On the 30/31st October 2023 we ran in the Mid Norfolk 2 Day Open at Saham Toney in Norfolk, England.
A beautiful and natural shooting estate that has been hosting trials for many years, was the setting for this IGL Qualifying Stake.
Day 1
We were called back for day 2 after completing two rounds, taking two smart marks and a nice eye wipe.
Day 2
Day two started with 8 handlers and 9 dogs still in. Walking up beet, the action started immediately but slowed as we needed a second bird to complete the first round. Finally, we had the chance as we were called to the other end of the line to try for a bird that the previous dog had failed on. With a little handling on the blind retrieve, Harley picked and was still looking clean. Just one more was needed in the second round, and after a tense time in line, Harley marked a long hen bird shot to our right, which thank fully he picked without any handling to complete what was our last retrieve.
After the deliberations and what seemed like an eternity back at the farm - we were delighted to be awarded both 1st place and Guns Award.
Not only was this the first open win for Harley but it also qualified him to run in the 2023 International Gundog League Championship at Queensbury Estate in Scotland. An incredible experience and I am very thankful for the opportunities that this super dog has given me.
Results
1ST PLACE - and winner of The Mid Norfolk Gundog Club Trophy
TREVEAR CONSTANTINE OF MEARCASTLE - H/O Adam Snare
2ND PLACE - MISTRIGRI FINN OF FEATHERFLY - H/O Phil Highfield
3RD PLACE - BRINDLEBAY MEAD - H/O Mike Tallamy
COM’s were warded to:
MITFIRTON ONOUR - H/O Louie Robertson
LOWTREY KLAY OF TICEFIELD - H/O Keith Broomfield
GUNS CHOICE and recipient of the Tony Whiting Award was also presented to:
TREVEAR CONSTANTINE OF MEARCASTLE - H/O Adam Snare
All of us at Mearcastle Gunddogs, Suffolk are delighted to have taken part and thrilled to have won two awards. Thank you for the invite and we are honoured to go forward to the International Gundog League Championship - see you there!