2006 was a special year. Not just because I placed a few dogs, but I happened to be in the gallery to witness the dogs that beat me.

The last brace of the Richard Tuttle Memorial Classic, the last trial of the year, drew Dave Bogel’s Wycoff Run Sally and my brother Mike’s Moon Shiner. I was assigned scouting duties for Mike.

I had campaigned Sally for Dave in her fourth or fifth season and really enjoyed having her. She was special! She was a medium sized bitch and I always thought her legs looked about one inch too short. But when Sally ran, she didn’t think so! I probably wouldn’t have walked this brace if not for the scouting deal. Sally was now nine or ten years old. Watching an old favorite in their later years is sometimes like trying to decide weather or not to visit an old friend in a nursing home. Sometimes it’s better to only have memories of the younger years.

At this point in the trial, I had two good races with grouse finds. Tony Bly’s Forward Loop Lefty and Steve Chiapinni’s Chip Peppy Lepew. I was feeling pretty good.

There were only five people at the breakaway. The judges, the handlers, and myself. Stake manager, Chip, handed me the marshal’s walkie talkie with a grin and said, “you're in charge, pay attention.” The first fifteen minutes of course two at Loleta consists of scattered clumps of pine and spruce with high bush blueberry in the wet areas. Five minutes in we made the left turn onto the two track with both dogs far ahead right, Sally the deeper of the two. Just then a grouse lifted from the far end of the pines with Shiner involved and his leash was called for. After a bit of noise rounding up Shiner, we had no bell for Sally. At Dave’s request for help, judge Kelly Sheppard, Dave, and I started a search of the stream bottom on the right side. After five minutes, I decided to work up the slope along the end of the pines where the grouse had lifted. As I approached the two tracks, I could see the other judge standing fifty yards ahead. Just then a grouse roared out between us and there stood Sally. I yelled to Dave, now eighty plus yards away, “Dave, fire your gun!” I collared Sally to the two track and Dave showed to cast her off.

The back half of course two is open saw timber. In places you could shoot a deer at two hundred yards. Scattered beech clumps provide the only good objectives. Sally’s race was forcing a steady pace. Her big bell was barely audible with the only visual contact the occasional glimpse of her flashing across the front. At thirty minutes, the topography slopes down to the right into a creek bottom. Sally was well ahead in this area when her bell faded... or did it stop?

Dave turned and asked me to take a look. I advised Dave that this was a productive area and he may want to do the looking.  As we approached a beech clump, two grouse blew out, then a single. From atop his horse, Kelly barked, “she’s standing in there Dave!” At the shot two more grouse lifted. Sally never flinched. Down the back stretch, the pace never broke with glimpses of Sally showing no sign of let up. At the fifty minute mark I reached for the walkie talkie, “Chip are you there?” “Yeah, how’s it going out there?” “Well Chip, if this little bitch can keep this up for ten more minutes, we can forget the blue ribbon.”

As the judges rode off, I shook Dave’s hand and said “Well Davey, she did it for you one more time.” He said with a grin, “do you think so?” “There’s no doubt.” And the judges got it right.

Dave Bogle with Wycoff Run Sally, Steve Groy and judge, Kelly Shepherd.

Photo courtesy of The American Field

What it is:  Canine Influenza Virus (CIV) is a very contagious virus in the Influenza A family that is closely related to the Equine Influenza A strain. It has been proposed that the equine virus adapted or evolved and emerged as a new canine-specific variety. The H and N nomenclature is important because these are the glycoproteins in the outer layer of the virus that the host (dog, human, horse, etc) cells produce antibodies against (natural infection with the virus &/or response to vaccinations).

     The very first reported or recognized outbreak with the canine version of the H3N8 virus was in January 2004 in racing greyhounds from a Florida racetrack. Subsequently, the virus has been confirmed and documented in 30 states. CIV is very prevalent in the states of Florida, Colorado, New York and Pennsylvania.

Transmission: CIV is extremely contagious from dog to dog and can be transmitted through aerosolized secretions from the dog’s respiratory tract, contaminated objects (i.e. food and water bowls, tack and kennel surfaces, etc), and from our own hands and clothing. The CIV has been shown to be able to infect dogs from contaminated surfaces and human clothing for up to 24 hours. CIV is extremely contagious to dogs because it is a new emerging virus and there is very little natural immunity in our (naive) canine population from vaccinations or natural infections.

     The incubation period is between 2 and 5 days from the time the dog is exposed to the CIV before they begin showing any clinical signs of influenza. It is very important to understand that dogs are the most contagious to other dogs during this incubation period before they’re even displaying any outward signs of disease. Infected dogs can shed or spread the virus for 7 to 10 days from the onset of clinical signs.
     Because our canine population is naïve to CIV, virtually all dogs exposed to the virus will become infected; however, only about 80% will develop clinical signs. This means that roughly 20% will become infected and not display any outward evidence that they have CIV. Clinical signs include productive coughing, high fevers of 104 to 106 degrees F (normal dog temp. is 101 to 102.8 F), severe green nasal discharge, and clinical signs of pneumonia. The cough in some dogs is very similar to kennel cough caused by the bacterial infection from Bordetella bronchiseptica, but the cough tends to persist for 10 to 21 days even when the dog is being treated with antibiotics. It’s very important to note here that CIV is highly contagious but has a very low mortality rate 1 to 5% (and it appears to this author that mortality is over represented in racing greyhounds).

Diagnosis: CIV is most reliably diagnosed today by detecting antibodies to the H3N8 glycoproteins. These can be detected in an infected dog’s blood as early as 7 days after the onset of clinical signs. Veterinarians typically look at blood samples for antibodies at the onset of clinical disease and a second sample a few weeks later to watch for a rise in the antibody titer to the CIV virus. A single sample only confirms exposure to the virus or vaccination for that virus. Serological testing is currently being performed at Cornell University’s Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory. Nasal or pharyngeal swabs and tissues samples can also be submitted to labs to aid in the diagnosis by PCR (detects viral RNA) testing and viral culture, which is less effective than the antibody serology.

Treatment: Is limited to supportive care as with most viral infections. Supportive care includes good nutrition, good housing conditions, antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infections, and maintaining good hydration (possibly via IV fluids). 

Prevention: In kennels, boarding facilities and shelters the virus is easily killed with the commonly used disinfectants such as bleach and benzalkonium chloride solutions. Good hygienic protocols should be established by thoroughly cleaning all surfaces, bowls, and cages between usages. Remember that the virus can remain viable for 24 hours on clothing and surfaces. Wash hands, change your clothing, and disinfect all surfaces if there is any chance you have come in contact with an infected dog. Isolate sick or exposed dogs from others for a minimum of 14 days.

Vaccination: In May of 2009, the USDA approved a conditional license to Intervet/Schering Plough Animal Health Corporation for their H3N8 Canine Influenza Vaccine. The vaccine contains inactivated wholes portions of CIV subtype H3N8. The Canine Influenza Vaccine is consider a “life style” vaccine and is not recommended for every dog. Many states do not include it as one of their “Core” recommended vaccinations. The vaccine is intended as an aid in the control of the disease associated with CIV infections. Like many vaccinations, it may not prevent the CIV infection altogether but may significantly reduce the clinic signs of the disease, reduce shedding of the virus, and decrease the duration of the disease. Researchers also found that the incidence and severity of the lung disease was significantly reduced when dogs were vaccinated.
    Dogs can be vaccinated (subcutaneously) as early as 6 weeks of age and need a booster in 2 to 4 weeks after the initial vaccine and then can be given annually as determined by you and your veterinarian. Due to the conditional licensing status with the USDA, the manufacturer of the H3N8 Influenza vaccine must continue to submit data obtained to support the products performance, safety, and efficacy.
     We, as sporting dog owners, should always consult with our veterinarian to see if any vaccination is appropriate for our bird dog’s lifestyle. It’s very important to understand a few things about vaccines. First of all, there is no guarantee that being vaccinated with any vaccine will insure immunity towards that disease…H3N8 included. Furthermore, vaccinations for our bird dogs do not have to be FDA approved but rather USDA approved which does not have the stringent rules (FDA’s) applied to getting them to the pet industry. Manufacturers have to demonstrate that the vaccine they are marketing must be first and foremost safe for the animal and secondly they have to provide some evidence that the vaccine is effective towards that disease.

New Slideshow from the Armstrong-Umbel Endurance Classic has been created in the Photo Gallery. Click on album 11.

Start of the second brace: Scott Forman with Texas Cherry Bomb and Joe McCarl
with Hard Driving Rita.

In the early eighties I attended the National Amateur Quail Championship when it ran at Inola, Oklahoma. I was just starting to cut my teeth in the horseback game and wanted to watch some of the best dogs in the country. The lineup of dogs included White Knight’s Button handled by his owner, Jack Fiveash, Judge Lee West’s string of Barshoe dogs, and many other greats who were on the circuit at that time. There were more trucks that had the look of a Uhaul than there were pickups and the big horse trailers we see today. These trucks where customized with dog crates and a large area for the horses who were walked up a steep ramp into the back of the truck.

The performance that I have referred to many times as the best All-Age performance that I have ever seen was Addition’s Go Boy handled by his owner, Mr. Pete Frierson. Go Boy broke away, disappearing over the far-off horizon. Before long, point was called by his scout and, following a long ride to get to the dog, a large covey of quail was flushed. Go Boy was released again, made another far-flung cast and as far as you could see ahead, the dog was pointing again. After another long ride, we moved in on the motionless dog and a large group of prairie chickens lifted! This may had been around the 45 minute mark. Yet again the dog reached for more country and the call of point came from the scout. The dog’s style was perfect. As Mr. Frierson moved in to flush the birds, they lifted and went over the dog’s head. He turned and marked their flight, taking about one too many steps causing him to be disqualified...but the performance was unbelievable. It may have been THE ONE that headed me in the direction to the All-Age game as a breeder, amateur handler and now as a professional All-Age trainer. 

That year, The National Amateur Quail Championship was won by the great El Sauz Doll. The prior year, Addition’s Go Boy and Pete Frierson won runner-up laurels in the same event held at the Blackwater River State Forest near Munson, Florida in which Charlie Jackson’s pointer “Nitch” was named winner.

In 1988, Addition’s Go Boy did finally win the prestigious National Amateur Quail Championship handled by Pete Frierson’s able assistant, Jerry Black. Reporter Linda Hunt wrote:

“Addition’s Go Boy, puissant ten-year-old white and liver pointer male has captured the 71st renewal of the National Amateur Quail Championship, the flagship event of the Amateur Field Trial Clubs of America. The celebrated veteran, owned by Mr. and Mrs. Pete Frierson of Clinton, Mississippi, was handled by Jerry Black in the 90 minute challenge during which he logged four finds to emerge victorious in a field of 46.”

The running was contested over the fabulous Chinkapin Farm of E. L. (Ted) Baker near Lake City, Florida. (commencing March 7)

In October, only months later in the same year, “Buddy” won the 56th running of the National Amateur Pheasant Championship at Killdeer Plains. Reporter H.O. Price wrote:

“What is left to write about a dog which has already won eight championships outright and has been runner-up in fourteen other championship events?...

“...it is the redoubtable Addition’s Go Boy, the white and liver pointer — soul-of-consistency — has become ten years of age, despite which, in the period since the color insert (1987 American Field Christmas Edition) appeared he has won two of the four majorest National Championships sponsored by the AFTCA...”

Champion Addition’s Go Boy was inducted into the Field Trial Hall of Fame in 1990. Here is the write-up: AdditionsGoBoy_HOF_1990.pdf

Photo and excerpt courtesy of The American Field

Scott Forman with Texas Cherry Bomb, Chris Mathan with Pal O’ Mine. Marc Forman, Jared and Bob Drew, judge Frank LaNasa, Russ Richardson, judge Dave Hawk, Bob Grassi, Joe McCarl, Joe Cammisa, George Crumlich, and Shawn Thomas. Craig Doherty was taking the photo.

Winner: Texas Cherry Bomb, Scott Forman handler, Kevin Klein, owner
Runner-Up: Pal O‘ Mine, Joe McCarl handler, Chris Mathan, owner

The Black Ash Grouse Dog Club would like to thank judges Frank LaNasa and Dave Hawk for giving so generously of their time and expertise traveling from Minnesota and Ohio, respectively, to look at the dogs competing in the 2010 Armstrong-Umbel Endurance Classic for grouse dogs. Both are men of great integrity who have been involved with the breeding, developing and handling of field trial dogs for considerable time. Both have a great love of and deep respect for this sport and we were most fortunate to have them.

We would also like to thank Dale Hernden, Kim Sampson, Shawn Wayment, DVM and all those who bought Armstrong caps for their support as well as Strideaway advertising sponsors: Industry Leader’s Fund, Purina, TechMix Inc., Tri-Tronics, DOGS Unlimited, and Marshall Radio Telemetry. Their support of Strideaway allowed us to give a donation to the club for the expenses incurred putting on the Classic. Entry fees alone can not cover the  expenses and generous purse the Classic offers.

Six year old Texas Cherry Bomb, handled by Scott Forman, had a consistent and easy handling forward race. She was attractive moving, hunted hard, applied herself maturely and was rewarded with a triple grouse find in her second hour which she handled beautifully. She ran in the second brace on Thursday. The sun was out and though the temperature was in the low fifties, it felt considerably warmer than earlier in the morning.

Five year old Pal O‘ Mine, handled by Joe McCarl, ran in the first brace on Thursday morning. Two grouse lifted from her lofty stance early in the first hour. She, too, ran a mature race requiring, perhaps, a little more handling. She was given a great opportunity to show a strong finish to her two hours which she took full advantage of by racing to and disappearing in a big cut at the far left edge of the large open bowl we finished in.

Shady Hills Bean, who also ran in the first brace, had three separate, well-mannered grouse finds and finished the two hours handling kindly. The judges felt that her last hour was not as independent as the winners. Dogs that finished the two hours strong included last year’s runner-up, Grouse River Ace and kennel-mate, River’s Edge Bella who put down a particularly impressive two hours of responsive handling and hard hunting. Her attractive, sustainable gait allowed her to finish the two hours effortlessly. Unfortunately she was only rewarded with the remains of a dead grouse. An exciting race was put down by Russ Richardson’s Two Acre Hope, a contender in last year’s Classic. She had a great multiple grouse find towards the end of her first hour but crashed soon after when she self-relocated on her next stand while Russ was flushing. Russ mentioned before the beginning of the brace that he was a little concerned about all the Texas quail hunting she had done this past winter. She gave it her all and was particularly exciting to watch!

As usual, the weather had a lot to do with the numbers of birds that were seen over the two days. Russ has the exact count which I will get from him for the report but the first morning of overcast skies proved the best with eleven grouse seen before noon. On three occasions, three grouse were flushed from the same area for dogs. Only one woodcock was seen on the course flushing behind a grouse that got up wild.

I would personally like to thank all those who put their dogs down for this difficult but rewarding challenge. I took a lot of photographs of the running and will prepare a slide show that will appear on the Photo Gallery page next weekend. 

Thanks to those who judged, helped and ran dogs in the Amateur derby stake that accompanies the Armstrong-Umbel Endurance Classic. Congrats to the winners!

Winners: Bob Grassi with Titan, George Hetrick with Riley and Steve Swonger with Chip's Charlie Brown. Behind the winners are Brian Ralph, Joe McCarl, judge George Crumlich, Marc Forman, judge Brian Popoleo, Scott Forman, and Mike Cooke.

I had the privilege of being asked to judge the Continental Championship in 2002. The performance of Barshoe Esquire, handled by Andy Daugherty, will always stick in my mind as one of the greatest all-age performances on wild birds that I have witnessed. Esquire ran in the first brace in the morning, which is usually good for wild birds, so my judging partner, Dale Bush, and I were already looking forward to a good heat and Esquire showed us that it would be by pointing his first covey at about 5 minutes. The dog had an uncanny way of staying to the front. Every time we thought he was gone, he was either on point or showed up front. I recall having him a long way to the front on one occasion and then after making a turn on the course, not seeing him again until point was called by the scout, Colvin Davis, in the same area I last saw him take the front. He had a woodcock find and handled it perfectly. His bracemate was picked up so Andy had the course to himself after less than an hour of the 1 hour 50 minute heat. I remember Andy gathering Esquire up just at the right time once as we rode into a tight turn through heavy cover. Dale and I were very thankful for Andy’s foresight to get him through that difficult part of the course as he was really running hard. He could have easily been lost there.

As soon as we got out of that area, Andy let him roll again and out of site he went. As you might guess we were a bit uneasy about him doing this now. To this point Esquire had shown us all the qualities we were hoping to see for a champion in this trial. As we continued, low and behold there he stood, high and tight on yet another covey of birds, his fourth out on a limb find! He just kept getting stronger and reaching farther and Andy just going along like it was just another workout. Dale and I got really nervous when we did not see the dog at about 1 hour 25 minutes after making a huge cast to the right near some really thick woods. Andy called and called to no avail and then went in search of him along with Colvin. We got on a hill trying to hear the call of POINT. Finally after a lapse of 10 minutes, which seemed like eternity, the called came from out front, which shook the trees. We and the gallery rode like we were at Churchill Downs to get to the magnificent statue of a dog standing down in a gulley with high head and tail. Andy got off, flushed his birds and asked how much time was left! I cannot remember exactly but I know it was less than ten minutes and we told him so. He turned Esquire loose and never hesitated to send him on. When he got to the end of a long cast rounding a field we called time and I believe it was about a minute or two ahead of the 1 hour 50 minute mark but we could not stand another suspenseful time hunting him up on point again. He had great 5 finds and a true all-age race.

2002_ContinentalReport_BE.pdf

Championship Winners. In foreground, from left: Barshoe Esquire with Colvin Davis and Miller’s Southern Pride with Scott Beeler. Standing: John Finlayson, Dale Bush, judge; Andy Daugherty, John Rex Gates, Sharleen Daugherty, Sherry Ebert, judge; Hanna Miller, Julie Miller, Rick Furney, Peter Miller, Chip McEwan, Sonny Reed and Joe Milligan.

Courtesy of The American Field Publishing

Flaming Star, 6 1/2-year-old white and orange setter dog owned by Mrs. G. Gunby Jordan of Columbus, Ga., handled by Herman Smith, turned in a sterling performance in 95 degree heat to capture the revived Saskatchewan Chicken Championship. Star rendered an hour of distinction, delivered in oven-like heat, just two degrees shy of the all-time high for September 4 in the Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan area. Star had two great finds in a ground devouring effort.

The revival of the Saskatchewan Open Chicken Championship was on a high note and despite almost record-breaking temperatures, well conditioned contenders made stout bids for the prized crown. Flaming Star’s triumph will be hailed by setter fans everywhere. Many have been awaiting such a victory by the stylish longhair and to have him achieve the distinction under weather that would seem to wilt even the stoutest of heart brings an extra measure of gratification.

As has been said, the thermometer showed 95 degrees and what little breeze there was seemed only to worsen matters. But the gritty setter paid no attention to the heat and ran without a letup for the full hour, just as hard driving at the finish as when he started. He negotiated his country well, his casts were huge and directed intelligently to promising cover. He used the wind advantageously when he neared objectives.

Flaming Star’s first find was outstanding. It came as a result of a swing from a barren rise where he had completed a huge forward cast. Star, slanted across the gallery, well forward and headed for a pocket of bluffs; he did not show and a scout was dispatched to find the lofty setter on an inspirational point. The work was flawless. Sent on towards another series of bluffs perhaps an eighth of a mile ahead, he rounded the upwind edge and pointed again, handling more chickens perfectly. Star, for the remainder of the hour, ran to the limits of the course, finishing strongly over a far rise.

Runner-Up: Homerun Johnny. Flaming Star’s superlative first find provided the wee margin he needed to take the title.

Judges: Delmar Smith, Edmond, OK and John Criswell, Ada, OK

Reporter: David A. Fletcher. Photo and excerpt courtesy of The American Field

Date: Thursday, March 25th to conclusion
Place: Allegheny National Forest, Marienville, PA
Judges: Frank LaNasa, Minnesota,
Dave Hawk, Athens, Ohio
Reporter: Chris Mathan
Entry fee: $125
Purse: $1,500 ($2,000 if 26+ entries) split 70/30 if R-U is named.

Companion Stake: Armstrong-Umbel Amateur Derby
Date: Saturday, March 27th
Place: Allegheny National Forest, Marienville, PA
Judges: Craig Peters, one to be announced

2010_Armstrong-Umbel_Classic.pdf

Please come join us for great trial...as competitor or spectator, you'll really enjoy watching our grouse dogs go the distance!

Anyone who would like to lend their support to The Armstrong-Umbel Endurance Classic through advertising opportunities on this page, please contact us.

Armstrong-Umbel cap art

Armstrong-Umbel caps were so popular last year, we are offering them for sale this year. If you would like a 2010 cap, please let us know by March 1. They are available for $15. All profits will go to support the trial.

The Amesian Standard

The dog under consideration must have and display great bird sense. He must show perfect work on both coveys and singles. He must be able quickly to determine between foot and body scent. He must use his brains, eyes, and nose to the fullest advantage and hunt the likely places on the course. He must possess speed, range, style, character, courage, and stamina—and good manners, always. He must hunt the birds, and not the handler hunt the dog. No line or path runner is acceptable. He must be well broken, and the better his manners the more clearly he proves his sound training. Should he lose a little in class, as expressed in extreme speed and range, he can make up for this, under fair judgment, in a single piece of superior bird work, or in sustained demonstration of general behavior. He must be bold, snappy, and spirited. His range must be to the front or to either side, but never behind. He must be regularly and habitually pleasingly governable (tractable) and must know when to turn and keeps his handler’s course in view, and at all times keep uppermost in his mind the finding and pointing of birds for his handler.

_________________________________

The American Field, March 4, 1961

Up until now...

The National Championship and its arduous test of three hours hard hunting is a rigid examination of a bird dog’s qualifications. There is little wonder that a dog which emerges with honor in this grueling grind deserves the highest accolade, and it is notable that winners of the National have wielded important influence on their breeds.

The stake is not yet half completed. Twenty dogs made their bids in the first five days of the running, for Monday had been rained out. It is too early to anticipate the outcome of the stake. However, a few remarks pertaining to the performances thus far might be of interest. It can be said that it has been a mighty interesting feature thus far, with birds plentiful, huge galleries and some highly creditable exhibitions. True, those perfectionists who expect everything ideal might find little things to criticize, yet the enthusiasm of the large followings reflect the sustained interest in what has been witnessed.

The conversation dog up to this point is Riggins White Knight, the almost totally white pointer belonging to R.W. Riggins of Knoxville, Tenn., and handled by Hoyle Eaton. The dog was credited with eighteen contacts. Perhaps he did not satisfy the judges owing to inexperience and lack of polish in some circumstances, yet it cannot be said that he did not appeal to them for no observer who admires the essential virtues of a top hunting dog could fail to have his pulse stirred by “Bud’s” sterling performance. He may not be the eventual winner, but at least up to now he has created the most conversation among owners, handlers, and spectators generally.

Of the first ten dogs to make an appearance, four or five commanded attention with good searching, fine handling races and sufficient game contacts. Seairup, Spacemaster, Briardale Pensive, Rocky Creek Ben, and War Storm, to name them in order of appearance and not any preference for the excellence of their heats, all had vociferous admirers.

_________________________________

The American Field, March 18, 1961

Spacemaster, sturdy stylist and rugged performer, is the 1961 king of the nation’s bird dogs. The seven-year-old white and liver pointer dog, owned by Mr. and Mrs. Ralph E. Daniel of Durham, N.C. handled by Paul Walker, captured the crown in the 63rd running of the National Championship which attracted 48 starters. Spacemaster won the title on his three-hour appearance, which was made on Tuesday afternoon, February 21, the first day of the running, during which the Daniel pointer was credited with fourteen game contacts. It was not a brilliantly rendered performance, but a workmanlike exhibition, thus, as frequently happens in the classic event held annually over the Ames Plantation at Grand Junction, Tenn., the outcome was in doubt right up to the very moment of the announcement of the winner. There were nearly half-a-dozen aspirants to the crown whose owners, handlers and admirers felt they were in the thick of contention, which is an enlightening commentary on the keenness of the competition that developed in the stake.

__________________________________

The American Field, March 9, 1968

Riggins White Knight, Dr. N. E. Palumbo’s Pointer, Was National Crown in a Close Decision for the 1968 Classic

Riggins White Knight, white and orange pointer dog, whelped February 8, 1959, owned by Dr. Nicholas E. Palumbo of Baltimore, MD, handled by Dexter Hoyle Eaton, who has had him throughout his career, was awarded the title of the 1968 renewal of the National Field Trial Association’s event at Grand Junction, Tenn. “Bud” ran on Thursday, February 22, Washington’s Birthday, under arduous conditions and chalked up nine finds. The nine-year-old pointer was a tired dog after the rigorous trek and finished on nerve alone, consequently he was not an unanimous choice. One had to admire his fortitude, his indomitable will, and sympathize with the conditions under which he ran. Many do not like a second series, but the controversial verdict could have been avoided by a direct confrontation, running White Knight and Paladin’s Royal Flush, the other top contender, until, as the saying goes, the hair slips.

The irony of fate, Riggins White Knight was a veritable sensation when he ran over the Ames Plantation in 1961 as a Derby and had he been given the title then, it would have been wonderfully popular. Now there will always be an argument. For Paladin’s Royal Flush, when he ran the second week, had decidedly more favorable conditions, but his exhibition for three hours was certainly more impressive. It is the responsibility of the judges to take all factors into consideration and White Knight’s tough assignment indubitably entered into the analysis, but it is speculation that had he had similar conditions to those Flush ran under, that he could have surpassed the powerful race the Roger M. Kyes pointer delivered for John Rex Gates.

Maybe it is a good thing when there is a difference of opinion. It certainly adds spice. All conceded the expertness of the judges even if not concurring in the final verdict.

Paladin’s Royal Flush

The American Field Christmas Edition 1977

“...John Donaldson has something extra going for him compared to many gifted artists—he is a bird dog man, a breeder and owner, knowledgeable about field trials and field trial dogs, hence the authenticity of all his paintings. One thing that impresses the bird dog devotee is John Donaldson’s mastery not only of the technical aspects of depicting a dog in oil on canvas, but his ability to capture the character—the personality, if you will—of the individual canine. Those who own dogs that John Donaldson has painted offer that as they look at the picture, the pointing dog seems so lifelike that many vivid memories of experiences afield are triggered when they view the painting. As one owner said, ‘The portrait is so vivid, ol’ John seems alive and I find myself almost talking to him.’

That is the supreme accolade to be paid any portrait artist—that he has captured his subject completely, endowed his subject with lifelike qualities, and it is such praise that is invariably bestowed on John Donaldson’s art.”

Champion Buckboad

The American Field Christmas Edition 1988

Readers of the American Field have been favored over the past twelve years to see several reproductions of the paintings of John Donaldson appearing in The Field.

Owners of the first place winners in the American Field Pheasant and Quail Futurities have been even more favored for they have been the recipients of original oil paintings of their dogs by the noted artist from Germantown, Maryland. Owners whose dogs have won the Purina and Norden Awards also receive a Donaldson painting of their winners.

John Donaldson was born in Springfield, Massachusetts. At age thirteen, after he and his family had moved to White Plains, New York, John received an Irish Setter puppy from his parents. That started his involvement with bird dogs.

John received his formal art training at the Art Student’s League in New York and the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn. Subsequent to his graduation from Pratt, he entered the business world as a commercial artist, eventually coming to Washington, D.C. where he joined a private firm.

Watercolor was his favorite medium and he soon gained considerable attention for his work. Despite his success and the security of the commercial art field, he looked for something else.

In 1959, John gave up commercial art and began to freelance. Slowly and steadily, his client list grew.

In the late 60s, a friend familiar with John’s ability with watercolors, asked him to do an oil painting of his champion bird dog. At first John resisted, then relented. What was there to lose? A few tubes of paint?

Those who own a Donaldson painting can attest that decision was a successful one.

John Donaldson is familiar with bird dogs, and his association with field trials finds him having connections with the Association of Virginia Field Trial Clubs, the Maryland Association and National Capital Field Trial Club.

The Purina and Norden Awards programs have commissioned John to paint the winners of those annual competitions.

John Donaldson served in the Army Air Corps during the war, with the 8th Air Force in England and France, and then moved to the Washington area in 1944. From 1944 to 1950, he worked for the Naval Gun Factory, for Reed Research, as art director, and for Ted Christenson Associates, also as art director. From 1950 to 1960, he was a partner in Design Directors before launching his career as a self-employed commercial artist. He also taught art at Montgomery College in Rockville.

John Donaldson died on June 25, 2005 at the age of 86. Work, not in private collections, is featured in the Bird Dog Museum, Grand Junction, Tennessee and The Museum of the Dog, St. Louis, Missouri.

Champion Bobby Joe

Champion Bases Loaded

For more many more John Donaldson paintings, please visit Photo Gallery, album:10

Text courtesy of The American Field, paintings courtesy of The Bird Dog Foundation, The American Field

Grouse Ridge Smokey

Reading through some issues of the American Field from 1959 (see pdfs located at the end of this article), it is clear that the original foundation of the trial system was a strong contingent of grass roots events of mainly half hour heats. Competitors, both novice and veteran, could compete weekly, building their skills and readying their dogs for the grand goal at the major stake events (the hour stakes, classics, and championships). Paying particular attention to trials in the Mid-Atlantic and the areas that now hold grouse trials such as New England, it is of particular notice that 50 years ago in every corner of the state of Pennsylvania, numerous small towns hosted weekend trials such as that at Bradford. Most of these small clubs no longer exist. The Bradford trial report states the club had been running trials for over three decades presumably starting in the 1920s. This club and likewise, for comparison in Maine, the Westbrook club and trial no longer exist.

Note the community efforts evidenced in these two events that the trials commandeered. At Bradford the community fire company hosted lunches/dinners and the local banker was the publicity director and provided a report of the trial to the local newspaper. The Westbrook event held a social dinner event with dancing. Things have changed in so many ways.

The two trials noted here were horseback stakes run on planted or pre-release birds with a bird field. Pheasants are mentioned, utilized for the Westbrook trials. What’s most noteworthy about these trials, however, is that the participants were the same who patronized the grouse trials of the time and who would soon become synonymous with grouse trials in New England. (Note: There were no American Field recognized grouse championships in New England in 1959. The New England Championship was run with the possibility of pointing quail, pheasant, grouse or woodcock. It later split to form the New England Open Shooting Dog Championship (horseback) and the New England Grouse Championship.) The Bradford trial participants included Robert Habgood, Richard Shear, Dr. Jim Flannigan, and Carl Beattie. In Westbrook, participants included notables: Eddie Frisella, Phil Fogg, and Mike Seminatore and others who would be the original stalwarts from the grouse trials of New England. It is interesting, that at the time, people participated in both ‘grouse’ trials and ‘horseback’ trials with the same dogs (Grouse Ridge Smokey, for example) and expected them to be competitive in either. Also note that they ran ‘all-age’ and ‘shooting dog’ as part of the full slate of events and often entered the stakes with the same dogs.

As a side historical note, according to the American Field; in the beginning “all major stake field trials were run as ‘all-age’ stakes. That term meaning for the “finished, high class bird dog”. It was not until “after WW II that the shooting dog stake was introduced, and in the early 1950s was recognized and hence we had two distinct designations — ‘all-age’ and ‘shooting dog’.” At no time was the designation of all-age, whether on the major circuit or in the original grouse trials across the country such as Marienville, PA, intended to designate stakes open to ‘all ages’ of pointing dog contenders. All-age was and continued to mean competitions for the ‘finished, high class bird dog’. The designation ‘shooting dog’, was originally put forth and intended to highlight stakes representative of the gentleman’s shooting dog versus the wide ranging, high class field trial bird dog at the time that stretched the country as far as it would allow. The same most likely translated to the grouse woods, a gentleman’s foot shooting or gun dog versus the high class field trial bird (grouse) dog. Those conducting the early grouse trials chose to keep the all-age designation to emphasize the promotion of the high class field trial bird (grouse) dog and this designation resulted in the Grand National Grouse Championship at one time counting as a qualifying stake for the National Field Trial Championship at the Ames Plantation in Tennessee. The PA stakes today are still classified as all-age.

Obviously by the time of these two events in Bradford and Westbrook, a differentiation had been made in many or most American Field trials as to performance standards of horseback shooting dog or all-age. Note in the Westbrook report the statement about the grounds having “running room for real all-age contenders and some interesting wooded country over which to test the merits of northeastern shooting dogs.” Though there was a differentiation made between an all-age and a shooting dog stake by 1959, competitors in the Middle Atlantic and North East ran the same animals sometimes in all three stakes — grouse woods, horseback shooting dog and all-age (again note Grouse Ridge Smokey).

BradfordTrial_Aug261959.pdf     WestbrookTrial_Aug151959.pdf

Reports reproduced courtesy of The American Field

For all those who have ordered Bill Allen's book 'The Unforgettables':

The books are back from the bindery! I will receive a book with a test dust jacket on Monday. After making size adjustments to the dust jacket, it will be printed, trimmed and the book then wrapped. The book will shipped at the end of the week.

Thanks for your patience!

The Black Ash Grouse Dog Club is proud to announce the second running of the Armstrong-Umbel Endurance Classic in March 2010. Heats will be of two-hour duration.

We are proud to have attained the following two judges:

Frank LaNasa has been breeding, training and successfully campaigning his dogs in amateur and open grouse, horseback shooting dog and all-age stakes for over 20 years. His dogs have won wild bird championships including the National Amateur Grouse Championship, the National Amateur and National Open Prairie Chicken Shooting Dog Championships, and the National Amateur Chicken Championship. He has judged all three circuits from the mid west and prairies to Nevada and south to Mississippi, most recently judging the prestigious all-age endurance championship, The Southern, for the second time. In the grouse woods, he has judged the Minnesota Grouse Dog Championship and the Lakes States Grouse Championship. Frank’s home state is Minnesota.

Dave Hawk hails from Southeastern Ohio and has been training and campaigning grouse dogs for the past seven years. He is a life long grouse hunter and has hunted with his own pointing dogs for the past 27 years. He has won with his dogs in horseback, cover dog and other walking shooting dog stakes and amateur championships. His dogs have also won open championships, including the 2007 Wisconsin Cover Dog Championship and R-U in the 2008 Grouse and Woodcock Invitational. He has judged walking and horseback stakes throughout the region, most prominent being the Region 4 Walking Shooting Dog Championship and the National Walking Shooting Dog Futurity.

Last spring’s inaugaral running of the the Armstrong as a two hour classic drew 22 dogs (21 ran). Judges Roger Hoover and Mazie Davis commented on the entry of strong bird dogs — most running well past the hour and a half mark and several finishing the two hours. The Winner and Runner-Up were extremely well-received by all who witnessed their performances. Both were outstanding in their ability to go the distance with strength and purpose. Though birds were at a premium during the running, both dogs hunted objectives, holding the judges and gallery’s excitement for the entire two hours.

Endurance is the ability or strength to continue and maintain a high quality of work despite fatigue, stress, or other adverse conditions; stamina.

Stamina: physical or moral strength to resist or withstand fatigue or hardship; endurance.

Club members and other supporters of the Armstrong-Umbel feel strongly that endurance is a quality we should seek in all field trial bird dogs. By definition, an endurance event evaluates many of the subjective preferences we seek in our dogs today. Does the gait we think attractive also prove to be efficient and sustainable? Do the dogs we find exciting have the mental fortitude to respond well to additional stress? Both these qualities are necessary to keep dogs focused on the task of hunting for and handling birds with class past the hour mark.

Please see archived postings (Category: Endurance Trials) of excerpts from reports of several of the more exciting early Grand National Grouse Championships which ran as one hour first series, followed by two hour second series.

Report and other details from last years running are archived under Category: Armstrong-Umbel

For anyone wishing to support the Armstrong-Umbel Endurance Classic, please scroll down to the information on the right side bar on this page.

The Armstrong will be accompanied by the Black Ash Amateur Derby.

Additional details to follow in the American Field ad. Thanks to all who supported the Classic last spring. We look forward to seeing you in March!

Bill Allen’s wonderful book 'The Unforgettables' is at the bindery and the dust jacket is at the printer so we are on schedule to ship the book at the end of the month or close to it!