The Waimea Dog Trial Club is getting geared up to host its annual trials and they are welcoming spectators.
“Saturday is likely the better day for spectators,” club secretary Sally Powell explains.
“As people can watch four separate events if they chose. The noise and vigour of big huntaways barking the sheep uphill, or the silent, careful skill of the heading dogs steering the sheep on their courses. Either way, it’s great family entertainment, and it’s free to attend, although we hope people will support our fundraising efforts.”
The club, which is in its 103rd year, will be fundraising with sales of woollen dishcloths, ‘Farmalade’ - which is marmalade made on the farm from home-grown citrus - as well as a gold coin sausage sizzle at the clubrooms.
“Friday is a half day only, from midday, with heading dogs competing in the long head and the short head and yard. On Saturday, both heading events will run alongside the straight and zig zag events for huntaways,” Sally says.
Being the last trial for the district, competitors are expected to travel from as far away as North Canterbury to attend. It’s also the last chance to gain points towards qualifying a dog for the South Island Championship, which will be held in Blenheim in May.
The trials are being held on Friday 19 April from midday, and Saturday 20 April, 9am - 2pm, at 320 Higgins Rd, Wakefield.
