CKC vs UKC

[franklauzon]

Hey Guys,

What's everyones opinion on running CKC vs HRC tests? Why do you run what you run?

I've now run both, and I think I will be sticking to HRC to run up titles... I really enjoyed the "feel" of the game, with more camo and guns! The CKC did have us holding bubbah guns which I enjoyed, and used decoys and shots from the line and what not, but I didn't see anyone having to shoot for themselves from the line and what not and I think that's a reallty neat idea. Now mind you, this might be a big problem with my not-so-steady dog ;)

Not looking to start a fight, well maybe a little, just looking for everyone elses feelings.

[Eric B]

**comment removed** my appologies.

I cannot comment on the UKC test but from what I have heard and read it more closely resembles hunting scenarios, and is something that I intend to pursue with my dog. I only wish there were more events locally and more two days events.

Now as far as the CKC test are concerned. Yes your right , no camo needed and no gun handling. However, as far as the quality of test I think they are great and the difficulty of each test is obviously at the judges dicrestion. This was the case this past week-end in Clayton, Sundays being the easier of the two junior events.

[franklauzon]

Post Removed by moi.

[AD18]

I prefer HRC tests primarily because it is more deeply associated with "real" hunting. Both games have their pros and cons, but in the end I find the HRC setups and "social" aspects a bit more enjoyable. I will continue to play both though. Succeed in either game and you'll have a dandy hunting partner. Be carefull here guys in regards to naming names and or dogs. We've all had train wrecks and embarassments with our dogs and had to "fix" issues, either on the handler or the dog. Don't think you're being fair here:sad1:

[franklauzon]

You're right, I've removed my comment.

[Mike Bons]

I run both HRC and CKC. I have considered just running one of them due to cost and time. However, I haven't yet as I enjoy running in each venue and feel they both have a lot to offer. I think it also makes a good progression, especially for the beginner if you run started, junior, seasoned, senior, finished/master.

I actually like the CKC's requirements for clothing. I don't understand the need for full camo, judge the dog, not the clothing.
I feel however that you should be able to talk quietly to your dog in CKC, similar to HRC.
I don't mind the fact that CKC uses a fake gun. I know that some people feel intimidated by having to use a real gun, and feel that it may keep some from competing in HRC (seasoned/finished levels) especially if they do not hunt.
The nice thing about HRC is that everyone's primary focus is Hunt Test, not something they do on the side. However, I have found that once you get past the junior level, most take hunt testing very seriously.
There is also those who complain about the lack of organization of the CKC when it comes to their hunt test program. However, I also don't pay a membership fee to the CKC to compete, so I feel you get what you pay for.

As I said, I enjoy both, and will continue to compete in both because together they produce a great all round retriever.

[Eric B]

I think you it on the head Mike. There are a lot of people that do not hunt but still would like to see their dogs perfrom in a scenario where they can use their abilities . I believe that the CKC allows this without intimidating those that do not hunt and would not like to handle a firearm. As well, just because there is not a firearm involved does not mean that the events are any easier.

[franklauzon]

CKC is generally a level above HRC in terms of difficulty. I just enjoy the ambiance more... ;)

Not saying I won't run CKC events, but in terms of getting titles on my dog I'll go with HRC, then maybe give MH a try.

[3 black dogs]

We run both and they both have thier seperate purposes HRC for the hunter and the CKC for the average joe to get out and enjoy thier dog and maybe get some titles. The more important part is for those of you who run either is to get out and contribute to the clubs in your area to help at these events as they take a pile of work to put on. Just ask a few members on this site.
We Also play the field trial game as well and it has raised our training to a even higher level. so it doesn't matter what dog game you play contribute as much as you take from the game. all are great!

Chris

[Kevin Hannah]

The more important part is for those of you who run either is to get out and contribute to the clubs in your area to help at these events as they take a pile of work to put on. Just ask a few members on this site.
Chris

I could not agree more with that Chris. For anyone that has not been involved in organizing even a normal weekend hunt test you would be amazed at how much planning and work goes into the event. No matter what game you decide to play, get involved with the club and help out any way you can.

Kevin

[luvmylabs]

Ditto Kevin and Chris comments. There are some people out there running HT and FT who complain about how this or that test was run, yet never get involved in the actual planning or running or the judging of a test or trial. People spend a lot of time and energy putting on these events. They do this for the love of the game and get no financial rewards. Only a lot of work, no sleep and a few who like to complain over every little thing. Whatever you play, get involved. Not being a hunter, I prefer CKC HT or FT. We have run all three at one time or another. I personally think that the CKC is a little more technical, but have a little less confusion at the line. Have been told that the "no talk" rule has changed and will be in the new rule book for CKC HT. On the weekend, some handlers were talking quietly to their dogs and the judges said nothing. (MH) Don't know how many judges are following the future rule change.

Anne

[Mike Bons]

I find the HRC setups and "social" aspects a bit more enjoyable.

Come on, didn't you say to me on the weekend "this is great not having to wait for the beer dog!" :boink:

[Kevin Hannah]

Come on, didn't you say to me on the weekend "this is great not having to wait for the beer dog!" :boink:

Thats the price you pay for being able to shoot a real gun :bf_new:

[Anna Scott]

We started with the HRC because it was the only game around besides field trials. We continue to play all three games now. Two weeks ago we put the minor titles WCI and WCX on Trip plus a senior pass. This past weekend we hosted the York trial. Chris and Kevin put it mildly. The amount of work that this club put into their weekend was phenomenal. Cheryl Ritchie is a human dynamo. I am president of the GBHRC as well as hunt secretary, so hopefully will get to run a couple of dogs in our tests. Besides the field games we also do obedience in the off season. Since retiring my life has gone completely to the dogs. It doesn't matter which games you play as long as you are having a good time and the dog is too.

[quackaddict2]

i was a bit hesitant at first about adding my two cents to this thread.i didn't want to get involved in a:fencing: this is better then that because thread.

i see this is not the case[and that's why i love this board]:first:

i'm with the majority of yas and any game or games you choose to run is just fine:clap2:

i have participated in some shape way or form in all of them and all i can say is it's all good:nice work:

by getting involved i have gained a ton experience,had a ton of fun and met a slew of like minded people and have made some great friends:redface:

oh ya i almost left her out,

and what a way to enjoy that kick a$$ dawg of mine:bigrin

[waterfowler65]

i was a bit hesitant at first about adding my two cents to this thread.i didn't want to get involved in a:fencing: this is better then that because thread.

i see this is not the case[and that's why i love this board]:first:

i'm with the majority of yas and any game or games you choose to run is just fine:clap2:

i have participated in some shape way or form in all of them and all i can say is it's all good:nice work:

by getting involved i have gained a ton experience,had a ton of fun and met a slew of like minded people and have made some great friends:redface:

oh ya i almost left her out,

and what a way to enjoy that kick a$$ dawg of mine:bigrin

:dog:
Well said Al.....

[just chessies]

Just my two cents worth, back around 1995 I joined UKC/HRC cause it was the only HT. game in Ontario I met a lot of people and many are very good friends. I have traveled from Ontario to S.Carolina to HTS. (winter time :spoton: ) Then the CKC/HT started now I have double the fun. People its what you want to make of it, sure there are problems from time to time "BUT" a lot of people give their spare time to help a lot of other people have a good time, from the judges to marshals, bird throwers and the people that do the paper work to keep things running smoothly, just my two cents worth

[yellowlab04]

well said this is a great post i hope it reaches some people Tim:nice work: