I was extremely delighted when Mark Lovell invited me to judge at the Hungarian Wirehaired Vizsla Association’s Mock Field Trial, to be held at the Harris End Shoot in Lancaster, on Saturday 13^th January ’07. This is a shoot that both Mark and I regularly beat on and we are affectionately (?) known as the Pointer Sisters! Consequently, I knew only too well just how good the ground would be for such an event as this.

The morning of the event was not at all pleasant and, unfortunately for once, the weather forecasters were correct in their predictions, stiff winds and rain. However, undaunted, I set off to Lancaster and arrived in good time to be met by Ted, the Gamekeeper (not the one from the Fast Show!) and Dave, a fellow Beater, both of whom would be our Guns for the day. Mark and Wendy arrived soon after, accompanied by a convoy of vehicles, containing participants and observers. Once ready, everyone gathered for the briefing and a long walk out to the start point followed, thereby allowing these young dogs to work into wind.

I had seven handlers and dogs to judge, consisting of 2 Italian Spinone, 1 German Shorthaired Pointer, 1 Weimaraner, 1 Hungarian Vizsla and, somewhat surprisingly, only 2 Hungarian Wirehaired Vizsla (HWV). Where were you all? Each dog had good opportunities to shine on this open ground, which consisted of white grass, bracken, gorse and occasional heather. Scenting conditions weren’t too bad, despite the strong winds and blustery showers (certainly not the deluge that we had all anticipated). Most dogs had game on their beat on this first run and all showed potential. The 2 HWVs both performed well, with Phil Robinson and his young male, Gonegos Kosen running at number 1. This dog has been used predominantly as a deer stalking dog and, as such, was fairly new to this sort of thing. Nevertheless, this youngster ran well, despite his initial lack of confidence, in terms of putting distance between himself and his handler. Unfortunately, no game was present on his beat. Mark Herbert with his HWV, Ayita Independence Day ran at number 5 and saw quite a bit of action! Running with pace and drive, he soon came on point. Following a little uncertainty on Mark’s part, as to whether or not his dog definitely had something at the end of his nose, the point was claimed and a positive flush produced two birds, both of which were shot. Mark’s dog was steady and retrieved the first bird, which was still alive, smartly to hand. The second bird had run a fair distance ahead and upon location and following a brief point (so typical of a relatively inexperienced dog when faced with a lightly pricked bird) the retrieve was executed well.

Lunch was provided by Wendy Lovell, which I have to say was very good (creep!) and most appreciated on such a wet and windy day. Following a quick debrief by me on the morning’s proceedings, the group set out once again, this time with back and cheek winds to negotiate. Phil Robinson’s dog had two further runs, however, most unfortunately did not encounter game. No matter, as this dog progressed well throughout the day and ran more fluently and with increased confidence, especially on his final run. As a reward for all his endeavours, Phil was called forward to send his dog for a retrieve on a cock bird that had been shot on the right of another dog’s beat. This was a blind retrieve of some 35 yards and was executed efficiently and effectively by the dog. On their second run, Mark Herbert and his dog had a cheek wind, running right to left and, once again, this HWV hunted with real enthusiasm and drive. Another point, this time unclaimed by Mark (“always trust your dog”), resulted in a cock bird lifting, which was not shot. A very creditable performance from this team. All the other dogs did well too and it was good to see the 2 Spinones, belonging to Chris Guest and Jean Baldwin getting out and attacking the ground.

At the close of play, everyone gathered together and certificates of attendance were handed out to all participants. In addition, the Guns’ award went to Mark Herbert’s, Ayita Independence Day (‘Milo’). My most sincere thanks must go to Ted, for allowing the day to take place and to both him and Dave for shooting so well. Also, thanks to Mark and Wendy for the invitation and the smooth running of proceedings and, of course, to the handlers and their dogs for a most enjoyable and special day.

Allan Drysdale