Barking, wagging of tails, feet tearing around in every direction, owners calling fruitlessly, crowds cheering. That was the scene in front of the grandstand as the annual terrier race took place at the Dannevirke A&P Show.
The crowd rivalled that at the shearing and the Young Farmers were tested keeping contestants and the public apart.
All the 20 dogs were keen but many did not have a clue as the rabbit skin was pedalled along the grass.
Ralf, the defending champion from Taihape, knew what to do however and he retained his title by a nose. He will no doubt contemplate a three-peat as he tucks into his prize of dog biscuits donated by RD1. Owner Georgina Duncan will probably return as she was competing in the equestrian events.
A foot note: A real quarry - a rabbit - was chased into the bushes shortly after the end of the contest.
