World Team in Spain: Day Four
September 22: Pabellon Polideportivo Pisuerga, Valladolid, Spain
Today begins the whirlwind of activity that precedes the start of the competition. This includes the veterinary check for all of the team dogs. The dogs must pass this exam in order to participate. There will be a training practice held on the actual flooring and equipment at the venue. Also at this time the team gathers for group pictures, the Opening Ceremony is conducted, and finally, the Gala Dinner is the culmination of this hectic day. The sports complex Pisuerga has been used for various European and world championships, the most notable being the World Rhythmic Gymnastics Championship for which it was built.
The vet check went smoothly, with Captain Sharon Anderson overseeing. Next, was the actual practice time on the venue flooring and equipment. The US team only had 18 minutes to become accustomed their surroundings so efficiency was paramount, but it was accomplished with great American style. All the dog and handler teams had a positive experience during this time and are eagerly anticipating the actual competition. The newcomers to the team are fitting in very nicely and a huge sense of camaraderie is obvious when observing their interaction and support of each other.
The team roster was submitted to the Spanish Agility Committee by Captain, Sharon Anderson and is as follows:
| Small Team: | Glenda Timmerman & Bailey Dee Anna Gamel & Kelsi Erin Schaefer & Jag |
| Medium Team: | Laura Dolan & Remi Helene Juice & Chance Jean Lavalley & Taz |
| Large Team: | Wendy Pape & Surf Ann Braue & Spree Gerry Brown & Sterling |
| Individual Small Dogs: | Kelsi & Dee Anna Gamel Jag & Erin Schaefer Chase & Andrea Samuels |
| Individual Medium Dogs: | Sizzle & Karen Holik Taz & Jean Lavalley |
| Individual Large Dogs: | Stellar & Linda Mecklenburg Sterling & Gerry Brown Surf & Wendy Pape Spree & Ann Braue |
The running order for the United States will be 5th for the small dog group, 11th for the medium dog group and 7th for the large dog group.
Team Captain Sharon Anderson, Coach Dan Dege & Assistant Coach Nancy Gyes attended the Captains meeting following the conclusion of the team pictures and the Opening Ceremony. The team members were allowed to have one last evening of relaxation before the rigors of the competition begin.
Tomorrow the Individual Small and Medium Jumping teams, start the day at 9:00am, followed by the Individual Large Jumping teams and the Agility Team Small and Medium competitors will finish out the day.
Once again, we would like to thank the sponsors who made it possible for our team to be here at the World Agility Championships; IAMS Dog Food Company and Clean Run Productions.
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