Agilitynet came into it's own during the Foot & Mouth Crisis in 2002 and has not looked back since. It's been here for you in times of crisis, show cancellations, changes in rules and regulations, team selection and advances in technology. If it is news, we want to cover it regardless of affiliation. We can't be everywhere at once, however, so we rely on your input - and goodwill - to keep Agilitynet up to date so please email your show news to us as and when...

Please remind your show secretary to keep sending those updates to us and to include the name of the show, date(s), venue and other relevant details.

 DECEMBER 2020

Discover Dogs Returns to London in 2021

Discover Dogs is set to return to the ExCeL London on 20 - 21 November 2021 to celebrate its 25th anniversary. The event, which was first held in 1996, didn’t take place this year due to Covid-19, but it is hoped by the end of next year the event will be able to celebrate its silver anniversary in style.

Plans are still being worked on for how the event will look, but following the puppy boom that has taken place in 2020 it is hoped that the event will allow The Kennel Club to offer thousands of dog lovers the unique opportunity to meet and greet around 200 different pedigree breeds. It will also provide the opportunity to educate prospective dog owners on how to choose the right breed for them.  

It is anticipated that other old favourites will also return to the show such as agility, training displays, the Young Kennel Club ring and the many different canine competitions including the Good Citizen Dog Scheme Pre Beginner Stakes Southern semi-finals, and possibly the Junior Warrant semi-finals that usually take place at the event.

Discover Dogs provides something for everyone, from those involved within the canine world to those on their first step into the journey of owning a dog and, with trade stands selling anything and everything for dogs, it provides the perfect place for some serious shopping!

Vanessa McAlpine, Events Executive at The Kennel Club, said, 'Discover Dogs is a fun event for any dog lover, and celebrates our unique relationship with dogs in addition to educating people about the importance of choosing the right breed for their lifestyle and making sure they buy a puppy responsibly. The event provides the opportunities for prospective dog owners to meet breeders and to learn how to care, train and live with different breeds and help make responsible choices when buying a puppy or getting a dog.

'However, the show isn’t just for prospective dog owners – we welcome dog lovers of all ages to come along and find out about the work of The Kennel Club, such as The Kennel Club Breed Rescue organisations who do fantastic work for dogs who aren’t as fortunate as others. Thousands of dogs come into breed rescue every year, either because their owners cannot cope and didn’t appreciate the commitment that dog ownership brings, or because they were mistreated. Unfortunately, despite there being more information out there than ever before, this year has demonstrated that people still continue to buy dogs on a whim. The show aims to give visitors the best advice, whether that’s buying a puppy or rehoming a rescue dog, so that the most informed decision can be made for both the dog and its owner.'

To find out more about Discover Dogs visit www.discoverdogs.org.uk.

 NOVEMBER 2020

Crufts to Go Ahead Next Summer

Said Vanessa McAlpine, Show Manager, 'We are absolutely delighted to be able to look forward to a special summer Crufts Dog Show taking place next year and are thankful to the NEC for being flexible in finding us an alternative date and of course all our sponsors, judges, exhibitors and trade stands for their continued support. The Kennel Club will be working with the dog clubs and societies who already have shows planned for these dates to offer them assistance and other options for their events.

There is optimism in the events industry as to the likelihood of summer events taking place with the new Crufts dates falling in a fortnight when hopefully some of our great British summer sporting events will also be returning. We know there are going to be many challenges and will need to remain adaptable to how the show will look as our priority is to not only the dogs, but our exhibitors and visitors whose welfare will always be at the forefront. We will continue to review the situation over the coming months and will adapt our plans as appropriate, however we are very excited to be able to plan for ‘Crufts in the summer’ to celebrate our wonderful dogs and to give our dog loving community something to look forward to next year.'

The Kennel Club hopes to be able to provide further information on how the show will look, including qualifications soon and will keep its website updated as it evolves www.crufts.org.uk.

It is hoped that Crufts 2022 will take place as normal on 10 - 13 March 2022.

Cancellation of Licensed Events until at Least 2nd December 2020

It is with regret that, due to the recently introduced Government restrictions in England, the Kennel Club recommends the cancellation of licensed events until at least 2nd December 2020. Societies with events in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales should refer to the conditions stipulated by their Governments.

Therefore, those societies whose events have been cancelled should contact The Kennel Club to confirm the cancellation and to let us know whether the licence fee is to be refunded or deferred to a future show/trial. A form for this purpose can be found at www.thekennelclub.org.uk/forms/cancellation-of-shows and Club Secretaries also have the facility to cancel their event via the dashboard of their club profile on the Kennel Club website. This position will be reviewed again in line with Government guidance at the start of December.

 OCTOBER 2020

Pure Agility Covid Statement

We must inform all who attended our show on 17th October - not 18th October - that one person who attended the show has reportedly tested positive for Covid 19. The other four people who attended the same cohort group as this person have been informed.

After speaking with a Covid officer, we have been informed that those in the same cohort group do not have to self isolate, providing 2m social distancing has been maintained through out.

We have been messaged numerous times to ask who the person was. This goes against data protection and we will not divulge such information.

21st October 2020

 SEPTEMBER 2020

Kennel Club Announcement Regarding Crufts 2021

In light of recent government announcements, The Kennel Club has been discussing the holding of Crufts 2021 which is set to take place from 11th - 14th March at the NEC Birmingham.

The Kennel Club Board would like to reassure competitors, exhibitors and everyone involved in the dog world that it remains actively committed to holding the show next year. In particular, the Crufts team have been looking at different options for how Crufts 2021 might look. However, the most important aspect will be the safety of all those who attend and any possible negative impact that holding the event may have.

Vanessa McAlpine, Crufts Show Manager, commented, 'The Crufts Committee and events team have been liaising with the NEC and others to discuss how to make it possible to hold Crufts safely next year, ensuring that there is minimal risk of the transmission of Covid-19 and assuming indoor events will be able to take place.

'It is inevitable that Crufts won’t be quite the same as usual due to the pandemic and that the requirement to follow current government guidelines will have an impact on hall capacities and other logistical issues. As such, it will be necessary to make some alterations to the show to enable it to take place, as with any large event in this current climate. We hope to provide more information on this when we can.  However within this continually changing climate, further details including the qualification, may not be released until later this year and we ask for your patience in these unprecedented times.'

For up to date information on Crufts, please go to www.crufts.org.uk. The Kennel Club will endeavour to make announcements as soon as it can to any changes to the show. 

29th September 2020

A Message for Those Planning or Attending Forthcoming Measuring Sessions

The Kennel Club on-line shop is currently closed for maintenance. It is hoped to have it available again from 30th September.

If you have any queries please email. Please note it is not possible to manually process your orders during this time, so please check back after 30th September.

Anyone that is currently waiting for Agility Record Books that have previously been ordered, they are currently being reprinted and it is hoped they will be available by the end of the week.

We are sorry for any inconvenience caused.

Olympia 2020 Cancelled

Over the last few months, the Olympia organising team has been looking at multiple scenarios to try to stage the indoor Show with the health and welfare of everyone involved at the heart of that decision-making process. Reluctantly, it has been concluded that it is not possible to run the event in December 2020 given the commercial implications of the government social distancing guidelines and the numerous additional Covid-19 safety requirements.

Unfortunately, this means that the Olympia feature events, including the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™, the Olympia Grand Prix, the Puissance, the FEI Dressage World Cup™ and the FEI Driving World Cup™ qualifiers will not be held in 2020, along with the international displays and all of the traditional Olympia festive entertainment.

Simon Brooks-Ward, Show Director, said: 'My father, together with Clarion Events, started the Olympia Horse Show in 1972 and it has run every year since, meaning that this year would have been our 49th show. My brothers and I have attended every Show and therefore I completely empathise with the sadness felt by our visitors, who will not be cheering, laughing, and clapping in the Grand Hall this year. I also understand the disappointment felt by our competitors, officials, sponsors and particularly our trade stand exhibitors, who would have been particularly looking forward to the Christmas boost that Olympia gives them.

'Olympia holds a special place in the equestrian world’s hearts. Generations of families have held their Christmas parties at the Show and many will not be able to imagine a Christmas without a visit to Olympia. However, we are looking forward to being back in 2021, with a bumper Show to celebrate our 50th anniversary.

'I am extremely grateful for the supportive messages we have received from the equestrian community over the summer and am only sorry that we are unable to be with them at Olympia this Christmas.'

The 2021 edition of Olympia, The London International Horse Show will return from Wednesday 15 – Monday 20 December.

14th September 2020

Agility Plaza Data Modelling Explained

One problem show organisers face is deciding on the best configuration of classes and the best way to mix grades for each height. This is especially difficult for Covid compliant shows where numbers need to be restricted and now that the KC allows allows progression classes to be capped to 50 dogs there are extra challenges. Make your caps too high and you may end up with more dogs than you can cope with. Make them too low and you might have too few dogs and lots of disappointed handlers. Worse, you might cap out of popular classes on day 1 yet still have less dogs than you would like with lots of space in other less popular classes.

Mike Brickman said, 'The exact details are complicated and technical, but I thought that people here would be interested in the basic breakdown of grades and heights so here goes.

Grades divide as follows:-

• G1: 10.22%
• G2: 10.60%
• G3: 21.91%
• G4: 14.73%
• G5: 16.90%
• G6: 12.38%
• G7: 13.27%

With the 2019 rule changes for new dog with experienced handlers, I expect there to be an increase in the G2 percentage and a corresponding decline in G3 over the next year or two.

The breakdown by height is:

• Large: 35.11%
• Intermediate: 25.10%
• Medium: 21.69%
• Small: 18.10%

        For detailed show planning Agility Plaza also takes account of the detailed grade/height ratios. For example, a greater proportion of dogs are G7 in Small than Large.'

If you are a show organiser and would like help to plan your show, then please get in touch with Agility Plaza . They can also advise you on Covid measures as they have done 14 show to date and more in the pipeline.

 AUGUST 2020

Agility Team Qualification Document Goes Live

The new Agility Team GB qualification document for 2021 has been released. Click here to find out more.

The events and dates are being held at Pure Dog Events near Tamworth, Staffordshire B79 0BY

• Showcase Event (details about this open day will be advertised shortly) – 23rd and potentially 24th January 2021
• Pre-selection Qualifier – 20th & 21st February 2021
• European Open tryout – 20th and 21st March 2021
• Agility World Championships & Junior Open Agility World Championships tryout – 27th & 28th March 2021
• Team Day for all teams – 25th April 2021
• European Open and Junior Open Agility World Championships Team Day – 31st May 2021
• Agility World Championships Team Day – 28th August 2021

Thank you to Pure Dog Events for being the official venue for Agility Team GB. Pure Dog Events is at Statfold Barn Railway, Ashby Road, Tamworth, Staffordshire, B79 0BY. Information about the venue can be found here. 

If handlers wish to camp at venue during the above dates please contact Sandra Adams directly at pureagilityevents@gmail.com

Agility Team GB 2022
The below events and dates are being held at Pure Dog Events near Tamworth, Staffordshire B79 0BY

• Pre Selection Qualifier – 26th & 27th February 2022

• European Open Try out – 19th & 20th March 2022

• Agility World Championships & Junior Open Agility World Championships tryout – 26th & 27th March 2022

• Team Day for all teams – 23rd April 2022

• European Open and Junior Open Agility World Championships Team Day – 30th May 2022

• Agility World Championships Team Day – 27th August 2022

To find out more see https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/act

28th August 2020

British Agility Update

British Agility is pleased to announce that meetings have taken place with venues for the 2020 ABC, Novice Stakes and British Agility Championships.

Anthony Clarke said, 'We are confident that they have plans in place to keep competitors and our team safe to be able to go ahead with these events. With the current pandemic situation changing day by day we are looking at the situation very carefully and will of course do the best for the situation at the time, but we are currently positive that events will be able to operate in 2020.

We have made the decision not to open entries until nearer the time, but we are encouraging people to contact us on the below email addresses to register your interest so we can create an entry list and then you will be contacted for payment near the time.'

Current changes to the 2020 events will include:-

• Classes will be capped at 50 dogs per height

• Time tables for the event will be issued nearer the time of payment

• Each dog will be guaranteed three runs.

• Height classes will have specific run times

- BAC Covid protocol will be issued nearer the time with Health and Safety information.

- When emailing us with your interest you must provide the below details to be registered.

• Handlers Name

• Dogs Pet Name

• Height Class

• Grade

Please note registering your interest does not guarantee you an entry.

If you are interested in the ABC Challenge on the 24th October please email - Open to all grades (Medium, Intermediate and Large)

• abc2020event@gmail.com

If you are interested in the British Agility Championships and Novice Stakes from the 9th – 11th October please email

19th August 2020

Operational Plan for the Resumption of Licensed Events

Societies are required to consider Government advice, including DEFRA, in place at the time when planning an event. It is also worth noting that current advice is different for different parts of the United Kingdom and this needs to be taken into account when planning the event both in relation to the venue and expected participants.

Societies are also going to have to be flexible and consider the implications of a local lockdown. Local authorities have the authority to close local outside spaces, shut premises and cancel events if they feel it is necessary. Therefore it is imperative that liaison is undertaken with the local authority to ensure any specific area requirements are included in an events risk assessment.

There are a number of areas that should be considered when deciding whether to hold a planned event or not. It should be noted that if the society decides not to hold an event which is already licenced, the Kennel Club policy is to refund the licence fee, or it may be transferred to pay for a future event. Notification of the cancellation and the decision regarding the licence fee should be advised to sass@ thekennelclub .org .uk except for Field Trials which should be sent to gundogs@ thekennelclub .org .uk. Further information and clarification about the cancellation procedure for all events can be found on the cancellation page.

One of the main concerns for societies is whether there will be adequate insurance cover. It is always best to check with the society’s own insurance provider. It is unlikely that any Covid-19 specific insurance will be available but general public liability will be available. A society should ensure that best efforts are undertaken to ensure that the venue/ground is Covid-19 safe, in line with Government advice available at the time (including risk assessments). This will then help to demonstrate that it has discharged its duty of care to participants and visitors. It is not possible to guarantee a no Covid-19 risk scenario, and there will be an element of assumption of risk by the participant/visitor. The society’s job is to minimise that risk. All Clubs and Societies must appoint a Covid Safety Officer, whose responsibility is to make sure that Covid prevention procedures are maintained throughout the day, this person may be an existing steward or an additional person. A log must be kept of any untoward incidents. The Covid Safety Officer must be named on the event schedule.

A statement must be included in all schedules to state that if a competitor, or anyone in their household, has Covid-19 related symptoms or has tested positive for Covid-19 they must not attend the event and should self isolate in line with Government advice.

General areas for consideration by societies will revolve around financial planning for the event and whether it will be feasible to proceed whilst following government advice and social distancing requirements (i.e. reduced capacity/gate). It will be necessary to ensure the planned venue is open for bookings, and for some events, that local hotels are able to accommodate the required number of bookings.

Kennel Club Events Statement

Following the statement made by The Kennel Club at the beginning of July, the Kennel Club Board would like to continue to reassure competition organisers, exhibitors and competitors that our sports committees remain committed to working on solutions to help enable shows, competitions and other events to resume as and when they can and it is safe for them to do so.

The Kennel Club appreciates the frustrations felt and experienced in trying to get events to recommence, but we are limited in giving specific direction due to the lack of clarity over the types of event which can take place.  We are in regular contact with the Government, some of whose guidance is not always clear-cut, and will make a statement as and when we receive specific advice. We have been proactive within our remit to relax and suspend a range of competition regulations to assist clubs and societies with their risk assessments which are essential before a decision is made as to whether an event should go ahead.

Indeed, we have seen the cancellation of large events very recently, which has served to highlight the level of frustration felt by so many and we must acknowledge the tremendous efforts made by clubs and societies in attempting to stage such events during these turbulent times.

If societies want to go ahead with a show or trial the planning must be done with the utmost care to ensure that all participants are safe and measures are put in place to mitigate the transmission of Covid-19.  Currently one of the most important aspects of event planning is to as far as possible ensure the club/society’s finances can carry the cost of any last minute cancellation due to a local authority imposed lockdown and can cope with the additional equipment needed to make their event Covid secure.

Large events in particular make a very serious and huge financial commitment well in advance of being staged, often with substantial non-refundable deposits involved, so this too must be borne in mind.

All risk assessments are unique to each event and venue, taking this into account we can share a range of headings which must be considered within a risk assessment. The purpose of which is to ensure that all reasonable steps are taken to mitigate the risk of transmission of Covid-19 and to implement social distancing amongst participants. These include:

Be flexible and adaptable

One of the most important considerations is to think of the impact on financial planning, for example reduced capacity in respect of entries or spectators, local lockdowns and cancellation and the additional costs of signage, hygiene and cleaning measures required as well as all the pre financial costs in running an event.

Practical measures 

The sorts of measure to take into account include:-

• The social distancing parameters 2m/1m (with mitigation), 10m2 per person density, ‘last mile’ (zone around event venue) and the effect on its local amenities such as hotels, campsites, pubs etc
• Entrance/exit, queue management, pinch points – congestion, crowd density/capacity, ring management, touch points (shared equipment etc), ventilation (indoor venues), hygiene, catering, toilets, PPE masks
• Individuals you need to think about - competitors/exhibitors, veterinary cover (if applicable to the event), judges, stewards, visitors, and any trade stand holders
• Arrangements for ‘Test & Trace’

Regular contact with the Local Authority where the show/trial is taking place is considered essential especially in the run up to the event.  The Local Authority will need to know the venue size, anticipated numbers of participants (exhibitors, traders, officials, dogs etc.) so that it can locally risk-assess in terms of the then current Covid-19 rates, other local events and amenities in and around the area.

Tony Allcock OBE, Kennel Club Chairman, said, 'The Board would like to acknowledge the tremendous efforts being made by Kennel Club staff, many of them working remotely due to the current pandemic which has generated a vast number of enquiries. Event management and planning also involves a huge amount of work including liaison with associated bodies, all of which has been dealt with in a very efficient way often under very challenging circumstances.

'The Board shares the anguish and frustrations of the dog world with this enforced halt of our beloved hobbies; the same sentiment is being expressed by many involved in other similar competitive leisure activities.  However, the overriding concern for all at this time is to keep people safe.  We have sympathy with those trying to arrange events, large or small, and cannot stress enough the importance of keeping abreast of the Government’s guidance which is regularly changing and Local Authority consultation is essential. We are continuing to liaise with Government but in the meantime there is a range of advice and guidance for clubs and societies on our website for those which are considering running a show or trial.'

Due to the pace of changing information we suggest that for current Government advice for all parts of the UK please visit the following websites:

• England – www.gov.uk/coronavirus

• Scotland – www.gov.scot/coronavirus-covid-19

• Wales – gov.wales/coronavirus

• Northern Ireland – www.nidirect.gov.uk/campaigns/coronavirus-covid-19

To view Kennel Club advice for shows and societies, please visit thekennelclub.org.uk/resumption-of-licensed-events

Measuring Update from KC

The Kennel Club has issued this operational plan for the resumption of dog agility measuring.

Measurers are reminded that all Small, Medium or Intermediate dogs must have had a first measurement before they can compete at a Kennel Club licensed show. Obviously Large dogs are not required to be measured.

Dispensation has been given for dogs that required a 2nd (or 3rd) measurement since 17th March 2020 and have not been able to have this measurement. This must now be carried out prior to 1st July 2021. Until this date a dog which has had its 1st measurement may continue to compete regardless of whether it has had its 2nd or 3rd measurement. (This date will remain under review based on the current situation, but will not be brought forward.)

Measurers may start measuring when they feel safe to do so, there is no pressure for anyone to measure until they wish to, but hopefully this guidance will be helpful as to how measuring may take place safely.

A statement must be included when a measuring session is arranged to state that if a handler / owner, or anyone in their household, has Covid-19 related symptoms or has tested positive for Covid-19 they must self isolate in line with Government advice and not attend the measuring session.

• Written information (including a mobile telephone number) on all those attending a measuring session must be collated. This must be detailed enough to allow NHS Test & Trace to contact all participants if any attendee becomes ill with COVID-19. These records must be kept for 21 days.
   

• All dogs must be booked in advance, including their full Kennel Club details, for any measuring session. Where the booking is for a 2nd (or 3rd) measurement, details of the previous measurement(s) must also be submitted in advance so they may be logged prior to the session, to save time and maximise efficiency on the day.
   

• Unless in exceptional circumstances, only one handler to be with each dog to be measured.
   

• Handlers must wear a mask or face covering whilst in the room in which the measuring session is being held.
   

• Measurers must wear a face mask or face covering whilst in the measuring area, or a visor may be worn if preferred.
   

• Social distancing must be adhered to as much as possible whilst undertaking the measuring.
   

• Those queuing for their dogs to be measured must adhere to social distancing measures.
   

• Ideally those queuing for their dogs to be measured should be outside.
   

• Payment must be the correct cash in a clearly labelled see through bag or envelope.
   

• Record Books should be purchased and completed in advance of the measurement.
   

• The measurers must use hand sanitiser (or wash their hands) between each dog.
   

• Hand sanitiser must be available for measurers’ and handlers’ use.
   

• Ideally only the measurer will touch the measuring hoop and microchip reader. However if it is necessary for the handler to handle the microchip reader or measuring hoop it must be wiped down with appropriate wipes immediately after use.

Postponed Jersey Euro Festival Now Cancelled

Unfortunately the show organisers have had to cancel the 2020 Jersey European Agility Festival which had been rescheduled for 17th-20th October.

Andre Rees said, 'It was a very difficult decision to cancel this year's Jersey European Agility Festival. There is still too much uncertainty and things keep changing rapidly day by day. Even though Jersey has opened up its borders last month, it was only announced yesterday that France has now been down graded from a green to amber country for anyone travelling through or from France. They will now have to self-isolate on arrival in Jersey for at least five days.

We have also seen a huge reduction in boat sailings from the UK and France which would make it very difficult for people to travel to the Festival and get back home on the usual boats. Our local Government is still advising events can only have a maximum of 40 in attendance and will not be reviewing this again until at least the end of the month. We do not know at this stage if this will be increased anytime soon. I am sure you can all appreciate it has been a very challenging year with so many events being cancelled everywhere.

'We will now start looking at planning next year's event and will let you know our plans and dates as soon as we have secured everything.'

Redgates Under New Management

Tim & Clare Griffiths have made the difficult decision to retire from running Redgates AC after 19 years.

In a statement, they said, 'We have been running Redgates Agility Club since 2001. It all started when Mary Ann Nester who ran our local club at that time moved away, and we had no where to train. It has been a fantastic journey with so many happy times and the club going form strength to strength.

However, we have now decided that it is time for us to move on. With us both now fully and permanently retired from gainful employment, Lockdown has given us the opportunity to think about what we want to do, and consequently we have decided that it is now time for us to leave Redgates behind. Our house in Essex is on the market and we are actively looking for a detached property with some land in either Lincolnshire or South Wales, so that we can pursue some new ventures. We will not be retiring from Agility completely - we will both continue to compete. Tim will continue to Judge, Clare will continue to Ring Manage, and we will both continue to help set-up at shows.

We are very pleased to say that Redgates will continue as an independent group - and will now be run by Alan & Sabine Hanna, albeit with a slightly changed name of 'Redgates Dog Training School', as under the new arrangement the club will offer Obedience & Puppy training in addition to agility. Redgates KC Listed Status is not transferable so they will have to reapply for that. We understand  that they are not planning a show for 2021, but hope to be able to put one on in 2022 or 2023.

This has been a very difficult decision for us. We are indebted for all your help and support over the years. Thank you all from the bottom of our hearts.

Tim & Clare  can still be contacted via PM of Facebook  or via their personal email accounts: Tim.Griffiths@btconnect.com or Clare.Griffiths6@btconnect.com

 JULY 2020

Agility Team GB Management Team Announced

The Kennel Club would like to congratulate the following people have been recruited onto the Management Team to work alongside the Team Manager, Greg Derrett for Agility Team GB

• Matt Goodliffe - Senior Coach
• Ant Clarke - Junior Coach
• Tina Davies - Results Analyst
• Vicky Fraser - Team Vet
• Chris Kerton - Handler Fitness Coach
• Ann Roberts - Safeguarding Officer

Thank you to Agility Team GB sponsors Natural Instinct, Pure Agiity and Galican for their support.

To find out more about each Management Team member and their role see International Management Team on the KC website.

Shaw Agility Show News

After much discussion with the owners of The Dog Training Barn, it has become apparent that Shaw Agility will not be able to run their 31st October show in the usual way and so they have decided to cancel it. They are, however, working very hard to put together a COVID compliant show on this date. They will be offering four runs per dog at slightly higher price, so they've had to add on £2 per person to cover additional costs. 

Sarah Shaw said, 'Priority entry to this show will be given to those who have not asked for a refund. Anyone who has not asked for a refund who wishes to receive one needs to send their details to the Show Secretary to receive all their money back.'

WAO Wildcards & Judges 2021

The WAO will be inviting the 2020 Wildcards to compete at the 2021 WAO. Therefore, 2021 will be invitation only for Wildcards due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Greg Derrett said, 'At this stage, we cannot confirm if we will be able to offer any other Wildcard spots until we have confirmation from the country managers on anticipated numbers at the event. If you might be interested in any additional wildcard spaces, we will announce by October 31st 2020 if we will be opening up any more positions and how this will work.'

The 2020 judges will now be judging WAO 2021.The original 2021 judges (Andre Landry, Jason Bartram and Petr Pupík) will now judge 2022 and the 2022 judges (Bonnik Berthelsen and Natalie Webb) will now judge 2023.

More announcements regarding the 2021 event will be posted.

Dog Vegas Cancels All 2020 Indoor Shows

Dog Vegas has been watching the government announcements along with KC advise including today's post from Jackie Gardner before making a decision about the rest of there planned shows for 2020.

Considering all the current advise available, risk to judges, ring parties and competitors along with the additional workload which would need to be bourne by judges and ring parties if restrictions where to be included in future planning, Dog Vegas have decided to make the difficult decision to cancel all remaining outdoor shows in 2020 and all indoor shows for 2020 and the start of 2021.

Hazel Higgins and the DV Team said, 'We understand that this will be a disappointment to many competitors however in the interest of safety and clarity we wanted to make this announcement as early as we where able based on the information available. We'd like to thank all our judges, members, trade stands and competitors for there continued support and we look forward to seeing you Easter 2021.'

Agility Team GB Pre-selection Qualifiers

• Championship winners from shows in 2019 to Crufts 2020

• Championship reserve dogs from shows in 2019 to Crufts 2020

• Handlers and dogs who qualified for Crufts 2020 in both the British Open & Crufts Singles

• YKC Agility Dog of the Year qualifiers for Crufts 2020

• Olympia Large (excluding Novice) Quarter Finalists, and Small and Medium Olympia Semi Finalists 2019

• Competitors that qualified for the Olympia Large (excluding Novice) Quarter finals and Small and Medium Semi-finals for 2020

• Agility Team GB 2020 Senior & Junior Squad members

If you have not received an invitation and fall into the above category, please email agility@thekennelclub.org.uk by Friday, 10th July.

Those who have not qualified will have a chance to enter the Agility Team GB Open Showcase event. Details will announced on Monday 20th July.

Kennel Club Statement on KC Events
6th July 2020

The Kennel Club would like to advise and reassure competition organisers, exhibitors and competitors that our Sports Committees are working on solutions to help enable shows, competitions and other events to resume when Government guidance allows and the current restrictions are sufficiently reduced or relaxed.

We are also actively seeking Government advice and clarification on guidance already issued.

We are looking at the safety measures that may need to be put in place, together with any Kennel Club Regulations which may need to be amended or relaxed to enable competitions to resume. As soon as more information is available, our guidance will be issued.

We are aware that everyone is keen to resume their dog-related activities as soon as it is practical to do so, but please bear with us as we work towards helping you to provide the safest possible environment to allow for this. The continued health, safety and security of all participants at Kennel Club events is of paramount importance.

DEFRA Guidance Regarding Dog Training
Applies to England only

The training of dogs is an important element of their social development. Dog trainers may continue to provide advice on training on a one-to-one basis using technology to connect the trainer and client. It may also be possible to run classes by video link. If a trainer can utilise a secure safe area to provide training, clients can meet the trainer there providing social distance can be maintained and class sizes are limited to comply with current government guidance (2m should be adhered to where possible). There should be no physical contact between the trainer and client or dog and social distance should be maintained at all times.

Where trainers normally use an indoor space for classes, the trainer should undertake a risk assessment before re-starting classes. The assessment should include the ability to maintain a two metre social distance between clients. This may require the establishment of a one-way system during entry and exit to the room and limiting the number of clients in a class. The trainer must also ensure additional hygiene measures such as regular cleaning of items such as door handles and light switches are in place.

Owners of dogs from infected or self-isolating households pose a significantly higher risk to the trainer and should not be accepted. Owners can leave their dogs with a trainer providing the business handover protocol is followed and social distancing is maintained.

UK Agility Show Update COVID -19 Update
2nd July 2020

Although lockdown restrictions have decreased, UK Agility along with the September show managers, has decided to cancel all September events. This decision has been made due to the uncertainty of the pandemic and civic responsibility regarding the associated risk of running agility events at this time.

Shows from October onwards are not currently available to enter. A decision on these will not be made until mid August.

Greg Derrett said. 'We hope you, your family and dogs stay safe and well and fingers crossed we will see you later in the year.'

South West Agility Processing (SWAP) Credit Refunds

Although still trading, SWAP is now processing very few shows these days.

Graham Partridge said, 'There are numerous people who have SWAP accounts which are in credit and have money in them. We would ask people to check their accounts and, if they are in credit, to contact us to either arrange to have the money re-paid to your bank account or we can arrange for their money to be transferred to the Agility Plaza.'

Please use the contact form on SWAP or email admin@swap-live.com

 JUNE 2020

Kennel Club Prestige Agility Events Observer

The Kennel Club would like to announce that, following a review, a member of the Prestige Events Working Party will be attending each Agility Prestige Event as an Observer.

The Observer will be an independent point of contact for all, and act as the Kennel Club's independent representative at Prestige Agility events. The purpose of the role is to promote and protect the Kennel Club's values, codes of conduct, to ensure ethical behaviour and to resolve potential conflicts not necessarily within the remit of the organiser - and, if required, within the remit of the organiser or organising committee during and after Prestige Agility events.

As an independent observer, the representative will attend and be available to all involved during, prior to and after, the following Prestige Agility events:-

• Crufts

• Discover Dogs

• Olympia Quarter and Semi Finals

• Olympia Finals

• International Agility Festival

• Agility Team GB pre-selection qualifying and team selection events

• FCI Agility World Championships

• FCI European Open Championships

• FCI World Agility Junior Championships

If you have any queries regarding this, please email agility@thekennelclub.org.uk

UKA at Home Shows to Continue

Following some great feedback from competitors, UKA has confirmed that their UKA at Home Shows will continue to run throughout the summer - and potentially longer.

These shows offer the opportunity to qualify for the UKA Grand Finals this year.

There are three course sizes available with the smallest being 10m by 10m and you might be surprised by how little equipment you need to participate.

Two levels of show - Beginner/Novice and Open - mean that you can find a level of show and a size to suit you and your dog.

Hosts Announced for KC Qualifiers

The Kennel Club would like to announce that the following clubs have been awarded an Agility Teams and/or Novice Cup qualifier. We are working on the 2021 qualifier calendar which should be on the website in August so that you can start putting show dates in your diary!

Teams (Final at the International Agility Festival)

• Belgian Shepherd Dog Association – Small and Medium

• Caerphilly and District Agility Club – Intermediate and Large

• Coltishall Agility Club – Small and Medium

• Cornwall Agility Club – Small and Medium

• Dartmoor Dog Training Club – Intermediate and Large

• Down District Dog Training Club – Small and Medium

• Gleniffer Dog Training Club – Intermediate and Large

• High Peak DTS – Intermediate and Large

• Letchworth (FGC) Dog Training Club – Intermediate and Large

• Lisburn & District DTC – Intermediate and Large

• Lune Valley – Small and Medium

• Otley – Intermediate and Large

• Scottish Kennel Club – Small and Medium

• Scunthorpe Obedience & Agility Training Club – Small and Medium

• The Agility Club – Intermediate and Large

• Wye Valley DTC – Small and Medium

Novice Cup (Semi-Final at the International Agility Festival & Final at Crufts)

• Blackdown Agility Society – Small and Medium

• Derbyshire Dog Agility Club – Small and Medium

• Dogs in Need – Small and Medium

• Down District Dog Training Club – Intermediate and Large

• Empingham Dog Training – Small and Medium

• Fair City Dog Training Club – Intermediate and Large

• Gillingham (Dorest) DTS – Small and Medium

• Godmanchester DTC – Small and Medium

• Hinckley DTC – Intermediate and Large

• Kernow Agility Club – Intermediate and Large

• Lisburn & District DTC – Small and Medium

• Norfolk Dog Training Society – Intermediate and Large

• Nottingham Agility DTC – Intermediate and Large

• Otley DTS – Small and Medium

• Packington Agility Dog Society – Small and Medium

• Prestwick and District Dog Training Club – Small and Medium

• Ribble Dog Agility Training Club – Intermediate and Large

• RVA Cambs – Intermediate and Large

• Scunthorpe Obedience & Agility Training Club – Intermediate and Large

• Severnside (Bristol) Dog Agility Club – Intermediate and Large

• Shrewsbury & District Dog Training Club – intermediate and Large

• The Agility Club – Small and Medium

• Tuffley Agility Club – Small and Medium

• Tunbridge Wells & District Canine Society – Intermediate and Large

• Vyne Agility Club – Intermediate and Large

• WBSDS – Small and Medium

• Wellingborough Dog Training Club – Intermediate and Large

• Wyre (Lancs) Agility Club – Small and Medium

Join the Management Team for Agility Team GB

Agility Team GB is looking to recruit the following management team roles:-

• Agility Team GB Junior Coach

• Agility Team GB Senior Coach

• Agility Team GB Data Analyst

• Agility Team GB Handler Fitness Coach

• Agility Team GB Vet

• Agility Team GB Safeguarding Officer (Junior Team only)

Job descriptions for the above roles can be viewed at https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/activities/agility/international-agility-teams/
If you have any questions in regards to the roles please email

The deadline for all applications is Friday, 3rd July.

Triple Team 2020 Announcement

All ten qualifying heats of the Triple Team Qualifier, plus the Final will be virtual it was announced today. This means you can compete in a team of three (any combination of heights), from anywhere - even if your team is spread out across the country.

The top two from each heat will qualify for the Virtual Final... Rosettes to 3rd and trophies for 1st in each heat, plus amazing sponsored prizes and awards, too.

First heat open for entries now... head over to the Triple Team Qualifier FB page for more information.

Agility Measurement Timeframes

The Kennel Club has reviewed the existing timeframes for obtaining a second or third measurement for Agility dogs during the coronavirus pandemic.

The following has been agreed:-

Any dog with a 2nd or 3rd measurement outstanding, since 17th March, will need to have this carried out by 1 July 2021. Until this date a dog which has had its 1st measurement may continue to compete regardless of whether it has had its 2nd or 3rd measurement.

This date will remain under review based on the current situation, but will not be brought forward.

The First COVID Safe Show

On 10th June, Agility Plaza announced the UK's first COVID safe agility show. The Kelluki Independent show on 27th-28th June quickly filled up and closed.

There are obviously some people who are still shielding, and I completely respect and support their decision to do so.

However, restrictions are loosening very gradually and we are now able to carefully go back to training in small groups. There will be no more than six people at the venue at any time and we will all be socially distancing. The total footfall across each day will be approximately 35 people, but these people will be making a very conscious effort not to touch anything. The footfall through a school, park, supermarket or high street will be far greater throughout a day. You don't need to agree with it, but please do respect our decision to take part, whilst we are making every effort to reduce the risk to others as much as possible. There is literally no obligation to enter the show!

Thanks to those who are in support of the show and also to those who don't support it, but didn't criticise those that do.

If anybody has any further suggestions (apart from not running at all 😂) I would be pleased to hear them 😊

 
Update Regarding Crufts 2021

The Kennel Club and the Crufts Committee are committed to holding Crufts 2021 if permitted to do so by the Government.

We greatly appreciate the support the show receives each year from our exhibitors, sponsors, trade-stand holders, public visitors and Channel 4.

The qualification criteria for the show will be announced once the Government guidance is clear on future events which may not be until the autumn.

It may be that the show will need to be reformatted in a way to comply with new regulations. If so, more details about this will be announced as information becomes available.

We would ask for patience at what is a difficult time for everyone with limited information currently available as to how things will progress in the coming weeks and months.

Crufts is the world's best known celebration of dogs and we very much look forward to welcoming you all to the show in happier times in 2021, if circumstances allow.

New Agility Team BG Manager Appointed

The Kennel Club is pleased to announce that the Prestige Events Working Party have decided to appoint Greg Derrett as Agility Team GB Manager. Greg replaces Mark Laker who stepped down from the role earlier this year.

The working party followed due process in their recruitment of a new manager and were delighted that a number of well-qualified candidates applied for the role. A series of significant interviews and discussions took place and all matters were taken into consideration before a decision was reached.

As the newly-appointed Agility Team GB Manager, Greg will oversee both the Junior and Senior teams, and the Kennel Club takes this opportunity to wish him well in his new role.

On Facebook he said, 'I'm really pleased to have been chosen for this role. It is an exciting new challenge for me and I am looking forward to working hard along side The Kennel Club to unite and support our top level handlers for the progression of British agility, both at national level and the international stage.

My first task is building a management team that can support my vision for Agility Team GB and introduce the new ‘Open to all' selection process I have designed.'

Risk Assessment for Dog Training Clubs Government Guidance England from 1st June 2020

Training of dogs is an important element of their social development. Dog trainers may continue to provide advice on training on a one-to-one basis using technology to connect the trainer and client. It may also be possible to run classes by video link. 

From Monday 1st June small dog training classes of up to five students and one trainer are allowed as long as clients are able to maintain social distance whilst arriving, leaving and at the class.  A training class must utilise a secure private outside area with adequate parking to allow clients to arrive and leave whilst remaining two metres apart.  There should be no physical contact between the trainer and client or dog and social distance should be maintained at all times. Owners should touch only their own dogs. Owners of dogs from infected or self-isolating households pose a significantly higher risk to the trainer and others in the class and should not be accepted.  Owners can leave their dogs with a trainer providing the business handover protocol is followed and social distancing is maintained.

Hosting Dog Training Classes from 01.06.2020 using Social Distancing measures

Government Guidance issued on 1st June 2020 now permits up to six people to meet outdoors. It is at the discretion of each training provider to carry out a thorough risk assessment and resume classes only if all areas of concern can be covered fully.

Before re-commencing classes you must consider the Government guidance and all the potential risks associated with this. Training classes must take place outdoors and a maximum of 6 people are permitted to meet at any one time but following social distancing measures.

Venue Risks

• Is your venue based at an outdoor location? Government Guidelines state from 1st June 2020 that all training must be outdoors.

• Is your outdoor venue enclosed and can you ensure the space used for training is safe?

• Does it have provision of shade particularly in hot weather?

• What provisions would you have in the event of wet weather? 

• Will you be using your regular outside private area or an outside public space? If so do you have permission to use this public space?

• Is the venue usually used by the club or would this be a temporary venue used during this period? If so do you need to adapt your venue to comply with government guidelines and to ensure the safety of all participants?

• Can you ensure the space being used for training will allow at least a minimum 2 metre distance between dogs and handlers at all times?

• Are you able to create pods or zones within your training area where individuals can be placed so that they can see the class but remain at least 2 metres away?

• Is the floor surface safe? Grass, concrete or astro turf, do any adjustments need to be made to make it safe?

• If a dog was to get off the lead, how could you ensure a dog off lead did not run up to other handlers/dogs in the group or get out?

• Check your insurance cover is adequate for the training session

Entering the training venue

• Handlers will need to be advised when to arrive, when to leave and only to come on their own with their dog

• Class times may need to be staggered so that one class does not meet the other on the way in/out

• Consider the times of class, will it be before or after another class or one to one session, if so how can handlers maintain a social distance during the changeover?

• When entering the premises, do handlers need to touch gate/doorways? Does the entry gate need to be tied open at arrival time until everyone is in the training area?

• Does the Instructor need to meet handlers in the car park and then escort into the training area?

• Will handlers need to queue up to enter the training area, if so can they maintain a 2 metre distance from other handlers?

• The venue car park may need to be sectioned into zones e.g. yellow zone (to the right of the car park) for the first class and orange zone (to the left of the car park) for the second class.

• Will you need signs, markers or cones to facilitate these procedures?

• Are there any other people in the venue at that time, if so how do handlers get into the venue and observe social distancing?

Hygiene

• How can you ensure safe hygiene at each training session?

• Can you provide suitable hand sanitisers or wipes for handlers entering the venue and during classes? Are you able to provide an area for these to be located?

• Could members bring their own alcohol anti-viral sanitisers with them?

• Is there a bin available to place rubbish?

• Do you have a poop scoop bin for handlers to dispose of their dog waste?

• When cleaning up other than by a poop scoop is needed, how can this be done maintaining hygiene?

• If using any equipment like cones or markers during the class only the instructor should handle them

• Instructors must have a mask and gloves available for themselves in case of emergencies.

• In the event of an emergency and bearing in mind the social distancing measures, are you able to pass the dog to an instructor or back to the owner and avoiding cross contamination?

• Do you have first aid facilities?

Communication to Handlers

• During social distancing measures, clear communication must be in place to all handlers taking part in classes. This may differ from previous class guidance.

• Handlers need to be advised that attending classes is at their own risk and they will be required to follow strict social distancing measures when entering the premises and during each session

• Handlers will need to be advised that training class times and content may change due to current social distancing measures

• Handlers must bring all the equipment they may need with them including hand sanitiser, spare leads, mats, toys, clicker, retrieve articles, dog water, water bowl, dog treats, food bowl, drinks, poop scoop bags and a chair if appropriate.

• Clear instructions will need to be provided to each handler in writing before arrival. This can be emailed prior to the lesson.

• How are class fees to be paid? Do you have facilities to take payment electronically? Or do you have facilities for handlers to pay on the day avoiding cross contamination?

• Paperwork to be emailed to puppy owner to download - or if puppy packs are to be handed out they must be prepared at least 72 hours in advance and put into a bag or box ready to take to class, trainer to wear gloves when handing them out or sanitise hands before and after.

• If any handler is unwell or showing symptoms they must not come to class

Class sizes and content

• Training classes must take place outdoors and a maximum of 6 people are permitted to meet at any one time but following social distancing measures. This means a maximum of 5 handlers with 1 instructor or less if there are more than 1 instructor/assistant

• Consider which classes are best to return first, is your club better placed to facilitate smaller puppies classes or is easier to hold more advanced classes with handlers who have been training before

• As instructors cannot handle a client's dog, how can you avoid this during a lesson?

• When demonstrating training techniques, can the instructor use their own dog to show something or demonstrate in another way?

• Instructors should be very mindful of allowing dogs to be off lead during a training session. Does your venue have a safe area where this can be done without a dog interfering with others?

• Consider multiple handlers with dogs on leads. Dogs on the end of a normal length of lead may be able to access another hander, so it may be advisable to position handlers further apart so that social distancing measures can be upheld.

• Social distancing and class control must be observed at all times. Preventing inadvertent unwanted contact between dogs will need to be considered.

• The instructor's ability to control and steer the class is vital to the safe participation of everyone taking part.

• Do you have a training plan for your lessons? Will your lessons need to be adapted to enable you to follow social distancing measures?

• Remember handlers who are engrossed in engaging with their dogs may sometimes forget to space themselves appropriately.

On lead work – This can be done in small groups but social distancing must be observed and common sense must prevail. The instructor's ability to control and steer the class is vital to the safe participation of everyone taking part.

Off lead work - This will be dependent on the space and restraints of the training area being used and ability of the dogs and handlers taking part. The instructor's ability to control and steer the class is vital to the safe participation of everyone taking part.

Stays – These will be dependent on the space and restraints of the training area being used and ability of the dogs and handlers taking part.

Recall - This will be dependent on the space and restraints of the training area being used and ability of the dogs and handlers taking part. The instructor's ability to control and steer the class is vital to the safe participation of everyone taking part. Consider the use longer leads/lines or on lead puppy recalls for younger and inexperienced dogs

Playing with Toys on or off lead - This will be dependent on the space and restraints of the training area being used and ability of the dogs and handlers taking part. The instructor's ability to control and steer the class is vital to the safe participation of everyone taking part. Playing with toys can be done on lead but extra care must be taken if playing with a dog off the lead so that social distancing is not breached

UK Agility COVID-19 Update
(1st June 2020)

With no sign of lock down restrictions decreasing enough to enable shows to run, all UK Agility shows up to 4th September 2020 have now been cancelled.

All other shows scheduled from 5th September onward are not currently available to enter. A decision on these will not be made until the beginning of July.

In regard to the 2021 WAO England team selection, no decision will be made on this until it is known if the WAO 2020 will happen. The Grand Finals can run and lockdown rules change enough to enable a selection event to be rescheduled.

First Place Processing Issues 6000 COVID Refunds

First Place Processing has now completed all online refunds for the shows that have been cancelled due to COVID-19 (over 6000 refunds issued). The final refunds were made on 1st June 2020.

Please allow a few days - maybe up to seven days -if you cannot find any refund you might still be expecting right away. The refunds will have been paid back to the account associated with the card used to pay for the entries, so please check your card statements carefully to find them. There are still some outstanding refunds to be made by BACS for those with expired cards, but these should be dealt with by the end of the week.

Postal refunds are yet to be issued for a couple of shows. These are being handled by the show organisers, not by First Place Processing and should be dealt with very soon.

 MAY 2020

New British Agility Online Shows

British Agility is pleased to announce its unique Online Agility shows, sponsored by Sean Cameron Photographic.

Current events available to enter...

The British Agility Lucky 13s 
Turn your lock down luck around with this competition which will include 1 x Agility and 1 x Jumping course, set for participants from all around the world on a 25 x 25 metre arena. Each course will consist of 13 obstacles.

The British Agility Online Championship
With courses designed by International renowned judges on a 20 by 35 metre arena, this competition will consist of 1 x Agility and 1 x Jumping class. The results will be combined from the two heats and the top 10 dogs from each height will be submitted into a Final to win the overall title and a cash prize provided by our official sponsor Sean Cameron Photographic.

All details available on britishagility.co.uk

Announcing UK Agility at Home Shows

UK Agility will be launching UKA at Home shows with their first show scheduled to run 5th - 8th June. The shows will run weekly - Friday until Monday - whilst social distancing restrictions are in place in the UK. You can compete at home or at an Approved Venue.

There will be two types of show with three ring sizes i.e. six shows a week.

• Open Shows - open to all. Courses set with high level challenges. All levels will run the same courses
   

• Beginner & Novice Shows - Courses set for the level. Both levels will run the same course

There will be three ring sizes for each type of show:

• 10m x 10m

• 20m x 15m

• 30m x 25m

Each show will have:

• 2 x Agility

• 2 x Jumping

• 2 x Steeplechase

The two larger ring sizes will have Gamblers & Snooker.

You can enter one to eight classes per show and as many shows as you wish at a cost of £4 a class.

Progression points are available for all Clear rounds.

UKA will be publishing on Friday, 22nd May the Grand Finals qualification options.

The schedule will be released on 27th May with entries taken from 28th. A list of Approved venues will be published in the schedule and on the UKA FB pages. Please see the separate post on the UK Agility FB page (due to be published 18.00 on 20/5) on requirements and how to apply to become an approved venue.

Scottish Agility Dog of the Year Cancelled

Sadly Scottish Kennel Club will not be holding a Scottish Agility Dog of the Year Competition in 2020.

The Teams Are Back

The Kennel Club would like to announce some good news whilst we are all facing the COVID-19 pandemic!

They will be bringing back the Agility Teams competition for Grades 1-7 dogs, with the final happening on Friday at the International Agility Festival, as well as introducing a new Novice competition for Grades 3-5 dogs. The International Agility Festival will host the Semi-final for the Novice Cup competition before the Final at Crufts.

They are looking for Kennel Club fully registered clubs to apply to hold these heats. There are eight heats for each of the four heights on offer for the Agility Team competition, and 14 heats for each of the four heights available for the Novice Cup competition. There will be a reduced number of heats held in 2021 due to shows being cancelled in 2020.

If your club wishes to apply to host one of these heats please email agility@thekennelclub.org.uk by Friday, 5th June with the following information:-

• Registered club name

• Which heat or heats would you like to host and for which heights

• Proposed date of qualifier

• Venue

• Details of any other qualifiers your club already holds

15th May 2020

Statement Regarding COVID-19 and Kennel Club Events

The safety and security of competitors, spectators, volunteers and staff at Kennel Club events continues to be of paramount importance. In light of the continued restrictions as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Kennel Club has taken the decision with regret to extend its strong recommendation that clubs and societies cancel forthcoming events until the end of September and that serious consideration should be given to events due to be held after this date.

It is vitally important that those responsible for organising events, large or small, conduct a risk assessment which will include ensuring that the event is COVID secure, i.e being compliant with Government advice and guidance on COVID-19. We will be working on further advice to clubs and societies on the issues which need to be addressed in a risk assessment once the Government publishes further guidance or instruction.

This latest recommendation is based on all advice issued by the Government so far which continues to restrict non-essential travel and maintain social distancing. The Kennel Club also recommends that alternative arrangements continue to be put in place regarding other activities such as meetings, seminars and training classes.

It is appreciated that clarity is important in order to be able to plan, budget and mitigate costs and, therefore, we will provide more definitive advice as soon as the position is clearer from the Government.

The latest advice on the situation regarding COVID-19 is regularly updated and changes daily, and we strongly suggest that clubs and societies keep aware of updates as issued by the Department of Health at

The Kennel Club's current cancellation policy and FAQs, in relation to breed shows, can be accessed at bit.ly/2x5DuzQ and, in relation to all other disciplines, can be accessed at bit.ly/2AjuyZm.

Please email the KC office  to confirm the cancellation or postponement of any licensed events. If your event is cancelled, please also advise whether you require a refund for your licence fee or require the fee to be carried forward for a future event.

Thank you for your patience and understanding at this time.

KCIAF Another COVID-19 Casualty

The Kennel Club has announced, with regret, the cancellation of the 2020 International Agility Festival due to take place on 6th - 9th August at Rutland Showground in Oakham.

This decision has been taken in light of the Government's most recent announcement concerning the ongoing ‘lockdown' situation during the pandemic and also takes into account the safety and security of competitors, spectators, volunteers and staff at Kennel Club events, which are of paramount importance.

In making this announcement, the Kennel Club wishes to acknowledge the continued support of the Festival's sponsor, Skinner's Field & Trial, whose generosity enables the Kennel Club to stage one of the most prestigious agility events in the world.

Refunds will be issued as soon as possible to those competitors who have entered through First Place Processing.

The Kennel Club looks forward to the International Agility Festival next year from Thursday, 12th to Sunday, 15th August.

Advice on the situation regarding the pandemic is changing daily and the Kennel Club strongly suggests that everyone keeps aware of updates as issued by the Department of Health at www.gov.uk/coronavirus.

Further announcements regarding how the pandemic is affecting other Kennel Club events will also be posted on the Kennel Club website at www.thekennelclub.org.uk as well as on the Kennel Club's various social media channels such as Facebook and Twitter.

Vanessa McAlpine, Events Executive at the Kennel Club, said, 'It is such a shame that this year's International Agility Festival has had to be cancelled. This is a double blow given the inclement weather which blighted the event last year. We know how much everyone was looking forward to it, but the health and welfare of all participants must come first and now we turn our sights to 2021 when we shall surely see a thriving Festival with hundreds of eager competitors keen to put their dogs through their paces.'

William Delamore, Group Commercial Director of Skinner's Pet Foods, said, 'Whilst it is a real shame to cancel the Festival, first and foremost must be the safety, health and wellbeing of society. We fully support the Kennel Club decision. We remain a key partner of the Kennel Club and the wider agility world. We have begun planning our 2021 event season and hope to make it the best ever year. We would like to wish everyone all the best and look forward to seeing you soon.;

All queries regarding the International Agility Festival should be directed to agilityfestival@thekennelclub.org.uk.

 APRIL 2020

FMBB Champ Decision

Though the French organisation of the 2020 FMBB World Championships has done it's outmost best to be ready to welcome participants from all over the world, The FMBB Committee has made a decision to cancel the World Championships due to the COVID-19 crisis. With almost all the borders closed, at least until the summer, flights cancelled and hotels, restaurants,

ing closed, it would make it almost impossible to go on.

Dog training is almost impossible. Most of the teams in the different disciplines that would come to the 2020 FMBB World Championships are without proper training and competition practice. Some countries are more strict in quarantine than others, this doesn't provide fair conditions for all possible participants.

After a questionnaire to their members, they decided that moving the date to August was not a good option. Unfortunately most of the teams had already taken leave of work, made hotel and camping reservations, bought flight tickets, and so on. Sadly all of these costs can't  or will not be reimbursed.  Moving the date to August date would mean the loss of almost have the competitors.

The Judges, nominated by the different Commissions, would also be put into danger by going to judge championships with participant from more than 45 countries from all over the world, that is also risk we cannot take.

Geert Bouckaert wrote to members, saying, 'On behave of the FMBB board I have had a conference meeting with the responsible for France. Together we have the same idea that cancelation is the only good option. We know that in the present situation and also the months to come, a lot of other very important things will have priority over our beloved dog sport. We hope that in 2023 France will be our organization as originally planned. We would like to expressly thank the French organization once again for taking over the 2020 organization and the efforts made. Very unfortunate that due to these previously described circumstances, the world championships cannot take place.

The French organisaiton Federation Mondiale du Berger Belge (FMBB) has done its bet to be ready to welcome competitors from all over the world to the 2020 FMBB World Championships

All over the world, we are influenced by the situation caused by the Covid19 virus. We hope you, your families and your loved ones are and stay in good health.

FPP Refunds Update

Just to bring you all up to date with where First Place Process is regarding refunds for the shows that have cancelled since March 17th, the following shows have all had their refunds issued:

• Newton Heath

• Agility Nuts Summer Shows 1, 2 and 3

• Isle of Man, Ribble

• Nottingham

• Otley

• Lune

The refunds for the Dog Vegas shows at Ramsey and Onley will be dealt with over the course of the next week.

A couple of VERY IMPORTANT things to note:-

1. Refunds are paid back to the card used to enter each show. This applies for all shows processed by FPP. If you cannot remember which card you used, please check ALL your accounts before contacting us - you may have three or four things to check. Just under 6000 refunds are being dealt with!
    

2. Given the number of refunds going through the account - over £71000 have been refunded over the past two weeks - there appear to be some substantial delays between issuing the refund and it arriving in the relevant account. Please give it at least 10 days before letting FPP know if you have not received anything. That might seem like a long time, but these are exceptional times and there is nothing that can be done to speed this up.

Refunds for shows that had closed prior to March 17th will be issued as soon as unrecoverable expenses have been calculated and funds transferred back to FPP so refunds can be refunded.

These shows include:-

• Wyre

• Wallingford

• Lincoln

• TAG

• Scunthorpe

• Agility Nuts KC show

• Dog Vegas Oakhill and Easter shows.

FPP requested, 'We still hope to get through all the refunds by the end of April, but please bear with us. If you could refrain from emailing/messaging/texting/phoning to ask about when you will get your refund for any particular show we would very much appreciate it. Please do not be offended if we do not reply to such queries.'

Dogs In Need Agility 2020 Update

This years Dogs in Need schedule will be released at the end of May. Entries close 22nd June and classes (mostly) and show processors are the same as last year, plus Intermediate and the KC International Tour.

DINAS Chairman Gerry Eckersley said, 'By the end of May hopefully we will have a better idea if the show will go ahead and nobody will have paid any money. Obviously when making our decision we will be guided by the Government recommendations and it has to be safe for everyone. There are a lot of things to consider, taking a large number of people into Ipswich and social distancing are just two. I will keep you all updated. Best wishes to all, and stay safe!'

 MARCH 2020

UKA Shows Announcement

In theory, at least, the April and May GT Agility shows have not been cancelled officially as the venue, Newbury Showground, is not answering questions about returning the £4000 hire fee. Practically, however, all entries have been cancelled and money returned to UKA wallets or cheques destroyed. Entries are closed and no late entries will be taken!

All other shows scheduled from June 20th onwards are currently not available to enter. A decision on these will not be made until 1st May.

Grand Finals 2020 Change of Date

The 2020 UKA Grand Finals will now take place on 10th - 11th October 2020 at Addington Equestrian Centre (same venue).

Greg Derrett said, 'In these unprecedented times, we have been faced with many cancellations throughout North America and the UK as well as the World Agility Open in the Netherlands. To clarify the WAO situation, handlers from over 40 nations had qualified to compete in May to represent their country and invested large sums of non-refundable money in travel, hotels and team uniforms. Due to these factors postponing, rather than cancelling, WAO was something we have worked very hard to do.

The only viable dates offered to us, where we felt this crisis might have subsided and the teams were still able to travel before winter sets in, was the last weekend in October. Unfortunately this meant it became logistically impossible to run the Grand Finals on its scheduled date as most of our organising team would have to leave over the GF weekend for the WAO. We are grateful to Addington for being able to offer us an alternative date but again we had very limited options.

At this stage it is obviously unknown if the crisis will be over October and if we will have any shows to have qualifiers at. We will be looking to announce further decisions on the Grand Finals and the qualifiers mid April.

We hope the majority of our customers will understand why these changes have had to be made and hope everyone can be back enjoying their agility before too long.

Stay safe.

Team Manager Wanted

The Kennel Club is recruiting for an Agility Team GB Manager. If you are interested in finding out more about the role please see https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/…/international-agility-t…/

The closing deadline for applications is Friday, 17th April. If you have any questions regarding the role,  please email agility@thekennelclub.org.uk

The CSJ Agility Open COVID-19 Update
25th March 2020

Entries for the CSJ Agility Open are not due to close until 22nd May.

On FB Greg Derrett said, 'We have concluded that, at this stage, it is too early to make any decision on this event so entries will remain open. However, we suggest you do not submit a payment until nearer the closing date when we will be able to ascertain if the event will run.

'Due to our current workload with events in March, April and May we will not be processing any entry refunds at this stage. If you have already requested one we will reply to you directly with a date we will process your request. Thank you for your patience during this unprecedented time.

'We will evaluate the situation regarding the event at the start of May so look for an update around 7th May. If Government rules change before then meaning a cancellation becomes definite, we will, of course, announce any changes earlier. We hope the crisis will be resolved by Mid June and we will be able to run the event but do realise there is a realistic chance this won't happen.'

Stay safe.

Crystal Vision Agility Cancels Qualifiers

Crystal Vision Awards has come to the decision, due to lack of qualifiers this year, to cancel the Crystal Vision Agility Final scheduled for August. All points gained in qualifiers going ahead this year will be carried forward to the 2021 Final.

Hope to see you all soon. Stay safe.

 
KC Statement about the European Open 2020

The Kennel Club, having consulted with the FCI Agility Committee, has with regret decided to cancel the European Open Agility Championships due to be held at Rutland Showground on 31st July - 2nd August 2020.

This decision has been made due to the continued spread of COVID -19 and the risk to the health of everyone concerned. We have taken account of the fact that in some countries national qualification processes may not be completed over the summer and whether, realistically, individual teams would be prepared to commit to travelling even after the virus has peaked. There remains uncertainty about whether and when national governments' policies restricting international travel will be lifted.

It was hoped that we may have been able to postpone the event until late September or October 2020 but this is not considered practical for many reasons. This has been a very difficult discussion; however, in announcing a decision now we hope it may provide some certainty to our Agility friends in these uncertain times. We hope you and your families all remain safe and well and we look forward to seeing you again under happier circumstances. At the present time the Kennel Club's 'International Agility Festival' is going ahead as scheduled with the situation being reviewed in line with Government advice on an ongoing basis.

TAG Asks for Patience

Can I ask people to just bare with us. Within two minutes of putting the postponement post up the processor was inundated with refund requests.

I put the post up as soon as a final decision was made so that everyone knew ASAP, maybe I should have waited until we had looked into what would happen and the implications of postponement or cancellation.

Just give me and Paul at First Place Processing a day or two please. This is something no one has ever experienced things are changing every hour and every day, this is a scary time for all but I know the agility group is a great family. Let's support each other, let's be patient, let's help each other be there for each other over these next few months. Keep in touch with each other.

Lisa and I want to wish everyone a safe few months and stay well.

TAG will be back in the summer, and we will make it a fun party weekend to celebrate coming through the other side.

Platinum Polite Request

Please do not contact Showtime regarding PAL refunds. They have enough to do. Anyone who entered and paid through Showtime online do NOT have to do anything as refunds will be allocated back to your account once everything is sorted out.

Important bit...
Anyone who entered using the paper entry and paid by cheque MUST request a refund as per rule 26 on the schedule. Please send a SAE and covering letter marked PAL refund to –Showtime PAL refunds Rose Cottage, Kershopefoot, Newcastleton TD9 0TJ. This must be received by the 18th May 2020, Failure to do this will result in no refund.

If you have paid by cheque you MUST NOT cancel this as it will have major implications on everyone else's refunds plus you will be reported to the Kennel Club (they will be banked today, any returned cheque unpaid will incur a £10 charge)

Gary Alderslade said, 'We will endeavour to give back as much as possible as we can, but there has already been some major expenditure with the show being a week long and not just your normal weekend show. We have a lot of work ahead of us to sort this out so please bear with us. Thanks again for your continued support and stay safe everyone.'

A Message from Dartford & Upanova Tigers

It is with much regret, following the government's guidelines and the Kennel Clubs recommendations, Louise Bray said, 'We feel we have no option but to cancel Dartford and Upanovatigers Agility Shows on 6th and 7th June 2020.

We are so disappointed not only for our competitors, judges, helpers and club members but also for all the associated businesses that we use and to our sponsors who generously support our show and put on qualifiers for us all to enjoy.

Fortunately our schedule was not released which has made things a little easier for us. If circumstance change and the government allow it we may try to schedule something for later in the year.

We would like to thank everyone for your support and understanding.

Watch This Space for News of the Wraxall Show

Severnside DAC and Clifton AC will continue to monitor the current situation regarding COVID-19 and will follow any Kennel Club advice given as the situation develops.  Everything will be under constant review and they issue updates and a decision regarding Wraxall Show on 27th-28th June when necessary.

The safety and security of competitors, spectators, and volunteers is our priority. In the meantime, Severnside DAC and Clifton AC hope that you and your family and friends stay well.

The Agility Club Leagues Suspended

iSS Hub Message

June Richardson said, 'I appreciate this FB group being set up, and it provides a platform for people to discuss the show situation and is very valuable for that, but to find just the show information easily then please use the iSS Hub. All the information as it comes in is set against the actual show in the Diary so is easy to find by just clicking on the show.'

Show Organisers - please post your notices to The Hub to keep us all informed. Thank you.

K9 Brats Cancelled

Due to the announcement today by the UK Government, the uncertainty of the period between now and the show, K9 Brats being an indoor show and no costs being incurred from the venue on a cancellation, the decision has been made to cancel. As entries were due to close 16th March this also means no one will be charged and money should remain in your wallets. If you have already paid for the show this will be refunded into your wallets. As this was the first ever show on the new system please give us until next Monday to resolve this on your UKA accounts before making contact.

Currently all other shows are still continuing and we will announce any changes if this happens, as more information regarding venues and Government updates are announced. As before we are unable to answer any questions on individual shows on this post.

Statement on Kennel Club events and Coronavirus (Covid-19)

17th March 2020 - 4:38 PM

The safety and security of competitors, spectators, volunteers and staff at Kennel Club events is of paramount importance. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Kennel Club has taken the decision with regret to recommend strongly that Clubs and Societies cancel forthcoming events over the next three months, i.e. until the end of June.

This is based on advice issued by the Government yesterday, March 16, to restrict non-essential travel and contact, and in consideration of the many vulnerable groups who both attend and participate in Kennel Club events. In addition, the Kennel Club recommends that alternative arrangements are put in place regarding other activities such as meetings, seminars and training classes.

Advice on the situation regarding COVID-19 is changing daily and we strongly suggest that Clubs and Societies keep aware of updates as issued by the Department of Health at www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.

Further announcements will also be posted on the Kennel Club website as well as on the Kennel Club's various social media channels such as Facebook and Twitter.

Thank you for your patience and understanding at this time.

Urgent Announcement Concerning Thames Champ Show

As many of you would have seen on tonight‘s news, 17 March 2020 the message from The Kennel Club was sadly very loud and clear.

Andrew Dicker said, 'As Chairman and show manager of Thames dog training club, our committee and members agree with the announcement by the kennel club in that the safety and security of competitors, spectators, volunteers and all concerned with our show is of paramount importance they advised that in light of COVID-19 pandemic, the KC has taken the decision to recommend that clubs and societies cancel forthcoming events over the next three months which sadly, Thames falls within that period until the end of June.

As one of the largest shows in the country it would be irresponsible of us not to follow the guidelines of the kennel club and their recommendations on grounds of safety. It is therefore with very much regret and sadness that I can confirm that due to the current COVID-19 pandemic they will not be a Thames Championship Agility show held at Newbury Showground this year.

In terms of reimbursement of any fees, I would recommend that all those already entered on ASO cancel their entry.. I will be asking the club treasurer to send reimbursements back to all trade stands who have paid already. We will try to field any answers however I don't believe there is much more than can be said on this with regret.

I know that as a good friend said recently to me this is going to be one of the longest and most boring summers ever. Thank you for your understanding and hopefully in the second half of the year we will have a chance to meet up and compete once again when this hopefully is all over.

Wallingford Show Cancelled

It is with great sadness, and with thanks for the clear guidance from the Kennel Club, that I confirm Wallingford Agility Show is cancelled for April 25th-26th April 2020.

Jo Tidmarsh said, 'Thank you to everyone for your support for our show. Thank you to our Judges, and to the WDTC Show Committee for all the hard work to get us this far down the road on our largest show ever.

Please be patient with us as we do our best to recoup as many costs as possible so that we can refund you. See you on the other side! If you have any questions please email show.secretary@wdtc.org.uk

Stay safe and stay healthy.

Health Protection Plan Wes Lo Show Aug 2020

This is subject to the health status of the country at the time and to no Championship Show wanting to use my Show dates for a Championship Show to allow qualification for Crufts 2021.

I will keep the community advised on situation. Any request to borrow dates by PM or email only.

The SKC Champ Show COVID-19 Update

The Scottish Kennel Club is currently monitoring the situation relating to Coronavirus and, whilst they are hopeful that the show will go ahead on 17th May, the safety of all competitors, judges and helpers remains the priority.

Sara Hawkswell, SKC Agility Coordinator, said, 'As the schedule has not yet been released due to the rapidly changing situation it will NOT be released at the moment as we continue to monitor the situation and liaise with relevant bodies. Please competitors check our Facebook page for all updates relating to the Agility Show, rather than calling the office during this busy period.

Dig It Dogs Agility Show Sandbach Cheshire Announcement

We will continue to review the situation in line with the advice received from the Government. However, the Easter and Just Eat shows currently planned for April will not be able to go ahead.

I have emailed everyone entered with the following options.

• ✅ Transfer your entry fee to another show later in the year.
• ✅ Private hire the agility arena for one hour. To the value of £15 per hour. Using extra hygiene and precautions.
• ✅ Refund your entry fee.

It's not an easy decision to make, but the health and safety of everyone is paramount.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Take care of yourself and loved ones.

Dog Vegas Oakhill Cancelled with Regret

With regret, following the latest government guidelines regarding COVID-19 and restrictions on on essential travel, social distancing and lack of emergency service support for public gatherings - and lack of loo rolls Dog Vegas has made the decision to cancel/postpone this weekend show at Oakhill.

Further decisions will be made on future shows in due course.

You will be contacted about refunds and rescheduling directly.

Please do not send direct messages.

Thank you for your patience in these unprecedented times.

Dickson & Browns Cancelled

Dickson and Browns winter unaffiliated agility show has been cancelled this weekend 21st March further updates to follow on our Facebook page for refunds.

Agility Ability

With the latest government announcement we regret to advise that the March show due to be held at Easton College Equestrian Centre on the 29th has been cancelled 😢 please refer to schedule (rule no 26) regarding refunds. SAE should be sent to:
C/o 63 mill road, Norwich, NR9 3DS.

**Please note that the May show has also been cancelled with zero expenses so cheques for that show will be destroyed and bacs payments will sit on your account as a credit.
Sorry for the disappointment - hope to see you all later in the year 

BCA Postponed

In light of today's developments regarding Coronavirus, the decision has been taken to postpone the BCA Fun weekend this weekends fun show. I will put on a fun show once it is safe to do so.

Blair Cochransaid, Anyone who has already entered can have their entry carried over. I realise that this will not suit everyone, However, I feel we need to be proactive to prevent the spread of this virus.

Maidstone Dogs Postponed until September

Katie McManigan of Maidstone Dogs (MAD) has posted, I have mad the decision to postpone the above show until the 26th September 2020. Entries will automatically be transferred to this show - you dont need to do anything.

If you do not wish to enter and require a refund please email me before 1st April 2020 at madshows@maidstoneactivitydogs.co.uk and include your BACS details. After this date no further refunds will be issued. All refunds will be minus £3 as there are a couple of unavoidable expenses which can't be recovered/reused and I simply can not afford to swallow them. Apologies.

Bitz 'n Bobz Announcement

Scottish Agility League News

Fiona Nairn Young has announced, 'It will come as no surprise that after careful consideration I have decided NOT to hold the Scottish Agility League awards on the 19th April irrespective of whether PAL goes ahead or not. In addition, it is both unlikely and impractical to retrieve 100% of the perpetual trophies.

I will look to rearrange the awards later in the year - fingers crossed - once life is hopefully back to something that resembles normal and will keep you updated both on the SAL and Dog Agility of Scotland Facebook pages and the SAL website page.

I have also taken the decision to suspend the Scottish Agility League for 2020. The League runs on members joining and, of course, I see no reason why people should join the league when there are few shows to attend. Anyone who has paid and joined for 2020 will roll over to 2021. However, should you wish to have a refund instead please let me know.

 
IMCA 2020 Cancelled

To all those who attended the IMCA Team Selection Day, Manager Linda Croxford has just been advised that the organising country has posted a notification that they have taken the difficult decision to cancel the 2020 event.

Linda commiserated, 'Understandable but hard for all the competitors that attended today. I need time to think how to give those that got places today the credit going forward for 2021.

Kingdom of Fife Regrets

Due to the escalating situation regarding the Covid-19 virus, it is with regret that Alan Short has announced that the Kingdom of Fife has decided to cancel its April show (4th & 5th April).

The committee has been closely monitoring the advice given by the government and senior Medical Officials and, with inevitable enforced isolation, at least for certain groups of the population, it was felt best to cancel and give competitors as much notice as possible to similarly cancel their plans.

The committee will now start the process of establishing refunds in line with Kennel club guidelines.

UKA Statement on Cornoavirus

We sincerely hope this crisis resolves quickly, so we can all continue to enjoy competing with our dogs.(13/3/20)

Statement on Kennel Club Events and Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Advice on the situation regarding coronavirus is changing daily and we strongly suggest that societies keep aware of updates as issued by the Department of Health www.gov.uk/…/to…/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.

The Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, has said the Government is considering the question of banning major public events such as sporting fixtures. This is based on the impact on emergency service workers of attending these events. The Prime Minister has made it clear that current scientific advice is that the cancellation of major public events will have little effect on the spread of the virus.

In Scotland, the First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon has announced that the Scottish Government is minded to advise the cancellation of mass gatherings of 500 people of more from Monday 16 March. Once again, this decision has been made primarily to reduce the workload on emergency services who usually attend these events.

The Kennel Club advises that, if holding an event, the Society follows main messages from Public Health England on personal hygiene. Therefore volunteers, exhibitors and visitors should be encouraged to maintain good hand, respiratory and personal hygiene by employing the ‘Catch It. Bin It. Kill It' ethos. It is recommended that additional signage and, if possible, bottles of hand sanitiser are provided, to prevent and slow the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).

Societies should consider enhanced measures to help protect visitors, exhibitors, judges and volunteers against coronavirus. Whilst in the ring during judging, it is strongly advised that judges request handlers to show an exhibit's dentition to minimise the spread of infection.

Exhibitors should be aware of current travel restrictions and guidelines, and adhere to these – please visit www.gov.uk/…/publica…/covid-19-specified-countries-and-areas. All individuals without exception are expected to abide by the advice of their relevant governments and national and international laws with regard to self-isolation and restrictions on travel. However, it is advised that everyone should familiarise themselves with the UK government advice and make individual decisions based on their circumstances and if they have any concerns to seek the advice of their doctor.

With regard to the Kennel Club Building at Stoneleigh, the standard refund policy as included in the hire contract remains in place unless the Government issues instructions to restrict or cancel public events due to increased environmental and health risks. In this case, the hirer will receive a refund for funds paid to date or the deposit will be rolled over for a future event.

If your Society does take the committee management choice to cancel or postpone your event, the cancellation policy is outlined at www.thekennelclub.org.uk/…/cancellations-and-re-scheduling…/.  (13/03/2020)

Agility Team GB Performance Weekend Update

After consulting with the members of the Prestige Events Working Party, the Coaching Team and the Kennel Club have made the difficult decision to cancel the Agility Team GB Performance Weekend that was due to have taken place 20th - 22nd March.

Please note that the decision to cancel this event has been made in isolation based upon the circumstances unique to the Performance Weekend. For details of other Kennel Club events, please keep abreast of future announcements.

The Kennel Club issued this statement.

'We are mindful of yesterday's government guidance regarding the Coronavirus outbreak, however we are conscious that some participants may have wished to withdraw from the Performance Weekend for personal reasons or may have been forced to ‘self isolate'. We have given full consideration to the facts outlined yesterday and the likelihood that the public emergency may extend for a number of months.

'We are also keeping in touch with representatives from the FCI Agility Committee about international events. We need to be realistic, the timescales announced by the Government yesterday indicate the worldwide public health emergency may extend well into the summer months. That being the case the European Open and the Junior Agility World Championships may not go ahead. Depending on official advice the World Championships in September might also be at risk. (To be clear, these events have not been cancelled, we have taken the possibility into account in reaching our decision).

'We ask all those involved in the squad process to bear with us in these exceptional circumstances for which there is no precedent. We are trying to balance government advice, the need to protect individuals and their families and our wish to maintain a fair selection process under these circumstances. '

Further updates will be issued as and when. Full entry refunds will be issued to all entries for the Performance Weekend.

Really sorry for any inconvenience caused.

From SKC to Scottish KC Clubs-

Following the First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon's announcement yesterday that from Monday all large gatherings above 500 people with the potential to impact the emergency services should be cancelled to prioritise the Covid-19 (coronavirus) outbreak, SKC advises that, at present, cancellation/postponement of any Club/Society Open/Limit Show in Scotland is entirely at the discretion of each Club.

A formal decision shall be made with regards to SKC May 2020 Championship Show early next week. We are working closely with the Kennel Club on this and also taking onboard advice from both the UK and Scottish Governments. We will also be liaising with the Royal Highland Centre, the show venue. Our exhibitors, judges, helpers and staff's health are priority and would ask that you bear with us whilst these important decisions are being made. We thank you for your patience and understanding meantime.

Licence fees will be refunded should any club chose to cancel and reissued if rescheduled free of charge.

Susan Malabar from Showtime Processing said, With the current advice from SKC re: cancelling shows, I have added some detail to the show details page for show secretaries. You can now see how many owners are entered each day at your show. I will add handlers when I get a chance. Obviously this does not take into account non competing people at the show but it should help show management make a decision.

Irish KC Show Postponed

The Board of ‘The Irish Kennel Club' said, As our prime concern is the health and welfare of our members and the wider community the Board of The Irish Kennel Club has regretfully decided to postpone our two International Dog Shows on 14th, 15th and the ‘Pawtrick's Day' event on 17th March 2020. This decision was not taken lightly and was the result of advice from Government Departments and the Health Authorities.

It is our intention to reschedule these events at a later date as the situation becomes clearer. Stay safe and thank you for your understanding.

If you have entered any of these events, the following will apply:-

Agility Team GB Manager Resigns

With regret, Mark Laker has decided to step down as manager of Agility Team GB with immediate effect.

The Kennel Club said, 'We should like to thank Mark for his unstinting and absolute commitment to the role over the last few years. Mark has made an important and significant contribution to the progress and development of the international Agility teams supported by the Kennel Club and we will miss him greatly.'

On Facebook, Mark said, 'Thank you to everyone who has sent good wishes to Karen and I following the announcement that I have resigned my position as the Kennel Clubs International Team Manager. We're fine and the reason I didn't run Rhyme in the Crufts Championship class was I wanted some time out from agility.

Those of you who know me will know I'm a mentally strong person (thankfully). I know how to deal with pressure and I can categorically state the awful 'Team GB time for change' FB group played no part in my decision to stand down whatsoever. But thank you to everyone who showed concern.

My intention was always to review my position as team manager in 2020 and then decide the future - that's what I've done.

Why 2020? - it marks the end of a five-year programme I put in place and, I've implemented the main initiatives I'd set out to achieve.

Why now? - there are personal reasons why now is the right time for me, but for the team I feel its fair to step-down early in the year now plans are in place for 2020 to give my successor a chance to get up to speed.

Many people have said the team managers role is a thankless task; that's not entirely true. Over the years I've had many memorable moments from people who are very thankful for the support I've given them. As with any management position, there are highs and lows.'

An announcement will be made shortly as to how the team will be managed in the interim while a successor for the role is sought.

Kelluki January Refunds Update

A message from Mike Brickman of Agility Plaza... The Kennel Club Committee meets on 19th March and we should have agreement to pay refunds shortly after this date. In the meantime, please do not contact support or the Show Secretary as refunds will be paid automatically once we have KC agreement. Only if you did a paper entry do you need to write to the show secretary enclosing a SAE.

Urgent Notice...
Kelluki Agility 12th January Show Cancelled

Kelluki Agility has just been informed that Merrist Wood have put the entire College on 'lockdown'' for the next seven days due to the recent outbreak of equine herpes which is potentially fatal to horses and highly contagious.

Show organiser Samantha Hatcher said, 'Please accept my apologies as the decision is totally out of my hands and there is nothing I can do at this short notice to arrange an alternative venue. Please spread the word! I will sort out the financial situation and post an update as soon as I have been able to review this further.'