We have done a couple of agility trials this year. I managed to trial in 3 different venues, but have decided to only concentrate on 2. Hence, I've only set short term goals in both USDAA and NADAC. The one AKC trial we did reiterated my feelings on that venue. It's not for us right now. I'm not saying we won't be back, but I don't see it in our future anytime soon. I'm not happy at AKC trials and my feelings travel right down the leash to KK and she acts on it. It's not worth my money and even more importantly my emotional well being to compete in that venue. Agility is a fun hobby, but the fun for me is nonexistent at AKC trials.
We recently started doing NADAC trials. I have found it to be a very supportive, encouraging group of people. It is so nice to finish a run, good or bad, and people applaud or take the time to give you an encouraging word. After competing in a venue that is very competitive, it's nice to run agility without all the pressure. I have found it easier to work on KK's distance and independent skills. Some people may think NADAC is hokey, but let me tell you, that Chances is the real deal. Chances is some serious independent distance agility. And don't forget the obstacle discrimination that is thrown in too. I don't think I've ever yelled, "get out" or "walk, walk, walk" so much in my life.
As we have done more NADAC, KK has quickly rose up through the levels. That has caused me to feel pressure. As her Championship Title looms closer, I sometimes forget the fun of agility. I let the pressure of Q-ing determine how our weekend is going to go. I will go into a trial saying I need this many Q's,and then if something goes wrong, it frustrates me to no end. Hazel often has to remind me that agility is a game and to have fun. She does a great job of calming me down and helping me to refocus.
My favorite venue has always been USDAA. It makes you draw upon all of your skills to compete. Your dog has to be able to work on their own (Gamblers), you must have strategic skills (Snooker), and your dog must be able to run with another dog and both teams have to run clean (Pairs). Of course there is the self explanatory Jumpers and Standard, with its 'down' on the table. I love the versatility of USDAA.
There are the naysayers about USDAA. They complain about the jump heights, the fast course times, the height of the A frame, chute length, and the complaints go on. Here is my feeling about it. If you don't like the venue, then don't trial in it. Don't bash the venue because you don't like the rules or you don't have the skill set to compete. It's not like AKC where you can just chip away at a MACH. In USDAA, you
have to be at the top of your game. You need to be able to compete with
the fastest and most precise agility dogs.
I read this somewhere and for me it says it all.
"What I love about USDAA and what distinguishes it, is that to EARN an ADCH is distinguishing yourself and your team...on specific days, you were among the best."
ADCH or NATCH. The titles may or may not happen, but we will keep playing the game in the venues we love. It's our hobby and we love the game!!
