Agility Classes
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Bob Kirkbride:
On August 6, 2005 a dream became a reality when Bob Kirkbride crossed the finish line with his wonderful little Sheltie, Mic at the the Gig Harbor Agility Trial. To the chorus of cheers, tears and applause Bob hugged his newly crowned MACH Strathsprey Mic of Time.
Bob, a long time agility competitor with his first dog, Chaz, a Standard Schnauzer, became a familiar figure in USDAA, NADAC and AKC trials. In fact, Chaz is still the only Standard Schnauzer to have earned a MAD in USDAA. Chaz’s age caught up with him before he could earn his MACH and Bob turned to fellow competitor, Barb Davis for new running companion. Barb offered him a young male from her breeding of Strathsprey Pizazz (PJ) one of her hot agility dogs and Kjell’s Picasso (Pablo) a breed champion with a wonderful disposition and attitude.
The training of Mic was very different than dealing with the independent Chaz. “The easiest part of training Mic was his eagerness to please, but sometimes that made it the hardest too.” Bob said. It took a bit to get the distance work and the contacts were a challenge, since Mic became so impatient with the stop at the bottom, but Bob put it together and even taking time out for shoulder surgery and back surgery, Mic earned his MACH in four years.
Bob is now starting another Barb Davis bred dog, Strathsprey Sapphire Gemstar, a daughter of Barb’s World Team dog, Strathsprey Northern Lights (Shimmer). Star is another fast little Sheltie that is in a hurry to catch up with her big brother and put that big MACH in front of her name too.
Bob is an active member of the Chuckanut Dog Training Association and has long been a teacher in Obedience, Tracking and Agility.
An AKC Agility judge for about 10 years, Bob’s philosophy is to have fun and enjoy the sport, both for the dog and handler. He feels both should be happy to go in the ring, whether in class or in competition. He is always willing to lend a helping hand to beginners in the sport, with a kind word of encouragement, a good eye and a piece of helpful advice.
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