Submitted by Jody Woodruff, 2022 Draft Committee Chair
The Leonberger Club of the Northwest (LCNW) hosted our annual LCA Draft Test on Saturday, May 14, 2022. The day began with rain, but by the time set up was complete the rain stopped, and we had a very nice day. Our judges, Ruth Nielson and Karen Petersen, were very welcoming and helpful.
A special thanks to the many volunteers that helped make this a successful event. Margaret Au as secretary kept us all organized and put in many hours before, during and after the test. Erin Andersen was our safety officer. Helping with set up and clean up was our lead steward, Barbara Powell, as well as stewards Jessica Hayes, Wally Johnson, Raj Natarajan, and Junko Ferguson. Lise Brandhagen and Bill Beard as photographers captured the day. Lise, along with Maria Nelson, made sure all documents were posted to the website, LCNW e-newsletter and Facebook page.
Eight teams entered: three open teams, including a brace team, and five novice teams. Each team received a personalized tote bag entry gift courtesy of the club. Passing we had two novice teams (Erin Andersen and Blaze, Jonathan Burnstein and Pearl) and one open team (Jody Woodruff and Bensen). Three of the dogs entered were veterans!! This was special. Everyone loved watching these happy, healthy older dogs having a grand day with their people.
All the teams came prepared and enjoyed the day. Always a joy to watch the dogs and humans having fun and working together - continually building upon the teamwork. It is easy for a dog and/or handler to make a small mistake or get distracted. These oops moments become learning opportunities for practice and the next test. Passing is a bonus, but the big prize is spending the day with, and building a wonderful bond with, your dog.
Looking forward to many more drafting opportunities in the future!
