2018 GSPCI and VCOI Mock Hunt Test Wrap Up Report
Saturday, August 4, 2018
The dog days of summer arrived in full force for our annual Mock Hunt Test with VCOI. Although the temperatures crept into the 90’s, our handlers and volunteers were prepared, and we were able to get through the day without any dogs (or handlers) having any problems due to the heat.
Once again, we had a great turnout with nineteen handlers and twenty-seven entries. The dogs were judged by long-time GSPCI member and AKC judge, Ed Brock along with relative newcomer, Bill Jones. Ed was generous enough to bring along his horses, so the younger dogs were able to get an introduction to our equine friends. Bill pushed the limits of his youth, walking every brace, then taking to the field afterward for some training time with his own dogs. If you did not get a chance to see your scores, email me an I’ll see if I have your card. Note: the judges did not score the hunting category for anyone due to the abbreviated size of the course.
The success of club events like this is due to all the members who not only participate, but who also pitch in to help both before and throughout the day. We’d like to give credit to those of you who helped out on Saturday; we apologize if anyone’s name was inadvertently left out. Like most of our events, the day begins and ends with Dave Wolfe, who is always willing to set up and take down the fields. Bird planting duties were handled by Christine Selep and her great-niece, Keyle, along with George Noffs, and Ivan Bivolarov. Our gunners were John Morrison, Hank Freitag and Chuck Graack. A key to our Mock Hunt Test is having experienced handlers available to help the novices. Andy Caron and Bill Padovano did a great job as coaches. While keeping the handlers updated and ready to rock is always important, given the day’s heat, line marshal, Rich Gilloffo was particularly outstanding in keeping the day moving along. Perry Dlugie did his best to look busy but as is always the case, fooled no one.
As is the custom for the Mock Hunt Tests, lunch was orchestrated by Dennis Nowak. The delicious star performer were pork chops that were complimented by a variety of supporting side dishes provided by our handlers. Assisting Dennis in preparing lunch were Patty Nowak and Alice Graack. The lunch break was particularly appreciated as everyone took time to visit and cool off in the air-conditioning.
We look forward to seeing everyone at the fall hunting tests beginning next month.
GSPCI – September 15 and 16; VCOI - October 13 and 14
Check all of the club websites for event dates and premiums.
Perry Dlugie and Dennis Nowak