Result: National Amateur Walking Shooting Dog Championship

Location: Covington, Indiana

Post Date: Mar 9, 2026

Submitted By: Bob Bakas

National Amateur Walking Shooting Dog Championship (front, l-r): Bob Bakas with Alliwood's Never Say Never and Mike Jackson with Bandit Hills Bess. (Second row): Jim Cipponeri (judge), Adam DeLude, Matt Miller, Klaus Schmidt, Keith Wright, Mike Fox, and Scott Smith. (Third row): David Cates, Don Knight, Austin Turley, Kaycee, J. D. Waters, and Greg Blair. (Fourth row): Keith Anderson, Dan Grochowski, Jon Vanada, Jeff Haggis (judge), Kenny Norrington, Kevin, and C. J. Campbell.

The National Amateur Walking Shooting Dog Championship delivered a thrilling showcase of bird dog talent, grit, and style. Handlers and their dogs put on a memorable performance, but one competitor stood above the rest--Champion Alliwood's Never Say Never (DeLude). With 4 flawless finds, this dog displayed excellent style and composure throughout. Her fast, classy race combined a relentless hunting drive with a keen ability to stay in touch with her handler. Every moment in the field reflected the qualities of a true champion--power, precision, and partnership.

Runner-up Bandit Hill Bess (Schmidt) delivered one strong find and one stylish back, showing poise on point and in honoring. She ran with good style and determination, especially in the first 30 minutes, where she impressed with her strength and pace. Though she slowed slightly in the final stretch, her performance earned well-deserved recognition as runner-up.

Other Standouts
Several dogs left a lasting impression with their skill and presence in the field:
Alliwood's Eleventh Hour (DeLude)
Mohawk Mill Shake Up (Monroe)
Southern Shadow's Bootlegger (Schmidt)
Cates Rocket Girl (Cates)
Smith's Blackfort Uno (Smith)

Heartfelt Thanks
This championship would not have been possible without the generosity and dedication of the Wright family--Jill, John, Jessica, Grace, and Keith. Their willingness to open Redwood for the event, along with the countless hours spent preparing the grounds, organizing food, and extending warm hospitality, made the experience truly special.
We also extend a huge thank-you to Kenny Norrington and CJ Campbell for their outstanding dog wagon driving skills. Their support kept the event running smoothly and ensured every handler and dog had the opportunity to shine.
We'd also like to thank our sponsors, Purina and Garmin, for their continued support of this great event.
This year's championship highlighted the very best of amateur walking shooting dogs--athleticism, style, and the bond between dog and handler. From the blazing race of the winner to the grit of the runner-up and the promise shown by others, the event was a celebration of the sport at its finest, made possible by the incredible community behind it.

Covington, Ind., November 11
Judges: Jim Cipponeri and Jeff Haggis
NATIONAL AMATEUR WALKING SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP [One-Hour Heats] - 17 Pointers, 6 Setters, 2 Irish Setters, and 1 German Shorthair
Winner-ALLIWOOD'S NEVER SAY NEVER, F1695564, pointer female, by Touch's Grey Street-Alliwood's Shady Shay. Adam DeLude, owner and handler.
Runner-Up-BANDIT HILLS BESS, F1706165, pointer female, by Touch's Smooth Rider-West's Lucy. Klaus Schmidt, owner and handler.