Compiled by Farrah Federeau
Photo credit to Patrick Gosselin
The Learning and Development committee arranged for there to be an open table discussion with an experienced open handler at a few of the trials this past summer. Thank you to Werner Reitboeck, Fiona Robertson, Cynthia Palmer, George Stambulic and Stacey Rember, the open handlers who volunteered their time and knowledge to answer our many questions. Both novice and open handlers attended, generating some lively discussion and great learning opportunities.
Topics varied from one trial to another but the focus was mainly on training tips such as acquiring a lie down, clean flanks, smooth pace, wider outruns, etc... Covering a broad range of topics, we talked about started dogs versus a pup, the importance of the proper set up and flock, work versus drills, and where points are lost at trials. Open handlers were honest about their own struggles and encouraged others to not give up. Some comments below are from those who attended.
Lisa McPherson and Robbie:
I would like to thank the Learning and Development committee for all of your hard work over the past year. You have been instrumental in thinking up new and exciting ways for the novice handlers to progress their skills and learn about herding. This past year has provided several excellent opportunities to talk to open handlers and judges about questions we have about rules, training, sheep and living the life of a sheep farmer. Please pass along a thank you to all of the handlers and judges that so graciously offered their time to this endeavour. I know everyone found the sessions extremely interesting, they were well attended by the handlers and each person offered their own thoughts and advice on the questions we had. The support of judges and handlers to the novice classes really makes a difference. It helps nurture and encourage the new people coming along. Thank you for your dedication.
Rachel Duncan:
The Q and A's were a very valuable way to get help with training from the pros, I really enjoyed them.
Dion Spencer:
I personally found the information relayed during these Q&A sessions to be educational, insightful, and more importantly, presented in a manner that encouraged free conversation. The handlers and judges who lead the Q&A sessions humbly and openly shared their experiences and advice with all participants with a perceived genuine goal of growing the herding community. It is these open handlers and judges, as well as their peers, who are true ambassadors of this sport and I extend my personal appreciation and gratitude for their support.
Farrah Federeau:
I really appreciated the opportunity to get multiple perspectives on specific training questions I had. Also hearing a bit of background and a few of the struggles some have had training were inspiring and encouraging for when my best laid plans have gone awry.