This weekend, November 12th and 13th, the UC Hopland Research & Extension Center will host a sanctioned United States Border Collie Association sheep dog trial. Over 60 handler/dog entries from all over the United States will gather to compete with their dogs on a trial run that has been perfected over the last four years at HREC. The competition will take place from daylight until dark on both days.
The local 4-H youth group, under the direction of "Chef Beth", will provide a culinary delight of breakfast and lunch goodies. Delicacies include such items as breakfast burritos with tortilla, egg, hash browns, cheese, bacon and sausage, locally famous cinnamon rolls, and the event-renowned lamb stew will be sold to benefit the local 4-H youth Shamrock Club.
Here you see Charlie Hamilton and his dog "Nip" overlooking the course. The trial runs include a 500 yard "outrun" ... which is the distance between the handler/dog and the small group of sheep that the dog must gather and maneuver through panel gate openings and pens and demonstrate other sheep-handling performance displays.
Public spectators are welcome to enjoy viewing the competition and the awe-inspiring views from the "spectators knoll". Please be aware that non-competition dogs are NOT allowed ...so leave your pet dog at home! However, DO spread the word to family and friends. See you there!
