Fickle weather doesn't dampen spirits at dog trials

Carol Masefield (timekeeper) left, John Masefield (judge) Andy McNab and Greta (Albury), Lloyd Smith and Charlie (Palmerston), Trevor Wilson and Lu (Clinton), Barry Thompson and Archie (Akaroa) , Matt Simpson and Doug (Albury). Photo / Supplied

The first day of the South Canterbury Tux Yarding Challenge, run in conjunction with the Winchester Tux Handy Dog Challenge, was held at the new venue at Springbank Farm, Pleasant Point recently.

On day one, driving sleet and rain from the south made conditions unpleasant, although the rain was not unwelcome. However, day two was a lovely spring day.

The entries were good, with people travelling from Marlborough to Southland to attend.

The number of maiden competitor entries was well up on previous years in both events.

These two challenges, part of the National Series, were held in conjunction with the Southern Canterbury A&P Show trial, which has been held at Springbank Farm for some years now.

Rory Moore, of Mt Somers, with Pip. Photo / Chris Tobin (left image) Mike Trotter with Sam and Mangu (Fairlie) and Alistair "Ten Speed" Paul with Rex (Balclutha). Photo / Supplied

The event was run by the Levels and the Hilton-Gapes Valley Collie Clubs and surrounding helpers. Springbank Farm is the home of Don and Olive Calder and while Olive still lives there, Don suffers from Alzheimer's and is in care in Timaru. All profits from the combined challenges went to Alzheimers South Canterbury.

Ali Calder and her team fed the troops admirably and all proceeds from their meals and raffle, upwards of $1200, will be swelled by the profits from the event, which should come close to the same amount.

The new venue for the challenges worked well for both events and hosts Chris and Ali Calder were very pleased with the way it had all turned out.

Pete Hanna took home the Southern Canterbury Show Open Cup, with Sky. Des Lysaght and Ruby won the Southern Canterbury Show Maiden Cup.

Competitors qualifying for the South Island final at Richmond Brook, Marlborough, at the end of January 2019 are open yarding competitors Lloyd Smith with Samantha, John Chittock and Stu and maiden competitor Tim Turner with Lee.

Open handy dog competitors to qualify are Trevor Wilson with Lu, Andy McNab with Greta and maiden competitor Mike Trotter with Mangu.