Next on the agenda was the National Amateur Grouse Championship back in Augusta, WI where Montaro’s Rock won Runner-Up for his proud owner/handler Bill Henke. The strong, handsome setter had a mature and exciting race, handled with ease and was rewarded with a grouse find. Congratulations to Bill! Joe is exceptionally pleased with Rock’s continuous development as a field trial performer. Hard Driving Lucy (Shawn Thomas, owner) exhibited her dam’s knack for getting grouse handled. She finished the hour strong for Ben Mergens, owner of Lucy’s littermate, Hard Driving Louie.

Ben Mergens with Lucy

Rick Simpson was in Wisconsin with Doug Kepler on a hunting trip so was there to run his setter, Tess. She did a fine job, getting a grouse and woodcock pointed and also finishing the hour strong.

Rick Simpson and Tess

Thanks to all the owners who came out to Wisconsin to compete. And a big thanks to all who those who worked so hard to put on one of the best championships this fall. The National Amateur Grouse was well organized, well attended by amateurs from as far afield as Pennsylvania and Maine, and attentively and fairly judged by two experienced and respected dog men. It was a thoroughly great time!

RU Champion Montaro’s Rock

Rock had a grouse find at the 58 minute mark in the Minnesota Grouse Championship but an eight minute absence cost him. Both Fin and Libby performed well on the ground with the experienced judges, Mitch Stapley and Bob Gove remarking on Libby’s exceptionally strong, classy and forward application. Unfortunately, neither managed to connect with a bird. All three dogs — Rock, Fin and Libby paid their way by claiming day money!

Pal’s Sea Pearl

Joe fared better in the accompanying Reuel Henry Pietz Derby Classic with a first place win going to Toc (Platinum Pendulum, Larry Guild, owner) and second place going to Rita (Hard Driving Rita, Chris Mathan, owner). The derby, Toc and puppy, Rita are out Bev’s last two litters!

Platinum Pendulum, Hard Driving Rita

Hard Driving Rita begins her brace