For the past few years the UC Hopland Research & Extension Center has hosted a sanctioned competition for the United States Border Collie Handlers Association. This highly regarded working-sheepdog competition includes a 500 yard outrun for the dogs to "pick up" the small group of sheep. The event is scheduled for the weekend of November 12-13 and the public is invited to attend between 8 AM and 5 PM.
The event will be judged by nationally renowned Danny Hoag, and the competition will consist of a dog handler running a single dog to precisely move a small group of ewes through a specific course of runs, turns, gates, and into a final pen. This is a serious competition so NO OTHER DOGS ARE ALLOWED at the event (don't bring your pet) and loud yelling or shouting will not be a allowed as it can disrupt the competition.
The Shamrock 4-H will be selling fabulous breakfasts and lunches (the lamb stew is a culinary delight) under the direction of local chef Beth Keiffer. We hope for awe-inspiring weather and views as this 2010 photos depicts. We look forward to seeing you at these entertaining HREC sheep dog trials. (see our website http://ucanr.org/sites/hopland/ for directions).
