|
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 20 months old has shown good promise in his first few trials. Skye, my 9 month 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.
________________________
|
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
