I really enjoyed my trip to Denmark this year. It has been 5 years since my last trip. We were long overdue. When Anna asked me to join her with Max this year, I felt a bit of panic since our skills and teamwork were still not smooth. But, you all know me. I am always game for an adventure.
Decision made, lots to do!!
The preparations took my mind off our skills or lack thereof. I studied courses of the judges. We set up courses. We RAN, RAN, RAN! I wasn't sure how Max would travel but he was a natural. He behaved so much better than he does at home. What an angel. Max made friends all over Denmark! It is very relaxing to travel with a dog who can lay down quietly in a down stay at the restaurant. It is also nice when you know your dog gets along with other dogs even if he is an attention hog.
We rented a room at a lovely hotel/spa by the North Sea. Max played fetch in the sea. There was also plenty of grass and trees for the dogs to play off leash at the hotel.
The competition was an absolute blast. Six days of agility with one day off in the middle to shop the streets of Copenhagen. We had 3 runs each day except the last day with only 2 rounds unless you got into finals. I really had no big expectations. I knew those skills were not fluid and smooth for us yet, but can you believe it? First day we get up to the podium and a prize! After the last class all the competitors gather round and placement medals are presented to each of the winners 1st through 3rd place. People clap and cheer for their country and bring up a flag. Placement and prizes given based on how many dogs are in the class. I really like the way they run agility in Europe. People are extremely nice to each other and their dogs even if they have an E.
It is good to be home but this experience was so good for us as a team. We watched, we learned and we had fun. When I think about the team events like AWC or EO, I know how much time must be committed to being on the team. Between tryouts, practices and the actual event you are investing significant dollars and time. Right now, we are not in the right place for a team event but maybe in our future. In the meantime, where shall we venture next year???
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