tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8578821855079193112024-03-13T20:22:41.503-07:00MacRae SheepdogsMacRae Sheepdogshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02526980941798761448noreply@blogger.comBlogger35125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-857882185507919311.post-66928854482893911502017-09-04T07:19:00.000-07:002017-09-06T06:53:21.264-07:00Preparing for the US National: An Interview with 12-Time Champion, Alasdair MacRae<div class="p1">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; text-align: start;">Preparing for the US National: An Interview with 12-Time Champion, Alasdair MacRae</b></td></tr>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">With the National starting in 3 weeks, I thought it would be fun and insightful to interview Alasdair about his preparation process, advice to open handlers and some secrets to his success!</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Patricia: </b>You’ve won the US National a remarkable 12 times with 6 very different types of dog. Do have a single formula for how you prepare them?</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Alasdair:</b> In general, yes. All my dogs are trained in the same system or method, with an emphasis on balance point. I first cultivate my dogs enthusiasm and enjoyment for working and it’s only later in their development that I focus on their width, pace, shape of flanks etc. </span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Within the system there is always room for addressing the individual dog, such as those with eye, sensitive dogs, etc. but the fundamental premiss of fostering a dogs desire and enjoyment for work is the same and it allows me to help them be the best dog they can be. They are all similar in this respect.</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Patricia</b>: Would you outline your timeline for preparing and a bit about your process?</span></span><br />
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Alasdair:</b> I generally begin preparation about<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>90 days in advance and the first part is backing off training of my Open dogs and not putting my dogs in situations that demand precision but instead, getting them to relax in their work.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">This includes leaving them to work on their own quite a bit as well as doing chores such as putting the sheep through the foot bath, weaning the lambs, etc. I also start running them to keep them fit.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">If I do trial during this time I don’t get too disappointed if they don’t run as well as I’d ideally like, as I have not prepared them.</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">This ‘fitness’ period lasts until 6 weeks prior to the Finals and includes double-lift work.</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Patricia:</b> What exactly, what do you mean by ‘double-lift work’?</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Alasdair:</b> I set up situations at home to make certain both dogs are competent turning back to the left & to the right. I am especially working on it with Tod this year (owned by Andrea Anderson). </span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">For my own dogs, I introduce the foundation for the turnback when they are young and eager to learn fun, new things. I perfect their skill as they mature. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Preparation</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"> is paramount. As you know yourself, for the big time as well as Saturday trials, they may not be won on the training field, but they can be lost there.</span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Patricia:</b> To that end, do you also practice the international shed?</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Alasdair</b>: Shedding out our lambs from the ewes or shedding out our training sheep from the flock suffices for the dogs I am running just now but if I didn’t have chores, I would certainly practice a little.</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Patricia:</b> How do you alter your preparation from the 6 week mark going forward until the start of the National?</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Alasdair:</b> From 6 weeks-3 weeks out, I go back & make certain stops are in place, call on pace & square flanks if necessary, shedding, penning and focus on the ‘control’ side of things a bit. I keep up with a reasonable amount of fitness during this time, mostly running.</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">In years past, from 3-2 weeks out, I like to get in one or two trials and begin to let the natural dog come more into play. This year is different in that I haven't been able to travel due to back issues. Im hopeful I’ll be able to make the trip to VA and I am preparing as much as my back allows, but it may not be in the cards this year.</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">One week prior to the start of the National I like 5 days on good sheep to work on any training problems.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Patricia:</b> When you set up the time line, how do you adjust for travel days?</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Alasdair:</b> That is one of the big problems when traveling for more than 2 days; you need access to reasonable sheep. If the sheep are not suitable, you may be better off not training as it may cause more harm than good.</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Patricia:</b> Knowing how the sheep vary so dramatically from California to Colorado to Virginia, do you adjust your training to suit the sheep?</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Alasdair:</b> I feel that if my dogs are running well & listening well, that we will be competitive, provided the sheep are reasonable. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">For a trial like the Bluegrass, where a natural fetching dog does better than a micromanaged dog, I can & do prepare specifically for the sheep.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">For the National, it is more difficult as they sheep vary quite a bit.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">In 1997 & 2001 the sheep in Oregon were what I consider, light to wild in the qualifying rounds but in 2006 & 21012, the sheep there were heavier and more determined.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">In Virginia in 1999 the sheep were extremely heavy as they were part of a grazing project yet in 2013 there weren't as heavy, however, there was a significant draw to the night pen which made them pull to the left hand side of the field on the fetch and on the left hand drive, which was testing.</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Rather than preparing for specific sheep, I focus on preparing my dogs to run different styles. This gives me the option of running stop & flank, running a more natural ongoing style or a running with controlled pace. The ability to adjust styles allows me to adapt the specific sheep I draw and gives me my best chance of making it through the qualifying round.</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Patricia:</b> You were specific that the outlined preparation was for your Open dogs. What do you do to prepare your Nursery dogs?</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Alasdair:</b> I don’t have a formula for preparing my Nursery dogs as I don’t believe in putting too much on them too young.</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Young dogs are all so different in their development. I especially do not make them walk or square flank as it affects their future training and longevity.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="s1">I usually run my young dogs flank & stop and don’t start putting polish on them until their 3</span><span class="s2"><sup>rd</sup></span><span class="s1"> year.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">The best dog I have had, Nan, could hardly get around a moderate size course as a Nursery dog yet, won the Supreme International as a 3 year old.</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">The dogs that I have won the Nursery Finals with were early to mature.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">For the Nursery, I take the dog along at the speed that is best for him or her and put my own ambitions aside. ‘Nursery’, as the name suggests, is an environment that develops & fosters, be it children, trees or young dogs. It is not where a handler should finalize training but instead where the foundation should be laid.</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Patricia:</b> What advice would give to someone participating in their first National?</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Alasdair:</b> Don’t try to win the qualifying! Try to make all of your panels and get finished in a reasonably tidy fashion.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="s1">40</span><span class="s2"><sup>th</sup></span><span class="s1"> place will get you through to the next round in exactly the same position as 1</span><span class="s2"><sup>st </sup></span><span class="s1">.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="s1"><b>Patricia:</b> This will be the 19</span><span class="s2"><sup>th</sup></span><span class="s1"> National you have competed in and you have won it 12 times, do you still get nervous at the post?</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Alasdair:</b> Yes, I still get nervous, as I do at most Saturday trials but only a little more so. I think nerves heighten concentration which helps me perform at my best. I’ve always thought if a handler is not nervous, it doesn’t mean as much to them.</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Patricia</b>: Having done this for so many years, what does the National mean to you?</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Alasdair:</b> The National is the largest and most important sheepdog trial in North America and the pinnacle of each trial season.</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">You are placed in a pressure situation competing against the very top handlers and if you are fortunate enough to make it through to the Final, and shut the pen gate on the 5 ribboned sheep, for a few seconds, it feels as though you are floating on air……….</span></span></div>
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MacRae Sheepdogshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02526980941798761448noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-857882185507919311.post-46267377798111287672015-09-30T16:48:00.000-07:002015-10-11T11:16:24.861-07:00Induction Speech into the ABCA Hall of FameGiving Alasdair’s induction speech into the ABCA Hall of Fame was a great honor and privilege. Several people asked me to share it and although I haven't blogged in ages, I thought it would be the easiest way to publish.<br />
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While Alasdair is far and away the most accomplished handler on the continent, I wanted to focus on his contribution of service, especially to the working Border Collie. <br />
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We have been richly blessed with amazing and wonderful dogs in our lives. Honoring the breed is extremely important to him. <br />
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Thank you to all those on the HOF committee especially the chairman, Mike Hanley, who could not be with us last week.<br />
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">"</span><span style="font-size: 17px;">When Alasdair asked me to do his induction speech I was quite nervous. I’ve never given a speech of this nature and I wanted to do a good job.</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">I thought, who do I know that is an exceptionally eloquent orator; a master of word play and story telling. One who can wax lyrical on any given topic. Not really mixing in those circles I thought, who has something to say about everything and is a good BS-er.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Of course, Mike Neary came to mind.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">So I called my friend Mike to get some advice as he has done this a few times. </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Mike was very helpful and gave me these recommendations:</span> </div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">1.take a deep breath</span> </div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">2. read from notes! so you don't forget anything.</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"> </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">3. and above all, he said, <i>take your time….</i></span></div>
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<i><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">as long as it is no more than 8 minutes.</span> </i></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><i>I’ve got a full agenda and a date with Dairy Queen so I don't want to listen to you natter on about him all night!.....</i></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Handlers and breeders inducted into the Hall of fame have a record of outstanding contributions to the working Border Collie. These contributions are both national and regional and there is a clear record of:</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">• Significant accomplishments as a breeder.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">• Significant achievements as a handler.</span> </div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">• Service that has helped breeders, handlers, the working Border Collie the ABCA ‘and other more intangible service’ .</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Regarding the ABCA’s final criteria of induction , I cannot think of a better example of ‘other more intangible service’ than Alasdair's contribution of single handedly raising the standard of sheepdog trials in the United States. </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">This is not my opinion but rather the most consistent sentiment shared from every top competitor I have spoken with about Alasdair’s impact.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">I was not running dogs when Alasdair came across so I spoke with many who were.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">To quote One top handler, “He completely changed the face of sheepdog trials. We never would have the quality of work seen today at the National finals or any trial without Alasdair MacRae.”</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Another said, </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">“He not only raised the standard of handling, he raised the standard of conduct with his humility and respect for the sport. There is not a more deserving inductee I can think of.”</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">When Alasdair walked to post with Nan and Ben in 1995, our sport was forever altered. </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">He brought finesse, precision, method, exactness, consistency, mental fortitude and a level of excellence never before seen at North American sheepdog trials.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">His performance elevated the expectation and he created a higher standard across the entire country and throughout Canada. </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">To compete with him, every handler had to improve, in every facet of work. </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">And they did. </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">He inspired us to do better, to be better and then he shared his knowledge with us. </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Directly, by providing clinics, lessons, training DVD’s and on-line training. </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">And indirectly, leading by example every time he competes- his technical expertise as well as conducting himself with professionalism and integrity.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">As every one of us walks to the post today our handling and training has been impacted for the better by Alasdair’s significant contributions.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Many years ago, at the request of the then president Mike Canaday, Alasdair authored the first draft of the the ‘USBCHA Guidelines for Judging’. He did not make this public knowledge as he wanted everyone to be pulling in the same direction.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"> He based the style on the Texas and Alberta rules that were already in existence , altering and expanding them to comprehensively cover this extraordinary sport with it’s differing viewpoints and inherent gray area’s.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">While there were changes made to the final draft by the directors that he disagreed with, he actively encourages every judge and handler to abide by them or impact change by going thru the correct channels.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">In 2002, he intervened when the Bluegrass committee said that they couldn't take over the Nashville National finals on short notice. The public park outside of Nashville that was supposed to hold the event wouldn't comply with the conditions set by the USBCHA committee.They told then president Mike Canaday that they’d have to cancel the National. </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">At the President’s request Alasdair drove from Virginia to Nashville to meet with the local committee chair and representatives from the public park., He initiated a compromise that allowed TN to host and that October the 2002 National was a success.</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">He Headed up the committee to come up with a formula for the handlers to qualify for the world trial. For the 2nd World trial he negotiated with the ISDS and other participating country’s to increase number of participant slots from 12 to 30 for the US.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Many of us in this room use a fiberglass stick when training our dogs. What you may not know is that in 1995 Alasdair recognized the advantages of the light fiberglass stick as a training aid after borrowing one from a novice handler at a clinic. He then carried an inventory of them around the country and supplied retailers like Border Collies in Action with them until most kennels had at least one and their continued use has been of benefit to many.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">He put on a trial and raised over $3000 with the help of the sheepdog community for the Bluegrass organizer, Rusty Kreider, to help with the medical bills for his son Cooper. </span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">He championed the 30 day trial policy when selling dogs to ensure they are </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">happy in their new homes. His promotion of this policy has made it is </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">commonplace, resulting in better partnerships for the handlers and most </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">important, better homes for the dogs.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 17px; letter-spacing: 0px;">He has been an ambassador to the sport, promoting it every time he has been asked to do an interview, sign an autograph or pose for photos. He has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Time magazine, participated in programs for Animal planet, National Geographic, Discovery, Paul Harvey News, countless local TV newscasts and most recently was featured on CBS 60 Minute Sports.</span></blockquote>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">He pioneered sheepdog training on the internet, Giving access to anyone with a computer or smart phone almost instant help with an ever-growing list of courses. They are a compliment to private video consults that he also pioneered and has been doing for many years. He invented a series of over 30 exercise’s with cones to simplify aspects of training so that when the lessons or clinics are over training can be practiced and achieved. </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">He has participated on the ABCA HOF committee, national finals committee and judged our National twice even though he had dogs that were competitive. In fact, 2 of the dogs went on to win 4 National titles. </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">He has hosted trials, donated to local sheepdog clubs and sponsored awards. He has donated demonstrations and financially to local shelters and Border Collie rescues.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">He has never shied away from doing what he believes is fundamentally in the best interest of the Border Collie and is very outspoken against the use of the electric training collar. He has loudly advocated for genetic testing and responsible breeding practices.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Theses are just a few examples of his esteemed list of service.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Alasdair’s breeding foundation goes back to his Scottish National Champion Auld Mirk. Auld Mirk is the grandfather of his International Supreme Champion Nan.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">He bred Nan to his US National Champion Ben and had a very talented litter that included 3 time National Champion Bill, Meeker and Bluegrass Champion Sweep, and Nick, the father of my National Champion, Alba Cap.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Alasdair is currently running Alba Sweep, 2 time Bluegrass Champion, who is a grandson of Sweep and great grandson of Nan. My Max’s great grandfather was Nan’s litter brother and Alasdair raised and trained my Bear’s grandmother, who also went back to Auld Mirk.These are lines we still actively breed today. Alasdair’s promising Nursery dog, Tweed is also a grandson of Sweep .</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">While our own line suits Alasdair very well he is always looking for good dogs outside of our kind and has imported many that have had a positive impact on breeding, including </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Nell, the mother of my Cap and grandmother of Alba Sweep </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Vergil Holland’s Hemp</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Alasdair’s 2009 National Champion Nap, </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">last year’s National Champion Gail </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">and my Jim. </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">While Gail and Jim have just started breeding several of Nap’s progeny have done very well. In fact, in 2010 Alasdair won the nursery national with Nap’s son Coll.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">He has also imported good dogs for other people. One that quickly comes to mind is the prolific breeder, Eileen Stinemans Don.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">With too many successful offspring to list Don is the father of 2013 National Champion Don, and Vergil Holland’s reserve national champion Brooke. Alasdair also imported the mother of Vergil’s Brooke as well as, the mother of Beverly Lamberts Nan. These are just a few of the more recent examples of his breeding contribution. </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">He is also highly regarded for his incredible ability to match handlers with dogs, even for his fiercest competitors. </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">The list is extensive and far too long to cite in full. </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">A few notable teams include: </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Beverly Lambert and Hall of Fame champion, Pippa</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Beverly Lambert and Bill </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Tommy Wilson and Dot </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Candy Kennedy and Moss </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Melinda Hanley and Meg </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Mike Cannaday and Ben</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">and countless others.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Alasdair is far and away the most accomplished handler on the continent. </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">His brilliant career began in </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">1984 when he won Scottish National & Scottish National Shepherds Champion with Auld Mirk.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: 17px; letter-spacing: 0px;">In 1990, he was Reserve Supreme International Champion with Bute, as </span><span style="font-size: 17px;">well</span><span style="font-size: 17px; letter-spacing: 0px;"> as</span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 17px; letter-spacing: 0px;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 17px; letter-spacing: 0px;">International Shepherds Champion.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 17px; letter-spacing: 0px;"> </span><br />
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">In 1992, he was Reserve Supreme International Champion with Corrie.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">In 1993, he was Supreme International Champion with Nan and 4th in the Supreme with Elwy Glen.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">In 1994, Nan was injured for most of the season but came back for the Supreme and captured 5th.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">A record of 5 placing in the top 5 in 5 years competing at the International.</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">In 1994, he won the BBC ‘One Man And His Dog’</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">sheepdog trials television series with Nan.</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">He scored 108 out of a possible 110 points and holds the record for fewest points deducted, in the history of the program, which spans over nearly 50 years.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">In the U.S., his list of Saturday trial wins is far too long to review. I stopped counting once I was over 60 different trial wins, and like the Bluegrass, most he has won multiple times.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">He won Meeker 3 out of 6 attempts. </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">The Bluegrass Classic 11 times out of 17 attempts with 7 different dogs.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">He has as won the National Nursery Finals on 3 occasions.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">He has won the National an awe inspiring and amazing 12 times out of 17 attempts with 6 different dogs.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">In his book Collin Gordon wrote:</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><i>“over the years I have attended many trials but every now then something really special happens that remains forever in my mind. Nothing has been more memorable than a run I watched in 1996 in Lexington, KY. Many good handlers and dogs competed and then came a run I will never forget. Alasdair MacRae was running Nan and the understanding of the sheep, the patience and handling produced moments of absolute perfection.”</i></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">I have been fortunate to watch many of those perfect moments.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">I remember a day that was filled with them when he was running Star several years ago…..</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">The legendary handler and Supreme Champion Raymond Macpherson came over to speak to us. Raymond was a fellow highlander but had not seen Alasdair in a long time.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Scots, as some of you may know, are generally not very effusive but Alasdair had just had a particularly brilliant run and I’ll never forget what Raymond said:</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">“Ah Boy, you’ve still got it. Next to JM Wilson, you are the greatest handler I’ve ever seen.”</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-size: 17px;">It is my honor and privilege to introduce my mentor and best friend, Alasdair MacRae.</span><span style="font-size: x-large;">"</span></span></div>
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MacRae Sheepdogshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02526980941798761448noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-857882185507919311.post-64240204230135231382014-09-17T08:50:00.004-07:002014-09-17T09:07:58.433-07:00US NATIONAL 2014<br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Final-</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The weather in
Carbondale did not disappoint and Sunday brought clear skies and brilliant
sunshine. Huge thanks to Bridget Strang, the Strang Family, volunteers, set out
crews, judges, local committee, sponsors and all those that contributed to this
year’s National. Putting on an event of this magnitude requires a tremendous
amount of work and your efforts are greatly appreciated!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Open field
required a change prior to the start of the trial and as a result the scope of
the final was approximately 400+ yds for the first outrun (to the right) and
250 yards for the turn back. The drive was 200 yards, cross drive 250 yards and
roughly 200 yards back to the ring.The sheep were good
coming in and heavy on the drive but notably freer than the last time in
Carbondale. The running was tough and several teams struggled with the fetches.
I walked the fetch lines for the competitors the night before and they were
angled more like two cross drives. Rather than hold the sideways pressure many
dogs balanced the first lot straight to the handler. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Most dogs turned back
well and several made the drive gates but as of the final run, no one had yet
to finish the course. A highlight of the morning was watching the best shed of
the day, Michael Gallagher with Cain. The high score for much of the day was
509 (out of 680).</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Alasdair ran last in
the afternoon and for the first time in quite a while, it felt like he was an
underdog. While we were confident with Cap and Sweep on the Rambouillet, we
felt Gail was the least suited for the range sheep. She is a thoughtful dog
with a bit of eye that these sheep often dislike. She also has a tremendous
amount of heart and try—however the run went, we knew she would give it her
all.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The first outrun
started wide but a quick pull in put her easily to the first lot. It was a
beautiful fetch and perfect turnback. A few bobbles on the 2nd fetch but
solidly through the gates and a little off line as the sheep ran to join the
first group. She put the sheep around the drive with relative ease and plenty
of time in the ring. The sheep flowed well at the shed and they quickly had the
ribboned ones separated with 9+ minutes to pen. Gail efficiently drove the
plain ones away and marched the collared ones to the mouth of the pen. The
sheep broke but with patience and pressure, Gail got the only pen of the trial.
It was an excellent run with 602 points-so proud of her! We bought Gail in 2013
from Andy Carnegie and are very grateful to him.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We finished the night
with lots of laughs, fantastic wine & good friends. The National is more
than a sheepdog competition; it is about partnership, friendships, joy,
disappointment, excitement, frustration and success. It is about making
memories and stories.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This year it is about a wee dog with a huge heart. —</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KnSPfuodojY/VBmpMNai3pI/AAAAAAAAAYk/21ysP5xxG6U/s1600/735-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KnSPfuodojY/VBmpMNai3pI/AAAAAAAAAYk/21ysP5xxG6U/s1600/735-2.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Vw9IwZ0zK8Q/VBmo3DZbnCI/AAAAAAAAAYc/NZYdpFnMCic/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Vw9IwZ0zK8Q/VBmo3DZbnCI/AAAAAAAAAYc/NZYdpFnMCic/s1600/2.jpg" height="249" width="320" /></a></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">National Day 4</span></strong></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Another gorgeous day
in Carbondale. The rerun sheep were quite good around the course though a bit
heavy late in the day and still a test at the pen.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Congrats to all those
through to the Final and to Suzy Applegate, our 2014 National Nursery Champion!</span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span><strong><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">US National Days 3-4</span></strong><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hVY5I6b3Phg/VBms_5qDPiI/AAAAAAAAAZc/0gPx-vQhijM/s1600/301.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hVY5I6b3Phg/VBms_5qDPiI/AAAAAAAAAZc/0gPx-vQhijM/s1600/301.jpg" height="182" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Yesterday afternoon
was sunny with a warm breeze and the sheep in Open improved notably-they were
not as testing nor were they putting as much sideways pressure on the dogs on
the fetch or drive away. We hoped that would hold for today but alas, not to
be….</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Tierney Graham had a solid run this morning in the 140’s and
just about 10:00, the sheep went off-running sideways or hell bent from the
top. A few taking off to bolt over fences, neither provoked nor chased! Terry
Parrish,Terri Warner, Bruce Fogt and Joe Haynes were just a few to draw very
difficult groups. The tough packets were hit or miss & there were still
some very good runs including Michael Gallagher with Cain. Amanda and Angie
Coker also had scores high enough to go through to the next round.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Alasdair had a great
start with Sweepy until a standoff which resulted in an unfortunate DQ.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I drew a very high
headed ewe in a packet that sealed our fate before we began. We had no chance; They were so
determined Cap had to be in front of them at times-the only way to stop a sheep
running full out towards a destination. He held the sheep well on the turn and
drive away but after making the drive gate, they took off again. While he
convinced the sheep back on line, we had forgone too many points. He shed
easily but no way could we pen them. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The run was dreadful but Cap was
excellent!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">He worked his heart out.
It was a great effort & very proud of him. Many of you know about the
health issues Cap had this year. He is healthy and we are so grateful-his first
trip to the trial field in over 7 months.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">While today did not
go as we’d hoped, could not be happier to have my partner back!! </span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uG2bnbHWmMs/VBmsQy0-ALI/AAAAAAAAAZU/PTq0WteRsh8/s1600/302.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uG2bnbHWmMs/VBmsQy0-ALI/AAAAAAAAAZU/PTq0WteRsh8/s1600/302.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">With a spotty
internet signal could not post yesterday but want to recognize Ron Burkey who
had a great run with Shadow & currently in the lead along with Alasdair
& Gail on a 161! -will update as possible. Should know semi running
order/qualifiers soon —</span></div>
<strong><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">US National Day 2</span></strong><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The morning began
brisk & sunny and the sheep’s coats were dark and wet from the overnight
rain. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Noelle Williams had a
solid run to start the day in the 140’s running just prior to Jim & I.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jim had a very good
gather and solid drive away. At the drive gate rather than take my whistle, he
became independent and brought the sheep back through the gate. His single
minded thinking ensued and rather than fight I retired as we were not working
as a team. The sheep were a challenge early on and the resulting scores were
low but became better as the day continued. Stand out runs include Joe Heather
Lynne Haynes, Christine Jobe and especially Alasdair w Gail, with the high
score of the trial so far on a 161.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Derek Fisher ran 10 year old Jen at the end of the day and
she gave her heart with a difficult group & the best shed of the trial
we’ve seen so far! Especially hope these two get through to the next round.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AWi9FlDuiCY/VBmrUviR_7I/AAAAAAAAAZE/FY3nCDrnSm4/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AWi9FlDuiCY/VBmrUviR_7I/AAAAAAAAAZE/FY3nCDrnSm4/s1600/3.jpg" height="238" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Today’s clear skies
highlighted the beautiful vistas and the sprinkling of snow on the mountain
tops make the scenery even more spectacular!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><strong><br /></strong>
<strong>US National Day I</strong></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2pQuCMbP7tg/VBmqQwl_u6I/AAAAAAAAAY4/hzLa5_vSXWE/s1600/001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2pQuCMbP7tg/VBmqQwl_u6I/AAAAAAAAAY4/hzLa5_vSXWE/s1600/001.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The course is 13
minutes-400 yd. outrun, left hand drive, shed any two, pen. Prevailing weather
was cool and wet with bits of sunshine as well as significant downpours. The
range sheep are cross ramboulliet, even & fit with nearly every group
challenging the dog at some point during the run. The field lends itself to a
left hand outrun and generally the sheep apply sideways pressure on the top
half of the fetch.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The yearlings are leaning
on the dogs in the main and are difficult at the pen. Most every handler is
having a heart stopping moment!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Stand out runs
include this years Meeker champion Ron Enzeroth w Mick, Dave Imas &
Terrianne Warnerr. There were several good scores in the making that ended at
the pen w an unfortunate DQ including Higgy, Louanne Timmons Twa & Lori J.
Perry. Rains expected to end tomorrow w much cooler temperatures. Ranch is
gorgeous and the trial a very good test</span></div>
MacRae Sheepdogshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02526980941798761448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-857882185507919311.post-79843396998548812792014-07-04T13:24:00.000-07:002014-07-05T07:43:42.711-07:00New ON LINE Training Course, MacRae Way: The Outrun<div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gWn2fvEcUnA/U7cLkhqfhFI/AAAAAAAAAW4/jLMvACUYe2k/s1600/Bear+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gWn2fvEcUnA/U7cLkhqfhFI/AAAAAAAAAW4/jLMvACUYe2k/s1600/Bear+2.JPG" height="294" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div style="color: black; display: inline; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">We
have a new ON-LINE training course, MacRae Way: The Outrun, available
now. The Outrun module provides effective tools and exercises for encouraging the Outrun, extending the Outrun and
instruction expressly intended for the expert trainer looking to widen an
outrun.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3-uAqS3oB_A&feature=youtu.be" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Promo Video, THE OUTRUN</span></a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">
Through 90 minutes of video footage this course explores how to encourage
development for a more natural outrunning dog and provides tools for dogs
that need training to achieve an outrun. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">We
contrast both types, detailing the progression with 5 dogs. We also address how
and when to introduce a spotter in preparation for a young dogs first sheepdog
trial. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">We believe dogs should be committed to going to balance point and
outrunning before driving in earnest and sequentially, ‘The Outrun’ module
follows ‘Starting Young Dogs’.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<div style="line-height: 13pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">‘Starting Young Dogs’ our is
flagship offering and details our systematic<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>training method with an emphasis on balance point. Because our
foundation training makes complex training like sorting the outrun & teaching bends/turnbacks intuitive for the dogs, we reference
our training system in ‘The Outrun’ and future courses. However, all courses
are valuable independent of one another</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<div style="line-height: 13pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">The Outrun is available for<b><i> $99 with 4 weeks of access</i></b>.
</span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<div style="line-height: 13pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">All courses are being delivered on-line only and will not be
available on DVD. For details on 'The Outrun' or 'Starting Young Dogs', please visit <a href="http://www.macraeway.com/"><span style="color: blue;">MacRae Way, ON LINE Sheepdog Training</span></a> </span></div>
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MacRae Sheepdogshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02526980941798761448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-857882185507919311.post-11223982474891083192014-03-06T18:25:00.001-08:002014-03-06T18:34:21.038-08:00Here is the SCOOP: You asked, 'What exactly is included w MacRae Way: Starting Dogs & what is the value for an experienced handler?'<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h5A2O31rTm8/UxkwHSEX-vI/AAAAAAAAAWI/CyeX75k5NMw/s1600/Bear+2+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h5A2O31rTm8/UxkwHSEX-vI/AAAAAAAAAWI/CyeX75k5NMw/s1600/Bear+2+copy.jpg" height="294" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Many have inquired, 'What <u>exactly</u> is included in MacRae Way: Starting Young Dogs & as an experienced handler, does this course have value for me?'</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We have created the attached audio and text to address your questions. Thank you for listening & enjoy the journey.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Click Below Link for Audio:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.macraesheepdogs.com/pod-cast-on-macrae-way-starting-dogs/" target="_blank">MacRae Way: Starting Young Dogs, Podcast</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Corresponding Text Below:</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">While this series obviously addresses a young dogs start on
sheep it holds a greater value as well.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Our objective is to not only provide key information to enable a
handler to train a young dog with a solid foundation but also provide accomplished
handlers with an understanding of the philosophy of our training system.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Our experienced dogs have great enthusiasm to</span></div>
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</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;">turn back,<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;">bend, on sheep seen and unseen<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;">do blind outruns <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;">are positive shedders. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Not just at 3 and 4 years old but at 9, 10 & sometimes
older.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For those of you unfamiliar with our open dogs you can view them
on film from various years on the final day at the US National. You’ll note
these characteristics with Nan, Ben, Bill, Star, Bear, Max, Cap and Sweep.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;">Successfully teaching these complex components is possible
through our training system, which we have used effectively for a combined 40
years. </span><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;"><br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--></span><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Additionally, what we train in the round pen establishes the system
that we are able to call upon in later training to address issues such as:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;">Confidence building, <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;">Pulling in or pushing out the outrun<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;">Holding the line on the drive, <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;">Helping Dogs with difficulty holding pressure, <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;">Helping dogs that wear excessively <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;">Helping dogs to hold a single<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">and much more. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">While many of the 17 dogs that appear in the 20+ hours of total
footage are client dogs, dogs we have recently run and are currently competing
with are also featured.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Alasdair starts Zac in this segment, and in future
courses trains bends, shedding and penning with Queen and Li, <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I start Nell in this course, and later introduce turnbacks and
bends with Jim and Sweep, shedding and precision work with Cap and Max and we
have lots of content on training dogs with ‘eye’ with Nap & Max.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The first course
has 4 HRs of video footage with 6 different dogs at various stages. The dogs are
markedly different in ability and temperament. 4 of the 6 pedigrees are:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Alba Lyn X Don,
McClure’s Lil X Applegate’s’ Buzz, Star X Alba Cap, Ford’s Cap X Ford’s Maddy.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Detailed
instruction is included on:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Ensuring
a good start<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Starting
the outrun<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Starting
to teach flanks<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Teaching
a lie down off sheep<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Transferring
a lie down on sheep<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Taking
your dog from the round pen to the arena to the 10 acre field<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 10pt;">As
well as detailed discussion of our training philosophy<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We include
quantifiable exercises you can replicate at home and exercises that address
specific problems such as:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Dogs
not covering <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Dogs
not holding the pressure on either the left or the right<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Dogs
not achieving balance point<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Teaching
flanks for dogs inclined to wear <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And more<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;">The course is
delivered via live stream video and viewable 24/7 for the duration of the subscription.
</span><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;">In addition to viewing on your computer our product
does support HTML 5 playback on mobile operating systems such as iOS
(iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch), Android, and Windows Phone</span><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;">. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It is not available
as DVD or as a download. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;"><br />
</span><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;">We are extending our introductory offer through March 29 with
pricing at $199 available for 8 weeks.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This production would not have been possible without the
collaboration of Kristi Oikawa and advocacy of Eileen Stineman. We are grateful
for their contribution and thankful for the tremendous support from the sheepdog
community on this project. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Thanks for listening. Enjoy the journey.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
MacRae Sheepdogshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02526980941798761448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-857882185507919311.post-4736239632812572792014-02-11T11:38:00.000-08:002014-02-14T12:43:03.391-08:00MacRae Way: Starting Young Dogs, An ON-LINE Training Course<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0hAnLe0zHPw/UvpzYe0WlwI/AAAAAAAAAV0/_XMDNvpim-c/s1600/Bear+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0hAnLe0zHPw/UvpzYe0WlwI/AAAAAAAAAV0/_XMDNvpim-c/s1600/Bear+2.JPG" height="294" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For those that train young dogs or those interested in our
methodology, we have a new on-line sheepdog training course!</span></div>
<div style="clear: both; overflow: hidden; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-top: 15px;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We have a fundamental belief that how you start your young dog and
early training can have a profound impact on your dog achieving his/her full
potential.</span></div>
<div style="clear: both; overflow: hidden; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-top: 15px;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; size: 3;">Our objective in the <u><a href="https://www.blogger.com/For%20those%20of%20you%20that%20work%20with%20us%20regularly,%20those%20that%20train%20young%20dogs%20and%20those%20interested%20in%20our%20methodology,%20we%20have%20a%20new%20on-line%20training%20course%20Alasdair%20&%20I%20believe%20you%20will%20find%20valuable.%20%20Most%20of%20you%20know%20we%20have%20%20a%20fundamental%20belief%20that%20how%20you%20start%20your%20young%20dog%20and%20early%20training%20can%20have%20a%20profound%20impact%20on%20your%20dog%20achieving%20his/her%20full%20potential.%20%20Our%20objective%20in%20the%20Starting%20Dogs%20module%20is%20to%20provide%20enough%20information%20to%20enable%20a%20handler%20to%20start%20a%20young%20dog%20as%20well%20as%20an%20understanding%20of%20the%20foundation%20&%20philosophy%20of%20our%20training%20system;%20which%20sets%20the%20stage%20for%20all%20of%20our%20more%20complex%20training.%20%20%20In%20producing%20our%20own%20training%20we%20strive%20to%20bring%20you%20a%20much%20more%20complete%20offering%20with%20courses%20broken%20down%20by%20each%20aspect%20of%20training.%20Future%20modules%20include%20Outrun,%20drive,%20shed,%20bends,%20turnbacks,%20etc.%20%20for%20details%20on%20our%20on-line%20training%20please%20go%20to:%20http://www.macraesheepdogs.com/products/" target="_blank">The MacRae Way: Starting Young Dogs</a></u> module is to provide enough information to enable a handler to
start a young dog as well as an understanding of the foundation & philosophy
of our training system; which sets the stage for all of our more complex
training. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; size: 3;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; size: 3;">This course is aimed at those actively starting a young dog, those preparing to start a dog as well as handlers interested in understanding our system, which we have used successfully for a combined 40 years. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; size: 3;">Just as we learn from others to improve aspects of our approach we feel there are many valuable pieces of our method that can be integrated into other training systems.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; size: 3;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; size: 3;">This first module is our most comprehensive and sets the stage for upcoming releases. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; size: 3;">Our philosophy, emphasizing balance point, begins with our dogs first exposure to sheep. We are far more concerned with helping our dogs become all that she or he can be in the long term rather than a dog that peaks young. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; size: 3;">This begins with the foundation and our system is important to realizing a dogs full potential particularly when training on dog-broke the sheep.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; size: 3;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; size: 3;">Additionally what we train in the round pen establishes a system that we are able to utilize in training such as outruns, blind turn backs, bends and strong shedding skills. This will be elaborated on in future respective courses.</span></div>
<div style="clear: both; overflow: hidden; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-top: 15px;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; size: 3;">In the first course we show 4 HR of video footage with 6 different dogs at various stages. We include quantifiable exercises you can replicate at home. The course is delivered via live stream video and viewable 24/7 for the duration of the subscription. It is not available as DVD or as a download. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; size: 3;">Our introductory offer makes this course available for 8 weeks and should you like to repurchase this course at a later date there will be a discount identified by your single sign-on.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In producing our own
training courses we strive to bring you a much more complete offering with courses
broken down by each aspect of training and available in a 'shopping cart' format. Future modules include instruction on: Flanks, Outrun, Drive, Shed, Bends, Turnbacks and more. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I hope to also have Alasdair do armchair conversations on theory and stories of legendary dogs and handlers. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In addition to viewing on your computer our product does support HTML 5 playback on mobile operating systems such as iOS (iPhone, iPad,
iPod Touch), Android, and Windows Phone.</span></div>
<div style="clear: both; overflow: hidden; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-top: 15px;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For Our Introductory Offer and Details on our on-line training please go to our website, <a href="http://www.macraesheepdogs.com/products/" target="_blank">The MACRAE WAY: Starting Young Dogs</a></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Our Promotional Video can be viewed, <a href="http://www.macraesheepdogs.com/products/" target="_blank">HERE</a> as well.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Enjoy the journey!</span></div>
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MacRae Sheepdogshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02526980941798761448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-857882185507919311.post-7941889900054651472013-10-14T18:38:00.001-07:002013-10-14T18:50:23.218-07:00US NATIONAL 2013...<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A tremendous amount of time and effort are required to produce a trial of this magnitude. THANK YOU to the committee, co-chairs Barbara Ray & Lori Cunningham, Michelle Dobbs, all the volunteers, the set out crew and every one who made this week at Belle Grove possible. While the extreme weather conditions made executing the National much more difficult, it appeared seamless to the handlers and we greatly appreciate the hard work. Thank you also to Susan Rhoades for offering the practice field.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Congratulations to Scot Glen & Don and all those in top placings.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Neither Alasdair nor I did well in the nursery. Alasdair ran Renee Newcomb's Skye and like many dogs, retired in the first run. Nell showed glimpses of both her mother & father (Star X Alba Cap) in round 1 and made it through to round 2, but with running sheep that she could not get with I retired. We enjoy watching the young dogs and it is a treat to see those from parts of the country we do not travel.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The highlight for me was running Max in his 10th consecutive National at 12 yrs. old. We drew a difficult ewe in the qualifying and did not make the semi but as always, Max punched above his weight. He looked more like a 6 year old than a 12 year old in this, his last National. It has been an brilliant journey. His natural ability and talent have afforded me invaluable experience. He is a tremendous partner and friend; I am so grateful and incredibly blessed.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Cap ran exceptionally well in the semi's but did not get the breaks; with a difficult ewe and a shortened clock we timed out before the single, missing the cut for the final. Alasdair and Jim suffered a similar fate but Alasdair made it through to the final with Sweep and was Reserve Champion! They had a flawless turn back, best gather, excellent drive and Sweep was very impressive and positive in the ring.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">We bred Sweep in 2009. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana;">He is out of Alba Lyn (Alba Cap's litter sister) & by Don Russell's Sweep (a son of Alasdair's Sweep).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">With the same complex formula in which I selected Cap (looks like my Bear :-)) I choose Sweep as a puppy. I ran him in the nurseries in 2011 National (we finished 8th) & gave him to Alasdair in Dec 2012 as I had 4 open dogs. In that short time Alasdair and Sweep have developed a remarkable partnership and they are an amazing team!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I am also very excited and proud of Peg Anderson and Spot. They had a great National finishing 4th in the Double Lift-congratulations.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Although fashion lost out to function and the weather was gloomy, the good friends and good dogs (especially the good friends who make a mean lemon drop), made for another great National!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span><br />MacRae Sheepdogshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02526980941798761448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-857882185507919311.post-87362345591472536012013-09-03T08:22:00.000-07:002013-09-06T05:00:43.629-07:00Pylons and Tigers and Dares, oh My<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The start of the month we loaded up the pylons and the dogs and once again dared to cross the Canadian border. This time, however, our phones were not confiscated, our rig was not searched nor our trip detained- in a word, seamless! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The clinic at Chris Jobe's had excellent weather, good people and nice dogs. Thank you Chris and all the participants for a great 4 days.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo by Michelle Bryan (Kristi you are here in spirit!)</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We had a fun visit with Stormy, nearly collected on the bets he owes us and worked a few dogs.</span><br />
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One of the highlights of being home was the visit with Annemarie, Vergil & the Caplettes! (Brooke X Cap)<br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Another awesome clinic with Polly Simpson-the hostess with the most-est! Always enjoy working with the group in Wisconsin and great to have new handlers join us.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The WWSDA Labor Day trial field is excellent and sheep were in the main, responsive to the dogs. The shed in the final was difficult and the turn back a very good test. Huge thanks to the WWSDA and all that made the trial possible.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">An exceptional weekend as Max had a 1st & 2nd in the qualifying, won the overall and was the only dog to get finished in the double lift final, getting 2nd place to Cap. Max will be 12 yrs. old next month and it has been nothing short of a brilliant journey. I am very blessed and incredibly grateful!</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Max, photo by Michelle Guderian</td></tr>
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Finally, bringing August to a close my alma mater, Clemson knocked off no. 5 ranked Georgia Saturday night-go Tigers!!</div>
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MacRae Sheepdogshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02526980941798761448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-857882185507919311.post-23321423096279418792013-07-08T15:50:00.001-07:002013-07-08T17:18:27.333-07:00An Opening,,,<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After
a packed 6 weeks of projects, lessons, travel, judging, trialing and clinics our schedule is fairly open. Fitting this shot of Gail in the opening above was taken just this morning.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We spent two weeks of June at home & good news for Spangle; more than just the wit was
cutting.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Spangle's summer haircut</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We departed June 18 for Parker,
Colorado. We had a great time working and visiting
with Susan & Ladd Squires, always considerate and generous hosts. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The
highlight was our Vancouver visitor. We worked on Rex having less wrecks! We also
tackled video editing, impersonated 80’s girl band, ate sushi, drank wine and laughed endlessly.</span></span><br />
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June 26th we headed to one of our favorite trials, Free to Be Classic in Mountainair, NM</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is a trial to put on your bucket list. Although
we did not have great results we had an excellent time. The courses and the
sheep were tremendous. Thank you again to Geri Abrams and her dedicated and
talented set- out crew and all the contributors.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I judged the nursery so we ran our nursery dogs in Open ranch and each won a class. Overall Nell did capably, Li, Sweep and Cap all ran well. I ran Jim 2 of the Opens and my
lack of preparation with him was evident. I entered Max the last two days and unfortunately he ran me!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There
is consolation in the first dog you moved into Open, at nearly 12 years old,
running as strong and fast as a dog ½ his age; just as well, as there are no
prizes for it :-)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Following
the trial we did a 2 day general clinic. Good people and lots of new faces; we
greatly enjoyed working with the young dogs and eager students. The 3rd day
was an international shedding clinic and the sheep were fantastic. We finished
out the week with a tribute of<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>the song, ‘Who the eff is Lisa’ for Peg Anderson, 2 days of lessons, 1
day of laundry and a Sunday respite.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The
next 3 weeks we will have the privilege of leasing and working the Rambouillets on
the ranch. Geri has over 330 acres with every size working area imaginable. In addition to the clinics and USBCHA trials, she also hosts AKC & AHBA events. She has goats for the young dogs as well as dogged sheep for those not
quite ready to work the range ewes. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The sheep and fields are an incredible
opportunity for the nursery dogs </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">as well as the 3 year olds without much experience, Jim and Gail.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">With the same sheep the same color as the terrain, spotting them at a distance can be a challenge.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">An 850
yard outrun opportunity at every corner, training the Open dogs on fields of this scope is
invaluable.</span></span></div>
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When not used for training, the arenas double as an excellent puppy play area. Brae & Jaff are growing
like weeds!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brae & Jaff</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My forward thinking
girlfriend sent mindless novels for relaxing in the shade with the dogs in the
hot afternoons (Kristi if you are reading this, books only after dedicated
hours to the project of course :-)).</span></span></div>
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</span><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The
weather here is hot during the day & cool in the mornings and evenings; varied but never subtle.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Excellent sheep, a brilliant training
facility, gorgeous vistas and good Mexican food; the makings of a great summer!</span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Max, walking at last!</td></tr>
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</span>MacRae Sheepdogshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02526980941798761448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-857882185507919311.post-82989473826922837462013-06-01T14:02:00.000-07:002013-06-01T17:49:40.514-07:00The Need for More Bars,,,,<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">'The need
for more bars'--</span></span><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">could have been a dissertation for many of us in the '80’s! </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Much more tame with middle age, the 'bars' referenced are the measure of cell signal strength on the phone- or in our case, the absence of bars. W</span></span><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">ithout connectivity have been unable to post including the great trial in
NC last weekend. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The laptop acquired signal as we were departing NC & I was able to upload some photos from the trial to FaceBook, a practiced process on my PC. <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> This connection was short lived but my phone looked to have a reasonable signal & I thought I would give that a try. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Smart phones
really are amazing and as they do not require as much bandwidth, we are able to do
more with less. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is the snag for me; they enable a false sense of
competency.</span></span><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The result of my technical prowess? I unwittingly managed to delete the very photo album loaded the previous evening, ugh.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Apologies to
those copied on photos; I hope to get it right next time & managed to re post a few below.</span></span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Dr. Ben’s
provided a challenging outrun, brilliant weather and good people. Ann Allen hosted a live twitter feed to relay many of the nice runs over the holiday weekend. Stand outs included Vic Wilcox and Ken Arrendale
with both their dogs, Dwight Parker with Craig, Emily Falk with Spain, Bob Washer with Clare and
many more. Linda Fogt with Jill put together two runs in the Open as well as a good run with a solid finish in DL to win the NC Championship. Alasdair and I only managed 2 runs in the
prize list combined; Alasdair with Sweep in Open II and Jim & I in Open I. We did not
compete in the trial with our young dogs but we stayed to watch the Nursery Monday morning. Dee Penatzer
with Floss won with a very good run. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Thank you to Emily and Dr. Ben Ousley for their generous hospitality, Dean Holcomb, the entire set out crew and all of those that contributed to put on a great trial!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We enjoyed
watching dogs we don’t see often and visiting with friends that live far
away. Sunday evening a fun handlers dinner included Vic Wilcox’s reign as the
mistress of martinis as well as the Hanley’s providing honey badger enlightenment. We had a fun stay at Dee's Memorial Day and hope to make it back to North Carolina soon.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laura & fellow connoisseur Trig, the glass is empty but the nose, knows!<br />
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Chris & Vic Wilcox<br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Dee & I anticipate the nectar Vic is swilling above</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Have some quick business and the chance to get the young dogs out to a new spot on the road home. The dot
on the field below is Renee Newcomb’s Skye. Will be in Missouri until we depart for Geri Abrams excellent trial in New Mexico later this month.</span></div>
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</span>MacRae Sheepdogshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02526980941798761448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-857882185507919311.post-43984107949306898112013-05-20T19:31:00.002-07:002013-05-20T19:57:55.630-07:00Bluegrass, The Finale!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alasdair & Sweep</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hopefully, everyone saw my updates from Sat & Sun on Facebook. As predicted the best runs came in the first half of the day before the heat and humidity peaked and Scot Glen's Don is the DL champion. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Bluegrass is such a special trial to us personally and we are so grateful to be able to participate. I know I have have thanked the organizers, volunteers, </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">quiet supporters and set out crew several times but again, you are so much appreciated.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Foremost, I want to to correct my order in yesterdays recap, Vergil with Scott were 4th with a very solid finish and Ron Enzeroth with Mick were 5th.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The highlights for us began in the morning with Alasdair's Li. Although they had some trouble on the turn back Li made a tremendous save in the ring and earned Reserve Champion. Black Gold Premium Dog Food, our personal sponsors, came through once</span> <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">again supporting the Border collie community and donating the DL prizes. Thank you for your very generous continued support as well as many thanks to all the other contributors.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I only gave Sweep to Alasdair in December and they are already a great team. They performed especially well in the final and as Alasdair said, it went even better than in practice, always an encouraging sign. A flawless turnback and excellent lines earned them 3rd. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Cap also had a perfect turnback but me working hard to hold the fetch lines in the height of the heat cost us valuable time. Running in the 15th slot I was concerned the shed would be extremely difficult. As it turned out we had a good flowing shed down to 4 plain ones that was only stymied by the time constraint. We had just 10 minutes in the ring for time spent on the drive & ended up 7th. Of course, it is always easier looking back and the mistakes were mine. I was very pleased with Cap's performance as well as his 'striking' run Open I and the thankfully less eventful win Open II.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ron Enzeroth and his young dog Mick were standouts throughout the trial, having just won Cattle Nursery Championship 2 weeks prior. I wrote about Mindy Bower Day 1 as she and her dog Possum made both Opens look easy. They finished just behind Roy Taber and York in the DL.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ron Enzeroth also stood out on the Nursery field winning the overall with Pete who ran solid everyday including beating Nell & I on outwork in Nursery II. Another stand out was Jimmy Walker with Brock who was on equal points with Alasdair & Skye Nurs IV and finished 2nd on OLF. I believe Jimmy was also Reserve Champion in OR with his other young dog.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This was Nell's and Renee Newcomb's Skye first time away from home (litter sister's Cap X Star). They each won a Nursery class and qualified for the National. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Nell also won Reserve Nursery Champion. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We were sorry to miss yesterday's final runs but had a brilliant night with my grandmother at Mallone's, prime rib, sushi, incredible wine and most important family. thank you to all my generous friends in KY especially Laura Hanley with her help at the airport!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Although there were several changes behind the scenes at this year's Bluegrass what did not change is this one of our all time favorite trials--thank you to all!</span><br />
<br />MacRae Sheepdogshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02526980941798761448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-857882185507919311.post-51151271487859093132013-05-17T14:59:00.002-07:002013-05-18T05:50:49.131-07:00BLUEGRASS, Day 3, OPEN II<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kristi at this rate, i should try for a tribute album!<br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Congratulations to Lorna Savage winner Open I! </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Congratulations
also to Ron Enzeroth who won Nursery again today.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Nell illustrated, ‘Speed thrills, Speed kills’. She was
thrilled and killed any hope of a good run, but that, as they say, is young
dogs! She finished up 9</span><sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup><span style="font-size: small;">. Alasdair was 7</span><sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup><span style="font-size: small;"> and got his 2</span><sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">nd</span></sup><span style="font-size: small;">
leg with Skye!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Open II:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Don Helsley judging, 11 minutes, right hand drive, any
single, then pen. Sheep are overall a good bit heavier. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Alasdair had a very good run in Open II with Li and is
leading on an 86. Tommy Wilson had a good run with Roy and currently in second
with an 84. I ran Max & managed to miss the drive away with
expert precision. I never called him on the shed (which is any sheep). <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was far too risky to take the last one on
the head yet Max boldly disagreed & came in on the last one on the head
anyway. I was far more stunned and scared by
this than yesterday’s lightning bolt! </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">My shout did get a lie down and the judge called it. We scored
an 82. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">This was Max’s last year to run at the Bluegrass as he will be 12 years
old in October. It was his 10</span><sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup><span style="font-size: small;"> year running here and his 8</span><sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup><span style="font-size: small;">
running here in Open. I managed to get us DQ’d in Open I so we will not compete
on Sunday but he has put me through to the Final here more times than I can
remember, a testament to his ability given my inexperience as Max is the first
dog I trained to Open (beating Bear to the field by 2 months). He is an amazing
partner and friend and I will miss trialing and training him more than words
can express.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The sheep remain heavy and look to be getting even
better. If it continues scores may well soar to the 90’s so very difficult to
predict yet who will get in beyond Alasdair, Vergil and Mary Lou Campbell at
the time of this writing. More severe storms are expected for today and
tomorrow. The temperature is currently about 85 and 100% humidity. Here is
hoping it cools down lots before Sunday. My grandmother is flying in tomorrow (88
years old) to watch and we are very excited, off to prepare for her visit!</span></span></div>
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Christines Bess also had her last BG run <br />
today. She will be 12 yr. in December<br />
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<br />MacRae Sheepdogshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02526980941798761448noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-857882185507919311.post-34400285965292809222013-05-16T19:06:00.001-07:002013-05-16T19:06:28.519-07:00BLUEGRASS day 2, show stopping run with Cap<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-und6Za7tM18/UZWOYZM9WQI/AAAAAAAAANs/WmuA2DlOXGk/s1600/062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-und6Za7tM18/UZWOYZM9WQI/AAAAAAAAANs/WmuA2DlOXGk/s1600/062.JPG" height="176" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If you asked me yesterday if I wanted to have a show stopping
run with Cap in Open I, would have said ‘yes’,,,today, not so much!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After 5 DQ/RT in a row on the open field they were
running far ahead of schedule. Obviously unpredictable, this is generally a good
thing. The Bluegrass is a brilliant trial and painstaking care is taken to try
to run the simultaneous fields without conflict. To have many runs go as
quickly as they did was very unusual. Uncharacteristically they also happened to be
well behind on the novice field. This coincidence was most unfortunate for me
as I was literally on the OR field running Nell just before my open run.
Thankfully Carla King noticed and shouted for me to get over to Open as I was
on in 2 dogs (thank you Carla and Mary Thompson who graciously exhausted the
run I was meant to in OR)!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I made it in plenty of time though without the benefit of
seeing how the sheep were running (albeit with many DQ’s shortly before me I
had a clue yet, to add confusion Vergil <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>scored
a 91 with Brooke the run I arrived!). I was able to watch all of Vikki Kidd’s
run and it was very good scoring an 89 and making it look easy. I thought certainly that must be a good sign!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Cap spotted the sheep and began what looked to be good
outrun but stopped a bit short (a theme for most every dog sent left),,, lift
& fetch not so bad, around the post (which has been the beginning of the
end for many runs) was fluid, the drive away reasonable until complete miscalculation
on my part caused missed drive away, but only just. The cross drive & 3<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">rd</span></sup>
leg were on and I had 4 & ½ minutes or so once I entered the ring.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I remember the sheep
started to run just a bit, but as the shed is any sheep, I thought, ‘this is
coming’,,,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">what actually came was a bolt of lightning so fierce both
I & the largest speckled yearling jumped 3 inches off the ground!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Vergil said he was amazed Cap was completely
oblivious to the commotion, staying intent on the sheep. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Fortunately, Alasdair was oblivious to Cap and the sheep,
shouting for me to get off the field as he later told me he could smell burning!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I was a bit stunned as likely were Rusty, the judge,
clerk as well as the few passer-byes who ducted into shelter with us. We were
there for over an hour. Kudos and thanks to Vikki Kidd who stayed under exhaust
the entire delay to keep my sheep from drifting too far up or down the field.
Thank you to Dee Petnzer for her shout out for the sheep to be kept!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><o:p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></o:p><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Although I had 3 ½ minutes when they started the clock
again, after grazing and being held together away from the others for an
additional hour the sheep were not as quick to shed and I ran out of time at
the pen scoring a 71. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hopefully, I put will be able to put together a good enough
run in the next round to play on Sunday. At the very least hoping I can put
together a less exciting run!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Expectedly after the down pour the sheep were much improved and stayed exceptionally tolerant for most of the remainder of the day.</span><o:p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></o:p><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This morning Alasdair had a very solid run with Li
scoring 80 in the Open. They were several 80's and I believe an overall better day than yesterday. I apologize for not having more pictures (will keep trying) or a better update of open runs,,,with all going on I missed quite a bit. All scores on <a href="http://www.dogtrialentry.com/">www.dogtrialentry.com</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I ran Nell who did not so bad in OR scoring a 72 with no
pen and more importantly standing up well and looking quite positive on the sheep.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">She tied for first in the nursery and while they asked me
to bring her over for a run off at the end of the night, later decided to do it
on OLF. Congratulations to Ron Enzeroth & Mick for the <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nursery win. </span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Delighted Nell is doing
so well on her first trip away from home. Also thrilled for Alasdair with Skye
who finished just one point behind Ron & I and received their first qualifying leg. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">T</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">he
last few runs in open were meant to be tricky and ultimately the fog prevented the
finish. Will complete in the morning as soon as weather permits.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Finally, thank you especially to Dee Penetzer who recognized such an unusual day should only only be concluded with a delicious red from Alexander Valley!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qwXPeQSr5p0/UZWPRIcGiGI/AAAAAAAAAN0/X5Jb2qSgjTw/s1600/039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qwXPeQSr5p0/UZWPRIcGiGI/AAAAAAAAAN0/X5Jb2qSgjTw/s1600/039.JPG" height="392" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Dee & Queen</div>
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</div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span>MacRae Sheepdogshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02526980941798761448noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-857882185507919311.post-21140946580624794842013-05-15T18:48:00.000-07:002013-05-21T09:22:30.155-07:00BLUEGRASS Day 1<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Bluegrass Day 1:</span><o:p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Bluegrass Classic SDT held every May in Lexington, KY
is among the oldest and most esteemed trials in the country.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Spring time in the Bluegrass is incredibly picturesque.
The organization and hospitality are second to none and the Texas yearlings are
an excellent test of the dogs. Foremost thank you to the KBCA and everyone that
made this year possible! <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Special recognition to Susan Carvalho, Paul and Leigh
Anne Tucker, Rusty Krieder, the tremendous set out crew and the tireless volunteers.
These are a few key contributors and we realize there are countless others-you
are all very much appreciated!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><o:p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></o:p><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Masterson Station's bowl shaped field is as pristine as
ever and the cross Suffolk yearlings extremely healthy.</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The morning began with moderate temperatures and quickly
warmed to the high 80’s with sunshine and high wind. The yearlings were touchy
and a bit difficult to predict at the start. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The first very good run was Mindy
Bower with Possum. They made what looked to be a very difficult time of day to
run look effortless and scored a commendable 81.</span><o:p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I was up soon after with Max in the 10<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> slot.
The sheep ran unexpectedly upon the lift,,,and ran and ran. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Max interpreting the big come bye flank as set up for the
turn back (and waiting for it) was not helpful. In fact, it caused the sheep to bolt past me on the wrong side
of the post. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A dreadful beginning, I had been on this side of a poor start in years past. My goal
was to start the drive in an effort to piece together a run with a passable result for the 2 score
cumulative trial.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I brought the sheep back around to my side of the post
and planned to take the point loss per the USBCHA Guidelines as I had already
lost so many on my fetch. As with all best laid plans there was a small snag,
the judge was not utilizing the guidelines and he DQ’ed me instead- my fault, tough lesson
learned the hard way!</span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RFR2M-EONog/UZQ55uw1yEI/AAAAAAAAANU/0VelBBVLVX8/s1600/064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RFR2M-EONog/UZQ55uw1yEI/AAAAAAAAANU/0VelBBVLVX8/s1600/064.JPG" height="238" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweep</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ebX57lFetsE/UZQ58mF7u1I/AAAAAAAAANc/PT9CxQK-4Bs/s1600/065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ebX57lFetsE/UZQ58mF7u1I/AAAAAAAAANc/PT9CxQK-4Bs/s1600/065.JPG" height="260" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kristi, this one is for you!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The sheep would prove to get better and then not so good again
and finally very forgiving by the end of the evening or at least until about
run 58 (I missed the last 10). Lorna savage had a gorgeous run #53 to score a
94. Earlier in the day I missed Joyce Geier who scored a strong 93 but was there and
absolutely thrilled for Alasdair with Sweep who ran great and scored a
90. Missouri also provided another high score with Larry Moore and Bee on
an 89.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><o:p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></o:p><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Open Ranch had its own challenge with fresh yearlings on
the tricky terraced novice field. Alasdair and I are running
litter mates. I have Nell and he is running Renee Newcomb’s, Skye (Star X my Cap). Both
are nursery dogs and today was their first time away from home.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Nell finished 8<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> in OR with Skye just a few
behind and Nell won the Nursery with Ron Enzeroth and Mick in 2<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">nd</span></sup>
place.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A very long and great day of dogs, tomorrow begins with the
conclusion of Open I at 6:30 sharp, OR II & Nursery II.</span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wlXKWwgR4Jk/UZQ5h4taxAI/AAAAAAAAANM/HGC_Gh2QuTE/s1600/045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wlXKWwgR4Jk/UZQ5h4taxAI/AAAAAAAAANM/HGC_Gh2QuTE/s1600/045.JPG" height="232" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Renee Newcomb's Skye<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span>MacRae Sheepdogshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02526980941798761448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-857882185507919311.post-46957008766345905562013-05-12T08:50:00.000-07:002013-05-12T09:15:58.434-07:00Alasdair Reflects on the 2013 Cattle Final,,,<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h5YTwTC8rkM/UY-cuki0vrI/AAAAAAAAAM4/0TE2LOTErz4/s1600/4.5.13+Dog+Trials+Molly+139.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h5YTwTC8rkM/UY-cuki0vrI/AAAAAAAAAM4/0TE2LOTErz4/s400/4.5.13+Dog+Trials+Molly+139.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Thad's Molly (photo taken by Cindy Lowry)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I did not attend the Cattle dog Final this year but Alasdair judged. Thad Flemming and his entire family worked tirelessly to deliver a first class event. Congratulations to all the winners especially Champions Dwight Parker with Craig and Nursery Champions Ron Enzeroth with Mick. Below Alasdair reflects on the four day competition in his (mostly:-)) own words,,,</span></div>
<br />
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I’d
like to commend The Fleming family for hosting a very professional and well run
USBCHA National Cattle dog Final. The weather was unusually harsh for the first
week in May with several inches of snow and freezing wind. Event organizers, volunteers,
competitors and spectators were put through a ‘cowboy up’ test and all passed
with flying colors.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">
</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-size: small;"></span> </div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The
efficiency with which the cattle were set was impressive and after a few initial
problems with exhausting, that too became seamless. The stick-to-itiveness of
all the riders, on Thursday and Friday especially, was nothing short of heroic.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"></span> </div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The
cattle were ideal for the most prestigious award in the cattle dog trial
calendar. They were testing but workable and as even a bunch as one could wish for;
a credit to the Salmon family who donated them free of charge. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">
</span><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A
very benevolent gift, it can only be appreciated fully by those who have put on
trials where they had to lease the livestock. It is an expense which can sometimes
make the books unsustainable and result in no payback or even cancellation. Although
just judging, I would like to express my thanks to Bob and his family for their
above and beyond generosity.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">
</span></div>
<div align="left">
</div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The
Lions club came through for the event in exceptional form. They not only made
their parking facility available but also provided a tractor, flat bed, straw
bales and ferried everyone to and from the field. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Black Gold Premium Dog Food once again showed tremendous support for the Border collie community with a significant cash donation as a Judge's Sponsor . These are just
a few of the many contributions that were significant in the four
day trial running like a well-oiled machine.</span></span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">
</span></div>
<div align="left">
</div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The
conditions returned to seasonal, beautiful Missouri spring weather for Sunday with some impressive dogs and exciting competition. The cattle were
worked with respect and authority in the main and we crowned well-deserved
champions.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">
</span><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Congratulations
to 2013 Open winners Dwight Parker and Craig and Reserve, Bill Reed with Ann; also
Ron Enzeroth and Mick, Nursery Champions and Missouri natives Larry Painter
with Troy taking the reserve Buckle.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">
</span></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Finally,
congratulations to Kelly and Thad. You said that you could put on a first class
Cattle dog final that would be a credit to Leeton, Missouri and the USBCHA and
that is exactly what you did.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br />MacRae Sheepdogshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02526980941798761448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-857882185507919311.post-23182140987549361362013-04-12T15:41:00.001-07:002013-04-12T15:41:38.139-07:00The Amendment<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Our singleton had everything we look for in a puppy and
more….for 8 weeks he had distinct blue eyes.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We decided to embrace the variation on tradition and name
him after a personal favorite, Frank Sinatra, ol' blue eyes himself.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We waited for weeks to be certain and several assured us
that at 8 weeks eye color is set including Lisa Wright (how is that for irony,
right??) </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
At 8 ½ weeks the blue started to change...to green?!</span>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
We found ourselves at a crossroad.</span>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Shakespeare asked, ‘What's in a name’? Reminding us that
what you are is far more important than your name, but we have never been a fan of Shakespeare. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
Moreover, how could he be the namesake of Sinatra with
green eyes?? Change was in order but his stealth predator moves would only
allow for so much variation.</span>
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</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PwZ3xDjzh1s/UWiIE3_w6zI/AAAAAAAAAMU/D43qDc18p3Q/s1600/026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PwZ3xDjzh1s/UWiIE3_w6zI/AAAAAAAAAMU/D43qDc18p3Q/s1600/026.JPG" height="232" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Every bit as loveable as Frank of the Serengeti, we would
like to introduce:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Kilimanjaro Jaff (really Alba Jaff, non-transferrable!)</span><br />
</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OYJUQf16dYQ/UWiIbOkYiSI/AAAAAAAAAMc/sVA1rl9g5wY/s1600/jaff2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OYJUQf16dYQ/UWiIbOkYiSI/AAAAAAAAAMc/sVA1rl9g5wY/s1600/jaff2.JPG" height="311" width="400" /></a></div>
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</span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />MacRae Sheepdogshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02526980941798761448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-857882185507919311.post-6007196350999730262013-03-29T08:25:00.003-07:002013-03-29T08:27:45.268-07:00Cap Does Elvis, Lip & All,,,,<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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MacRae Sheepdogshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02526980941798761448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-857882185507919311.post-47190587579301658662013-03-24T08:06:00.000-07:002013-03-24T09:54:21.517-07:00Big Country,,,,<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Abilene, Texas and the surrounding area is referred to as 'Big Country'. You hear this on newscasts, radio station identifications and many advertisements. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Someone of my generation inevitably gets the song, 'In a Big Country' by well, 'Big Country' stuck in their head. It is not quite as haunting as Abba's 'Dancing Queen' (which allows for more customization of lyrics), but lingering none the less.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The chorus begins, 'In a big country, dreams stay with you', and so they do....</span><br />
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One of our dreams was born here</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FzLyhg4V18A/UU4Sf6qpOlI/AAAAAAAAALA/ZIPEGsH_qyo/s1600/225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="290" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FzLyhg4V18A/UU4Sf6qpOlI/AAAAAAAAALA/ZIPEGsH_qyo/s1600/225.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Another got bigger</span> </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1vG6mX83X0Q/UU4XbqzXcbI/AAAAAAAAALg/mbUUNeDY184/s1600/144.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1vG6mX83X0Q/UU4XbqzXcbI/AAAAAAAAALg/mbUUNeDY184/s1600/144.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">and bigger</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5m6-MX61TvA/UU4TbEEvImI/AAAAAAAAALQ/FLuO1FhksLU/s1600/012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5m6-MX61TvA/UU4TbEEvImI/AAAAAAAAALQ/FLuO1FhksLU/s1600/012.JPG" width="383" /></a></div>
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A third was foreign to us, until we arrived here</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ske1-WB4S9g/UU4SwJYWb5I/AAAAAAAAALM/_LZqg5kIfNM/s1600/095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ske1-WB4S9g/UU4SwJYWb5I/AAAAAAAAALM/_LZqg5kIfNM/s1600/095.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Not quite certain that all dreams were honorable, ahem </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dF75w8Du3eo/UU4Zcw9nFcI/AAAAAAAAALo/K4UZWj3QHVI/s1600/093max.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dF75w8Du3eo/UU4Zcw9nFcI/AAAAAAAAALo/K4UZWj3QHVI/s1600/093max.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NLjaZHH6iis/UU4bxsmR-7I/AAAAAAAAALw/UOaP0zQc8zI/s1600/018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="315" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NLjaZHH6iis/UU4bxsmR-7I/AAAAAAAAALw/UOaP0zQc8zI/s1600/018.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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</div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">but when in Texas dream big!</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sCPDaJ5hyqs/UU8UQnK7EPI/AAAAAAAAAL8/qt1t_QcXw7Y/s1600/IMG_0174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sCPDaJ5hyqs/UU8UQnK7EPI/AAAAAAAAAL8/qt1t_QcXw7Y/s1600/IMG_0174.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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MacRae Sheepdogshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02526980941798761448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-857882185507919311.post-75248421863065771112013-03-09T08:15:00.000-08:002013-03-09T08:21:52.685-08:00King of the Jungle (4 weeks old),,,,,<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/xYl1ZdqZuig?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
MacRae Sheepdogshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02526980941798761448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-857882185507919311.post-42277864091552328022013-03-02T07:30:00.001-08:002013-03-02T18:13:52.214-08:00the Vendetta,,,,We are very excited about our puppy out of imp. Gail. He is happy, sweet and has been developing as if reading the puppy stages manual,,,,<br />
at two weeks, eyes opened<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j90hBRDnhN4/UTISwoxbywI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/BYeBQQfJtAk/s1600/eyes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j90hBRDnhN4/UTISwoxbywI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/BYeBQQfJtAk/s400/eyes.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
At exactly three weeks, this past Wed. he started walking<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UDYnrHIiKWM/UTITJ3U_53I/AAAAAAAAAKY/u295wtpRdgk/s1600/walk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="313" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UDYnrHIiKWM/UTITJ3U_53I/AAAAAAAAAKY/u295wtpRdgk/s400/walk.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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His character is developing and he has started playing a bit. That is what I anticipated with the hedgehog,,,</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5hGvCRi7P4Y/UTIUMOQYr0I/AAAAAAAAAKg/T9ba9Amvj0A/s1600/sniff.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="343" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5hGvCRi7P4Y/UTIUMOQYr0I/AAAAAAAAAKg/T9ba9Amvj0A/s400/sniff.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I hoped to capture one of those precious puppy moments; a photo to treasure in years to come. Instead what I witnessed can only be described as exacting revenge<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DhhQDf-Sn9g/UTIUznX9zQI/AAAAAAAAAKo/CyFPxX8eOt8/s1600/exacting+revenge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="306" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DhhQDf-Sn9g/UTIUznX9zQI/AAAAAAAAAKo/CyFPxX8eOt8/s400/exacting+revenge.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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riddled with growling and biting, it was completely void of any cuteness. It was, well, more like a 'first blood' moment. Which lead to this<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nLWjSssBFLE/UTIVoG8xXWI/AAAAAAAAAKw/LDR2JA4xt50/s1600/gloat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="302" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nLWjSssBFLE/UTIVoG8xXWI/AAAAAAAAAKw/LDR2JA4xt50/s400/gloat.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
pure, unadulterated gloat. Hedgehogs beware!<br />
<br />
<br />MacRae Sheepdogshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02526980941798761448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-857882185507919311.post-62882329475298204032013-02-25T04:32:00.001-08:002013-02-25T04:32:04.370-08:00The Interuption,,,,I have not been able to blog for a bit and in part it really is because as good as the weather is in Texas, the AT & T service is equally poor and we have not had connectivity since Feb 11th.<br />
<br />
Mostly, though it is because of him:<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AJi1nmH2uFU/UStMzdkWscI/AAAAAAAAAJs/CkIm2UuqjY0/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AJi1nmH2uFU/UStMzdkWscI/AAAAAAAAAJs/CkIm2UuqjY0/s400/2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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and him</div>
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and her</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H9SApv0YXHQ/UStNhUcMauI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/G3q6F1x0OdY/s1600/095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H9SApv0YXHQ/UStNhUcMauI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/G3q6F1x0OdY/s400/095.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Clearly no mere mortal was intended to resist Brae. I suspect the same will soon be said of our newest puppy. We imported Gail (above) in pup and her singleton is 2 weeks old, very excited for both of them! Thank you Mike and Stephanie for your help with the airport and keeping her until we arrived. (sorry about early </div>
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arrival ;-))</div>
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Great time in Texas. Brilliant fields, excellent trials. Due to circumstances I was not able to work my dogs beforehand and as such the closest I can get to the prize list is taking a picture of the winning results! </div>
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I will continue to post updates/pictures on Facebook as soon as I get a signal. Alasdair's Li is running extremely well. He and Sweep are partnering great and garnering points. Cap is running strong (every flank he interprets as a 'walk up',only faster!) but I am quite pleased given lack of preparation and Jim is a running a bit excitable but it is excellent experience. The double lift at Burkeys looks to be very challenging & great fun, top 10 combined overall scores from the 5 trials qualify. If the winter blues have you yearning for warm weather & outstanding trials, come on down to Texas!</div>
MacRae Sheepdogshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02526980941798761448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-857882185507919311.post-10285305688071203902013-01-29T16:34:00.000-08:002013-01-29T16:35:10.670-08:00The Intervention (& Website Re-design!)<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">The
profound cultural legacy of the 80’s. From MTV to John Hughes, Bob Marley to
Oliver Stone, Morrissey to Michael Lehmann, the music and movies were perhaps
the most influential of our generation. Never in another time has the delivery
been so brilliant that humor was confused for fatalistic narcissism.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">The
impact was epic: Madonna, Pac-Man, the Miracle on Ice, Jerry Rice, Michael
Jordan, Michael Jackson, the Reagan years, Rubik’s cube, CNN and six degrees of
Kevin Bacon. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Fashion
was an entire wardrobe of vintage black, enormous hair and red lipstick. I was
passionate about progressive music and Clemson football. My memories from the
80’s are awesome…. As it turns out technology from the 80’s is not.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">My
dated, tired website design required overhaul, update and revision. It required
intervention from a bold, techie, mega-geek genius.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">We
are still at <a href="http://www.macraesheepdogs.com/"><span style="color: blue;">www.macraesheepdogs.com</span></a>
but with a new look (if the address is saved it may need to be re-entered).
THANK YOU Kristi! Like the 80’s you are awesome.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
</span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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</span><br />
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<br />MacRae Sheepdogshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02526980941798761448noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-857882185507919311.post-27708174108496317082013-01-06T18:20:00.000-08:002013-01-07T05:46:56.361-08:002013, the bigger picture,,,,<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;">Well, the bigger camera anyway. Very much the amateur I
am quite excited about the gift Alasdair gave me!</span><br />
</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_rteO8qxWLw/UOorgGeQDlI/AAAAAAAAAI8/FoBlvui86ow/s1600/123.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_rteO8qxWLw/UOorgGeQDlI/AAAAAAAAAI8/FoBlvui86ow/s320/123.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;">Unfortunately, much like Border collies, I tend to go on instinct and therefore have not read the manual. Thus no pictures, yet! 2013 looks promising for taking photos and video but before looking forward, a look back.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;">2012 was an exceptional year. The kind that
lulls you in with a dose of caffeine and finishes you off with a shot of
tequila. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">We
and our dogs traveled over 25,000 miles. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">In
Texas we wrote songs, defined Patricide and made videos</span><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">. Spring brought the best Bluegrass
ever, although we did not do that well at the trial. Summer was spent at the
Holland’s, Polly’s and Geri Abram’s. I lost my greatest friend, Bear and reflect on all he taught me every day. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">The Klamath committee again hosted a great
National. On my maiden trip to Canada we fought with border guards, ate cake and
asked, ‘who the eff is Lisa?’ We ventured to NC to trial, clinic and create the
perfect dirty martini. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">We developed new comradeships, spent time with family
and friends who have become family. We spent money we have yet to make. It was a year of triumph, heartache,
laughter and love. We are very blessed and grateful. Last year especially</span><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"> reminded us what is really important. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;">Solomon
Burke said it best, ‘it is not the grail, but the quest’.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span>MacRae Sheepdogshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02526980941798761448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-857882185507919311.post-11562107276013601302012-12-26T07:12:00.001-08:002013-02-06T17:23:23.645-08:00Happy Boxing Day!<br />
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Settled in for a full day of soccer<br />
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Max is pulling for Celtic.....<br />
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Cap, not a fan of the green & white, looks like a Dundee United supporter!<br />
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MacRae Sheepdogshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02526980941798761448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-857882185507919311.post-19342352811437043402012-12-19T06:23:00.001-08:002012-12-19T06:23:26.278-08:00Merry Christmas Everybody!<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="344" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/0A8KT365wlA?fs=1" width="459"></iframe><br />
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MacRae Sheepdogshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02526980941798761448noreply@blogger.com0