Perfect day for Sutherland sheep dog trials
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A HEAVY, early morning mist lifted just in time for the Sutherland Sheep Dog trials which was held at Clynelish Farm, Brora, on Saturday, August, 28.
Near perfect weather conditions continued throughout the day, making it a great day out for both competitors and spectators who were pleased to be back on the field after last year’s event was cancelled.
Just over 60 dogs ran on the day, with competitors from Shetland to Aberdeenshire.
Despite the Clynelish gimmers proving a bit uncooperative, a number of dogs completed the course and there was excellent displays of skill and competitiveness on show giving judge Mr Tommy McPhee from Caithness plenty to keep him busy.
Michael Shearer from Lyth in Caithness retained the Wilson Shield, taking out the open competition with 87 points with his dog Rab. Jock Sutherland from Durness was not far behind with Nessie on 81 points. Scott Renwick from Inverbroom was third with Dell scoring 79. Fourth amd fifth were decided by 'outrun lift and fetch' points with Michael Shearer (Tib) narrowly edging out Martyn Cook (Glen) both with 76 points.
In the Sutherland county competition Jan Mackenzie from North Loch Naver retained her trophy, taking home the Duke of Sutherland Silver Challenge Cup with her dog Jenna on 69 points. In a nice bit of history, Jan took home three of the trophies exactly 65 years after her grandfather Donald MacDonald from Altnaharra had won them.
The county competition was rounded out with; 2 - Jock Sutherland, Bob (62); 3 - Derek Murray, Brae (57); 4 - Hugh Mackenzie, Nap (49); 5 -Jasmine Ross, Nan (47).
Some excellent prizes were donated by a number of local businesses for the raffle, with the winner of the open and county competitions also receiving beautiful woollen blankets donated by Wildland.
