Phil Matteson & Bridger 1st NA test
Here’s my “credit card” commercial version of how the 1st Montana Sharptail test went.
Premier test grounds… check
Outstanding dogs & Handlers… check
Knowledgeable energetic helpful judges… check
Volunteers…. Priceless!
June 18 & 19, 2011 the NAVHDA Montana Sharptail chapter hosted their first Natural Ability Test near Vaughn, Montana. The test came off without a hitch. Perfect weather, exceptional test grounds, tons of great food, and many good folks came together resulting in an outstanding first test.
One couldn’t ask for a better test! Chapter members stepped up to make the event run like a well oiled machine giving the impression we had been doing it for years. Thanks for all the hard work. First time bird planters functioned as if they were seasoned pros. Food was off the chart good. Just ask senior judge John Kohnke who for his first time in his judging history went back for seconds.
Special thanks to our hosts and the judges. The test grounds provided by the Girtmans, are ideal for hosting a NA test. Water, search grounds and tracking cover worked out perfectly. Much of the test was in view from the “Watch Tower” providing the gallery with great views of the field and tracking portions. The place is build for NA testing. The Girtman’s are extremely gracious and accommodating sharing their piece of Big Sky paradise. Our Judges, John Kohnke, Kurt Merg, and chapter judge Michael Bowman, were helpful, encouraging and very supportive. I know they calmed the nerves on a number of first time handlers. I think there were also impressed with many find dogs, the test grounds and of course the food.
The handlers and their dogs really shined! Many were first time handlers. 19 dogs representing 5 versatile hunting breeds tested. Congratulations on outstanding performances. Handlers should be very proud. All the dogs had solid tests with just a couple hiccups, mostly at the water, which cost a few dogs from prizing.
What a great first showing! We sure set the bar high! Great job Sharptail chapter!
John Arkins
Montana Sharptail Board Member
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