In association
with Melton Mowbray Flyball & Agility Club
 The
organisers of the East Midlands Grand Prix Agility Match series
are aware that there is considerable
interest in these events because they are not run under the auspices of the Kennel Club. Here
is a report on the first match of three matches from June Bass.
We have been
approached by the KC in respect of our events. We are pleased that they have confirmed to us
that they have no jurisdiction over us. Their only request of us is that we make it clear to
participants that these events are not licensed by the KC. We are happy to re-state that these
events are independent and not affiliated in any way to any other organisation.
A total of approximately 200 dogs
entered the first show. With up to four runs per dog in a variety of classes, there was
something for everyone. The handlers enjoyed some well designed courses. The weather was kind
well most of the time and, with a manageable entry in just two rings, all had a very relaxed
and enjoyable show.
The standard of competition even in
Elementary classes was excellent and, in some cases, the competition was very close. There was
one run off for first place and very nearly had another in which the class was won by just one
hundredth of a second, showing the benefit of electronic timing. Quality rosettes were awarded
to a minimum of 20% in all classes.
One different rule we do have is that
we allow dogs to enter at any jump height irrespective of the size of the dog which meant that
veterans dogs, inexperienced dogs and dogs that wouldn’t normally be able to compete can take
part.
An unplanned attraction was the local
Whippet racing club training session. It made even the fastest collies look positively
pedestrian!
Clever agility dogs
An added feature of the show was that on both days a Cleverdogs competition was held.
Cleverdogs is an event which combines Agility and Flyball in which points are collected from
heat heat, culminating in the Cleverdog of the Year Award along with a gift voucher for Agility
or Flyball equipment. It is now well established on the country fair circuit. Many
agility dogs after a short practice session did remarkably well both in a Starters event and
also when competing against some of the established Cleverdogs stars. Overall it was a
successful weekend.
Thank you
Many thanks to all of our judges, helpers, sponsors, equipment suppliers, members of Melton
Rovers Agility & Flyball Club and all those that have supported us to make these events
possible.
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