THE FIRST TEST OF THE SEASON .....

HUNT, POINT, RETRIEVE GUNDOG ASSOCIATION

SPRING POINTING TEST, YORKSHIRE

Can the first week in March really be classed as Spring… !!!!

A "spring" pointing test, high up on the Derbyshire Moors … after meeting at the allotted point, we all headed up the moor as the skies darkened and the weather closed in.

It took a while and a fair hike out across the moor in order that the dogs could work back into the wind.

It was bitterly cold with driving snow that hit you so hard in the face that it stung.  It was bad enough hiding behind a camera let alone being out front and trying to handle a dog, or judge one, come to that.

And then, the snow would pass and the landscape would be revealed in all its magnificence…

what better backdrop to set off these beautiful dogs at work …

The weather conditions proved especially difficult for the young dogs, a few whose first time it was on a grouse moor.

All the dogs had a run and then a number were called back for a second time.  The afternoon proved a little better in terms of snow but still no birds to be seen.  

As we turned and headed back into the wind the judges made their final decisions and the test was over.

Congratulations to all of those in the awards ….

A mention also the Leigh and Mark from the HPRGA for organising the day and thanks to the Game Keeper and his staff.