Field Trials and Show ‑ December 12 - 16, 2023

Day 1:  Many dogs were overwhelmed with the abundance of birds and scent on Wednesday, the first day of trials held at Prairie Prime LLC in central Oklahoma. Pheasants were flying through the parking area and quail running wild on the grounds. Penny and Teddy both pointed birds in the Open Solo wild trial, but got so excited, they broke on shot; Penny even chased birds! A disappointing beginning to the events. The evening events included a dinner and the day's awards presentations and the live auction event to raise funds for the club. A wonderful evening spent with friends!

Birds were abundant in the field at the National CEB-US field trials and conclave held in Oklahoma in December 2023! Pheasants and quail flushed wild throughout the excellent hunting grounds at Prairie Prime LLC.

Judge's remarks on Ruby's GUN Solo run

Club de l'Epagneul Breton National Events — 2023

Day 2: The Specialty Show and confirmation was held on Thursday at the Lincoln County, Oklahoma fair grounds in a building used especially for showing animals. The expert judge, the Honorable Poul Nielson from Denmark was very detailed in his opinions. Fifty-nine dogs were entered in the show and with so much competition, we were happy to come home with two placements. Teddy and Ruby both placed third in their respective classes (Adult Male, Orange & White Variety and Adult Female, Other Color Variety). Following the show was a special presentation on hunting public land, by Scott Linden, author, blogger, and host of the television show Wingshooting USA.

Day 3:  After rain the night before, the second day of trials on Friday was cool with light rain, and muddy with cars getting stuck in the parking area. Penny and Teddy again disappointed in their Open class runs, but Ruby ran well in the GUN Solo wild bird trials and surprisingly retrieved like a pro, placing second Reserve (RCAG). Her passes qualified her for the UKC GUN title! Teddy and Penny both passed the Water Retrieve Test with ease, also surprising, since they haven't had to retrieve birds in water, living in Arizona. Dinner was held at a fun BBQ restaurant with live music entertainment.

Day 4: Saturday began damp and cool but the sun came out and the weather was pleasant by afternoon. Teddy redeemed himself at the end of his Open Solo run, earning a pass. Ruby again came through with a Pass with Excellence for her GUN Solo run, with the judge remarking on the "harmony" between the dog and handler.

All in all, we had an enjoyable experience, staying in a cozy little farmhouse, spending time with old friends, and we were able to see Linda's siblings in Oklahoma City and at the dog show. It was definitely well worth the 15-hour road trip!

Click any photo for slide show.