At the kind invitation of Mr Wilson Young Snr & Mr Wilson Young Jnr the Retriever Championship was held, for the second time, at Lauder on the Scottish Borders.  The weather over the three days was variable, but mild in comparison to 2008.  The judges were Mark Bettinson, Nigel Carville, John Castle and Guy Bennett.  Robert Clark, the Stewart
of the Beat, had done an excellent job of preparing the ground, with plenty of game to test the fifty-four dogs and handlers.

The venue for the first day was Lylestene Farm; the ground was predominately a mixture of kale and turnip, but towards the end of the day the trial moved into an area of white grass and trees.  Twenty-nine dogs and handlers were called forward for the second day, which was held at Tollishill Estate.  With fourteen dogs and handlers still left in contention the venue for the final day moved back to Lylestene Farm.  Nine dogs, including last year’s winner,
were required to sit at the final drive.

Championship overview written by Dr Gareth Davies - with thanks!