National Sheepdog Finalists

SAYFC National Sheepdog Competition Finalists Confirmed

The Finalists have been confirmed for the Inaugural SAYFC National Sheepdog Competition, generously supported by ISDS, NSA, Logan Whistles and Gilbertson & Page.

Those shortlisted will now go on to compete at the National final which is being held at NSA ScotSheep on 5^th June 2024 at Aikengall Farm, Dunbar.

The competition was divided into three sections according to the handler’s experience, from beginners, to handlers who had previously won ISDS points. The following Handlers were selected to run in the final having gained the highest aggregate scores.

Lynn Ronaldson and Bob (Bower)

Daniel Worthington and Bob (Halkirk)

Donald MacDairmid and Rab (InverRoss)

Ben McSporran and Cass (Peeblesshire)

Harry Cooper and Roy (New Deer)

Laura Moore and Finn (Brechin)

Finalist Harry Cooper praised the accessibility of the new competition format:

“This competition was great as it’s held at Nursery Trials where they tend to be more relaxed which is a great for folk starting out. It’s a great way to encourage new and young handlers into trialling. If you want to do it just go for it and don’t let your nerves bother you”

In total,17 handlers from across Scotland participated in the new format, kindly hosted through existing trials held by the Scottish Inter District Nursery Association. The SIDNA committee and competitors graciously gave the competing members the opportunity to run their dogs at qualifying heats across each of their District Nursery Trials throughout Scotland.  The handlers were made to feel very welcome and received encouragement and mentoring from the other competitors.  Giving some of these SAYFC members their first opportunity to run at a dog trial.

It created opportunities for members to travel outwith their local area and to get a real feel for the trialling experience. One of the youngest handlers competing, Donald MacDiarmid (a member of InverRoss YFC) travelled to three trials from Skye to compete in the Highland Nursery League, often incurring 4 hour drives just to get to the event.  “This has been a fantastic opportunity for me run my dog and I am really looking forward to the final at ScotSheep.”

Be sure to attend ScotSheep on the 5^th of June to see these young competitors in action and find out who will be crowned SAYFC’s first National Sheepdog Champion.