2016 National Open: A Moment of Silence
-An Amateur Competitor's Perspective
By: Jamie Woodson #68
As we caravan to the test site for the 10th and final series of the 2016 National Open to
wait on callbacks, I believe it is very appropriate to have a moment of silence to think
about the amazing people and animals who are not with us this week.
Some have crossed the rainbow bridge. Some are ill, injured, or just not able to be here.
For whatever reason, there are some incredible animals and people that we all are missing
greatly this week and it seems like this year was particularly gut wrenching as we watched
some of the greatest animals in the sport pass unexpectedly.
Freeway, Manny, Slider. Such painful losses.
Wow! I have had the privilege of watching them compete and see them consistently
perform with exceptional aplomb. I have also seen and felt the intense pain that their
owners experience as they have had to say goodbye to their friends and companions
far too soon.
I can only say this - these special animals simply don't live long enough. We miss them
all greatly.
Here are a few that have been on my mind all week:
Retrievers who are recently deceased -
Freeway owned by Mary & John Straka
Manny, owned by Beverly and Robbie Bickley
Slider owned by Lauren Hayes
Illness & Injury -
Stinger owned by Sue & Fred Kampo
Tubb owned by Martha and John Russell
Competitor -
Amy Hunt (ill)
Gunner -
Dennis Bath (unable to be here this week)
I have resisted writing about this because I knew I would forget or not know
about important individuals and dogs who should be mentioned.
This is where I need your help. Please comment and tell us about the amazing dogs and
people who are on your minds this week! Photos are encouraged!
Until next time, may the wind be in your favor and your flyers be friendly!
-Jamie Woodson #68
-An Amateur Competitor's Perspective
By: Jamie Woodson #68
As we caravan to the test site for the 10th and final series of the 2016 National Open to
wait on callbacks, I believe it is very appropriate to have a moment of silence to think
about the amazing people and animals who are not with us this week.
Some have crossed the rainbow bridge. Some are ill, injured, or just not able to be here.
For whatever reason, there are some incredible animals and people that we all are missing
greatly this week and it seems like this year was particularly gut wrenching as we watched
some of the greatest animals in the sport pass unexpectedly.
Freeway, Manny, Slider. Such painful losses.
Wow! I have had the privilege of watching them compete and see them consistently
perform with exceptional aplomb. I have also seen and felt the intense pain that their
owners experience as they have had to say goodbye to their friends and companions
far too soon.
I can only say this - these special animals simply don't live long enough. We miss them
all greatly.
Here are a few that have been on my mind all week:
Retrievers who are recently deceased -
Freeway owned by Mary & John Straka
Manny, owned by Beverly and Robbie Bickley
Slider owned by Lauren Hayes
Illness & Injury -
Stinger owned by Sue & Fred Kampo
Tubb owned by Martha and John Russell
Competitor -
Amy Hunt (ill)
Gunner -
Dennis Bath (unable to be here this week)
I have resisted writing about this because I knew I would forget or not know
about important individuals and dogs who should be mentioned.
This is where I need your help. Please comment and tell us about the amazing dogs and
people who are on your minds this week! Photos are encouraged!
Until next time, may the wind be in your favor and your flyers be friendly!
-Jamie Woodson #68
