Dog trials hampered by weather

By Kathy Thomson

Thirty-two dogs were entered in the Region 7 American Field Trial Clubs of America (AFTCA) Amateur All-Age Championship and the M. G. Perkins Amateur All-Age Derby Classic held at the Crooked Tree Ranch outside of Albany earlier this month, with top dogs selected in two categories.

“Many thanks to Glenn and Tracy Hughes for allowing us the use of this beautiful venue,” said show secretary Mary Ann Gustafson. 

This was the fifth year in a row for the Hughes to host the event. 

Judges for the dog trials were Adrian Jackson of Boys Ranch, Texas and Scoot Terrell of Canton, Texas.  

“Both men have been involved in bird dog trials for many years and are knowledgeable in the ways of pointing dogs and wild quail,” said Gustafson. “Unfortunately, rain on Friday morning prevented the scheduled start of the championship, though the day cleared enough in the afternoon to allow the derby to be run.”

Nine dogs competed in the stake.  

First place went to Whiteway Anarchy, a male pointer owned and handled by Kevin White. 

Second place went to Bad Rebel A Risin, a male pointer owned and handled by Buck Neil. 

Third place went to Hey Suga Suga, a female pointer, also owned and handled by Neil.

The Championship started on Saturday morning with 23 dogs vying for the title of 2020 Region 7 Amateur All-Age Champion. 

“Unfortunately, birds were at a premium,” said Gustafson. “Although the riders in the gallery and the scouts moved a number of coveys, the dogs were unable to get any birds pointed. As a result, the judges were unable to name a champion.”

Instead of a championship, the trial was reverted to a classic, according to Gustafson. First place went to Barshoe La Traviata, a female pointer owned and handled by John Harmon; second went to Barshow Tchaikovsky, also owned and handled by Harmon.

“In spite of this year’s adverse weather and poor scenting conditions, we’re all looking forward to returning next year,” said Gustafson.