The recently finished Border Licensed Trial was a prime example of how team spirit and effort can become the heart and center of a beagle club. As we all know it takes lots of work to put on a successful licensed trial. The club grounds have to be mowed well in advance. The clubhouse has to be cleaned and shined so the club can present a good image to its visitors. Kennels have to be repaired so visiting dogs cannot escape. Most importantly food has to be prepared for both breakfast and lunch each day for many hungry beaglers. This year Border Beagle Club pulled all this off without a hitch.
This year at Border it was also a family effort. Several families became involved. We all know when we get the whole family involved it really makes all the extra work worthwhile. It was nice to see wives and children involved in many of the work details and out in the field watching the dogs perform and taking part in the field activities.
Canadian beaglers, Greg and Karen Phillips donated a Border Banner that will now hang in the clubhouse. They also donated the meat for the final two days of the trial, which will help to keep the Border Beagle Club checking account in balance. Many wives, who didnt attend the trial, labored at home preparing delicious dishes and deserts for the hungry beagler to consume.
Club president, Charley Stephenson spotted rabbits everyday for four straight days and was always in position before the brush beaters moved into the cover to roust the cottontails. Charley remarked on the final day after marking another tally that the next one would be his third one for the four days. When in reality he probably tally hoed nearly a hundred.
Yes licensed trial beagling is off to a fine start again this summer in Michigan. The circuit now moves to Sturgeon Creek Beagle Club near Midland where another fine team and family effort will undoubtedly be provided. Sturgeon Creek is also the home club of famous Michigan handler, Duane Root. Plan a visit to the Michigan licensed trial circuit sometime this summer. The hospitality you will witness will be will worth the trip. You can arrange side trips to see the beautiful Michigan countryside and lakeshores. Who knows, you might even put a win on one of those dogs you have wanted to place. Bring your family and that will make it even more worthwhile.
Editor's Note-pictures will be added to this article later.
