World Team in Spain: Day Three
September 21: Campo de Agility de Valladolid
The team climbed aboard the bus at 7:45am for the short ride to the local agility training area for an hour of very demanding practice. The footing was sand with small pebbles this was a concern because our dogs are used to being able to dig into the surface for grip and stability. Team Captain Sharon Anderson periodically checked all of the dogs' feet for any signs of abrasion or wear, but all of them seemed to come away without any problems.
Team Coach Dan Dege and Assistant Coach Nancy Gyes had prepared a plan of attack which helped the handlers and dogs work out their kinks and reconnect to each other. They were also able to work out how to use the time to their best advantage. Numerous handling sequences were utilized to aid both members of the team to prepare their minds and bodies for the competition ahead.
The afternoon was open to do a little more exploring and taste the local fair. The wonderful supporters and team members, congregated at the Hotel Olid Melia for a Rouser Dinner whose purpose is to cheer the team on to a solid showing at the World Agility Championships here in Valladolid, Spain. The competition starts on Friday the 23rd and runs through Sunday the 25th.
The team uniforms are superb and the entire AKC/USA World Agility Team would like to thank their sponsors, the IAMS Dog Food Company and Clean Run Productions, for their steadfast support in this quest for the Gold.
Click on image for caption and larger view.
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