Local sheepdog trials

[mollyblob]

On my way to work all week I've been driving past banners advertising sheepdog trials in one of the farms tomorrow. I'd be really interested to go- I love seeing sheepdogs working, and have only ever seen trials on TV.

Does anyone know if non-sheepdog owner types go to local trials? Would my OH and I look too out of place amongst all the knowledgeable people there who in all likelikhood know each other? Do spectators tend to go to those sorts of competitions? Don't want to end up with it feeling really awkward if we crash their competition!!

Or am I over-thinking this....?

 

[Toffee44]

We go to a few round here. Normally couple quid to get in few stalls, tea van kinda thing. Normally take A dog too but more so if I get bored / cold got someone to talk to/ keep me warm. I love watching the really old shepherds working their dogs they always seem to develop perfect bonds and technique

 

[Alec Swan]

....... I love watching the really old shepherds working their dogs they always seem to develop perfect bonds and technique

Watch this old shepherd, watch the air turn blue, and you may change your mind!!

mollyblob, you wont look out of place, go, and seek out those who seem to know what they're doing. Ask questions, no one will mind. Ask them to explain the terminology, as it isn't always obvious. Most of all, enjoy yourselves!

Alec.

 

[mollyblob]

Thanks for the replies. I think we'll brave it- I've always loved watching working dogs, so I'm looking forward to it. Hopefully I'll learn something. And if we feel too out of place (OH is very townie, not sure he's ever owned a pair of wellies!) we can always escape to the pub down the road for a big sunday dinner

 

[jodie3]

If they have got banners up advertising it they are probably hoping for spectators!

I'ld go and if you feel unwelcome or bored or cold as you say escape to the pub!!

 

[mollyblob]

Jodie- good point about the banners probably implying they're looking for spectators!

We didn't end up going in the end, which was disappointing. But a night of torrential rain then waking up to more torrential rain this morning led us to the decision to not spend the morning standing in a muddy field in the pouring rain. So our extra hour today was mostly spent drinking tea

But we'll look out the next one and try and go!