Wollongong Dog Sports Club holds a competition for the veterans each year. Seeing these dogs perform is a true pleasure. The oldies obviously miss the opportunity to compete in agility. Even though many of their handlers still do a little practice to keep their oldies happy, the smile on the faces of these dogs when they get to perform in front of an audience says it all. These dogs have known the excitement of competition all their life, and although I am sure they appreciate retirement, they love their one run of glory each year.

In the past this competition has been dominated by a border Collie called Lochie handled by Jane Caulton. This team won in 2004, 2006 and 2007. Our own Fenrik Never Say Never (Ned) took out the prize in 2005, but was not eligible to compete in 2006 because he briefly returned to competition when the games were introduced.

2008 Wollongong Dog Sports Club Veterans Class

In 2008 I was able to take of photographic record of the event. Instead of competing, Jane Caulton was
asked to judge the event. The course is usually a very simple one with jumps set very low and a very low
a-frame and dog walk. If there are any obstacles that are "too tough" then they can be skipped with minimal
penalty. There is a handicap, according to the age of the dog.

1st Place   Biddy ADM JDM CD ET , a shorthaired border collie aged 11 years handled by Jenny Taylor

2nd Place  Tinkerbell,   a 12 year old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel handled by Natalie Winter

3rd place,    Gunnislake Wild Knight ADX JDX GD SD SPD (Toby) a 10 year old Labrador handled by Maggie Young

Also competing:
            Tracy Elder and Bronte                     Airlie White and Checker                           Pat Walsh and Kaisha
       

Pam Lyons and Scarlet                               Vanessa Hutchison and Elli May                             Rose Hey and Crystal
     

Wendy Downing and Big Ted                        Lydia Borchert and Barney                                  Jody and Xena