Spring field trials - if spring ever comes?

[captainjack]

It looks like spring will be late to arrive and early trials will have very unseasonable weather. Early trials in Ohio, Western NY are just around the cornor.
What is your philosophy of judging in inclement weather? Does it matter whether it is spring or fall? or whether it is minor stakes or championship stakes?
What is your philosophy about running trials with snow/ice on the water?
Who do you feel is responsible for these types of decision ie. field trial committee, judge, owner, trainer, CKC/AKC, etc.?

[TK'S]

Peter I think you are up way to early at 5:24 am in the morning for being retired .Terry

[krakadawn]

I agree Terry-way too early!
On a series side some years can present very cool/cold conditions and it looks like this year's a dandy. I can recall running a set of water marks in the snow one year at Pine Ridge-so anything is possible. The responsibility clearly belongs to the owner/handler-make the decision accordingly.

From the warm south where the mosquitos and lizzards(big ones) are definitely out!!

Jim

[Labber]

Last year in Niagara the 3rd week of April had our ponds in the 50F range.
With 3 days of mild weather and bright sunshine, some ponds were up in the high 60's in no time at all , so anything can happen. Once the ice is gone the water accumulates heat pretty quick with the right amount of sunshine.

I think it is fair to test the older dogs if the weather is colder than we like. Some dogs will be ready and/or have what it takes to do well. Some won't. No different than the many other factors that come into play through the season. Some trials will play to your dogs strengths, others to its weaknesses.
Personally there is no way I would be putting a young dog in the water before it hits 60F.
That's a call the handlers need to make though, and the clubs should plan fior the trial and hope for the best.

That's what I think anyway.

[Labber]

I walked on the pond in allanburg this AM.
Picked up a car stereo. It doesn't work.

[Jojoe]

Labber, that may have religious connotations....:angel:

As for running a dog in cold, early season water - perhaps it may give an advantage to those dogs that stayed home and played in the snow for the winter. If the water is safe, shouldn't the decision to run be left with the handlers?