn’t back Robin. Robin scored at 5 being found high and tight at the front and steady for the flush and shot. Birds seemed increasingly tough to pinpoint with Robin getting an unproductive at 11 in a very likely spot and handler unusually electing not to try relocation. The white and orange stylist scored at 34 with the bird finally spied walking a distance from her stand in a food plot. At 54 while coming to the front, Robin tried again facing a deadfall along woods. Extensive flushing did not produce nor did a thorough relocation effort. Robin retrieved snappily after the brace and backed the set-up dog without hesitation.
Bayou Dot (Tolbert) with Bye. KC’s Shrimpboat (Sauer) was scratched leaving the 11th brace to Dot alone. Dot was apparently not feeling herself this day and Tolbert elected to pick-up early.
Stylish Elhew Jazz (Curtsinger) with Sooner Grace (Boedeker). These two were in a hurry to get somewhere as Grace was lost off breakaway with Jazz seen far to the front early only to be lost after the half.
Two Hour Final Series.
The two hour final series at Camp Robinson can be a real grind for dogs, handlers and the horses following. The clay gumbo ground is frequently muddy, seemingly without bottom if you step in the wrong place and usually requires some pulling to take the next step. A dog that churns this country for two hours and is still going hard at the end is a serious animal. The first series had the course drying as the week went on and the finals started out with a partly cloudy morning and temperatures near fifty degrees for the 8AM start. Clouds continued to build from the west and light rain did fall briefly during the afternoon. Temperatures reached 70 during the late morning but moderated later with the rain.
Eboga Bashful with Stylish Rockin Robin. These two were announced and released just after 8AM into a second course winding south and west of the Camp Robinson headquarters for about one and one-half hours ultimately finishing the last 30 minutes in reverse direction on the back half of the first series course. Bashful was spied up a field edge to the left of course backing the pointed Robin. It was a likely spot for birds but Curtsinger couldn’t raise game and relocation was futile. At 39, Bashful pointed into an edge thick with brush which required relocation. This was handled well and a retrieve was made here. Robin had also pointed separately along this cover but further back with judge and handler both scouring the cover trying to find the birds. Robin seems to point her birds way back making flushing released quail difficult at times. Relocation was successful here as the bird was ultimately flushed from oak leaves below the original stand. Robin had a good find at 56 and added another at 1:05. Her race had shortened some at the end but she was still hunting throughout. She handled a set-up back and retrieve without a problem. Bashful added one more find at 1:17 but his race had been a little too much on the path to move the runner-up spot.
Eboga Slick Deal with Rapper’s Rappin Rambo. It was warming up even with the cloud cover thickening as the brace began. Slick was wide early having been spied on far edges to the front. Rambo was hunting quickly at lesser range and was seen standing to the right of course. This turned into a back as Slick had stabbed a wild covey feeding on lespedeza. All was in order at flush and shot with everyone anticipating a good brace with the wild birds moving before potential rain. Rambo tried at 20 with an unproductive charged. Slick got turned around shortly after his covey find and handler eventually pulled the tracker at 50 to unfortunately end his bid. Rapper was hunting solidly although not as sparkling as in the first series. He failed to score on birds and handler eventually picked up at 1:45.
Eboga Cracker Jack with Atchafalaya Billie. After lunch, these two were released at almost 2PM with threatening skies and the feeling of impending rain in the air. Rain gear was packed by most riders. Billie had his running shoes on early and was seen on a wide cast to the east with point called at 7. This took some time to both walk to the find and flush the bird and Mitchell Spurlock was playing catch up the entire brace from here. Jack was standing at 16 facing a line of trees and Tolbert considering a retrieve. The bird had other ideas though as he ducked around a tree with Jack standing for the report. Jack was hunting likely cover in and out of view at times at a very comfortable shooting dog range. At 40, he was returning towards handler when he swapped ends facing a cover strip. Jack was mannerly for flush and shot. At 45, Jack was standing facing an oak tree with brush below. Handler again thought about a retrieve but the pair of birds slipped away untouched with Jack intently observing their exit. At 56, Jack was spotted thru the woods facing broomsedge and handler scattered running birds with all in order. Kansan Paul Roederer’s statement, “The birds seem to move when the good dogs run” was starting to ring in my ears with each shot. At the hour mark, Spurlock caught the front with Billie having passed the front gallery at 45. It was clear he had his running shoes on today. At 1:09, Jack was found backing Billie’s stand along tall grass. Billie executed a quick retrieve here. At 1:15, Jack scored another left of course on an island – manners again above reproach. At 1:24, Billie was seen standing along an old fencerow facing into the wind. Birds were called in the air as we were at some distance with no more flushed after we arrived. Spurlock shot and took him on. At 1:33, another shot rang out for Jack and a retrieve was made on the find. At 1:43, Billie suffered an unproductive as Spurlock elected to flush with the dog looking unsure as birds had possibly left him. Sensing he wasn’t moving anything, Billie was lifted at 1:50. Jack added another find at 1:51 and was digging at the end. His final tally was seven excellent finds, a nice reaching race with good handle, a back and retrieve handled on course with a strong finish. He is a worthy national champion.
Companion Derby Stake
The companion Derby stake drew a strong field of eleven qualified by virtue of placing at a State Classic or other Regional Championship Derby placements. Judges Chuck Davis from Iowa and Ronnie Miller from Oklahoma looked them over and gave their considered opinion. These men have been around the game for awhile now and have been at as many trials as anyone over the past several years both as handlers, scouts and judges. Ronnie frequently works with professional trainer Terry Smith in Oklahoma while Chuck spends much time in the company of pro Harold Gearhart in Missouri. They know what they like to see. Eboga Daisy, handled by Ken Tolbert was named first for owner, breeder Ron Kimberly after a nice race and excellent finds at 4, 11 and 26. The last find was on a running covey that would have ended most dogs’ bid. TimWright handled Butch Robert’s pointer male Robert’s Hill Cinch Mark to second with a nice race and polished bird work. Eboga Go Go Ann bred by octogenarian Charles Aston garnered third for the Kimberly/Tolbert team after an ambitious race and clean work on game right at time.
Companion Puppy Stake
Judges Davis and Miller stated that this was a great field of puppies with at least 7 being considered for placements. Sorting them out was tough but they named Purdy’s Buddy Boy, setter male first for owner, handler and breeder Keith Pierce of Tennessee. Taylor’s Winfield Pirate took second for NBHA Secretary Bobby Taylor and wife Mildred with Robert’s Hill Sandy, pointer female for the Roberts/Wright team of Oklahoma named third. First and second had nearly identical races with some huge handling casts while Sandy maintained a smoother forward race overall.
Posted February 2, 2007. The Stranger Creek FTC spring trial is slated for the weekend of February 24-25 just north of Tonganoxie, KS. AFTCA/KFTA sanctioned Open stakes on Saturday and US Complete Shooting Dog Association, AFTCA/KFTA open stakes on Sunday will make a full weekend. This trial is quickly filling up over three weeks in advance! Barry Ward and Ralph Short will be the primary judges and we are looking forward to a great trial. Hope the weather cooperates! A Saturday night supper is planned and right now it looks like we'll be heading for a local restaurant due to uncertain weather. We'll plan on cooking out again next September at our fall event which everyone seemed to enjoy. Grace and I sure did.
Field Trial Reports – Watch here for postings of the latest field trial reports from local, regional and national events. As a long time contributor to the American Field, I am frequently asked to report and judge major events and accept some of these assignments schedule permitting. I have attended, reported, and judged nearly every renewal of the NBHA Futurity since its inception over 20 years ago and served for years on the Board of Directors for this event. One of my early pointers, Chief’s River Guardian was a finalist in the very first NBHA Futurity. This year I am also judging and reporting the NBHA National Open Walking Shooting Dog Championship scheduled for March of 2007 at Camp Robinson near Conway, AR as well as a repeat assignment at the NBHA Futurity. As a competitor, I prefer running dogs in these events rather than judging, but it is up to all of us to give back a portion of our time to the sport.
SCFTC Fall 2007 Winners
Open Shooting Dog
Open Derby
Amateur Shooting Dog
2007 Stranger Creek Field Trial Club Article
The Stranger Creek FTC held our scheduled walking club trial along the Stranger Creek bottoms north of Tonganoxie, KS under warm conditions the weekend of Sept 22-23, 2007. A fine entry was received; the course was mowed; water troughs placed in strategic locations; quail released to supplement the excellent wild population of both quail and pheasants and all was seemingly set. The only problem was difficult scenting conditions which we had also experienced last fall on this thickly covered creek bottom course. Despite the difficulties finding birds, the winners were mostly placed on bird work although several fine races went unrewarded. The Club wishes to thank our teams of judges particularly Mike Hatfield and Bruce Chambers who gave up their own time with their dogs to judge our shooting dog stake. Thanks also for the hard work of Brian Jones, Barry Ward, Greg Morgan and Ralph and Jo Ellen Short which allowed the trial to run smoothly. Grace Meyer did a great job organizing the lunches as well as a Saturday night cookout which was well attended.
The 19 entry open shooting dog stake was won by Greypointe Espada who had a solid forward race with a single, broke find along the Stranger Creek embankment to take first place. Greypointe Fandango placed second with a less forward race and a stylish find facing a weedy patch where handler had difficulty flying the birds and Fandango’s patience was put to the test. Both of these pointer males are owned by Doug Meyer who also handled. Delaware River Jackpot who was Kansas Derby of the Year in 2006-07 took third with an excellent handling race for owner/handler Jim Corpening.
A very competitive Derby stake saw 18 contenders with half run in the heat on Saturday afternoon and the rest finishing on a cooler Sunday morning. Birds were finally being located more readily with many dogs having more than one contact even in the warmer afternoon temperatures. The Trooper placed first for Roger Laubscher with a mature shooting dog Derby race and two good finds. Roger and Terry Morris drove all the way from North Platte, NE to join us and we appreciate their attendance. Wild Covey Coldfront took second with a strong race and a single find for owner/handler Tony King of Thompson, MO. Coldfront is still a puppy by age. Ralph Short’s Libby was third with a broke find, an honest stop to flush and another stand where birds weren’t produced.
The Amateur Shooting Dog stake was also competitive with most dogs having bird contacts although not always as clean as their handlers would have liked. Jeremiah Corpening handled Duke to first place with good bird work and a fine race.
We want to thank everyone for attending and our sponsors Nutri Source and their representative Gailen Cooper along with Adam’s Feed store who distribute this fine feed in our area. We also wish to acknowledge Kilgore Enterprises for the beautiful plaques featuring clocks and dog portraits given for placements. We look forward to seeing everyone at the KFTCA walking stakes this fall and back here at our grounds along Stranger Creek next spring.
Fall 2006 SCFTC Results
1st Annual SCFTC Derby Winners, Left to right: First was Lucy, PF, handled by Jim Corpening, Second was Pedro, PM, handled by Brian Jones, Third went to Que, PF, handled by Dave Merritt
Stranger Creek FTC – Established in 2006, the Stranger Creek Field Trial Club is dedicated to hosting walking shooting dog trials on our grounds lying along Stranger Creek just north of Tonganoxie, KS. The Club is a member of the AFTCA, KFTCA and will be associating with the Iowa/Nebraska/Kansas region of the USCSDA in the near future. The Stranger Creek grounds have a population of native quail and pheasants which are supplemented by released quail prior to our trials. These grounds are easy to access from the Kansas City, Topeka, and St. Joseph metro areas and we invite all interested bird dog folks to join us for the events. A Saturday night party is typically included in the weekend schedule. The fall trial drew a strong entry for the four stakes.
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