117th National Championship Ames Plantation February 8-20, 2016

FIELD TRIAL Covering the National Championship since 1986 Review 117th National Championship Ames Plantation February 8-20, 2016 2015 National Champ...
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FIELD TRIAL Covering the National Championship since 1986

Review 117th National Championship Ames Plantation February 8-20, 2016

2015 National Champion Miller’s Dialing In (photo by Jamie Evans)

2. 2016 Field Trial Review

It’s All About The Bird Dogs

Cute puppies! (Chris Mathan photos)

Shoulda Known Lotta Bo, aka "Lottie," daughter of 2-time National Champion Shadow Oak Bo

Field Trial Review Equus Charta, LLC

Copyright 2015

P.O. Box 594 • Arlington, TN 38002-0594 901-867-1755 • 901-867-1755 (Fax)

Publishers — Tommy & Nancy Brannon Staff — Andrea Gilbert Email: [email protected][email protected] www.midsouthhorsereview.com

The Field Trial Review is an annual publication of the Mid-South Horse Review, a free monthly newsmagazine published in Arlington, TN. Yearly subscriptions to the Mid-South Horse Review are available by first class mail for $35 annually. To subscribe, send payment to P.O. Box 594, Arlington, TN 38002. Phone: (901) 867-1755. EDITORIAL POLICY: The opinions expressed in articles do not necessarily reflect the opinions or policy of the Field Trial Review. Expressions of differing opinions through manuscript submissions are welcome.

About The Field Trial Review Started by the late Don Dowdle, the Field Trial Review has been published annually since 1986. We have continued Don’s legacy of covering the National Championship, paying tribute to the dogs, owners, handlers, and Ames Plantation at this prestigious event. We hope you are pleased with this year’s issue. Every effort is made to avoid errors and to secure photos of every dog and everyone involved in the National Championship. If you find errors, or if we missed you, we apologize. The Field Trial Review is a FREE publication made possible by the support of our advertisers. Please tell our advertising patrons that you saw their ad in the Field Trial Review. The Field Trial Review is available online at: www.midsouthhorsereview.com. Click on the 2016 cover photo to link to the 2016 issue. Past issues are also available at this site. We express our sincere appreciation to all who contributed articles, photos and information for this publication. Submitted articles have been edited to fit available space. Tommy & Dr. Nancy Brannon, Publishers & Editors 6220 Greenlee St. • P. O. Box 594, Arlington, TN 38002 • 901-867-1755 Contents © 2016

2016 Field Trial Review 3.

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4. 2016 Field Trial Review

2015 National Champion: Miller’s Dialing In Hold The Phone! Dialing In A Winner Article & photos by Nancy Brannon, Ph.D. A light rain started falling around the end of hour two of the afternoon brace on Monday March 2, 2015. Drs. Ron and Davey Deal’s Stallion was still working for handler Tommy Davis. Robin Gates had already picked up Larry Lee’s Shadow’s Full Throttle after the first half hour. Stallion had had three finds, a back and an unproductive. But, now with rain coming down, it was time to bring him in. Thus, the 2015 National Championship was finally “dialed in.” The 116th running of the National Championship, and the 100th anniversary of the event being held consecutively at Ames Plantation, was a history-making event, but not necessarily for good reasons. The entire second week of running, February 16-21, was “unproductive.” It was dubbed the “lost week,” because sleet, ice, snow, and sub-freezing temperatures precluded any field trial activity on the plantation. Due to start back on Monday, February 23, the weather again prevented field trial action. The competition finally got back underway Tuesday, February 24, but subfreezing or at freezing temperatures made bird finding difficult. The first week’s running had seen five dogs with good bird work and all finishing the three hours. Stardust Chazz had three finds. Lester’s Jazz Man had four finds, one shared with brace mate Coldwater Warrior. Lester’s Bodacious had four finds and shared a find with brace mate Quester, who tallied six finds plus the shared find with Bodacious. Erin's Dog Soldier had six finds. The second week’s weather was not very accommodating, but was bearable enough for the field trial to continue. On Wednesday afternoon, February 25, it was cloudy and 33 degrees at the breakaway of Brace 16 as White’s Solid Reward and Miller’s Dialing In started the course. Solid Reward had no bird contacts and the tracker was requested at 1:01. But Miller’s Dialing In, aka “Spec,” under the careful strategy of owner and handler Gary Lester, was on a roll. As the three hours came to a close, he had tallied eight finds and one unproductive. The weather, again, was a factor as light snow moved into the area about 45 minutes before the end of the brace. The remaining competitors could not come close to Spec’s performance. Even twotime National Champion Shadow Oak Bo had one find, two unproductives and was picked up at 1:07. Late entry Rikki’s Rockin Rik scratched from his brace on Thursday, leaving House’s Yellow Jacket to run a solo performance. Two others scratched: Southwind Jetset Drifter and Zorra, further dwindling down the competition. In the judges’ eyes, it was Miller’s Dialing In who met the Amesian Standard in 2015. It was the circumstances of Brace 16 that would be the deciding factors. The judges started Wednesday afternoon’s brace early (12:42) to try to beat the snow storm Throughout the brace, Spec had put in a stellar performance. While there was probably much frustration and disappointment because “the weather has been a challenge,” Dr. Rick Carlisle said, taking it all with humor. “This is the longest National Championship that’s ever been. I told the judges staying at the lodge that they would have to pay rent the first of the month,” he quipped to the crowd gathered in front of the Ames Manor House. (continued next page)

Spec and his array of trophies.

The traditional winning photo on the steps of the Ames Manor House. At front is Miller’s Dialing In, “Spec,” with Scout Mark Haynes. Behind him is owner and handler Gary Lester. (Nancy Brannon photos)

Sportsman’s Pride presents their award, a full year’s supply of professional dog food, to Lester, Spec, and Haynes. Brad Kennedy holds the placard.

2016 Field Trial Review 5.

Gary Lester with Spec, who just got some chicken treats from Lester. Lester is back as a handler in the 2016 National Championship for Miller’s Dialing In, Lester’s Knockout, and Miller’s Creative Cause. (Nancy Brannon photo) While there were a large number of dogs qualified (50) and nominated (48) for this year’s running, there have been years when there were more dogs. “In 1978, there were 53 dogs running when Rex’s Cherokee Jake won,” Carlisle told the crowd. After the winner was announced, Gary Lester took the microphone to express his gratitude to God and everyone who had ever had an influence on this bird-savvy dog. He named Ike Todd, who raised him; Nathan Phillips and his dad who bred and whelped him. Spec was sired by Miller's Happy Jack out of Phillips Silver Star, she by White Powder Pete out of Hawk's Silver Sue, a daughter of Miller's Silver Bullet. In an interview after the ceremony, Lester said he calls his group “the company,” because he said, “A lot of us put in a lot of time with these dogs. We love it! It’s not just a one-man job. And Mark is the number one scout in the world!”

Scout Mark Haynes with Spec. (far right) Spec poses for photos at the Manor Horse steps. (Nancy Brannon photos)

2015 National Championship Winning Brace By: Brad Harter

He said he and Mark rode a couple of braces before Spec’s brace to see how the birds were behaving. “The birds weren’t close to the field trial course, and the ones that were there were spooked,” he said. Spec is just a four-year-old and “he’s in good condition,” Lester said. He referred to his dog’s sterling breeding history and to Ferrell Miller, long time trainer of bird dogs. “He’s the most biddable dog I’ve had. He tries to suit me” and still remains competitive. “He just kept coming and getting better. He knows where to look for birds. He’s got good conformation and is very intelligent. We’ve had this dog on the road since October 28th. He’s a great dog! Very strong; he listens to my voice; stays in front; and wants to please me. He is happy with his job and it is a blessing to have him.” Asked his feelings about being on the steps of the Ames Manor House a second time, Lester answered, “It’s just as good the second time!” Lester previously won the National Championship in 2009 with Lester’s Snowatch.

Wednesday afternoon, February 25, 2015, brought what could be called the “perfect storm” in the bird dog world. It was cloudy, the temperature was slightly above freezing and the ground had begun to thaw. A snow storm coming out of Arkansas was predicted to hit by late afternoon. The weather prediction caused the judges to announce an early release for the afternoon brace in hopes of beating the storm. As a result, the two dogs in the 16th brace, White’s Solid Reward and Miller’s Dialing In, were put in at 12:42 p.m. instead of the customary 1:15 p.m. With an approaching front and moderating temperatures, any seasoned bird hunter would have picked this afternoon to be afield. Turned loose, both dogs took the field edge digging into cover in the first few minutes. To the right of the Buster Graves Pasture and just before the first road crossing, John Invester, who was scouting for his Solid Reward dog, called point for Dialing In (Spec), buried in a heavy thicket. Perfectly located, Specs birds boiled out of the thicket flying in all directions. It was the first time this covey had been pointed in this trial, although they had been ridden

up on many occasions. Across Ames Road both dogs headed for Cedar Hill. Spec crossed the front going to the right side as we entered the big Horseshoe Bend. Mark Haynes, who was scouting Spec, was sent to the far right where he found him standing in heavy cover along the woods edge. Owner/handler Gary Lester was summoned and quickly rode to his stylish dog. A large, tight sitting covey boiled from the thicket in front of the mannerly dog. Number two was in the books and Spec’s first hour was far from over. Solid Reward had not been seen for quite some time and his scout was looking everywhere, but without any luck. Spec was up front going into the area called the Chute. A large feed strip lies to the left of the course and Spec was seen standing on point in the middle of it. Gary moved in front of his dog and then broke into a run putting a large feeding covey to wing 40 yards in front of his mannerly dog. Walking back to his dog, birds continued to fly up in all directions. It appeared that nearly 20 birds had hit the air by the time this find was over. (Continued on page 6)

The City of Grand Junction Welcomes Field Trialers

©FTR

Good Luck To All Competitors in the 117th National Championship

6. 2016 Field Trial Review

Dogs Running In The 117th National Championship

Caladen’s Rail Hawk

Caladen’s Supremacy

Cassique’s Boss

Chinquapin Reward (Chris Mathan photo)

Circle Masquerade (Chris Mathan photo)

Coldwater Warrior (Weldon Bennett photo)

(Continued from page 5) As we entered the agronomy field, Spec disappeared to the right over the hill. Once again Mark was sent to find the dog. Soon the distant call of “point” came. When we arrived, Spec stood solid in a bushy fence row. Once again, a large covey exploded in all directions. Back on the course and sent to the front, Spec threw up his head and went to the right into a milo feed strip, once more slamming into point. As Gary rode to his rigid pointer, birds began to lift in front of the mannerly dog. There were five finds in the book and all in the first hour. By this time Reward had been gone a good while and was believed to have been left pointed somewhere behind. The Garmin tracking unit was requested and sure enough, the signal showed him pointed back in the same area Spec had his third find. It was a tough piece of luck for this old warrior, but a big break for Spec, leaving him with the course to himself and nearly two hours to go. Past the Prospect Church and into the old Dairy Pasture Spec once more disappeared to the right. When he didn’t show to the front it was believed he was pointed. Mark and Gary both searched and called, but to no avail. Just when we thought Spec would not be found, Gary and Mark spotted him at almost the same time. Spec was standing in a cut path near the old Dairy Pasture. He had, no doubt, been there for a good ten minutes. His birds were in a wad

and they blew from directly in front of the motionless pointer. Through Turkey and Alfalfa bottoms Spec took the big crop fields to their limits. Every cast directed him from one birdie objective to another. Spec had settled into a comfortable handling mode, always keeping his handler’s course in mind. At the top of Pine Hill Spec stood on point near the same area where Game Strut had pointed birds in the first week. Gary was unable to flush birds. When asked to relocate, Spec made a brief effort to find the birds, but quickly moved off in search of another covey. Past the old agronomy shed and heading into his last hour Spec vanished off to the right side of the course near the old Jack Harris Cabin site. Once again Mark was sent to look; soon we heard the distant call of point. Spec was buried deep in heavy cover. His birds were exactly where he indicated they were and, once more, a large covey exploded from a tight sitting wad. Across Caesar’s Ditch and through the area known as Cox’s Ridge, Spec continued showing to the front. When we reached Fason’s Bottom, Spec was rimming the entire field and showing absolutely no signs of fatigue. With less than ten minutes to go in his three hours, Spec came from the right side, showing up front as we headed for Buford Ellington Road. Gary was directed by the judges to take Spec to the left to finish the

Brad Harter, Official Videographer brace. Spec started in that direction cued to Gary’s horse, but his nose told him something different. He stopped, threw his head up and swung back to the right into the wind that was coming across a milo feed strip. Ten yards into the feed strip Spec slammed into point, nailing his 8th and final covey. With less than five minutes left in his three hours, Spec was sent off towards the morning breakaway. An armadillo scurried across the trail in front

(Chris Mathan photo) of Spec and he leaped over it showing no interest at all, his mind totally focused on finding birds. At the call of time Spec was reaching for distant cover. Gary’s son, his 10-year-old granddaughter, and a family friend were all riding to see this performance. The granddaughter summed it up best when she kissed her proud granddad. I heard her say: “You did a great job papaw!” and so did Spec!

2016 Field Trial Review 7.

Dogs Running In The 117th National Championship

Cole Train

Connor’s E Z Button

Dunn’s Tried ‘N True

Erin’s Full Throttle

Erin’s Kentucky Gambler

Erin’s Muddy River

first at the Sunflower Classic and a runner-up at the United States Open Championship. The eight year old’s record shows eleven placements at qualifying trials, including two championships: the 2015 Mississippi Ch. and the 2012 Florida Ch. Boss was bred by Tim Moore and was sired by Elhew Fibber McGee out of Magic Carpet. He is owned by Rick and Sam Stallings and handled by Steve Hurdle. CHINQUAPIN REWARD comes to the Ames Plantation for his rookie year having twice won the Florida Open All Age Championship, 2013 and 2016, on his home turf. He had additional placements at the Blackbelt Classic and North Dakota Classic. Pete was bred by Fred C. Robinson II and sired by Solid Reward, a descendant of T. Jack Robinson’s Evolution. His dam, Chinquapin Well Liz, shows Chinquapin Bisco Bull and Flatwood Silver in her pedigree. This five year old pointer male is owned by Ted and John Baker and handled by Slade Sikes. CIRCLE MASQUERADE hails from Montana, though her qualifying placements were made on the west coast, winning the Pacific Coast Championship and the Cascade Championship under the handle of retired Rich Robertson. Rosie is now handled by Jamie Daniels for her rookie run this year. This five year old pointer female was sired by Distant Shadow, brother of the 2010 national champion In The Shadow. Her dam, Phillip’s Miss Kate, is a daughter of Phillip’s White Twist and shows other Miller’s Silver Bullet ancestors in her pedigree. Shannon Nygard is her breeder and owner. COLDWATER WARRIOR is a seven-year-old pointer male who is returning for his sixth year in Amesian competition. Rex re-qualified for this year with a second place at the Lynn Taylor (Carroll County) Classic. His previous record shows him as twice an invitational champion: 2010 American Derby Invitational and the 2012 Quail Cham-

pionship Invitational. He was sired by Whippoorwill War Dance, a son of the 2008 National Champion Whippoorwill Wild Agin, out of Coldwater Flirt. His co-owner Gary McKibben (with Jim Crawford) was also his breeder. Rex is handled by Weldon Bennett. COLE TRAIN is one of the hottest rookie competitors this year, garnering seven placements in the qualifying trials of 2015. This male pointer will celebrate his fourth birthday during the championship. Cole was bred by Ray Hamilton and is by Lance’s Last Knight, a son of the recent hall of fame inductee Erin’s Bad River. His dam, Quinton’s Pretty Baby, is by Quinton's Big Wheel (a son of House’s Rain Cloud) out of Premier’s Little Kate, who goes back maternally to Nell’s Rambling On. Dr. Fred Corder owns and handles Cole. CONNOR'S E Z BUTTON is returning for his sixth year, having previously won this championship in 2012. He re-qualified this year with a third at the Buck Tuck trial. Button is eight years old, and handled by Steve Hurdle. He was bred by Patrick McPherson, and is by McRee’s Rhett (a great-grandson of Elhew Snakefoot) out of McRee’s Breeze. This pointer male is currently owned by David and Lindsey O’Connor. DUNN’S TRIED’N TRUE was a derby aged contestant last year. This pointer male went on to win the Purina Top Derby Award. He returns as a three year old, first year all age contestant, having re-qualified winning the All America Derby Championship and runner-up at the International Pheasant Championship. He was sired by 2015 National Champion, Miller’s Dialing In out of White Royal Pain. The dam a daughter of South’s Late Night and bred by Chris George. Luke Eisenhart will handle Jack for owners, Will and Rita Dunn. ERIN’S FULL THROTTLE is a five year old pointer male. Dan returns to run for the second year with a third place at the Central Carolina Open to re-qualify. He was

2016 National Championship Contestant Profiles Compiled by Stephen H. Bell and Amy Spencer CALADEN'S RAIL HAWK is returning for his fourth run at Ames. This pointer male re-qualified with a first at the Missouri Open All Age and a third at the Blue Grass Quail Classic. Jack is owned and handled by Dr. Fred Corder. He was bred by Ross Callaway eight years ago, and was sired by Rockacre Blackhawk out of Caladen's Guard Rail Girl. Jack’s past record shows twelve placements in qualifying trials, five were firsts, and two were at the Hobart Ames Memorial All Age. CALADEN'S SUPREMACY is a pointer bitch who will celebrate her sixth birthday during her rookie run at this year’s National Championship. She has three qualifying placements, all firsts, and all in the Carolinas: 2014 Tarheel Open Championship, 2015 Central Carolina FTC and North Carolina FTA. Sue was bred by Ross Callaway from a frozen semen mating of Guard Rail and his good bitch Caladen Elhew Sarah. Ross co-owns Sue with Leah Brigham, and he will handle her at this year’s competition. CASSIQUE’S BOSS returns this year for his third attempt at setting a special mark in the record books. He has previously won the National Open Shooting Dog Championship, and no dog has ever won both National Championships before. Boss re-qualified this year with a

8. 2016 Field Trial Review

Dogs Running In The 117th National Championship

Erin’s Whiskey River

Erin’s Wild Justice (Chris Mathan photo)

Fireline

Hendrix’s Outlier

Highground Jax Jabba

Just Irresistible (Chris Mathan photo)

bred by Sean Derrig and sired by Erin's Stoney River out of Erin's Pretty Penny (his pedigree full of grand or great grand children of Erin's Southern Justice). Dan is owned by John Ivester and handled by Lefty Henry. ERIN’S KENTUCKY GAMBLER is returning for his fifth year, having re-qualified with a win at the Lee County (Ga.) Open All Age, a second at the Blackbelt (Ala.) Classic, and a runner-up at the All America Quail Championship. He was recently the top qualifier at this year’s Continental Championship. Duke was bred by Sean Derrig and was sired by Erin's Tin Soldier out of Erin's Tiny Dancer. This seven year old pointer male is campaigned by Luke Eisenhart for Sean and Deb Hauser. ERIN'S MUDDY RIVER is a rookie contestant this year, having qualified with a first at the Sunshine (Fla.) Open All Age and a previous win at the 2013 Dominion Chicken Championship. Pete also garnered a second at this year’s Lee County (Ga.) Open All Age. He is a pointer male bred by Sean Derrig and is the third generation to have an Erin's...River name. Erin's Muddy River was sired by Erin's Stoney River (a son of Erin’s Bad River) out of Thoman’s Miss Annie, a granddaughter of Miller’s Silver Bullett. Luke Eisenhart will handle this five year old pointer male for owner Tommy Hamilton. ERIN’S WHISKEY RIVER is a veteran contestant, returning for his seventh run. He will turn eight years old just days before the drawing. Will re-qualified for this year with a first at the Heartland Open All Age. Will's previous record in qualifying stakes shows five championship wins and three runner-ups. This pointer male is by Erin's Bad River out of Erin's Gypsy, and was bred by Sean Derrig. Sean will handle Will for his daughter Maeve Derrig (Will's owner). ERIN’S WILD JUSTICE returns for his second year with an impressive season of qualifiers: a first at the Blackbelt (Ala.) Classic and two championships, the

United States Open and the All America Quail. This pointer male has won four championships and three runner-ups, and is only four years old. Dan was sired by Whippoorwill Wild Agin out of Sparrowhawk, she from the famous knick of Rockacre Blackhawk and Elhew Katie Lee. Mike Moses was the breeder of Erin's Wild Justice, and Luke Eisenhart will handle him for owner Allen Linder. FIRE LINE is a four year old pointer male making his rookie appearance this year. He comes to Ames Plantation having won the Saskatchewan Open Chicken Championship and a previous win of the Continental Derby Championship in 2014. He garnered a second at the Broomhill Open All Age this year. He was bred by Woody Watson and is by House’s Line Up out of Wildlife Charcoal Fire, a daughter of Miller’s On Line and a Joe Shadow bitch. Mark McLean will handle Spot for his owner, Nelson Mills. HENDRIX’S OUTLIER is a five year old pointer bitch who qualified for her rookie year here with two championship wins: the National Club’s Free For All Championship in 2015 and the Southwestern Championship in 2014. She previously won six runner-up championship placements. Lady is a daughter of Whippoorwill War Dance and Hendrix’s Sassy Tide. The dam’s sire was Roll Tide, a son of Shell Creek Panoramic. Lady was bred and is owned by Guy and Burke Hendrix, and is handled by Burke. HIGHGROUND JAX JABBA makes a record-setting sixth run at Ames Plantation this year. Only one other setter has run more, Turnto with eight years, and only one other has equaled this mark, Feagin's Mohawk Pal. Jabba is eleven years old, and re-qualified for this year with a runner-up at the Cascade Championship. That was his fifth runner-up championship placement to match his previous five championship wins. He was bred by his own-

ers, Charles and Kara Kunde, and was sired by Tekoa Mountain Patriot out of Tekoa Sassy Lass. Lori Steinhouser will again handle this setter male. JUST IRRESISTIBLE is a five year old pointer male who returns for his third year in Amesian competition having re-qualified with a first at the Kentucky Quail Classic. Jack and Tracy Haines bred Stud, and he is by Riverton’s Funseekin Scooter (by 2007 National Champion Funseeker’s Rebel out of Riverton’s Blackeye Pea) out of Just Wait Bess. Owner Mary Devos graduated from college this year, and she will have Jamie Daniels handling her Stud Muffin. LESTER'S BODACIOUS re-qualified for his third year with wins on the prairies this past summer, the Dominion Chicken Championship and a second at the Alberta Classic. Big was sired in 2008 by Lester's Snowatch, one year before he won here. This breeding was made by William Griffith. His dam, High Noon Jana, is a daughter of Law’s High Noon and from a maternal line that traces back to Denmark many generations ago. Big previously won the Georgia Quail Championship in 2014 and has twice been a runner-up at the Florida Championship. He is owned by Franz and Karen Rowland and Gary and Becky Futch. This pointer male is handled by Rick Furney. LESTER’S JAZZMAN is a four year old pointer male, returning for his second year, having re-qualified with a win at the Oklahoma Championship and a runner-up at the Texas Championship. Sam was bred by W. M. Hawkins and was sired by the 2009 National Champion Lester’s Snowatch, out of High Point Jesse. He is owned by Dan Hensley and handled by Randy Anderson. LESTER’S KNOCKOUT is a seven year old pointer male who returns for his third time, having run in 2012 and 2013. Tim re-qualified for this year with a second at the Rend Lake Open All Age. He was bred at Rosemary

2016 Field Trial Review 9.

Dogs Running In The 117th National Championship

Lester’s Bodacious

Lester’s Jazz Man

Lester’s Knockout

Mega Blackhawk’s Progeny

Miller’s Creative Cause

Miller’s Dialing In (Vera Courtney photo)

Plantation and sired by the 2009 National Champion Lester’s Snowatch out of Rosemary Dot. Tim is owned by T. J. Liesfield and handled by Gary Lester. MEGA BLACKHAWK’S PROGENY returns for his second year, having re-qualified by winning the Hobart Ames Memorial. This five year old pointer male previously ran here in 2014. Hawk was bred by Robert E. Craig and is a son of Rockacre Blackhawk out of Mega Ruby, a daughter of Whippoorwill War Dance. Steve Hurdle handles Hawk for his team of owners: Bob and Sarina Craig, John Sayre, and D. Raines Jordan. MILLER’S CREATIVE CAUSE is just shy of five years old for his rookie run at Ames Plantation. This pointer male qualified by twice winning the American Quail Classic in 2014 and 2015. In addition, he won the Lynn Taylor (Carroll County) Classic and took second at the Blue Grass Quail Classic. Bo was bred by and is handled by Gary Lester, and is co-owned by Lester with David Thompson. He was sired by Miller’s Happy Jack, also a competitor this year. His dam, Muddy Water Kate, was sired by Muddy Water Ben (a brother to Sir Lancelot and Lester’s Leeza, dam of National Champion Lester’s Snowatch) out of Kiestler’s Doll. MILLER’S DIALING IN is the returning National Champion. This is his fourth year to run here and he is just six years old. Although he automatically re-qualified as the returning champion, this pointer male has won two other championships this year: the Southern Field Trial Championship and the Kentucky Open Championship, plus three other firsts, the West Tennessee Open All Age, Rend Lake Open All Age, and the Kentucky Lake Open All Age. In total, Spec has twenty-six placements in the qualifying trials, with five as championships and five as runner-up. Spec was bred by Nathan Phillips and was sired by Miller’s Happy Jack out of Phillips Silver Star. He is owned and handled by Gary Lester.

MILLER’S HAPPY JACK returns for his seventh year, trying to do what his son, Miller’s Dialing In, did last year. He is competing against two other sons, Miller’s Creative Cause and Touch’s Game Point, and a grandson Dunn’s Tried ‘N True. That is quite a formidable clan for this eight year old pointer! Jack was bred by Alvin Bryson out of his bitch Bryson’s Powder Twist, a sister of Miller’s Date Line; his sire is Lester’s Bandit, a grandson of Miller’s Date Line (by House’s Line Up out of Will’s Wendy - a knick that produced two other national championship contestants, the sisters Mac’s Memphis May and House’s River Fever). Jack re-qualified this year with a runner-up at the Missouri Open Championship, and a runner-up at the Alabama Championship. He is owned by Scott Griffin and handled by Randy Anderson. OAKSPRING BIG TIME WARRIOR is a four year old pointer male making his rookie run at Ames Plantation. His qualifying placements are all from Oklahoma, with firsts this year in the Stillwater Open All Age and the Inola Open All Age. He previously won the 2013 Cecil Proctor Open All Age. His sire, Oakspring Big Time, who died young, was from the original litter by National Champion Whippoorwill Wild Agin and Sparkles. His dam was Barshoe Eclectic, a daughter of Heyu Two Pete and from the maternal line back to Barshoe Fly. This breeding was made by Allen Vincent who is also his handler. Fred is owned by Jeff Miller who was the owner of Oakspring Big Time. QUESTER is a nine year old pointer male, returning to the National Championship for the fifth time. He re-qualified with a third at the Hobart Ames Memorial, his third time to place in that trial. Quester was bred by Stephen V. Lyons and was sired by the 2004 National Champion Miller’s On Line out of Platinum. He was owned by the late Jim Fornear, and now owned by Peg Fornear. This year Bud is handled by Larry Huffman.

RAELYNN’S HIGH COTTON is an eight year old pointer male that was bred by Burke Hendrix and originally known as Hendrix’s Headline. He was sired by Searchlight Bill, a line bred two-times great grandson of Miller’s Chief. His dam, Wiggin’s Line Dancer was a daughter of 2004 National Champion Miller’s On Line. Mike is handled by Allen Vincent, who re-qualified him for his third year with a first at the Cecil Proctor Open All Age and a third at the Inola Open All Age. Mike is owned by David T. O’Connor and Charles and Raegan Williamson. RAELYNN’S SKYY re-qualified for his fourth year with a second at the Stillwater Open All Age. Skyy is an eight year old pointer male owned by Brad Calkins. He was bred by Fran and Jack Miller, and was sired by Rockacre Blackhawk out of Lester's Nightshade. She is a daughter of Miller’s White Powder, and, more notably, the third consecutive generation of her maternal line (from Bar Lane Dot) to be a dam of a national championship contestant. Andy Daugherty is Skyy’s handler. SALEM’S ANNIE OAKLEY comes to Ames Plantation as a rookie with three qualifying placements – all championship wins: this year’s Texas Open Champion, Missouri Open Champion, and Dominion Chicken Champion in 2014. This pointer female is just shy of six years old and was bred by Dr. Dan Bloom. Her sire, Smokey Knight, is a son of Sir Lancelot out of Powder’s Best Liz. Her dam, Good Knight Tramp, is the product of a brothersister mating (by Poncho out of Silver Spectacular); they are by Jed Pinto out of Kodak Candy. Jed Pinto was by Miller’s Showcase out of Whippoorwill Chief Dot, and his sister, Soapie Showcase, was the maternal great grandmother of Kodak Candy, a maternal line that traces back to Bar Lane Dot. Kodak Candy was sired by Kodak Moment, a son of House’s Rain Cloud. Annie is handled by Andy Daugherty for her owner Jim Santarelli.

10. 2016 Field Trial Review

Dogs Running In The 117th National Championship

Miller’s Happy Jack

Oakspring Big Time Warrior

Quester

Raelyn’s High Cotton

Raelyn's Skyy (Vera Courtney photo)

Salem’s Annie Oakley

SHADOW’S FULL THROTTLE is a five year old pointer male returning for his second year of competition. Cutter re-qualified with the runner-up at this year’s Continental Championship. He also won that championship in 2014. Cutter was bred by John Neely and was sired by Erin’s Stoney River, out of Twin Lakes Wishbone. He is owned by Larry Lee and handled by Robin Gates. SKYFALL is a four year old pointer male from that notable knick of 2008 National Champion Whippoorwill Wild Agin and Sparkles. He is returning for his second year with re-qualifying placements as runner-up at the Southern Field Trial Championship and first at the Fitch Farms - Galena Plantation Open All Age. Pete is owned by Bob Walthall, who is also his breeder, and Thorpe McKenzie. Pete is handled by Steve Hurdle. STALLION re-qualified for his fourth year with a second at the Fitch Farms - Galena Plantation Open All Age. He has previously won five championships and three runner-ups in the qualifying trials. This seven year old pointer male was bred by Keith and Bill Martin, and is by Strut out of Sony. Colt is handled by Tommy Davis for Drs. Ron and Davey Deal. STARDUST CHAZ is a six year old setter male who re-qualified for his second year with three placements this season: seconds at the Sunflower Classic and the Buck Tuck Open All Age, and a third at the Tootsie Hurdle Open All Age. His breeder, Scott Kermicle, is part of a team of owners with Robert Craig, John Sayre, and D. Raines Jordan. He is by Wildwing Warrior out of Stardust Coco. Wildwing Warrior is descended several generations from Double Dog Dare, a son of Tekoa Mountain Sunrise. Chaz is handled by Steve Hurdle. TOUCH’S ADAMS COUNTY returns as a fourth year contestant, having re-qualified with a second in the Cecil Proctor Open All Age and as the Mid America Champion. He was the Purina Top All Age dog of 2014. He was bred

by T. Mason Ashburn and is by House’s Line Up out of Line of Beck. Bo is owned by Richard Peterson and handled by Randy Anderson. This pointer male will celebrate his seventh birthday during this year’s National Championship. TOUCH’S GAME POINT returns for his second year, having missed last year’s competition. He re-qualified with a second at the Kentucky Quail Classic and was the 2013 Continental Champion. Buster was bred by Gary P. Baird and is by Miller’s Happy Jack out of B C Angelina. Buster is a five year old pointer male, handled for Eddie and Carole Sholar by Mark McLean. TOUCH’S WHITE KNIGHT was this year’s winner of the Quail Championship Invitational, and the runner-up at the Saskatchewan Chicken Championship. His previous qualifying win was at the Kentucky Lake Open All Age. This four year old pointer male makes his rookie year run at the National Championship. Bo was bred by Dwight Grace and is by Lance’s Last Knight out of Prairieland Lucy. Bo is handled by Mark McLean for Eddie and Carole Sholar. TRUE CONFIDENCE made all of his qualifying placements this year at only six years old. This pointer male was the National Pheasant Champion, the runnerup Kentucky Open Champion, and won a first at the Blue Grass Quail Classic. Bob was bred by Robert J. Saari and is by Two Acre Bulldog (son of Funseeker’s Rebel and Rester’s Tiny Dancer) out of Bar P Annex (daughter of Bar P Shadow and Bar P Xena, she a daughter of Hard Driving Bev). Bob is owned by Frank and Jean LaNasa and handled by Luke Eisenhart. UTAH’S RED ROCK EXPRESS acquired a new owner last year, Mr. Herb Anderson, and has a new handler this year, Jamie Daniels, since Rich Robertson retired. Tuff is a five year old pointer male, and he re-qualified for this year as runner-up in the Northwest

Chukar Championship. This is his third run for this title. He was bred by Sheldon Twer, and is by Idaho's Clean Sweep (a frozen semen son of Silver Strike) out of Double Trouble Cherry (Pinehill Doc’s Trouble ex Vallivue Kit). His pedigree shows descendants of Tiny Wahoo on both sides. WALNUT TREE FRED is a rookie contestant who comes to this open championship as the leading Purina points winner in amateur competition. This five year old pointer male is owned and handled by Steve Mills. Fred qualified for the big dance by winning the Doug Sanderson Memorial All Age for the past two years. He was bred by Dr. Don Lineberry, and is by Walnut Tree Highline (Miller’s Date Line ex Suit’s Me Gold Dust), out of the amateur champion Suits Me Playmate (Gold Rush's Millenium ex Suits Me Tiny). WESTFALL’S RAMPAGE returns as a second year contestant by winning the Border International Chicken Championship, which was the third championship title for this five year old pointer. Tripp is owned and was bred by Ryan Westfall and handled by Andy Daugherty. He was sired by 3:10 To Yuma out of Savanna (she is by Miller’s White Powder out of Persimmon Mary). WHIPPOORWILL BLUE BLOOD, now six years old, is from the first mating of Whippoorwill Wild Agin and Sparkles that was made by Dr. Jack Huffman. This litter may be the most successful in Dr. Huffman’s storied career. Blue re-qualified for his fourth year by winning the Mississippi Championship. This pointer male is co-owned by Dr. Huffman and Keith Wright, and handled by Larry Huffman. WHIPPOORWILL FOTO OP is a four year old pointer bitch who is a debutante for this year’s big dance. She recently won the Alabama Championship, her first title. Her other qualifying wins were firsts at the North Dakota Classic and the Hell Creek (Miss.) Open All Age. Jill was

2016 Field Trial Review 11.

Dogs Running In The 117th National Championship

Shadow’s Full Throttle (by Ross B. Young)

Skyfall

Stallion

Stardust Chaz

Touch’s Adams County

Touch’s Game Point

sired by Ransom (from the first litter by Whippoorwill Wild Agin ex Sparkles) out of Whippoorwill Wild Wing. This dam is by Rockacre Blackhawk out of Wild Agin Sue, and she was a full sister to Whippoorwill Wild Agin. This breeding was made by Dr. Jack Huffman, and his son Larry Huffman handles Jill for her owners Ken and Sue Blackman. WHIPPOORWILL JUSTIFIED is from the youngest of the litters by Whippoorwill Wild Agin and Sparkles, this time with Bob Walthall was the breeder. He has just turned three years old and will be making his rookie appearance here. Patch has had five placements in qualifying trials in his first all age year: a first at the Benton County (Miss.) Open All Age, a second at the Tootsie Hurdle, a second at the Kentucky Lake, a third at the Sunflower Classic, and a first at the Prairie Open All Age. Patch is owned by Ronnie Spears and handled by Larry Huffman. WHIPPOORWILL WILD ASSAULT is a pointer male who just turned five years old. He is making his rookie appearance having qualified with a first at the Buck Tuck Open All Age this year, and a previous first at the 2013 North Dakota Classic. Salt was bred by Dr. J. D. Huffman and is by 2008 National Champion Whippoorwill Wild Agin, out of Boxwood Bang (a daughter of Miller’s White Powder out of Holly Hunter). He is co-owned by Dr. J. D. Huffman and Terry Terlap, and handled by Larry Huffman.

WHITE DOLLAR returns to Ames Plantation for his fourth year by winning the Manitoba Championship for the second year in a row. This six year old pointer male also won the Border International Chicken Championship, the Southland Championship, and was runner-up at the Southern Championship and the Alabama Championship. Top was bred by Wade Griffin and is by Miller’s Total Eclipse (a brother of Miller’s Date Line) out of Blue Collar Lady. He is handled by Randy Anderson for owner Scott Griffin. ZORRA is a five year old setter bitch who is making her second, but rookie, appearance this year. Last year she was drawn for the competition, but the extensive weather delays forced her to be withdrawn as her handler had to return home to the west coast. Since then she has been a hot commodity in the west coast championships, with three runner-ups and one win in four weeks this past autumn. She was bred by Jeff Gilbertson and was sired by To The Point (a son of Tekoa Mountain Patriot), out of Iron Mistress. Zorra is handled by Sheldon Twer for owner Harold Meyer. The Field Trial Review heartily thanks Stephen H. Bell and Amy Spencer for compiling this information and sharing it with the readers of this publication. The Field Trial Review also thanks photographers Vera Courtney, Chris Mathan, Jamie Evans, and others for the dogs’ photographs.

2015 NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP DVD

DVD available for $44, priority shipping included

Order from: Pleasant Hill Productions 4842 Pleasant Hill Road • Athens, OH 45701 by phone: (740) 593-8546 • (740) 591-6456 online: www.pleasanthillproductions.com Previous National Championships also available

12. 2016 Field Trial Review

Dogs Running In The 117th National Championship

Touch’s White Knight (Vera Courtney photo)

True Confidence

Utah’s Red Rock Express

Walnut Tree Fred (Vera Courtney photo)

Westfall’s Rampage

Whippoorwill Blue Blood

Whippoorwill Foto Op

Whippoorwill Justified (Vera Courtney photo)

Whippoorwill Wild Assault (Vera Courtney photo)

Send Us Photos of Your Dogs!

White Dollar

Zorra

Show off your wonderful bird dogs in next year’s Field Trial Review! You don’t have to wait until your dog is officially nominated for the National Championship. If there is even a possibility that your dog will qualify, please send us a photograph of your top dog(s). We would also like photos of the owners and handlers, i.e., “family,” of the dog. We need high resolution (300 dpi) and/or large, sharp photos. Email as .jpg or .tiff to: [email protected] Be seen in the 2017 Field Trial Review! Deadline is February 3, 2017

Life Trials and Field Trials By Elizabeth Sterling Lenz (Britain), step-daughter of the late Don Dowdle I have written about my family the last few years in the Field Trial Review. Just as field trials, the National Championship, and this publication were important to my step father, so are they to me, and I am glad to see these traditions continue. There’s a saying that writers write about what they know. I know about the National Championship Field Trials and what they mean to the people involved. I also know how they relate to life in general. Every year, the excitement of the drawing begins this age-old event. During the two weeks running of the National Championship, the weather for the daily braces on the Ames Plantation may be cold or warm, snowy or rainy, foggy or clear. But each day “is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice in it.” (Ps. 118:24) The quail may be hiding as the Lord hides His face for us to seek Him. The tools and gifts we are given may allow us to shine God’s light and glory here on Earth, as a well-trained dog will have a productive find and hold the point. Finally,

2016 Field Trial Review 13. the Lord may say at the end of the brace, “Well done, my good and faithful servant,” (Mt. 25:21) or as the handlers say, “Good, Dog, Good Dog.” I missed submitting my article last year because in 2014, my life changed in an instant. My husband was in an accident and, at the time, I was pregnant with our second child. My son was born in the car, and I have survived many things that I thought would kill me. My husband remains minimally conscious, and we have certainly faced our own trials. Now, as I think about the upcoming 2016 National Championship, I am, again, writing about it because I want my kids to know it. It has also become metaphorical to me, and as I see its comparisons to my life, somehow it’s healing. I see how the competitors thrive despite circumstances; how they prepare and compete; and how it’s ultimately all about the day’s brace and those who thrive through the trial. The Lord has carried me through such a trial, and He helps me walk forward. I’ve used the word “trial” hundreds of times within the last 19 months. A trial means “a test of the quality, value, or usefulness of something; a test of faith, patience, or stamina through subjection to suffering or temptation. (Merriam-Webster) The field trial, like life’s trials, is a

physical, emotional, and spiritual feat. It’s a collaboration of people working together and enduring all kinds of obstacles. It’s about how the people and dogs are tested. It’s beautiful and challenging and requires patience. There is loveliness in appreciating the field trial all together because it resembles trials in life and how we endure them. I contemplate what I should share about my experience in my own personal trial. How could it be helpful to someone else? I thought about all the work it takes for many people to get ready to ride for two weeks, day in and day out, to judge these dogs. The endurance required to ride is equivalent to the endurance I have required to cope with my pain and heartache. When the body is totally sore, it requires tender, loving care and rest after a long day’s ride. There are many tears shed in winning and losing, in the pain of endurance, and in the love of winning. My hope is that we all finish the race well, and that we continue to seek God. My goal is to remind all those who compete that they have done very well. We get to have this experience together, as we experience life together. And it is truly something incredible! As I write this, I am impressed how this event is still relevant to my life. I have learned that life is precious and beautiful every single moment. When the moment comes, when the quail are found, flushed, and the trial is done, I hope we remember to notice its beauty.

Good Luck to aLL in the 2016 National championship! We wish for each dog that “perfect” run!

L esTeR ’ s B odacious Owners: Gary & Becky Futch

Handler: Rick Furney ©FTR

Thanks to: Dr. Jack Huffman, Dr. Terry Terlep, Larry & Piper Huffman and Nick Thompson on the success of

Foto Op Ken and Sue Blackman Williston, Tennessee

from

pampered puppy to National Championship contender

Wolf River Kennels

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14. 2016 Field Trial Review

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2016 Field Trial Review 15.

16. 2016 Field Trial Review

Some Thoughts On Saddle Fit by Lary Cox, Christie Saddlery To get a proper saddle fit, first we need a centered and balanced rider. Being in balance refers to having the center of balance aligned over the base of support. From this position the rider can easily adjust to stay with the motion of the horse. [Editor’s note: For the best description, diagrams, and analysis of a balanced rider’s position, see Centered Riding by Sally Swift.] To find the rider’s center of balance, we divide the body into three planes: lateral, medial, and transverse. The lateral plane is an imaginary line through the rider’s ear, shoulder, hip and ankle, or spur, when in the saddle. The medial plane is an imaginary line through the center of the face, navel, and between the feet. The transverse plane crosses the body just below the crest of the hip. The intersection of these three planes is the center of balance, and is slightly below and behind the belt buckle. On the horse, the same principles apply. The lateral plane is from the point of shoulder to the point of the hip. The medial plane follows a vertical line through the spine, and the transverse plane is about 3 ½ to 4 inches behind the base of the withers, in alignment with the 14th thoracic vertebrae. Since horses are much larger and stronger than the rider, they can carry a rider both in and out of balanced position, but out of balance is more tiring for the horse. You can get better performance from your horse, and definitely less fatigue, if you maintain a balanced position. Another factor in proper saddle fit is size compatibility between the horse and rider. For example, a large man riding in a 17-inch seat saddle on a horse that is too small for him would be forced to sit behind the horse’s center of balance. Another factor is gender. A woman’s hip joint (point of the pelvis) is behind the center of balance and, thus, has a tendency to rock the hips forward. A man’s pelvis is forward, creating the tendency to rock backward or to sit more on their pockets. Just as important in rider balance is how the saddle is made. Many western saddles are made with the low point of the seat at the corner of the cantle, which is behind the balance of the pelvis. This puts the rider out of alignment, forcing the hips to roll backward and the rider’s center of balance to be behind the horse’s. Putting the hip in this position causes the rider’s knees and feet to turn outward, so that leg contact is improper, using the back of the leg, rather than the inside of the thigh and calf. Sitting in this position also straight-

ens the arch in lower back, causing fatigue. A saddle that places the low point of the seat in the proper place, remains full at the corners of the cantle, and is concave will allow the hip to roll slightly forward, bringing the rider into alignment with the horse by moving his center of balance forward. This also puts the legs into better position to maintain a natural curvature to the spine, giving the rider a sense of sitting in the saddle rather than on it. Distribution of the rider’s weight on the horse’s back. A saddle with a 15 ½ to 16-inch seat length has a bar length of about 23 inches. The center line of the bar should be 3½ to 4 inches behind the base of the withers and in alignment with the horse's center of balance. If the rider carries one third of his weight in the seat of the saddle, one third on the thigh, and one third in the stirrups, his weight will be equally distributed on the horse’s back along the full length of the bar. However, if the rider’s hip is allowed to rock back, it will put the majority of the rider’s weight on the rear third of the bar, unevenly distributed on the horse’s back. This puts undo stress on the first and second lumbar vertebrae, which is the weakest part of the horse’s back. Not having any skeletal support from the rib cage, the horse is forced to carry the rider’s weight more by muscle, which is more tiring for the horse and hinders him from arching his back, necessary for any athletic movement such as reining, stopping, or turning. Of course, there are exceptions to the rules. For example, a cutting horse needs to move off its hindquarters, keeping its forequarters free. So most people who ride cutting horses want their center of balance a little behind the horse’s center of balance. But most riders, from dressage to trail riders, will greatly benefit from maintaining proper body alignment, with equipment that helps them maintain proper body alignment. Relationship of the saddle tree to the horse’s back. The tree is the foundation of the saddle, and regardless of how pretty it looks, the saddle is no better than its foundation. With this in mind, your saddle maker should use the very best tree available. The fit of the tree needs to be compatible with the horse, not only when standing, but more importantly, when in motion. The tree can appear to fit while the horse is standing still, but may not fit as well when the horse moves, due to the motion of the horse’s back muscles. The motion varies as he changes gaits, travels

over varying terrain, or performs various athletic moves. There are five parts to the saddle tree: horn, swells, cantle, and two bars. The function of the bars is to distribute pressure evenly over the entire surface so that the horse can comfortably carry the weight of the rider without creating spot pressure that can cause pain and physical damage. The large surface under the swells and the rear of the bar under the cantle are referred to as the pads. The area right behind the stirrup leather slot is called the waist. If you look notice the different angles of the bars between the front and the rear of the saddle, this is known as the twist. Looking at the bar from the edge, front to back, this is called the rock, as in a rocking chair. The bar in cross section has a round profile on the bottom and this is called the crown. The skeletal structure of the horse. The horse has eighteen ribs, thus eighteen thoracic vertebrae. This starts at the break of the withers and continues to the first lumbar vertebrae. The vertical processes of vertebrae T1 through T10 form the withers. These vertebrae tend to slope toward the rear. The height of these vertebrae increases from T1 thru T4, with T5 and T6 forming the crest of the withers. T7 thru T10 decrease progressively in height toward the base of the withers. As the vertebrae continue toward the center of the back, they become more vertical until T14, where the process is vertical. As they continue past T14, they tend to tip slightly forward to T18, where the thoracic vertebrae end and the lumbar vertebrae begin. This is the weakest point of the horse’s back. With the skeleton forming the structural framework of the horse’s body, the muscles provide the motion. Muscles only contract to pull the bones that they are attached to. The major muscle groups in the back that pertain to the fit of the saddle tree are the spinalis, longissimus dorsi, posterior trapezius, latisimus dorsi, and the gluteus. These muscles attach to the shoulder blade, or scapula, the spine, and continue to the hip and across the loin area. A horse moves by the contraction of certain muscles, which when working in unison, move the bones of the skeleton to pull the body over the foot. As this happens, the shoulder blade swivels with the motion of the foreleg. The pivot point is below the top of the scapula. As the foreleg moves forward, the top of the scapula, which is cartilage,

moves backwards. As the appropriate muscles contract pulling the horse’s body forward over his foot, they tend to bulge behind the withers in the front of the saddle tree bar. At the same time, the opposite hind leg moves forward in a diagonal stride. This causes the saddle bar to rise slightly in the rear, as the opposite toe of the bar comes in contact with the bulging muscle behind the withers. A bar that is too straight or doesn’t have enough flare, or has inadequate rock, will put pressure on this muscle. Most horses respond to this pressure by shortening their stride, not walking out well, or in the case of a gaited horse, refusing to gait. Prolonged use of an ill-fitting saddle can cause bruising, dry spots, white hair, and saddle sores. If the tree is not compatible with the horse, and rocks or bridges, or if the bars are too long for the confirmation of the horse, problems will occur. A rider sitting out of balance, or sitting behind the vertical, can load the back of the bar, causing the center of weight to be shifted back, forcing the horse to carry this weight on the lumbar spine where the support is muscular and not skeletal. This causes the back muscles to tire, creates pain for the horse, his back will hollow, and his head will rise. Sometimes a rider, not realizing the cause of problem, will tie the horse’s head down, thereby creating more discomfort for the horse. Fit of the tree to the horse’s back. Trees are generally classified as standard, semi quarter horse, and full quarter horse. The tree names can be confusing because they relate to the angle of the bar, not the breed of horse. There are Quarter Horses that may require a standard bar, whereas other cold blood horses may require a full quarter horse bar. The rider cannot assume that if they have a certain breed of horse that a bar carrying that horse’s breed name is going to fit all horses of that breed. Regarding the bars: consider the spread, the angle, the twist, the rock, and the bottom profile of the bars, known as the crown. The angle of the bar is taken at the front just below the horn. The standard measurement is a 90 degree angle and will fit a lot of Thoroughbred types and other single backed horses. The semi quarter horse bars are generally set at 92 to 93 degrees, and the full quarter horse at 95 degrees. Trees that are too narrow will cause the tree to perch up in the front. This angle of the tree creates pressure at the tail of the bar on the horse’s back. Not enough rock to the bars will create a bridging effect, just touching at the front and rear of the

2016 Field Trial Review 17. tree. The spread and angle of the bars can relate to other problems. Bars that are positioned too close together, which is determined by the gullet arch and the cantle arch, can cause pinching. Others that are spaced too wide can cause the front of the saddle to be too low and hang on the top of the withers, creating pressure on the suspensory ligament and possibly causing serious problems. The cantle arch is relevant to the type of back that a horse has. A full backed horse might use a little more width at the cantle than a horse that is not as broad. If the cantle arch is too narrow, it can cause a saddle to roll when a rider steps on. If the spread at the cantle arch is too wide and too low, pressure injuries can occur to the lumbar spine. This is sometimes referred to as a “hunters bump.” The width of the front and rear pads can affect the horse’s back. They vary some, normally from 5 to 6 inches depending on the style of tree. Some of the more inexpensive trees and synthetic trees tend to have smaller pads and shorter bars, both of which relate to the weight bearing capacity and distribution of pressure on the horse’s back. Some trees have a flat pad, while others have a pad that is rounded in its cross section. The flatter pad will tend to fit a horse with a full back, whereas the bar with a rounded bottom will fit a back with a more prominent spine that hollows to either side, sometimes called a single back. A round bar on a full backed horse can put a pressure ridge down the center of the bar, while a flat bar on a single backed horse can create edge pressure. A horse’s back progressively changes from a steeper angle at the shoulder to a flatter angle over the loin. This relates to the twist of the saddle tree bar. The bottom face of the bar will be curved from front to back, known as the rock. The amount of rock is characteristic to a particular tree maker and varies somewhat among tree makers. The effect of the rock on the horse is related to the ability of the horse to lift his back. When a horse is standing and relaxed he will tend to sag slightly in the back. As the back is loaded with the weight of the saddle and rider, he will tense his back and abdominal muscles to allow for this weight. As the horse moves, the back will rise and fall progressively as his gait increases. This is quite noticeable when a horse is asked to collect, or bring his hind quarters under him for a sliding stop or dressage maneuver. When turning, it is important that the spine is free to move. Splinting the horse’s back tightly with a tree can inhibit the horse’s motion, especially with a double rigged saddle with the rear cinch tightened. So, you need a certain amount of space between the bar and the horse’s back to allow the back to lift and move. This does not mean the tree should bridge the horse’s back. Bridging causes the rider’s weight to be carried on the ends

of the bars and will definitely sore the horse’s back. The proper amount of clearance should be centered over the 14th vertebrae and be only enough to allow for the natural movement of the back. As a horse’s foreleg moves forward, the top of the scapula moves backward and the muscle bulges, putting pressure against the toe of the bar. This motion is exaggerated in gaited horses that have more shoulder action. To accommodate for this, the flair to the front of the bar needs to start at the back of the front pad and increase toward the toe. It should not just flair at the front edge. This provides a flat surface against the shoulder, reducing the edge pressure. Placing a tree on the horse’s back, the 14th vertebrae should be slightly behind the rear stirrup leather groove and in alignment or close to the center of the length of the bar. Theoretically, the distance from the center of the bar to the center of the stirrup leather slot should be equal to the distance behind this center measurement to a point directly under the rider’s pelvis where the butt bones are located. This is good, in theory, and will be close in trees with a 15 to 16 ½ inch seat, but may not be the case with long or short seated saddles, or with horses that are not the right size for the saddle tree. The ground seat should be made in such a way as to support the rider’s hip and center him over his balance point. Seats that form a pocket at the cantle will force the rider’s pelvis to rotate backward into this low point and away from the center of the bar. This puts the majority of the rider’s weight on the back third of the bar and places most of the stress near the lumbar spine of the horse. The result is the muscles tire, the back drops, and creates a sore back. In this situation, collection becomes almost impossible, and the rider loses the natural curve to his spine and can experience a sore back. Another common problem is positioning the saddle too far forward, on top of, rather than behind, the withers. This props the saddle up, tipping it to the rear and causing pressure at the tail of the bar, as well as loading and pinching the withers. The tree can be a good fit for the horse, but he can still develop a sore back if the rider is not balanced in proper position. The balance point for most horses is in alignment with the 14th vertebrae. This ideally should align with the center of the saddle bar, and the rider should be balanced in relation to this point. It’s the job of a good saddle maker to form the ground seat in the saddle to position the rider over this point. Find more information about Christie Saddlery call 940-427-3260, visit their website: www.christiesaddlery.com, orfind them on Facebook.

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18. 2016 Field Trial Review

Training Field Trial Horses By Jacob Parks Hundreds of horses, the best bird dogs in the country, mud, water, woods, traffic, roads, below freezing temperatures, rain, snow, sleet, sunshine, and varied terrain are the field trial adventures that the National Championship brings. A field trial is a competition to see who has the best bird dog on a given day. It's a way of showing off that dog. And the National Championship is the competition to see who has the best bird dog in the nation in a given year. How does a horse fit into all of this? The horse is a huge asset of field trials. Gaited horses are the choice of field trialers and hunting judges. Most commonly and traditionally, the Tennessee Walking horse is used, but all gaited breeds can be represented. Paso Finos, Spotted Saddle horses, Rocky Mountain/KY Mountain horses, and Single Footers are currently very popular. Most gaited breeds can be seen at the trials, including gaited mules and grade crosses. What’s most important is that these horses are smooth, for you are often in the saddle for three hours each brace (that’s six hours if you ride both braces). And for officials, it’s riding six hours a day for two weeks. In addition to

smoothness, handlers and judges want a horse with a nice gallop to allow their horses to maintain a close distance between them and the dog. Field Trial horses must be very good with dogs. They must tolerate: -Dogs running up suddenly from behind -Dogs underfoot -Dogs running under their bellies -Puppies and debris going under a horse’s legs or running into them -Dogs in the saddle or jumping to the saddle from the ground. -Spooking of any kind is not desirable. -Gunfire is a part of most field trials, so the horse and dog must tolerate it. Let’s examine the training that has to go into these animals to become a competitive field trial horse. As with any horse that I would train, ground work is the most important facet. Your horse has to know that he can trust you, just as the owner has to know he can trust his horse. Ground work will strengthen the bond that you and your horse will need, and will teach the horse

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many cues and movements that you will later use when mounted. It is important to praise your horse when he completes a task that is asked of him, but it’s also important to teach your horse respect – not in a mean way, but in a disciplined way. I like to desensitize a horse with objects, such as large blue tarps or sacks, whether it be walking your horse over it, riding while dragging it, or rubbing the horse all over with it. Whatever you can find that looks weird or unordinary to take your horse through will also help desensitize him. The more he can see and be around, the better. I also like taking my bull whip and popping it around the horse and then gradually start using it aboard the horse once he tolerates it on the ground. Once your horse cooperates and learns the whip is not meant to hurt him, then he will be trained to stand for the type of gun used in the trials. These types of routines will let your horse know that you are not going to hurt him or take him anywhere that will endanger him/her. It is also important for me to teach my horses to side pass. You never know when you will need this tool out on the trails and, trust me, you will need it. Reverse (backing) is just as important, and neck reining is a must. Ground tying is also important for the dog handlers as they dismount to check the dog and to fire the gun. This type of training doesn’t come over night. It starts at birth and continues

through the ages of 4, 5, and 6 years old and more. It takes time, patience, and repetition. Another important aspect is caring for your field trail horse. These horses work hard. When I say work hard, I mean allday riding; driving their hindquarters through mud and water; keeping up with the dogs, whether it be in a swift gait or canter; crossing ditches; crossing 500 yard fields; and even traveling down roads. This kind of exertion requires a healthy diet full of fat, protein, and plenty of water. Feeding twice a day, grain and hay, is a must. I suggest a feed with a high protein and fat content along with fresh, pure, clean, and healthy hay that has been tested and proven to have good protein content. This will keep the horse and his/her muscles rejuvenated for the next day or the next event. It is also important to have your horses shod. A protective leather pad under the shoe is a good suggestion since the horses will be traveling through rocky and rough terrain. A stone bruise, glass prick, or other foreign object in the ground could cause lameness, or an abscess resulting in lameness. Field trialing is an event that will test a horse’s endurance, his abilities, and his cooperation. Without repetition, constant bonding, and training with your horse, he/she will not be a good candidate for the trials. Time, patience, miles, and care are the keys to having a great field trial horse.

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2016 Field Trial Review 19.

20. 2016 Field Trial Review

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2016 Field Trial Review 21.

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2016 Field Trial Review 23.

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24. 2016 Field Trial Review

2016 Field Trial Review 25.

26. 2016 Field Trial Review

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2016 Field Trial Review 27.

Happening at Ames Plantation Article & photos by Dr. Nancy Brannon Out of over 50 dogs qualified for the 117th National Championship, 47 dogs are nominated to compete in the prestigious event at Ames Plantation, beginning the second Monday, February 8, 2016. The competition promises to be a full two weeks of running, and could spill over into a third week depending on weather conditions. The field trial courses have been well prepared, and “quail habitat is doing pretty good,” said Ames Plantation Director and field trial judge Dr. Rick Carlisle. “We have 255 feed strips along the morning and afternoon field trial courses. These feed patches are along the edges of the production fields. In all, we have approximately 160 acres of feed patches, strips, and production fields along the field trial courses.” Regarding quail: “Three years ago the Audubon Society listed quail as the most endangered bird in the nation. But this year, Texas had a bumper crop of quail. There were also exceptional populations in south Georgia and northern Florida,” Carlisle said. “Ames’ wild bird population is up this year, but we supplemented with released birds again. We put out 6,000 birds this year: 300 coveys with 20 birds per covey, 150 on each course. When I mowed the courses the last week in August, I flushed 11 coveys of wild birds with the bushhog. That’s the most I’ve seen in the last five years. In December at the Amateur Invitational (Dec. 28 – Jan. 1), we had good bird numbers and lots of coveys were pointed. At the Hobart Ames, we also pointed and saw lots of coveys.” The Manor House saw some refurbishing this year. To complement the renovated kitchen, done last year, the Butler’s pantry, hall way, and laundry room were restored. The walls were replastered using Plaster of Paris. The areas got new flooring and improved cupboards. “This year we’re getting ready to put up new shades on all the windows in the entire house – 64 of them,” said Carlisle. “This hasn’t been done since 1976. When you have a house built in 1847, there’s always maintenance to do.”

Ames Heritage Festival The Historic Village at Ames Plantation was once again transformed to a fair-like setting for the 18th annual Heritage Festival on October 10, 2015. The Heritage Village is a collection of restored structures representing the area’s architectural heritage from around 1820 until the early 20th century. The Village includes a typical 19th century family farmstead, the 1830s Stencil House, a one-room schoolhouse from the early 1900s, a replica brick kiln, and the “Cotton Interpretative Center” housed in a restored log cabin. This Saturday was a delightful fall day for learning about the “old ways” of farming and craftmanship. This year had one of the highest attendance rates in all of its 18 years: 5,121 visitors. There were approximately 150 crafts artists/vendors demonstrating their skills.

Dark fired tobacco There was storytelling and historic information about Native American culture in the days before Europeans arrived. Dale DeBerry explained the history and techniques of brick making by slaves. The Civil War era was represented by re-enactors dressed in period attire, demonstrating an encampment and firing artillery. Folk artists showed their skills at basket weaving, stenciling, knitting, spinning, weaving, tatting, quilting, pottery, wood carving, gourd art, portrait silhouettes, leatherwork, bird houses, driftwood art, all kinds of jewelry, broom making, painting, photography, and much more. From the era of hard work and self-sufficiency, visitors could learn about blacksmithing and farriery (shoeing horses), antique tractors, meat processing, milling grain – particularly stone ground corn

artist Mary McAuslin meal; dark fired tobacco production, alpaca wool, goat milking and making goat’s milk soap; all about cotton – picking, ginning, spinning, and all the things that can be made from a bale of cotton. Gary McWilliams demonstrated the 19th century techniques for building a log cabin, from hewing and notching logs to riving shakes (making shingles). Alan Smith brought draft horses Kroger and Big Star to demonstrate logging with horses. Blues, gospel, and string band music could be heard from the aisle of the Mule Barn, and dulcimer playing all day on the cabin front porch. This year’s festival included writers such as Margaret Tutor of Olive Branch, Mississippi, who writes historical fiction. Her latest book Just Passing Through, is about the sharecropping Ward family in the 1920s. Ramona Bridges, of Seminary,

Logging draft horses, Big Star and Kroger Mississippi, has a trilogy: Standing On the Promises, An Unclouded Day, and Sweet By and By. Randy Bishop brought his Civil War-themed books. Mary McAuslin was on hand to demonstrate painting with water colors, coffee, and a new medium: pokeberries. She finds that the coffee and pokeberries make great colors for painting barns. Since the National Championship for Field Trialing Bird Dogs is held annually at Ames Plantation, bird dogs are featured at the Heritage Festival. Visitors could learn about quail, bird dogs, field trials, see Pointers and Setters, and pet them. The Heritage Festival is held annually in October to educate the public about the area’s history and the variety of 19th century artisan skills necessary for survival.

Field Schools This May marks the tenth year of archeological research at Ames Plantation, with field schools led by Dr. Kimberly Kasper of Rhodes College and Dr. Andrew Mickelson at the University of Memphis. On the historic site, investigation of the slave quarters on the Fannie Dickens plantation continued last summer. This was the second field season investigating a particular slave house. At the end of last field season, investigators found a pit feature that may have been a root cellar under the house. Excavations so far have recovered personal items owned and used by the slaves, including tobacco pipes, pieces of beads from necklaces, and a Jew’s harp (aka jaw harp). The investigators surmise that the house was probably built on the ground, rather than on brick piers, and may have had a dirt floor. So far, no evidence of a fireplace or heat source has been found. On the pre-historic site, excavations at the village associated with the mounds continued from previous seasons. Investigators are using radiocarbon dating to establish a date range when the village was occupied. It may have been occupied for as long as 200 years. Investigators also found evidence of houses in the agricultural fields throughout Ames Plantation that date to the same time period as the mounds. This indicates that there were not only urban dwellers at the mounds, but also country residents. Work will continue this coming summer looking for extended family hamlets throughout the countryside. Historical Society The Ames Historical Society met at Ames Plantation on January 30, 2015 with 108 members attending. Guest speaker was Dr. David Dye of the University of Memphis Earth Sciences Department, who spoke on the traditions and history of the coonskin cap. The society now boasts 220 members, the highest ever. Historical society members put in over 600 volunteer hours of work at Ames Plantation last year. Find more information about the Heritage Festival, historical research, and the Ames Historical Society at: www.amesplantation.org. Click on the “historical research” tab.

28. 2016 Field Trial Review

Handlers Competing In The 2016 National Championship

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Jamie Daniel

Andy Daugherty

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Luke Eisenhart

Rick Furney

Robin Gates (Chris Mathan photo)

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2016 Field Trial Review 29.

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30. 2016 Field Trial Review

Handlers Competing In The 2016 National Championship

Larry Huffman

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Successful Field Trial Women: They Can Handle It By Chris Mathan Several years ago, the Field Trial Review published a story about four women who participated in American Field/ AFTCA sanctioned field trials. They were Lori Steinshouer, Ellen Clements, Mazie Davis and myself. With less than two weeks to the submission deadline, I volunteered to pull together a story that presents more women field trialers — specifically women who handle dogs in competition. I knew I couldn’t possibly find and pull together the stories of all the women who handle dogs, so I apologize to those who were omitted this time. I give thanks to all the women who enthusiastically agreed to provide me with the information for their stories. It clearly shows their enthusiasm and commitment to the sport. Like so many other women involved in field trials, my childhood was spent riding horses. I competed in hunter/jumper classes and showed Shetland ponies in 4H and other local horse shows. And I won plenty. Girls made up about half the entries in all classes. In the early 1960s, the US Equestrian Team (the original “Dream Team”) consisted of my heroes and heroines: Kathy Kusner, Bill Steinkraus, Frank Chapot and Carol Hoffman. It never occurred to me when I began field trialing that I could not train or handle a field trial bird dog. Some would argue that there are aspects of the sport that make it more difficult for women to compete. They pale when compared to, for example, sled dog racing, a sport in which American musher Susan Butcher set the second 4x Iditarod winner record, and the first time any musher won it in four out of five sequential years. Reading about Susan, Libby

Riddles, DeeDee Jonrowe, and dozens of other women who have competed with their teams of dogs in that grueling 1,000mile race through Alaska’s wilderness, in temperatures often 40 degrees below zero, will quickly change anyone’s mind about what women are can accomplish. Women have been an integral part of American Field/AFTCA field trials since their very beginning, taking responsibility for many of the necessary, often behind the scenes, tasks, like club secretary duties. Women have been reporting field trials, feeding hungry judges and field trailers, whelping, caring for, and starting puppies; more recently, scouting for their husbands and friends and many other activities. Where they have always been most obviously in the minority is handling dogs in competition. In over 17 years of competing as an amateur, I have not known women handlers to ask for special privileges, nor have they expressed any desire to change the sport. Women are the fastest growing segment of new hunters, including upland bird hunters, in the U.S. I hope these stories will encourage more hunting, and non-hunting, girls and women to try their hand at training and handling dogs in this thrilling, competitive sport. We need and should welcome all new participants. Betty Shearouse, Kimball, Tennessee Betty grew up with Irish setters as well as several other breeds of dogs. After finishing college, her start in competition was with Labrador retrievers for several years. In 2006, she purchased an Irish setter from Ken Ruff, as her sons wanted to bird hunt. Ken insisted that if she was hunting Bailey, she should also attend some AKC trials with her. Betty entered and placed Bailey in several AKC walking trials. Rhett Kermicle, Bailey’s trainer, had a lit-

ceasing to amaze her with what they can do. She loves the rush she gets competing — watching the dogs race through the country and then seeing them slam on point. But it is the people she has met and the friendships made that are Betty’s favorite part of field trialing. Betty recalls many special field trial moments that will always remain vivid memories, such as watching Bonnie’s extraordinary fast and furious race throughout an hour of pouring rain and wind at Hell Creek in Mississippi. Karen Conroy, Denver, North Carolina ter of English setters from which Betty picked a female, Annie, and that fall, purchased her two-year-old sister, Desi. Betty’s first AFTCA field trial was in February 2009 at Berea, Kentucky. She placed Desi second in the shooting dog stake and was hooked — really hooked! In one year Betty went from one dog to three, from a Ford Explorer to a dually, a living quarters trailer, and two horses. She now owns ten English setters. She has competed and won in amateur and open shooting dog and all-age stakes. Annie was the Region 6 Amateur All-Age Dog of Year, the Mid South Amateur All-Age Dog of the Year, and the English Setter Amateur All-Age Dog of Year in 2011. Ch. Prodigy’s Bonfire (Bonnie), a full sister to Annie and Desi, won the American Quail Classic and the Alabama Open All-Age Championship under the whistle of professional handler Ray Warren. Currently, Betty has a young male setter, coming derby next year, on Georgia trainer/handler Jamie Daniels’ string. Betty has always had a passion for dogs and horses. To her, a working dog is a thing of beauty to watch, and if you can watch from a horse, that makes it perfect. She believes field trial dogs are some of the most astonishing canine athletes, never

Karen’s family owned and hunted bird dogs for many years. As a family, they participated in shoot-to-kill trials. They also rode horses, so the next logical progression was to horseback field trials. Karen always loved to ride and, as a youngster, worked retired pacers from the race track and broke them to saddle. Sometimes she used these horses to run dogs. As her interest in the dogs grew, she began breeding and was especially successful with pointers. In 1980, Karen became a professional trainer on the Shooting Dog circuit and so combined the two things she most loved to do — train horses and bird dogs. One of her greatest wins was placing

Brass Rail in the US Quail Shooting Dog Futurity. Brass Rail and Ch. Miss Porter were the beginning of a successful pointer breeding program, which, along with her daughter Chelsie, she still carries on today. Ch. Mohawk Mill Pirate, Ch. Smokerise Caroline and Ch. Steel City Karen are just a few of the recent champions she bred. Karen’s greatest memories from 50 years of being involved in the sport are of the wonderful people she has met along the way and the dogs she has bred and watched succeed in their field trial careers or in the hunting field. Her greatest achievement in all those years, however, was developing her daughter Chelsie’s love and respect for dogs, horses, the outdoors, and people.

was named NBHA Runner-Up Derby of the Year in 2011. In the following seasons Chelsie and Wrangler continued winning, adding more memories of exciting finds and remarks from judges that stick with her, comments like “that needs to be captured on oil and canvas!” Wrangler was invited to the NBHA Amateur Invitational and won trials in shooting dog and all-age stakes. Though Chelsie doesn’t compete in field trials solely for the points or wins, she admits that it does feel good to see your dog do a great job and be recognized for it. It’s a unique sense of accomplishment that many people today do not have the opportunity to enjoy. Claudia McNamee, Atlanta, Georgia

because of it. When asked what it is about this sport that has so captured her heart, Claudia’s response is the animals and that feeling of being connected when it all goes right; the dog’s love of the game and being with her; and flying along on her Tennessee Walker. It’s the constant focus on the future and what comes next, whether it be the next trial and another opportunity to be better, or more dogs; and of course the people — seeing friends who have become like family. Claudia believes that having a passion in life like this crazy sport is so important to being happy, and she embodies that joie de vie at every trial she attends, whether her dog places or not. Winning is just being there.

Chelsie Conroy, Albany, Georgia Fran Miller, Barwick, Georgia

Chelsie was born into field trials. Surrounded by family and friends who trained and trialed bird dogs, it was something she was always around. Starting with the development of puppies, she won her first trial at the tender age of five at South Hill in Virginia. They pulled into the grounds and saddled up despite the pouring rain, and off rode little Chelsie to run her dog, Lily. The gallery enjoyed her performance and the pride and confidence she showed in her charge. The support of many people — especially her mother — kept that interest in field trials alive through her childhood. Along with running young dogs, she spent most of her “tween” years tagging along while her mother competed or judged. Chelsie was always working horses and scouting for anyone who needed help. She learned to love watching a good dog and seeing the gratitude on people’s faces when they recognized their dog had put down a good performance. Important to Chelsie is that there are other people who enjoy the sport for more than the titles the dogs earn. Chelsie has had many proud achievements with her dogs, but finds herself smiling when she thinks back on the many trials and tribulations she went through with one particular dog, Mohawk Mill Wrangler. Wrangler taught her so much and together they overcame many challenges. She is left with wonderful memories of her mother helping her work through different situations with the dog. He went on to have several derby wins and

Claudia has had a lifelong love affair with dogs, but it wasn’t until she and her husband Bill bought their first French Brittany 16 years ago that she realized what that bond could really be. They started in walking gun dog stakes — were nearly always in the ribbons — then bought another Brittany and won twice as many ribbons! The real fun began with their first pointer, Richfield Silverbelle, call name Sydney. Soon after Syd appeared, so did two horses and then a trailer – and then three more horses, puppies, and a bigger trailer. The rest is history and so many great memories. The field trial game and community changed their lives, and then cancer cut Bill’s life short. The passion that had been theirs became Claudia’s lifeline, and the friends they’d made became her support group. Since then, Sydney has been retired. She proved to be a dog one could only hope for: 7x Champion, 5x Runner Up, and 2x cancer survivor — one very special family member and companion. Some of Claudia’s most memorable times have been handling Syd. Her first amateur championship win was in Windsor, CT and then up in Baldwinsville, NY, just two years ago, they claimed a Classic win. In both, Syd had nearly ten finds and up-out-of-your-seat races. What a team and exciting run they’ve had! Now with four young shooting dogs on the circuit, Claudia continues to play the game, and moved south from New York to Georgia

Fran, along with husband/teammate Jack, got their start in pointing dogs after competing with Labs and Coonhounds (Jack). Both grew up riding horses. Their business: the training and selling of horses and mules. Jack’s shoeing connected them to the south Georgia plantation world, where kennels full of pointing dogs piqued Jack’s curiosity. Fran attributes professional trainers Jim and Tracy Davis, with whom they co-owned their first field trial dog, with the help and encouragement that marked their entry to the breeding of pointers and shooting dog competition. Their next dog, purchased from Gary Lester, Lester’s Silver Charm, became the foundation female of the dogs in their kennel today. Charm’s direct offspring include National Field Trial Ch. Shell Creek Coin, and Fran and Jack’s first RU Ch. Casey’s Silver Charm. Second and third generation progeny include Fran’s Ch. It’s Only Money Honey, Miller’s Bring On The Heat, Ch. Lester’s Prime Poison Lane, Miller’s Armed And Dangerous, Miller’s Calamity Jane and other successful field trial dogs owned by the Millers or sold as young prospects. Early on, Fran was more involved with the raising and development of the puppies, while Jack handled the dogs in trials. On occasion, Jack was unable to attend a trial and Fran began handling and building her confidence to win. Growing up in a houseful of boys and playing tennis competitively also helped, along with Jack’s

2016 Field Trial Review 31. encouragement, and his excellent scouting skills. Her first big win came with Casey’s Silver Charm capturing Runner Up in the National Amateur Shooting Dog Derby in the spring of 2005. She won the same championship in 2007 with Chief Two Feathers, who went on to make his name on the Open All-Age circuit with handler Steve Hurdle, winning the National Free-for-All Championship twice. Fran was the second woman to win Runner Up in the highly competitive National Amateur Free-forAll Championship with Miller’s Blackeyed Suzy in 2013. More recently, Fran won the prestigious National Amateur Shooting Dog Invitational Championship with It’s Only Money Honey in 2015. Amazingly, she won Runner-Up laurels in the same championship again with “Honey Bear” this year. This is a tribute not only to Fran’s training and handling skills, and Jack’s scouting, but also to the Miller’s breeding and development program. Fran and Jack take great pride in that program and give all their pups the opportunity to become the best they can be — whether a champion field trial winner, a hard working plantation dog, or a beloved personal bird dog. The right genetics and socialization of pups has proven that possible. Fran also states they like to keep the pups long enough to successfully evaluate them. Winning field trials is very fulfilling to Fran, but developing great bird dogs takes center stage. Among others who Fran thanks for their encouragement and sharing their expertise are Ferrel Miller, Gary Lester, Ike Todd, and George Tracy. She encourages women to try handling dogs in field trials, something she, at one time, could not have imagined being successful doing. Jeanette Tracy, Glenville, Pennsylvania

The only professional woman regularly competing on the Open Shooting Dog (horseback) circuit today is Jeanette Tracy. She was born into one of the sport’s most esteemed field trial families. At one time, however, her life plans did not include training bird dogs. She grew up loving dogs and with a full measure of responsibilities that came with the family’s kennel full of dogs to be taken care of. Jeanette was a distinguished athlete (basketball and softball) in high school and later at York College, where she graduated in 1999 with a degree in Recreation and Leisure Administration. Her plan after college was to run a boarding kennel. While various technicalities ultimately

32. 2016 Field Trial Review prevented that plan from materializing, Jeanette was starting puppies for her family’s adjacent Summerhill Kennels. Eventually she was starting dogs for her own clients who wanted her to go on with them. And so, with the encouragement of close friends and family members, Jeanette started her own training facility in 2005, Ladywood Farm. Jeanette’s first big winning dog, the one that made people sit up and take notice, was Sukara’s Come Home Jessie. A great confidence builder for Jeanette, Jessie had an amazing career, amassing 38 placements. In 2007, Jeanette won her first championship (the New England Championship) with Enhancement Tess, a big running female pointer. From that time, her field trial record has grown to almost 500 open shooting dog wins — including championships and classics — as well as several Dog of the Year Awards. During the 2012 - 2013 season, setter male Grand Heritage Motion won the prestigious Elwin Smith English Setter Shooting Dog of the Year Award. Jeanette competed Moe in the National Shooting Dog Invitational Championship where the country’s top 12 shooting dogs go head to head, handled by the most successful trainers. Jeanette currently develops between 30 and 50 dogs and continues to make her mark on the Open Shooting Dog circuit with Steel City Karen, Ladywood’s Keepsake, and Pine Straw Blackhawk, among others. Not only has she demonstrated her ability to win field trials, but also to be an accomplished businesswoman running her own kennel operation. When asked if she has any regrets in following in her family’s field trial footsteps instead of running a boarding kennel, Jeanette responds: “None at all.” She enjoys the competition and the many great people she has met. She proudly boasts of having the best owners that have faith in her abilities. “The best part of the whole thing is taking the pups and watching them mature into adult dogs. Dogs are my passion. People who know me always joke about retiring at my place with the animals.” Jeanette sees to it that her dogs are given every opportunity to win big. She lets them prove they are meant to be out there winning against the best – meaning, of course, dogs handled by her brother Mike and father George! Karen Norton and Kim Harrell, Norman Park, Georgia Karen has loved and owned horses and dogs from the time she was a child. After the death of her first husband, the animals became an even larger part of her life. In 2004, she married Bruce Norton who had a few pointers to go along with Karen’s horses, and together their journey into field trialing began. Their first trial was at the beautiful Dixie Plantation as spectators of the Continental Derby and All-Age Championships. Soon after they got their

trip, is what keeps her excited, motivated, and loving her life with bird dogs. Shannon Nygard, Circle, Montana

first trial dog, Gypsy Dancer, who placed and, as so often is the story, were forever “hooked” on field trialing. Next came Bittersweet Sensation (Mae) named RunnerUp Dog of the Year in the South Georgia Field Trial Association in 2012. Karen learned a lot from Mae. She started out scouting for Bruce, though there were times when she handled the dog when Bruce was unable to attend a trial. Karen discovered that she was a competent handler and enjoyed the competition. Her first win came with Samara Pride — an enormous thrill especially because her daughter Kim was scouting. A winning pair, they became known as the “Powder Puff” team! Next was Bad Prairie Storm Valley (Bob) who was named Dog of the Year in 2014 by the South Georgia Field Trial Association. Karen is still campaigning Bob, as well as Quail Hollows Dixie Darlin, whom she raised from a puppy and has placed several times as a derby and first year shooting dog. The most enjoyable part of field trialing for Karen is that it’s a family affair. Daughter Kim Harrell started attending trials with Karen and Bruce and also fell in love with the sport. Kim, an excellent rider and scout, is often sought out to scout at various trials. She also has wins handling Karen’s Bad Prairie Storm Valley and now has a dog of her own, Happy Daze, whom she handles in field trials. Karen and Bruce also have two pointers on the Open All-Age circuit with handler/trainer Mark McLean. Song Rider, an awesome derby raised from a puppy by Kim, is doing very well this year with a second in the Broomhill Open Derby on the vast Manitoba prairie and a win at the Lee County Open. Also with Mark is House’s Buckwheat Hawk, an all-age dog who won the Derby Invitational and was Runner-Up in the 2015 Manitoba Championship. Karen and Kim love riding and watching their dogs compete on the open circuit almost as much as competing on the amateur level. Kim Sampson, Santaquin, Utah From the time she was a youngster accompanying her father into the fields hunting pheasants behind his dogs, Kim has felt something very special for bird dogs. The outings were never long enough and she never tired of walking along, watching the dogs. She also had a horse and spent summers riding in the Utah mountains with her friends. Back then she

never dreamed those two loves — dogs and horses — would someday not only combine, but combust into the habitual hurricane of her life today with bird dogs: training, field trialing, and upland hunting. Fifteen years ago, after a long hiatus, which included a college education, a career teaching junior high English, and raising a family, the longing for a dog resurfaced. Her first bird dog was a Weimaraner named Meg. Then came a pointer pup from South Carolina named Daisy. Things were never the same after that. On a borrowed horse, Kim ran Daisy in several AKC puppy and AF derby stakes and placed — usually winning — every stake she entered, along with some state and regional Dog of the Year awards. The hook was set. When asked what Kim enjoys most about field trials, the answer is always the same: the dogs and looking for that “great performance,” whether it wins or not. Field trials run on wild birds are her favorite, as she firmly believes that format is the truest test of the most important aspects of a bird dog. There isn’t one singular thing that stands out to Kim as her biggest accomplishment, although the placements and especially the championships she’s won are near the top. Her first championship in the 2011 Region 9 Amateur Shooting Dog Championship in American Falls, Idaho; then, RU Champion in the 2015 National Chukar Open Shooting Dog Championship and Champion in the 2015 Oregon Open Shooting Dog Championship, both run in Sunnyside, Washington, were especially meaningful. She takes special pride in 3x Ch. and 4x RU Ch. West Mountain Sunny Days, a dog she bred, raised, developed, trained, and continues to campaign. Kim has also judged prestigious events around the country, including the 2011 Umbell-Armstrong Endurance Classic in Marionville, PA and the 2014 National Amateur Pheasant Shooting Dog Championship in Circle, MT. Today, as a professional and owner/operator of West Mountain Kennels in Utah, Kim loves developing pups and derbies and working older dogs for their owners to hunt and compete in trials. She makes a huge effort to get her charges out on wild birds as often as possible, hunting or training in several western states from early August until nesting season begins in the spring. That phone call informing her of a client winning with a dog she trained, or just a great report on a client’s hunting

One of the first dogs Shannon recalls working with and learning from was a derby-aged female, Light Rail. As she had the time and was itching to learn, Shannon took Liza and headed southeast to Sherry Ebert’s training facility in Mott, ND. There she learned, among other things, how to run a dog in a field trial. Three weeks after returning from Camp Ebert, Light Rail, handled by Tom Nygard, topped a field of 24 dogs, winning an AllAge Classic. Liza kept winning and was awarded Region 14 Dog of the Year for the next two years. From there the Nygard kennel filled up and Shannon, already an accomplished horsewoman, was on her way to developing and handling her own dogs. Some of the field trial dogs in whose early development Shannon had a big hand include High Noon Sport, who won the Montana Shooting Dog Classic and was Montana Dog of the Year in 2005; I B Anxious who won the 2010 National Amateur Chicken Championship with Shannon scouting; and Dixie Chic who competed on the Open All-Age circuit with professional handler, Rick Furney. Shannon handled Chic to her first derby win in Mortlach, Saskatchewan. Shannon has competed in field trials across the country, from in her home state of Montana to the Canadian prairies, the piney woods of Dixie, Sedgefields, and Smith Setter Plantations, in west Tennessee, the Robertson Ranch in Idaho, to Sunnyside, Washington. She has traveled to the southeast for the past several years, making the long journey from Montana with her dogs and horses. She takes special pride in having hosted the National Amateur Pheasant Championship and the Montana Open Shooting Dog Classic since 2009 in Circle, Montana. Together the two events’ entries number over 100 dogs. All the relationships, whether with person, dog, or horse, have enriched Shannon’s life journey, adding challenges and enjoyment. “As a field trailer,” she says “you grow and learn every day and the reward is the thrill that comes when your

2016 Field Trial Review 33. hard work and the many choices you make result in a win.” She loves the people, all their support, the fun they are to be with, sharing their love of the sport. Her greatest stride is that she is on “The List” this year with the best of the best competing in the National Championship. Ch. Circle Masquerade, now in the able hands of Jamie Daniels, is a dog Shannon raised and brought along as a derby, out of her female Phillips Miss Kate. Added to the fun is that Rosie’s sire is Ch. Distant Shadow, a very accomplished and commanding All-Age winner of note owned by Jed Demsey and Tom Nygard and handled by Robin Gates. Shannon is honored and grateful for all the people, places, and situations that have made this dream come true! Tracy Haines, Broomfield, Colorado Tracy has been handling dogs in field trial competition for the past 20 years. She rode horses and established a great love for dogs and a knack for working with them from early childhood on. Tracy’s first exposure to the bird dog competition world came after having been told that her recently acquired Brittany was breeding quality. Wanting to verify that fact before breeding, Tracy attended and became involved in shows and field trials as handler for her dogs in both show and field. She discovered her passion for all-age dogs while watching open championships on the prairies with her husband, long-time dog trainer Jack Haines. When the opportunity arose to co-own a promising young

all-age dog on Fred Delio’s string, Jack and Tracy jumped on it. The dog, Just Wait, went on to become a 4x champion and sired Just Wait Bess, whom Tracy handled in amateur and open stakes beginning in late 2008. Bess was top all-age dog in Colorado three years in a row, winning 27 open all-age placements, 75% of them first placements. Tracy trained and handled many other dogs of various pointing dog breeds in both AKC and American Field trials from Maryland to Washington State. When asked what she most loves about field trials, Tracy emphasized her interaction with the dogs (and horses) and the thrill of handling a dog to a great performance, regardless of outcome. One of

her proudest achievements came when she was asked by the late connoisseur of allage dogs, John Criswell, to judge the 2008 All-America Open Prairie Championship with Mike Furney. To sit up front and watch some of the best dogs in the country as they skim across the prairies is one of those indescribable experiences which has kept her attending summer camp and the prairie trials every summer. Tracy has also made many trips to the piney woods of South Georgia to learn and experience the traditional southern trials. She and Jack have bred several champions, including Hideaway Tall Boy, Just Irresistible, and Funseek’n Hitman. The latter two littermates out of Just Wait Bess are both on the string of All-Age pro, Jamie Daniels. Tracy is also very proud of her (their) accomplished daughter, Andi Christensen, who is a winning breeder and handler of several champions and dual champion Brittanys. About the author: Chris Mathan and Mazie Davis are the founders and editors of the online publication, Strideaway. This past year, Chris moved from Maine to South Georgia, requiring some time off. Now in its new home in the heart of quail country, Strideaway will resume presenting articles, interviews, visuals, and other information pertaining to pointer/setter field trials. We wish all the handlers, owners, and scouts competing in the 2016 National Championship the best of luck!

Erin’s

Thanks to Luke Eisenhart for his hard work and tireless dedication in making Duke a top competitor on the All Age Circuit.

Owners: Sean and Deb Hauser Manchester, IA Handler: Luke Eisenhart Scout: Tommy Davis

Thanks to Sean and Patty

Kentucky Gambler

Derrig of Erin Kennels for giving us the opportunity to own this once in a lifetime animal. ©FTR

photo courtesy of Strideaway

Best of luck to all competitors in the 2016 National Championship!

Steve Tait portrait

34. 2016 Field Trial Review

Dueling Dogs at the National By Brad Harter After 28 years of watching nearly a thousand dogs compete for the National Championship title, I can’t help thinking about some of the common factors in winning dogs. The great majority of dogs that have won had the advantage of having a brace mate that was lost early or picked up for one of many reasons. There were a few exceptions to that, and these exceptions resulted in some of the most exciting duels between dogs witnessed in recent years. In 1994 Brush Country Spec put on a real “shoot out” with Double Rebel Buck. Spec was handled by Ed Husser and Buck by Fred Dileo. The temperature was in the 50s and conditions were nearly perfect for pointing birds. For many attendees of the National, this brace went down as one of the all time best three hours “duels” anyone had witnessed. The brace started like many other winning performances. Spec was on the board early, pointing birds in the first 5 minutes. From thereon, the action was pretty steady, with both dogs “trading punches” back and forth. Buck would score and then Spec would score. It went on that way for the entire three hours. The curtain would close with Spec having his last of seven finds with 15 minutes left in the three hours. Buck would score six in that same time period. Each dog had shown plenty of strength to the very end. What separated these two dogs in the minds of the three judges was never shared. Many observers felt that it might have been Spec’s special connection to his handler. Ed never rode hard for Spec. He set a pace that allowed the dogs to hunt and never encouraged what some call a “dog race.” Ed rode directly in front of the three judges throughout the three hours. When Ed called on Spec, he would show up front every time. Never did Spec require any aggressive scouting. It was smooth and flawless – what the Amesian Standard calls for. Eleven years elapsed before another winner emerged from a similar “shootout.” In 2005, the temperature was almost perfect, hovering around the 50-degree mark. Warming conditions and temperatures in this range are almost perfect conditions to catch birds out feeding. In this brace, Cypress Gunpowder was paired with Harpeth Valley Hawk. Hawk was the first to score at the fifteen minute mark with Gunpowder backing. Twenty minutes later, Hawk added find number two to his score card. At the forty-two minute mark Gunpowder was on the score sheet, this time with Hawk in a mannerly back. Five minutes later Hawk scored number three. At the hour mark, each dog scored on sep-

arate coveys at the same time, but in different locations. Five minutes later Hawk scored again. Then Gunpowder was next on the board. Ten minutes elapsed and Hawk scored again. Gunpowder added to his score, putting five and six in the books in quick succession. Then Hawk racked up another find. It went back and forth the entire three hours. When the “shoot out” was over, Hawk had nine perfectly handled finds and four backs. Gunpowder had tallied eight finds and two backs, all handled perfectly. Both dogs were strong until the very end. Both dogs had shown great response to their handlers and neither dog had shown any evidence of being overly scouted. In the National there is no second place, no runner-up. This year, Cypress Gunpowder was declared the winner. Why Cypress Gunpowder and not Harpeth Valley Hawk? The judges never shared exactly what it was that separated these two dogs. Another seven years elapsed before the winner would emerge from the kind of duel that had been witnessed in 1994 and 2005. In almost all those other years the winner emerged with a stellar performance void of a brace mate during most of the three hours. Having the course to oneself can be a real advantage. The coveys available don’t have to be shared with another dog. There is no time spent catching up to a brace mate after having a find. A handler and his dog can go at a pace that suits them, hunting all the likely places, and both can keep the focus on finding birds. What are other common characteristics of winning performances? Naturally, the race is important and so are application, stamina, and endurance major roles in selecting the winner. The Amesian Standard puts strong emphasis on the ability of the dog to be handled and to keep his handler’s course in view. Also of importance are bird scores. A dog cannot win this title without racking up an impressive bird score. Dogs that win this title almost always have their first piece of bird work during the first thirty minutes. Many even have their first find within five minutes of being turned loose. Weather plays a big role in the winning dog’s performance. The optimum conditions for birds to be active and feed are weather related. The temperature is usually warming and is above freezing. Those ideal conditions have always been present when a winning performance has been rendered. Then there is the role a good scout plays. Knowing the courses, knowing the dogs, and finding the dogs buried in on point are important. Every winning dog in the last six years was found on numerous occasions buried in on point by a skilled scout. Having bird work throughout the entire three hours shows the dog’s focus. In nearly every case in recent years the winners have found and pointed birds in their last thirty minutes, some even in their closing seconds.

In 2010 “In The Shadow” (Buster) put on a ten-find performance for his owner Carl Bowman and his handler Robin Gates that will long be remembered. Buster’s first find came at the sixteen minute mark and his last and tenth find came in the closing seconds. Buster’s strength never waned; his willingness to handle never was in question. Every move that Buster made was focused on finding birds. There were a number of dogs that challenged Buster, but it was Buster who met the Amesian Standard. In 2011 “Touch’s White Out” pulled off his championship performance as a young, three year old, first time contender. White Out’s first find came at the twenty nine minute mark. His sixth and last find that counted came at the two hour, thirty minute mark. White Out scored a final find after time expired and judgment had ceased. Although his last piece of bird work did not count, it still was an indication that this young dog never lost his desire to find birds. In 2012 there was another near perfect performance by Connor’s E Z Button. Running in the ninth brace with temperatures warming near the 40 degree mark, Button was braced with one of the strongest bird finding dogs to perform at Ames Plantation. Dr. Fred Corder’s Game Maker had been a fierce competitor in past years. Steve Hurdle handled Button and he knew his dog was capable of finding birds. All he needed were weather conditions that would allow birds to be active. Friday morning of the first week was just that kind of perfect day. Button’s first find came at the twelve minute mark. At 23 minutes he was on the board again. At the half way mark Button added number three and four in quick succession. In his last hour Button tallied number five and six. Game Maker was putting on his own show, scoring four finds, but his brace was cut short when he was struck by a car on the road. Fortunately, Chip was not seriously hurt and he fully recovered in a few weeks. Button’s performance was the epitome of the Amesian Standard, and his strong performance earned him the 2012 title. The year 2013 saw another “shoot out” between two fine dogs. A pointer from the west coast was braced with a setter from the Deep South. The pointer, Riverton’s Funseekin Scooter, hailing from Idaho, was handled by Rich Robertson. The setter was Shadow Oak Bo, handled by Robin Gates. Both dogs had been to this dance before and had a strong following among those in the gallery. Again, almost all of the common denominators were in play. It had rained throughout the night leaving the courses wet. The temperatures were moderating and the skies were slightly overcast, conditions under which birds were expected to be feeding. Turned loose in the fifth brace on the first Wednesday morning, Bo was on point at the three minute mark, showing the same characteristic seen in most dogs that win the National Championship – getting on the score

board in the first thirty minutes. By the fourteen minute mark, Scooter was on point and Bo was backing. Nine minutes later Scooter scored again and Bo backed. The duel was on! Back and forth each dog scored. When the duel ended at the three hour mark, Bo had scored seven times, adding three classic backs honoring Scooter on his finds. Scooter had ended his three hours with five finds, his last coming with only ten minutes left in the three hours. Bo closed the curtain with his last find coming with less than three minutes on the clock. It had been 43 years since a setter had won this title and the long dry spell for setters at the National was over. In 2014 Shadow Oak Bo returned to defend his title. A weather delay the first week moved Bo and his brace mate to the second Monday morning, allowing the courses to go undisturbed over Sunday. The weather was warming with temperatures around the mid forties. An approaching front promised rain, and birds are often active and feeding under those conditions. Braced with Miller’s Happy Jack, Bo’s major break came with Jack being lost soon after the breakaway. That left Bo with most of the three hours and the entire course to himself. That allowed Robin to set his own pace and Bo to focus on finding birds, at which Bo is the absolute master. Bo was quickly on the board with his first find coming at the fourteen minute mark. Within the first hour Bo had scored three times on coveys, all of which had not been pointed during the first week of the trial. Bo was digging into cover. Every move he made was with the sole purpose of finding birds. During his second hour Bo chalked up three more finds. It was Bo’s sixth find that may have been the icing on the cake. Robin flushed without results and when he was returning to his dog, he noted a fresh roost within a few feet of Bo. Tapped on the head to relocate Bo, immediately turned ninety degrees to the right and made a beeline along a line of cover. Bo was using the wind and he seemed to know exactly where these birds had traveled when they left their roost. Forty yards away Bo slammed onto point with this escaping covey pinned to perfection. It was a beautiful relocation accomplished by a bird dog worthy of the crown of National Champion. But Bo was not done. Showing no fatigue, Bo continued in his quest to find birds, scoring his last find with less than fifteen minutes left in his three hours. When the trial ended, Bo was awarded his second consecutive title. He set another record by becoming the first English setter to win back-to-back national titles in 112 years. In 2015 the common denominator Gods were in play once more. A nine day weather delay put the running of the 16th brace into the third week. Drawn to run on the third Wednesday afternoon were two fine pointers, one a veteran of the field trials and the other a youngster coming to Grand Junction for the first time. The veteran was White’s Solid Reward, handled

by Lefty Henry and scouted by his owner John Ivester. The youngster just coming three years of age was Miller’s Dialing In, owned and handled by Gary Lester. The ground had been frozen for days, but on this afternoon, warming temperatures brought a welcomed thaw. The weather forecast called for a cold front bringing snow from Arkansas by late afternoon. To beat the approaching storm, the judges called for an early start, moving the afternoon brace up a full hour. Turned loose just after noon, Miller’s Dialing In, aka Spec, disappeared to the right side of the course before the first road crossing. John Ivester, scouting for his own dog, spotted Spec buried deep in cover and called point. Fifteen minutes had not elapsed and Spec had his first find in the books. An early piece of bird work put Spec’s mind in the right place. Numbers two, three, four, and five finds came in the first hour. Birds were moving and scenting conditions seemed perfect. Spec’s second piece of luck came when his brace mate was lost on point, resulting in his being recovered with tracking equipment and picked up. Now Spec had the course and nearly two hours to himself. Spec was digging deep into cover to find birds, and it was uncanny how scout Mark Haynes seemed to know just where to look. Mark found Spec on four of his eight finds. Spec’s second hour produced a single find and his strength just seemed to be increasing. Spec tallied two finds in his last hour, with the pièce de résistance coming on his last find with less than ten minutes left in the three hours. The course turned left and Spec was moving in that direction, cuing off Gary’s horse, when his nose told him something different. Snow had started to fall and the wind was coming out of the west. So was the smell of a covey feeding in a Milo patch. Spec wheeled back to the right, threw his head up, and went straight to the covey, putting number eight on his score card. With plenty of strength to spare, Spec was fading out of sight far to the front in the closing minutes of the brace. Spec’s undoubtedly was a National Championship performance! Looking back over these years, I am amazed at how often this scenario has played out. To win at Grand Junction, the dogs need more than luck and perfect weather; they must possess these common qualities of a winning performance.

The Birds at Ames By Brad Harter To put on a successful field trial you have to have birds (quail). Having wild birds that hatch on your place and require little feeding is the ideal situation, but due to many factors, that scenario is not always possible. More than ten years ago I wrote a threepart series for Field Trial Magazine titled, “The Birds at Ames.” My observations then, just as now, come from being an outside observer. I have witnessed the quail population fluctuations for the last 28 years by attending the National Championship at Ames Plantation every February. Here I share only my observations from what I have witnessed regarding quail at Ames, and not those of anyone involved in the management of the quail population there. It’s important to note that everyone who works at the plantation is fully committed to producing and maintaining a healthy quail population, thereby allowing a number of field trials to be run successfully every year. My first trip to Ames was in 1971 when the wild bird population was very healthy. The cover was somewhat different than today, with large areas of broom sedge covering much of the field trial courses. Thickets were almost impenetrable and escape cover was everywhere. I did not return until 1988 and, while some aspects of cover had changed, the healthy wild bird population was still flourishing. I vividly remember trying to videotape the running that first day and moving nearly 50 coveys, some of which were handled by dogs and others just ridden up by the gallery. One unforgettable performance that year was a dog who had 17 contacts with quail in his three hours. Something began to change during the early 1990s and quail numbers began to decline. This was not just happening at Ames, but over much of the south. There were many theories as to the cause of this decline, but no one seemed to have a definitive answer. Research has shown that quail and most other small game animals go through population cycles. Weather patterns play a major role, and predator numbers are a

BobWhite Quail, by Bob Bertram factor. But the most important factor is habitat – available throughout the year. By 1996 plantation personal were beginning to worry, sensing the decline could be more than just a normal population cycle. A quail task force was organized; funding was acquired; and extensive studies were begun, utilizing modern technology that involved radio collared birds and telemetry tracking. While not all of the results of the task force have been published, what was learned is that the wild bird population can actually be higher than what gets found and pointed in a field trial. Having populations high enough for a successful field trial requires managing habitat so that birds are accessible to the dogs. That requires removing cover and providing access lanes through thickets. So, making birds accessible to dogs also makes those same birds more accessible to predators – a kind of “Catch 22.” By 2002 bird populations had seemingly reached bottom. A decision to supplement the native birds with an early release of raised birds was decided by the Field Trial Association board of directors. Plantations through the south had been doing this with varying degrees of success for years, and the time had come for Ames to try a similar program. Using a play book from other plantations, the first release was made in the fall of 2002. This turned out to be an outstanding success, as the 2003 National Championship saw large numbers of healthy birds being pointed throughout the entire running. When a new release program is first in-

2016 Field Trial Review 35. stituted, the success can be more than expected. When Hungarian Partridge, Pheasants, and Chukar were first introduced in North America, these birds experienced similar success. But Nature is about balance and with the pre-release of raised quail, the balance was temporarily upset. The upside is that bird hunters and field trailers like an upset balance when it puts their favorite game bird in abundance. The downside is that the imbalance doesn’t last. Predator numbers, disease, or severe weather come into play, which is what happened at Ames. In 2004, 2005, and 2006 there was some success for the prerelease birds, but their survival numbers dropped and again, no one knew exactly why. By 2009 the plantation staff were supplementing the early release with an additional later release. Supplemental feeding programs and predator trapping were under consideration. The plantation was back to the drawing board and everything that could be done was on the table. One of the difficult juggling acts in managing a field trial venue is how much to mow and how much cover to leave. If there is little or no mowing, dogs cannot be seen and can easily be lost on point. Too much cover removal and the avian predators have a “banquet table.” When the handlers met with plantation management a couple years ago, their recommendations was to leave more cover and to start a supplemental feeding program from the time of the early release through the winter. In 2015 this program was implemented and the results were outstanding. Milder weather undoubtedly played a role initially in the birds’ success, but even when harsh weather resulted in a nine-day delay of the 2015 National, the birds fared well. With such success in 2015, the same program was repeated for the 2016 trail season. An added benefit is that the plantation’s wild bird population also seems to be on the rise. With the vast changes in winter weather the south is experiencing – fluctuating from periods of warm, spring-like temperatures to below freezing, snow, and ice – birds are having to adapt. While birds can survive periods of snow, a severe ice storm can wreak havoc on the healthiest bird populations. Barring another weather catastrophe, 2016 promises to be another successful year for the birds at Ames.

(Nancy Brannon photo)

36. 2016 Field Trial Review

Owners Of Dogs Running In The 117th National Championship

Herb Anderson (Vera Courtney photo)

Sue & Ken Blackman

Ross Callaway

Ronnie Spears

Thorpe McKenzie

Sarina & Bob Craig

Richard Peterson

Mary Devos

Scott Griffin

Scott Kermicle

Dr. Davey Deal

Dr. Ron Deal

Burke Hendrix

Jim Crawford (Jamie Evans photo)

Keith Wright

Gary McKibben

Scott Griffin

Will & Rita Dunn

Maeve Derrig

(Vera Courtney photo)

Charles & Raegan Williamson

2016 Field Trial Review 37.

Owners Of Dogs Running In The 117th National Championship

Gary and Becky Futch

Dr. J. D. Huffman

Raines Jordan

Jim Santarelli

Guy Hendrix

David O’Connor

Rick Stallings

Nelson Mills

John Sayre

Leah Brigham

Peg Fornear

Eddie Sholar (Vera Courtney photo)

Chuck Kunde

Shannon Nygard

Dan Hensley

Bob Walthall

Photos Not Available We deeply regret that we could not locate photos of all the owners and handlers by press time. Please consider sending us your photo for the 2017 Field Trial Review. If we have published a photo that you do not like, please accept our apologies and send us another that you prefer. Deadline for the 2017 Field Trial Review is February 3, 2017.

38. 2016 Field Trial Review

Circle Masquerade Circle Masquerade, aka Rosie, was raised by Shannon Nygard of Bozeman, Montana. Her dam, Phillips Miss Kate, also owned by Shannon, was bred in spring 2010 to Champion Distant Shadow. Miss Kate is from Nathan Phillips’ breeding program. In the litter Kate was from, there were two Champions produced, and three females in the litter bred future champions. Kate’s half brother is the 2015 National Champion Miller’s Dialing In. Both are out of dam Phillips Silver Star. Distant Shadow, or Sam, whose breeding is well respected, is out of Miller’s White Powder and a Joe Shadow female, Doerr’s Claire’s Shadow. Sam is an incredible dog who stands tall and stout, and his character in the field is impeccable. Sam is a 2-time Champion and 2-time Runner Up Champion. Distant Shadow’s most prestigious career win was 2010 Runner-Up at the Florida Championship. His full brother is In the Shadow, 2010 National Champion. The Rosie Litter was born on Mother’s Day, and word from Nathan Phillips was that his best litters were born on a holiday. Rosie was raised on the prairies of Circle Montana where the National Pheasant Championship and the Montana Shooting Dog Championship are held annually. Signal Rocks Ranch is a wonderful bird habi-

Tick Research at Ames By Dr. Allan Houston

Puppy “Rosie” on the right tat, with three types of native wild birds: Sharptails, Pheasants, and Hungarian Partridge. It’s a great opportunity for a young dog! Rich Robertson is credited with Rosie’s development and success – from a green broke derby to a first class All Age contender. Rich credited Rosie with being that kind of dog that always found birds when others did not. Jed Dempsey, co-owner with Tom Nygard, remarked that it was the “Silverwood” on Sam’s side of the breeding that produced that bird finding trait. Since Rich Robertson retired in the spring of 2015, Jamie Daniels, who owns Daniels Kennels in Albany, Georgia, is now campaigning Rosie. Rosie won her first National Qualifier at 4 years old at the Cascade All Age in Fossil, Oregon in October 2014. The following spring she won the Pacific Coast All Age in Sunnyside, Washington. Circle Masquerade is the first dog from Montana to be qualified for the National Championship!

231 CR 228 Tiplersville, MS $325,000

Tick research is ongoing at Ames. Under the direction of Dr. Rebecca TroutFryxell, two Masters degree students finished their work and a great deal has been published, including a cooperative effort incorporating seven professors from four different universities. Ticks were captured from sites across the Ames Plantation and each site’s soil and vegetative components were intensively examined. More than 800 small mammals and 600 birds were captured for ectoparasite examination. While the small mammals, mainly the white-footed deer mouse and the cotton rat, carried a full complement of ticks and various other ectoparasites, the birds did not. Only five birds had a tick on them, which is significant, as one realizes how many birds are out there and how far they can travel. New tick research by a graduate student is examining cattle on Ames and other REC Centers for tick infestation. As cattle are moved through the chute to receive their regular work-ups, the graduate student checks for ticks. The work is in its earliest form, but so far not many ticks have been found.

Throughout the course of all tick research done at Ames, well over 50,000 ticks have been captured and many have been examined for diseases in the Rickesiosis group, which includes Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF), a disease of particular interest in this part of the world due a high morbidity rate among humans. One thing we suspected early on was a disease that mimicked RMSF and could be diagnosed as RMSF, but would not be quite as virulent. We found this to be true with discovery of Ricketsia parkeri, a less dangerous form, but one in which serologic cross reactivity can make it hard to discern from RMSF. The work at Ames continues to give insight into the complex world of ticks and tick borne diseases. A full understanding will take considerable effort and funding. Half of every tick caught and analyzed resides at the University of Tennessee in storage for eventual investigation as the need arises. Genetic sequencing is used to isolate pathogens, and each half-tick represents a wealth of potential information.

BEST WISHES TO ALL CONTENDERS IN THE 2016 NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

©FTR

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2016 Field Trial Review 39.

Owners Of Dogs Running In The 117th National Championship

Sean & Deb Hauser

Rising Star: Whippoorwill Foto Op By Ken Blackman Whippoorwill Foto Op (aka Jill) was a “gift” from Dr. Jack Huffman. He is one of the finest men I've ever met, and the Huffman family is so generous. The Huffmans own Whippoorwill Farm, which is nearly 2,000 acres of the most quail friendly land in the Mid -South. Larry Huffman, his sons Wyatt and Ty, and his nephew Nolan Driver work their tails off prepping the ground annually. Piper ensures that the dogs and bitches are cared for as if they were her own. They utilize prescribed burning of fallow areas, planting food plots, and mowing long bottomlands to enhance the natural production of food sources and cover for hatching and protecting the Northern Bobwhite Quail. To ensure the quail have the right feed available, a regular supplemental feeding is done about every ten days. The cost of all this is significant on its own. Regardless, the Huffmans regularly offer their land to host out of town guests and provide the opportunity to work their dogs (some that compete with the Whippoorwill team) on the grounds. They also host four trials (two Open and two Amateur) there each year. Dr. Huffman came to the Mid-South in the 1980s with a goal to enhance the quail habitat and begin a breeding program for pointers that would compete at the championship level throughout the United States. He has succeeded by bringing many champions to the games, starting with pointers such as National Champions El Sauz Doll, Bluff City Mike, Whippoorwill’s Rebel (1987 and 1989), Dunn's Fearless Bud, Whippoorwill Wild Card, and his grandson, Whippoorwill Wild Agin. Most of these were owned by friends to whom he gave or sold pups. Several stayed at his kennel and were trained and handled by Larry. Probably his most successful pups are just now showing promise from partner-

John Ivester

Frank LaNasa

competitor. She was awarded second place in the Amateur Derby. Several other trials that season were not productive, but Jill had made her mark for the coming year. A very auspicious start for a little 9-month-old puppy! When Larry finished his season in March 2013, I took Jill to him to evaluate Vera Courtney photo her potential as an All Age Derby competitor. Would ing with his Georgia friends, Dr. Terry Tershe make Larry’s string to go north with lep and Bob Walthal. Recognizing the pohim and his other Whippoorwill Champitential of a pointer, with Hall of Fame ons? A week with Larry brought the call (HOF) dogs Rock Acre Blackhawk (Bob that he’d like to take her with to the trainWalthal owner) and HOF Whippoorwill ing grounds he shared with his friend Wild Agin (co-owned with Dr. Terlep), he has produced a score of litters from a mat- Allen Vincent, near Columbus, North ing of Wild Agin (with frozen semen) with Dakota This little 35 lb. “pocket rocket” a daughter of Blackhawk: Sparkles. Three exhibited the conformation, structure, and of this year’s dogs qualified to run in the mobility that had characterized her grandNational Championship – Whippoorwill father and father. Jill’s drive and bird finding skill began Blue Blood, Whippoorwill Wild Assault, to show on the Missouri River Corteau. Whippoorwill Justified – are direct prodLarry found that she would need lots of ucts of this couple. One other qualified time in the saddle to make sure she underpointer, Whippoorwill Foto Op, is the stood what he wanted her to do. Above daughter of Ransom (owned by Walthal) all, she would never run away from him, and a granddaughter of Wild Agin. Along wasn’t shy of cover, and always showed with Quester, newly brought to Whipup to the front. Friends who have been poorwill by the Peg Fornear, another Wild around Jill when she’s at home would Again/Sparkles son, “The Doctor,” owned comment that as a “house dog,” Jill loves by Blake Kukar and one win away from to be around people, especially kids. Also, the National Championship, Larry will spending several months with our friend have the most dogs ever entered in the “Big Dance” under the Whippoorwill Nick Thompson of Hickory Flat, Mississippi in his puppy program gave her the Team banner. touch of discipline necessary to under“Jill” was a precocious pup. At an early stand the underlying fundamentals of age, and on walks in the hayfield on our being a “bird dog.” property, she exhibited a strong tendency Jill’s Derby year was marked by a numto seek out objectives ahead of Sue or me. ber of placements, under Larry’s guidance, She learned to run far and wide as a 6in the North Dakota Derby, Hobart Ames month-old with Illinois pro Al Gorrow, Memorial Derby; wins in the Benton who camps at the Harms Ranch in the County Open Derby and – her most memSandhills of Nebraska. She learned that orable win in rain, snow, and sleet – the chasing Pheasants and Sharptail Grouse Alabama Open Derby at Hell Creek near was big fun the more she ranged out in Blue Mountain, Mississippi. Both the Hofront of the horseback handler. bart Ames and the Alabama are one hour Back home at her first trial, the Marshall County Amateur, held on the im- stakes. She was near the top of the group mense harvested grain fields of Mr. Sunny to be selected to compete in the prestigious Hawk’s farmland near Holly Springs, Mis- All Age Derby Invitational at Outland sissippi, the judges felt that her ground Ranch in Illinois. Unfortunately, because game was superior to all but one other of the round robin format, she was unable

Allen Linder to be invited when she came into heat a week before the drawing. Jill's first year as an All Age was one of learning how to “run with the big dogs.” An early placement (second) in the Dr. Dorwin Hawthorne North Dakota Classic was her only placement in her freshman year. She “knocked” on the door a number of times, but kept getting better and better as the year wore on. Off season, Jill spent time playing with our other Pointers, Brittanys, and dogs that our friends board with us. When my grandkids come to visit, she joins them for swims in the pond, which are an early morning affair. Nick once again played a huge part in the off season yard work. She learned how to keep composed on the barrel. July came and she again went with the Huffmans to the wheat fields and grasslands around Columbus, North Dakota. This time, Larry’s expectations were higher than ever, and Jill didn’t disappoint. Her summer conditioning was evident when she was turned loose on the prairie. It paid off in the North Dakota Classic when she bested a stellar turnout of some of the best All Age Pointers in the country. Judges William Smith and Doug Vaughn awarded her first place. One of Larry’s competitors offered: “That little bitch is the toughest dog I’ve ever seen in this county. Every time you thought she’d been lost in the heavy cover, she just popped out front looking like, ‘Larry, here I am, catch up!’” As she competed in several trials up north, she was just “out of the money.” But back on her home turf at Hell Creek, she showed why she owns big grounds. With style, drive, class, and an exhibition of her training, she was named winner of the Hell Creek Open All Age. With that win, she qualified for her first (with hopefully more to come) National Championship for Bird Dogs at Hobart and Julia Colony Ames’ plantation near Grand Junction, Tennessee. This year's running will be the 117th year – an event of true historical significance. In a final twist of fate, my grandmother and daughter both have the first name Julia. Maybe a win would be in the tradition of Mrs. Ames? One can always hope.

40. 2016 Field Trial Review

Sandy’s Song By Dr. Allan Houston

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Everyone has had a “best” someone or something. The ones that can look us in the eye are the ones who grab us hardest, and our memory of that “best one” is often tempered in the fire of having to see it go. When we picked her out we knew there would be no “papers” with her. It was evident she was pure bred, but the local “Casanova” had found a breach in the fence and planted just enough doubt to cancel any claims with the AKC. She came to the fence like she knew us and was wondering why we hadn’t shown up earlier. One look into those eyes and the deal was sealed. The wife and kids named her Sandy and it fit the golden color that gives the breed its name. As she matured she became a handsome dog. She retained the dignity of a bird dog’s stature, and even with the creamy feathers around her legs and tail, she kept the rich, reddish saddle that matched her square-headed pragmatism. She was best because she was smart and she wanted to please. Best because she never left an unfenced yard unless she was invited. And, best because she raised the kids. More than once they came in all excited because Sandy was acting “funny.” Always, we found something astray. Once it was a groundhog in the garage under the car, so Sandy would not let the kids in the garage. Another time the front yard was off limits - a snake was there. Another time it was a low hanging hornet’s nest we had not seen. She was best because she loved everyone, but had the commonsense to know that not everything, every time was OK. Late one night, I heard a silent deadly grip as the door knob turned, and in the kitchen, Sandy roared to life. The door clicked partially shut as if the intruder had simply dematerialized. She knew the difference between a visit and a stealth intruder. She was best because she had a job -us. Once a Japanese crew came to film a show called “Mrs. America” and asked my wife Becky to share a week in her life. Someone told me later they saw the show in Japan and Sandy was a star. “Sandeeeee” was one of the few words he could understand, but it was clear the filmmakers thought she was worth seeing by a whole country. The years rolled by, the kids grew up, and Sandy grew old. At first it was the just the gray hairs moving in. When I happened to notice, it would earn her an extra scratch around the ears as we commiserated about the creeping years. Then she began to struggle. Symptoms, doubts, denials, and recognitions piled one upon the other and the days of decision began. “Putting down” a dog is a euphemism for euthanasia. We know it; we try to blunt it; but we know what must be done and what we are about to do. Coming to the

perfect time when “might be,” “should be,” “too late” and “too soon” can be balanced, and when grief and guilt can be sensibly dealt with, is very difficult. This is especially true when someone can look you in the eye. When you can hold its head and say, “You were the best.” We piled into the room as a family. She had had a good night, her best in a week, and did not then have the look of a dog with only a few rag-breathed shreds of life left. We came in with memories of groundhogs and skunks, long walks and vigils, and the liquid love that fills a dog’s eyes. She was looking at us with her tail wearily tapping out an ancient message. I thought about a fence long ago and how it stood between us. A golden puppy reared up, looking out at me standing there looking in. We took her home and every single fence between us came down. Everything about us became her home, and for 12 years, she was part of our home, in the fabric of our life. In a few moments she would be gone, trusting now as she had then, still wanting to please, loving us until her head bent, slowly, reluctantly -- not because she was afraid, but because she could see the anguish in us. She looked at me, bending down, and slowly, gracefully, her weary head came to rest for the last time. Those ragged shreds fluttered in the ebbing – and then grew still. She was the best and she was gone. My son, nearly a man, stood; and the next day handed me this: “Sandy’s Song.” My dog, she walked so far ahead And grinning o’er her shoulder said, “Come on my friend, don’t stop and play I’ll lead you now, I know the way.” She never walked out of sight So she could make sure all was right. Back, she’d gallop shouting, “Foul Play!” If we hid out of the way. A guardian angel, she was to me Allowing me to sleep fear-free. Any dangers met their end In the jaws of my protective friend. Eyes crowned in white, a noble head Would greet me as I sought my bed. Her soft-brown eyes, my comfort’s Ground, “No Fear,” they said, you Are safe and sound. A bouncing blur was to be found When there was hint of food around. She’d walk her well-worn path to say “Hello” at the end of a long, hard day. From childhood to man soon-to-be Along the path, she walked with me. An ear when the world turned its back, Reassurance that not all was black. But now, my dog walks farther ahead On a path that’s not yet mine to tread. “Live Well!” I can barely hear her now. “I know you will; I’ve shown you how.”

2016 Field Trial Review 41.

Good Luck “Lady,” Tommy, and All Participants

© FTR

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42. 2016 Field Trial Review

Forestry Research at Ames By Dr. Allan Houston Seed orchards provide seed to grow seedlings for reforestation. While seed orchards are commonplace for southern yellow pine species, there are comparatively few orchards devoted to development of desirable hardwood species. Development of a seed orchard complex using seedlings is a lengthy process requiring sustained investment in land and resources, and commitment of academic and field personnel. In western Tennessee, land managers at the Ames Plantation and trust advisors for the Margaret Finely Shackelford Trust joined with the UT-TIP to create a partnership to develop seed orchards. Through the work of Dr(s) Scott Schlarbaum and Allan Houston over the past 15 years, the Margaret Finley Shackelford Hardwood Orchards have been established to the extent that they are visible on Google EarthTM. In addition, a set of unique silvicultural experiments are underway that have the potential to re-shape thinking about hardwood regeneration. The research has more than 25,000 trees under study. To develop a wide diversity of hardwood orchards, a location was needed that

Dr. Allan Houston with 9-year-old trees planted in intense competition. Part of Precision Forestry, these are free-to-grow cherrybark and cow oaks.

could commit adequate acreage on a wide range of sites. Ames Plantation, one of the University of Tennessee’s AgResearch and Education Centers, was a logical choice to serve the western Tennessee, northern Mississippi, and eastern Arkansas region. The Shackelford Orchards will provide forest and wildlife managers with high quality, locally adapted seedlings and, in some species, genetically improved seedlings for nursery and field growth. Artificial regeneration is projected to become increasingly important, as demand for forests and their products and amenities increase and forest acreage decreases.

Very little is known about seed orchard practices in American hardwood species, with the exception of the nut species. For example, the onset of reproductive maturity is poorly understood. Similarly, genetic differences in fruiting types, e.g., terminal vs. branch spur production, is virtually unexplored, with the exception of black walnut and pecan. Most of the Shackelford Orchards are prototypes for each species. The Shackelford Orchards will help define what can be expected in genetic improvement of hardwood species, particularly oak. Additionally, as Shackelford-origin seedlings are planted, realistic genetic gains, i.e., the actual on-ground percentage of improvement under naturally occurring conditions, can be calculated. The Shackelford Orchards will also provide a large amount of high quality, pedigreed seed for tree improvement, forest/wildlife management, and research. Agronomic crops are produced using modern methodology, such as combining GIS site information with tractor-mounted GPS readings, to control seed sowing and fertilization rates across varied terrain. This is referred to as Precision Agriculture. Similarly, the concept of Precision Forestry research has been developed and implemented on the Ames Plantation, by planting categorized seedlings on sites that have been intensively assessed, e.g., light intensity, aspect, soil typing, and topology. From 2002 - 2012, several large preci-

sion forestry experiments were done. In most cases seedlings were planted in 1-to3-acre clear cuts and left to grow among naturally occurring vegetation. They were subjected to animal and insect predation, including deer browsing and periodic cicada outbreaks. A number of professionals predicted their subsequent performance would be abysmal. Viewing these plantings in 2014, however, is cause for reassessment of negative predictions. While some seedlings, predictably, were outpaced by the competing vegetation, a significant proportion now have crowns present in the upper forest canopy and are growing well, some at 3 feet per year. Once the seedlings are established, choices can be made among the “winners,” and treatments to improve growth can be applied, such as fertilization, release cuts, or a combination thereof. This phase is called Crop Tree Enhancement. In some cases, application of treatments resulted in a tripling of growth rates. As the Precision Forestry studies age, management will be guided by the results from Crop Tree Enhancement. From this unique research, the management from seedling to mature forest will be better understood. This silvicultural method combines everything from how individual genetic lineages respond to which tree classes are best suited for a particular area. The result is an actively evolving silvicultural strategy, enabled by robust seedlings, and likely to be improved as seedling quality and lineage performance are identified.

2016 Field Trial Hall of Fame

2016 Field Trial Review 43.

The Bird Dog Foundation would like to congratulate the following inductees: POINTER AND SETTER FIELD TRIAL HALL OF FAME People: Collier Smith, Dr. Ron Deal and Dave Hughes Dogs: Erin’s Bad River (Owner; Sean Derrig) BRITTANY FIELD TRIAL HALL OF FAME People: Jim Leverich and Tom Milam Dogs: Lane’s End Bowtie Annie (Owners; Tom & Judy Robin) RETRIEVER FIELD TRIAL HALL OF FAME People: Ron Ainley and John Parrott Dogs: Rebel Chief of Herber (Owner; Gus Rathert) Nick of Time Lone Ranger (Owners; Charles Hines III & Linda Lancaster) ENGLISH SPRINGER SPANIEL FIELD TRIAL HALL OF FAME People: Tom Meyer Dogs: FC AFC Raintree’s Sassy Lady (Owners; Dean Reinke & Catherine L. Lewis)

The Derrig family accepts the painting and plaque for Erin’s Bad River, inducted into the Field Trial Hall of Fame.

GERMAN SHORTHAIRED POINTER FIELD TRIAL HALL OF FAME People: Don Miner (Deceased) Dogs: Uodibar’s Koonas (Owner; Don Coller & Owner/Handler; John Rabidou) COCKER SPANIEL FIELD TRIAL HALL OF FAME People: Harold Bixby

New Look at the Bird Dog Museum Visitors to the National Bird Dog Museum in Grand Junction, Tennessee this year will be greeted with a newly designed and renovated atrium, completed just two days prior to the Hall of Fame induction ceremonies on February 6, 2016. Tanya Brotherton, director of the museum, and her husband Rex spent many late nights, including at least one 18-hour work day, to help contractors Justin and Stephen Wilburn of Somerville, TN to complete the project. Tanya said that the “new” atrium has the look of a fancy barn. The floor looks like wood, but is ceramic tile. The walls are custom milled Poplar, stained to look like Cypress and the doors slide on overhead tracks. In addition there is a small stage in one corner. The room actually has more usable space than the previous design. In the center stands a 19th century Doctor’s Buggy, donated by the late Fred Shappert. The atrium renovation wasn’t just a new design whim. With all the rains in 2015, a roof leak required replacement of the atrium’s roof. Following the roof replacement, the atrium, located in the center of the museum, had to have a major renovation. The National Bird Dog Museum in Grand Junction is the repository of the artifacts and history of field trials in North America. Included in its collection are irreplaceable taxidermy displays of dogs and wildlife, saddles, trophies, plaques, books – both in and out of print – as well as paintings and other artwork related to field trials. It is most important to keep these valuable objects high and dry. The replacement of the museum roof will assure just that.

Doctor’s buggy in the newly renovated atrium at the Bird Dog Museum

The National Bird Dog Museum has been preserving our sporting dog and field trial heritage for the past 24 years. Our dedication to all the sporting dog breeds has resulted in a 30,000 square foot repository of bird dog memorabilia and history. Our Museum at Grand Junction, Tennessee, the Bird Dog Capital of the World, has grown from a small collection to an expansive, modern facility - showcasing the history of pointing dog breeds, flushing dogs, and retrievers. Our newest addition, the sporting Dog Wing, focuses on the stories of the Brittany, English Cocker Spaniel, German Shorthair Pointer, English Springer Spaniel, Weimaraner, Red Setter, and Vizsla breeds - just to name a few. The Museum is “family friendly.” Children of all ages enjoy our Wildlife Heritage Center containing a vast array of wildlife exhibits. For those wanting to delve deeper, the Museum offers an extensive library with a wealth of information on bird dog and field trial history. And the gift shop has a great selection of unique items for the dog and outdoor enthusiast. Visit our website to find out more: www.birddogfoundation.com. Become a member today and help preserve our outdoor heritage for future generations. We look forward to seeing you at the Museum - you won’t be disappointed!

Interior of the newly renovated atrium at the Bird Dog Museum resembles a “fancy barn,” with custom milled Poplar siding.

The National Bird Dog Museum and Hall of Fame 505 W. Hwy. 57, Grand Junction, TN. Hours: Tuesday - Friday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. | Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. | Closed Mondays Phone: (731) 764-2058 | Tonya Brotherton--Executive Director

44. 2016 Field Trial Review

Field Trial Review

BULLETIN BOARD OLD HATCHIE VETERINARY CLINIC, PLLC

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Phone: 662•893•2546 6740 CENTER HILL RD • OLIVE BRANCH, MS 38654 Clinic Open: Monday - Friday • 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

1017 N. Main St. Bolivar, TN 38008 Office & Emergency No.

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W elcomes the

P.O. Box 475 342 Hwy. 70 Mason, TN 38049

116th NatioNal champioNship participaNts We support the Field trials

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National Championship

EVENTS

731-658-7888

FEB. 6: Bird Dog Museum. Field Trial Hall of Fame Ceremonies. Beginning 9 a.m. FEB. 6: Ames Plantation, Bryan Hall. 2016 National Championship Drawing FEB. 7: Bird Dog Museum. Kick Off Party 6 p.m. FEB. 8: National Championship braces begin

The Mid-South Horse Review www.midsouthhorsereview.com 901-867-1755 [email protected]

FEB. 11: Bird Dog Museum. Fish Fry. 6 p.m. FEB. 15: Ames Plantation. Bryan Hall. Brunswick Stew and Barbeque. 5 p.m. or following the afternoon brace FEB. 19: Or last day, after the last brace. Ames Plantation Manor House. Winner’s Ceremony.

Contribution Form 2016 National Championship My gift as designated below signals my support to the field trial, wildlife research, education, and public service programs at Ames Plantation which benefit sportsmen and citizens throughout the United States. My desired participation level is as follows: ( ) $1,000 ( ) $500

( ) $250 ( ) $100

( ) $50 ( ) $25 ( ) Other

February 8, 2016

________

I desire that my contribution be allocated as indicated (make check to appropriate organization): ( ) Hobart Ames Foundation - Funds to be used to enhance physical facilities, field trial venue, and quail habitat. ( ) The University of Tennessee for Ames Plantation Development Fund Monies to be used to support wildlife research on Ames Plantation with special emphasis on quail management. Name: ____________________________________________________________________ Address: ___________________________________________________________________ City: _________________________________________ State: _______ Zip:_______________ RETURN ALL DONATIONS TO: Ames Plantation P. O. Box 389 Grand Junction, Tennessee 38039-0389 CONTRIBUTIONS TO EITHER OF THE ABOVE ORGANIZATIONS QUALIFY AS CHARITABLE DEDUCTIONS UNDER CURRENT FEDERAL INCOME TAX LAWS.

Field Trialers 2016 National Championship Dear Friends: Mrs. Julia Colony Ames established the framework for our giving program by creating the Hobart Ames Foundation in 1950. Many years ago we offered persons and organizations interested in field trialing and other parts of our operation an opportunity to be a part of this charitable giving program. We are striving for charitable donations to strengthen our goals of providing superior conditions for the conduct of all-age field trial competition while increasing basic understandings of wildlife, especially bobwhite quail and related predator species. We have enlisted the support of several commercial sponsors for the National Championship but still need your help to continue this important work. Not only will your contributions help support muchneeded research but it will also help support the maintenance of the field trial courses for this historic trial. Funding received to date has resulted in several intensive scientific investigations by research scientists and graduate students from The University of Tennessee, Mississippi State University, Tall Timbers Research Station, the Albany Area Quail Management Project, the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks, and the University of Memphis. Results of these studies are being prepared for scientific publications and also in a bulletin for field trialers. We urge you to complete and return the contribution form with your donation, and/or call me at the above phone number to discuss the research underway on Ames Plantation. Sincerely,

R. J. Carlisle

2016 Field Trial Review 45.

46. 2016 Field Trial Review

Honorary Wall at Grand Junction By Capt. Garette Lockee The stone wall honoring the town of Grand Junction as The Bird Dog and Field Trial Capital of the World has been completed. Located at the intersection of Tennessee Highways #57 and #18, the wall is constructed of native stones from Arkansas. It is nearly 8 feet tall and 20 feet wide, with two 15 feet arms extending toward Highway #18. Mounted on the wall are the four life size bronze sculptures created by artist Kwan Wu of Olathe, Kansas. On the back wall a Labrador represents the Retriever breed and a Springer Spaniel represents the Flushing breed. On each of the two wings there is a Pointer and an English Setter. These life size bronzes sculptures are models of real dogs that are all National Champions: Hattie McBunn, the 1998 National Amateur Retriever Champion who was inducted into the Retriever Field Trial Hall of Fame in 2001, owned by Dr. J. M. (Mac) and Lynne DuBose and handled by Mrs. DuBose. Shadow Oak Bo, a Setter, the 2013 and 2014 National Champion owned by N. G. (Butch) Houston and Dr. John Dorminy, and handled by Robin Gates. Saighton’s Scud 1979-1980 National Amateur English Springer Spaniel Field Champion, 1980 Canadian National Field Champion, 1980 National Springer Spaniel Field Champion, elected to the Spaniel Field Trial Hall of Fame, owned and handled by Dr. Janet Christenson. The Hitch Hiker, 1992 National Champion owned by W.O (Bill) Fitch and handled by Randy Downs. Informational plaques at the site explain about the town and how Grand Junction became the Bird Dog and Field Trial Capital of the World. The United States flag and the Tennessee state flag fly on the site 24/7, and the wall is fully lighted nightly. The area around the site is beautifully landscaped with blooming plants and shrubbery. This is an important tribute to the historical railroad crossroads of Grand Junction in west Tennessee. A team of historical visionary donors underwrote the cost of the wall. Visitors to Grand Junction during the running of the prestigious National Championship in February are invited to stop by and take a look at the honorary, historical marker. About the author: The Bird Dog Museum sponsored a special celebration on August 9, 2015 for Capt. Lockee, who celebrated his 93rd birthday. Capt. Lockee is one of the founders of the Bird Dog Museum..

First Week of Running • February 8-13, 2016 Dog

Brace 1 2/8/16

B S

Owner(s)

Handler

Coldwater Warrior

P

M

Gary McKibben & Jim Crawford

Weldon Bennett

Miller's Happy Jack

P

M

Scott Griffin

Randy Anderson

Highground Jax Jabba S

M

Chuck & Kara Kunde

Lori Steinshouer

Erin's Muddy River

P

M

Tommy Hamilton

Robin Gates

Touch's Adams County P Whippoorwill Wild Assault P

M

Richard Peterson

Randy Anderson

M

J. D. Huffman & Terry Terlep

Larry Huffman

Shadow's Full Throttle P

M

Larry Lee

Robin Gates

Erin's Full Throttle

P

M

John Ivester

Robert "Lefty" Henry

5 2/10/16

Walnut Tree Fred

P

M

Steve Mills

Steve Mills

Just Irresistible

P

M

Mary Devos

Jamie Daniel

6 2/10/16

Dunn's Tried N True

P

M

Will and Rita Dunn

Luke Eisenhart

Miller's Creative Cause P

M

David Thompson & Gary Lester

Gary Lester

Fireline

P

M

Nelson Mills

Mark McLean

Connor's EZ Button

P

M

David & Lenzie O'Connor

Steve Hurdle

8 2/11/16

Cole Train

P

M

Dr. Fred Corder

Dr. Fred Corder

Whippoorwill Justified P

M

Ronnie Spears

Larry Huffman

9 2/12/16

Skyfall Utah's Red Rock Express

P

M

Bob Walthall and Thorpe McKenzie

Steve Hurdle

P

M

Herb Anderson

Jamie Daniel

10 2/12/16

Salem's Annie Oakley P

F

Jim Santarelli

Andy Daugherty

Whippoorwill Foto Op

P

F

Ken & Sue Blackman

Larry Huffman

Cassique's Boss

P

M

Rick Stallings

Steve Hurdle

Erin's Whiskey River Whippoorwill Blue Blood

P

M

Maeve Derrig

Luke Eisenhart

P

M

J. D. Huffman & Keith Wright

Larry Huffman

Stallion

P

M

Dr. Davey Deal and Dr. Ron Deal

Tommy Davis

2 2/8/156 3 2/9/16 4 2/9/16

7 2/11/16

11 2/13/16 12 2/13/16

Note: S indicates Setter. P indicates Pointer. For more information or changes, visit www.amesplantation.org.

Bird Dog puppy “discussion”

(Shannon Nygard photo)

2016 Field Trial Review 47.

Second Week of Running • February 15-20, 2016 Dog

Brace

Lester's Jazz Man 13 2/15/16 Touch's Game Point

B S

Owner(s)

Handler

P

M

Dan Hensley

Randy Anderson

P

M

Eddie Sholar

Mark McLean

P

M

Peg Fornear

Larry Huffman

Chinquapin Reward Mega Blackhawk's Progeny

P

M

Slade Sikes

P

M

Ted & John Baker Bob & Sarina Craig, John Sayre and Raines Jordan

Raelyn's Skyy

P

M

Brad Calkins

Andy Daugherty

P

M

Dr. Fred Corder

P

M

Dr. Fred Corder Charles & Raegan Williamson and David O'Connor

Caladen's Supremacy P 17 2/17/16

F

Ross Callaway & Leah Brigham

Ross Callaway

Hendrix's Outlier

P

F

Guy & Burke Hendrix

Tommy Davis

18 True Confidence 2/17/16

P

M

Frank LaNasa

Luke Eisenhart

Lester's Knockout Oakspring Big Time Warrior

P

M

T. J. Liesfeld

Gary Lester

P

M

Jeff Miller

Allen Vincent

White Dollar

P

M

S

M

Scott Griffin Randy Anderson Robert Craig, Scott Kermicle, John Sayre, D. Raines Jordan Steve Hurdle

Miller's Dialing In Erin's Kentucky Gambler

P

M

Gary Lester

Gary Lester

P

M

Sean and Deb Hauser

Luke Eisenhart

Touch's White Knight

P

M

Eddie Sholar

Mark McLean

Zorra 22 2/19/16

S

F

Hal Meyer

Sheldon Twer

P

F

Shannon Nygard

Jamie Daniel

Erin's Wild Justice 23 2/20/16

P

M

Allen R. Linder

Luke Eisenhart

P

M

Gary & Becky Futch

Rick Furney

Westfall's Rampage 24 2/20/16

P

M

Ryan Westfall

Andy Daugherty

Quester 14 2/15/16

15 2/16/16

Caladen's Rail Hawk 16 2/16/16

Raelyn's High Cotton

19 2/18/16

20 Stardust Chaz 2/18/16 21 2/19/16

Circle Masquerade

Lester's Bodacious

Rules to remember while you are at the Ames Plantation: 1. Park off the road in areas designated for parking for those not officially involved with the competition. Do not unload on the shoulder of the road. Do not block public roads! 2. All horses must be accompanied by acceptable proof of their current negative Coggins test. 3. Ames Plantation assumes no responsibility for injury or loss of property. Ride at your own risk. 4. Ride on blacktop roads only when absolutely necessary. It is easy for a shod horse to slip on these surfaces, thus increasing the likelihood of injury to animal and rider. 5. During the competition you must not interfere with the judges. It is essential that you stay with the main body of the gallery. Those lagging back will be escorted off the property. 6. Running horses by members of the gallery is not permitted. Boisterous behavior between riders increases the chance of injury and is not acceptable.

Steve Hurdle

Judging the National

Judging the 2016 National Championship are: Doug Vaughn of Saskatoon, Sask., Charles F. Bryan of Moscow, Tenn., and Dr. Rick Carlisle of Grand Junction, Tenn. Charles Bryan served as judge for the National Championship for over 10 years before stepping down into semi-retirement. Dr. Carlisle has judged the last two renewals and agreed to serve one more year because of the health issues of the earlier slated judges, Jadie Rayfield of Mount Pleasant, S.C. and Jim Crouse of Dixon, Ky.

Allen Vincent

7. Alcoholic beverages, regardless of container, are not permitted on the grounds or in the parking areas. Failure to observe this rule will result in your being asked to leave Plantation property. 8. Take your trash with you. Do not litter the grounds. 9. No cooking of any type is permitted on the Plantation. 10. Children under 12 years of age will not be permitted to ride in the gallery unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, and no more than one rider to a horse will be allowed. 11. No stallions allowed in the gallery. 12. SPECIAL NOTE: Road traffic will be regulated along Turner Road and National Championship Drive from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and along Ames RoadPlantation Road from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. 13. Sheriff’s Deputies are present to enforce these and other appropriate restrictions to maintain a safe environment and to enhance the conditions for the main objective, field trial competition. If you do not understand these rules, contact a deputy for a more detailed explanation.

48. 2016 Field Trial Review