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Sheepdog Training - Poetry
in motion
"The
Border Collie is the symbol of rural Britain, known for it's
intelligence, stamina and herding ability and revered for its
devotion to duty" (E Halsall)
Having
been introduced to training sheepdogs by my long standing friend
Gwyn Morgan, I competed in my first trial in 1992 at Llanlyfni,
North Wales with my first dog Lara.
Gwyn Morgan from Bontnewydd,
Caernarfon
Gwyn and the backdrop of the
Snowdonia mountains continue to lure me into North Wales not only to
compete in trials but to meet up with the many friends I have made
over the years.
Ogwen Valley (below) near Betws Y
Coed, North Wales
Lara - daughter of Sydney Price's
Davy
Skerry 12-07-2000 to 21-10-2006
In 2006 I was 6th in the English
National at Kirby Lonsdale with my Skerry. A few weeks after
competing in the International at Kelso, Skerry was sadly killed
avoiding fireworks. A most consistent of dogs, Skerry could handle
any type of sheep. She had terrific pace yet was able to stop on a
"sixpence". Her most memorable open trial was winning the renowned
trial at Vivod in North Wales. We had some wonderful times together
and I miss her terribly. She did however, have a litter by Michael
Longton's Moss and Mac, now 3 Years old has shown good promise in
his first few trials. Skye, now 2 years old old bitch is line
bred to Skerry and has a similar style and temperament to her.
There are very few situations I
can think of where man and dog work in such close harmony and
cohesion, a partnership whereby each plays a very significant role.
To have been given the opportunity to share this most wonderful
pastime I remain truly indebted to my family, friends and not
least my dogs.
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