Result: 73rd Running of the NGSPA National Championships

Location: Grovespring, Missouri

Post Date: May 13, 2026

Submitted By: Anthony Rusciano

NGSPA National Amateur Shooting Dog Championship. Aaron McAfee (judge), David Russell (judge), Anthony Rusciano, Abraham Macke, Dan DiMambro, David O'Brien, and Helmut Schoen. (Kneeling): Katelyn Macke with Macke's Jim Bob and Chris Young with Monkeyshines Callme The Breeze.

The 73rd running of the National German Shorthaired Pointer Association (NGSPA) National Championships commenced on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at the Sportsmen's Field Trial Association Grounds in Grovespring, Missouri. With over 225 entries, this year's Nationals once again set the standard as the premier GSP event in the country, drawing top competitors and showcasing the very best our sport has to offer. We were especially pleased to welcome several new participants this year and look forward to their continued involvement.

From start to finish, the Championship reflected the strength, depth, and continued growth of NGSPA competition. While a few weather interruptions required minor adjustments, the event maintained its momentum and ran efficiently due to the coordination of the National Field Trial Committee and the dedication of our stake managers. The grounds provided excellent cover, and the quail proved strong and challenging, creating a fair and demanding test that rewarded true performance, endurance, and consistency.

This event continues to thrive because of the unwavering support of our sponsors. We extend our sincere appreciation to Purina Pro Plan, SportDOG, Garmin, and Dogs Unlimited for their continued investment in our championships and in the future of field trials. Their support, along with the generosity of our dog wagon and social hour sponsors, enhances not only the competition but the overall experience for everyone in attendance.

Hospitality remains a cornerstone of the Nationals experience. We are grateful to Shelia Davis for her outstanding catering efforts throughout the week, and to Rich Robertson for delivering a memorable steak dinner. We also extend our appreciation to Becky Dynkiewicz for her attentiveness in the kitchen and her ability to turn leftovers into a full-course meal for attendees. Each evening, participants gathered at the clubhouse, reinforcing the camaraderie and tradition that define our sport. We also thank our many dinner sponsors (2025 winners) for creating an atmosphere that made these moments off the field just as meaningful as those in competition.

We would like to recognize NGSPA President Keith Richardson for his continued leadership and commitment to advancing the organization. Under the direction of the NGSPA Board, the National Championships continue to evolve--growing in structure, competitiveness, and national recognition. That progress is the result of a shared vision and the collective efforts of many dedicated individuals.

A special acknowledgment goes to our stake managers, whose tireless work ensured each stake was run smoothly and professionally. Their preparation, communication, and attention to detail are essential to the success of this event. We also extend our appreciation to the National Field Trial Committee, especially Field Trial Secretary Lori Rezzardi, whose organization and precision behind the scenes kept every detail on track.

We are equally grateful to our judges, whose role is central to the integrity of our sport. Their time, experience, and commitment to fairness are critical in evaluating the high level of competition presented at the Nationals.

We were pleased to have Purina representative Terry Trzcinski in attendance on Saturday evening to present the Purina Handler of the Year awards to Dan DiMambro (Open) and Kirk Loftin (Amateur). Following the Handler of the Year awards, we presented the Dog of the Year awards to: Chicoree's Riden High Trixie (All-Age), owned by Rondal Alexander (accepting the award was handler Dan DiMambro); Macke's Jim Bob (Open Shooting Dog), owned by Abraham and Katelyn Macke; and Uodibar's Robbi Jo (Amateur Shooting Dog), owned by Sherri Tangsrud. Congratulations to all.

As we close out another successful Championship, we encourage continued involvement from our community. The strength of this event depends not only on competitors but also on volunteers willing to contribute their time and effort. Whether in the field, at the clubhouse, or behind the scenes, every role plays a part in maintaining the standard of excellence that defines the NGSPA Nationals.

On behalf of co-chairman Mark Wasserman and myself, we extend our sincere thanks to everyone who participated, supported, and traveled to Grovespring. Your dedication is what makes this event what it is today.
The 73rd NGSPA National Championships set a new benchmark, and we look forward to building on that success in 2027.

50th NGSPA National Amateur Shooting Dog Championship
By Dan DiMambro
The NGSPA National Amateur Shooting Dog Championship drew a competitive field of amateur handlers and shooting dogs, each tested over a course demanding a forward race, endurance, and precise execution on game. Presiding over the stake were judges David Russell and Aaron McAfee, tasked with sorting through a strong group of contenders.

Rising to the top was Macke's Jim Bob ("Jim"), owned by Abraham and Katelyn Macke and handled by Abe Macke. Jim Bob delivered a strong, forward race, consistently showing to the front with purpose and control. He was credited with finds at approximately 10 and 36, both handled in order. His performance was marked by a smooth, intelligent application and a clean finish, separating him from the field and earning him the National Championship.

Runner-up honors went to Monkeyshines Callme The Breeze ("Breezy"), owned and handled by Helmut Schoen. Breezy turned in a consistent effort, carding finds at 25, 35, and 40. She maintained a steady presence through much of the hour and handled her bird work with composure. A marked lapse late in the brace proved costly, but her overall body of work secured the runner-up position.

Several other dogs delivered noteworthy efforts. Snowy River's Power Punch, handled by Mark Verdoorn, put together a productive hour with multiple finds and a strong finish. Nike's Frozen Arrow, handled by Larry Metter, impressed with a classy, well-applied race and multiple finds. Two Ponds Blanco Roux, handled by Hank Lewis, remained competitive deep into the hour before coming up late. B D K's Sam I Am, handled by David O'Brien and ?? Bomer, notched multiple finds but was hindered by late bird work issues. Chisholm Creek's Speak Easy, handled by Mark Wasserman, also showed early promise.

The Championship once again highlighted the depth and competitiveness of the amateur shooting dog ranks, with both placements reflecting the level of preparation and execution required to win at the national level.

The club extends its appreciation to judges Russell and McAfee for their time and consideration, and to fellow stake manager David O'Brien for his efforts in helping see the stake through.

Grovespring, Mo., March 28
Judges: Aaron McAfee and David Russell
NGSPA NATIONAL AMATEUR SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP [One-Hour Heats] - 56 German Shorthairs
Winner-MACKE'S JIM BOB, F1703274, German Shorthair male, by Riden High Rudy-Cuttin Wilds Space Cowgirl. Abraham Macke, owner and handler.
Runner-Up-MONKEYSHINES CALLME THE BREEZE, F1699127, German Shorthair female, by Riden High Rudy-Cuttin Wilds Space Cowgirl. Helmut Schoen, owner and handler.

6th NGSPA National Amateur All-Age Championship
By Chris Young
Championship Recap
The NGSPA National Amateur All-Age Championship unfolded over two days of running, bringing together a talented field of handlers and bird dogs. With three braces running each morning and afternoon, the Championship tested consistency, bird work, and forward application across changing conditions and a demanding course.

Day 1: Setting the Bar
The Championship opened with Brace 1, where both "Joey" and "Knight" showed early ambition. Joey broke away with a forward race that at times stretched toward all-age application before settling into a shooting dog pattern. He recorded a find but was picked up after two unproductives. Knight complemented the brace with a determined shooting dog effort, also recording a find before being picked up after two unproductives.

Brace 2 saw "Zoe" handle the course with a composed shooting dog race, but two unproductives led to her being picked up. Her bracemate, "Trip," made an impressive breakaway showing strong all-age drive but failed to show to the front, resulting in an early tracker call.

Brace 3 proved highly impactful. "Rocky" delivered a powerful performance with a strong forward application and four finds through the middle of the hour. He finished in a controlled manner, completing a well-rounded and memorable bid. "Jet" supported the brace with two finds and an honor, showing resilience despite some inconsistency.

The afternoon braces continued to test the field. In Brace 4, "Tater" made an eye-catching breakaway and was quickly seen under a bird, showing early promise before being picked up. "Nakia" followed with a nice performance, recording five finds, though her forward consistency in her lines proved challenging at times.

Brace 5 featured two stylish all-age efforts. "Junior" put together a nice, consistent forward, classy on his game, recording a divided find and a non-productive while consistently presenting himself well. "Hewey" matched that effort with two finds, one of them divided, and a non-productive, maintaining a strong presence and connection throughout the hour.

Day 1 concluded with Brace 6, where "Mikey" broke away with strength and reach, showing a big race early and recording a find. After becoming somewhat lateral, he regained his forward push before his bid ended at Sycamore Bottom, and the handler elected to pull the tracker. "Winnie" worked into a steady shooting dog pattern after an uneven start, handling the course methodically before the handler elected to pick up late in the hour near camp.

Day 2 - Championship Push
Day 2 started with Brace 7 in the morning, where the field continued to be tested. "Squink" showed inconsistency early and was ultimately picked up after failing to honor. His bracemate broke away with a strong forward cast and was later found standing during relocation, but an issue during the process resulted in the handler electing to pick up.

In Brace 8, "Rebel" recorded a find during his time on the ground but had a shortened outing, with the handler electing to pick up. His bracemate, "Ace," was scratched.

Brace 9 saw "Becks" record a find but struggle to establish consistency on the ground, leading to an early pickup. "Robbie" was scratched.

In Brace 10, "Jackson" opened with a big, impressive cast and showed strong forward application early. After working through some heavier cover and briefly getting sticky, he regained his stride before being lost late in the hour, with the handler pulling the tracker.
"Sam" was lost shortly after the breakaway, ending his bid early.

Brace 11 brought a strong performance from "Woody," who made a big opening cast and demonstrated consistent bird work, being found standing to the front and again at time. His effort showed persistence and bird sense throughout the hour, which earned him the National Amateur All-Age Runner-up Champion.
"Nova" complemented the brace with a steady shooting dog performance, recording two finds and an honor while maintaining a consistent and composed presence.
Over two days, the Championship proved to be a true test of both dog and handler. The course rewarded forward application, clean bird work, and consistency.
Congratulations to champion Hewey, handled by Brandon Blum, and runner-up Woody, handled by Dayna Rusciano.

NGSPA National Amateur Championship (standing): Chris Meyer (judge), Sarah Hayes (judge), Brandon Blum, Robin Lambourn, Anthony Rusciano, Dayna Rusciano, and Chris Young. (Kneeling): Mark Wasserman with B M B's Freeloader and Kirk Loftin with High Standing Cuttin Edge.

Judges: Sarah Hayes and Chris Meyer
NGSPA NATIONAL AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIP [One-Hour Heats] - 22 German Shorthairs
Winner-B M B'S FREELOADER, F1678664, German Shorthair male, by B M B's Free Ride-Hightailing Saddle's Mandolin. Brandon & Jennifer Blum, owners; Brandon Blum, handler.
Runner-Up-HIGH STANDING CUTTIN EDGE, F1675198, German Shorthair male, by Slick's Cuttin Wild-C L K's Point Me The Way. Anthony & Dayna Rusciano, owners; Dayna Rusciano, handler,

67th NGSPA National Futurity
By Harvey Franco
The 67th running of the NGSPA National Futurity delivered a memorable performance from Brace 10A and 10B, where two exceptional young competitors rose above the field in a display of speed, style, and determination.

The 2026 first-place Futurity winner, MSPW A Need For Speed ("Needa"), a young female owned by Keith and Bobbi Richardson and handled by Dan DiMambro, broke away with explosive energy and immediately set the tone. At her side was a proven contender, second-place All N's Southern Justice ("Mugsey"), owned by LaCinda Orndorff and handled by Jody Orndorff. From the outset, it was clear this brace would be something special.
Both dogs surged into Course 3 with purpose, showing impressive stride and forward application. Their runs mirrored one another--aggressive, intelligent, and driven--as each worked to outpace the other to the next objective. Scouts moved quickly, handlers pressed forward, and anticipation built as both dogs disappeared momentarily, only to reappear, driving ahead and maintaining command of the course.
At the five-minute mark, Needa capitalized on her momentum, pinning down game and producing a single quail in strong, clean flight. It was a polished piece of work that underscored her natural ability and composure. Just two minutes later, Mugsey answered with authority. Found on point at 7, he delivered a stylish, broke find that matched the intensity of the moment.
As the brace unfolded, both dogs continued to distinguish themselves with independent hunting and forward patterning. Their separation from the pack became unmistakable. Then, at 17, Mugsey once again demonstrated his class, standing tall on point and producing game with an impeccable, broke performance.

In the end, it was a showcase of two outstanding Futurity contenders. Both Needa and Mugsey finished strong, forward, and convincing--clearly securing first and second placements in this prestigious renewal of the National Futurity.
Third-place competitor Uodibar's Lonestar God of War ("Ares"), owned by Kirk Loftin and handled by Dan DiMambro, delivered a notable performance. Breaking away past Horse Killer Hill and heading toward Sycamore Bottom, Ares quickly made game contact through a strip of cover that opened into the next clearing.
Ares continued moving forward, briefly disappearing from view before being sighted again near the double barns, skillfully maneuvering through the thicket. His handler successfully rounded him up at the four-way crossing, allowing Ares to continue his course.
After review, the judges awarded Ares third place for his performance in the 69th running of the NGSPA National Futurity.

NGSPA National Futurity: Keith and Bobbi Richardson, Dan DiMambro, Chris Meyer (judge), Sarah Hayes (judge), Joe Orndorff, and Kirk Loftin. (Kneeling): Rich Robertson with MSPW A Need For Speed, Cindy Orndorff with All N's Southern Justice, and Sherry Tangsrud with Uodibar's Lonestar God of War.

NGSPA NATIONAL FUTURITY - 31 German Shorthairs
1st- MSPW A NEED FOR SPEED, F1722956, German Shorthair female, by High Standing Cuttin Edge-Chicoree's Riden High Trixie. Keith & Roberta Richardson, owners; Dan DiMambro, handler.
2d-ALL N'S SOUTHERN JUSTICE, F1730702, German Shorthair male, by All N's Cuttin A Blue Streak-All N's Southern Comfort. Joe Ordorff, owner and handler.
3d-UODIBAR'S LONESTAR GOD OF WAR, F1723003, German Shorthair male, by Uodibar's Lover Boy-Stoney Hill's Light It Up. Kirk Loftin, owner; Dan DiMambro, handler.

73rd NGSPA National All-Age Championship
By Keith Richardson, Co-Stake Manager
The 73rd running of the NGSPA National Championship was a successful event where participants enjoyed their time, exhibited notable sportsmanship, and were met with near-perfect weather. We received approximately 2 inches of rain over a seven-hour period late one evening and were surprised to find the courses and creek crossings nearly dry the following day. We drew 41 dogs and had 41 starters. Last year, we drew 42 dogs but had a few scratches.

Attendance typically declines following the Futurity, and the National Championship has fewer people available to assist. We are especially thankful to those who gave their time to ensure a successful event. Unlike past years, dinner was served at the clubhouse every night. A special thank you to Becky Dynkiewicz, who put together a wonderful dinner with the help of Bobbi and Keith Richardson. One evening featured a surprise 60th Anniversary dinner celebration for Keith and Bobbi Richardson, conceived by Sherri Tangsrud with Becky's outstanding support. The clubhouse was beautifully decorated, complete with champagne, a nicely decorated cheesecake, and an excellent meal. The final evening featured a delicious fajita dinner, courtesy of last year's winner, David O'Brien.

There was a record number of bird finds thanks to the diligence and hard work of our bird planters, Anthony Rusciano and Rich Robertson, who have developed a strong understanding of the best planting locations over the years. The important task of running the dog wagon was handled by Anthony Rusciano, Rich Robertson, David O'Brien, and Joe and LaCinda Orndorff. Bobbi Richardson drove the Polaris, which was frequently used for transporting dogs. We also thank Helmut Schoen, who marshaled the first day until everyone became comfortable with the course.

We extend our appreciation to our judges, Steve Auxier (Lincoln, Nebraska) and Gailen Cooper (Hazlehurst, Mississippi), who spent four days in the saddle evaluating our dogs--a selfless commitment to the sport. A huge thank you goes to our sponsors--Purina Pro Plan, SportDOG, Garmin, and Dogs Unlimited--who are vital to the success of this National Championship. Purina contributed product and hosted a fantastic steak dinner, and their nutrition program is used by many of our top competitors.

The Running
Stoney Hill's Pinnacle Dee ("Dee"), handled by Kirk Loftin and owned by Larry and Kirk Loftin, was named champion. Dee ran in Brace 14B and recorded her first find at 12 before Horse Killer Hill, followed shortly by a back. She demonstrated a strong race with excellent style and intensity on her birds, paired with an attractive, fast gait. Dee hunted the cover without relying on the roads and was found standing at time. She required little handling, no hacking, and minimal scouting.

Twin Creeks Running Rocky ("Rocky"), handled by Kirk Loftin and owned by Larry and Kirk Loftin, was named runner-up. Rocky ran in Brace 20A on Course 1 and recorded six finds. His first find came on the big line before the road crossing. At 18, he was located on the left side of Davis Bottom and brought around to the right side, where he was found pointed at 23. His next find was produced on the backside of the Island Field at 37. He finished in the field at the top of Horse Killer Hill with finds at 53 and 60. The judges noted his style on birds and his ability to complete his work without aggressive scouting. The champion displayed a faster gait.

Other Notable Performances
(Carried by the judges for an extended time)
Brace 4A - P W Ben There Done That ("Ben"), handled by Rich Robertson Jr. and owned by Keith and Bobbi Richardson, recorded three finds at 20, 28, and 50. He disappeared to the front and was found standing with classic style, including two "dug up" finds. He ran a big all-age race, consistently to the front, finishing strong. Judges noted that he marked flight.
Brace 8A - BMB's Supernova ("Nova"), handled by Brandon Blum and owned by Brandon and Jennifer Blum. Nova was carried for a considerable time and recorded four finds at 5, 22, 32, and 43. She maintained a good forward race, with all finds well to the front. No scouting was required, and judges commented she appeared to be on "autopilot." Her finds often came after being out of sight and then found standing. Her style was very good, though her finish was not as strong as the rest of her race.

Brace 12B - High Standing Cuttin Edge ("Woody"), handled by Dan DiMambro and owned by Anthony and Dayna Rusciano, recorded finds at 14, 28, and 59. His finds were often pointed from a distance, demonstrating a superior nose. He showed excellent style and strong application to the course, running a big all-age race and finished, found standing at time.

The Rest of the Dogs
Brace 1A - Ream's Winnie ("Winnie"), handled by Brandon Blum and owned by Kaitlyn Ream, had two finds, marked on the second, and was picked up early. Brace 1B - Slaterock's Mountain Heart ("Rommel"), handled by Dan DiMambro and owned by James Dynkiewicz, had two finds, was gone a long time, and the tracker was requested.

Brace 2A - P W Race To The Front ("Raycee"), handled by Rich Robertson Jr. and owned by Keith and Bobbi Richardson, was gone from cast off. Brace 2B - Uodibar BDK's Code of Honor ("Cody"), handled by Keith Gulledge and owned by Brooks and Mary Carmichael, had one UP, two finds, and the handler picked up.

Brace 3A - P W That Was Then This Is Now ("Nova"), handled by Rich Robertson Jr. and owned by Keith and Bobbi Richardson, had two finds and a big race, but was lost at 58. Brace 3B - Heafner's Brilliant Brutus ("Brutus"), handled by Jason King and owned by William Heafner, had two finds, a back and a UP, but his run was not all-age.

Brace 4A - Ben was covered above. Brace 4B - Red Oaks Sunshine Von Heidbrink ("Sonny"), handled and owned by Jason King, had a divided find, two UPs, and the handler picked up.

Brace 5A - Prairie Wind Lily In The Field ("Lily"), handled by Dan DiMambro and owned by Keith Richardson and Bobbi Richardson, had one find and failed to back. Brace 5B - Fannie's Game Over Dude ("Junior"), handled by Keith Gulledge and owned by David O'Brien, had two finds and a back but made too much use of the roads.

Brace 6A - Hi-Tailyn Skye ("Skye"), handled and owned by Scott Bodenstab, had two finds, and the handler picked up. Brace 6B - Monkeyshines Callme The Breeze ("Breezy"), owned by Helmut Schoen and handled by Dan DiMambro, had a back, and then the handler picked up.

Brace 7A - Quijano's W D Forty Rusty ("Rusty"), owned by David Quijano and handled by Josh Nieman, had four finds, but two were divided. He had a back at time. He was forward but was hurt by his divided finds. Brace 7B - Uodibar's Robbi Jo ("Robbi"), handled by Kirk Loftin and owned by Sherri Tangsrud, had a back and four finds with two being divided. She had a good finish, but checked in too much.

Brace 8A - Nova was covered above. Brace 8B - In-Country's Apache ("Patch"), handled by Dan DiMambro and owned by Chris Young, was picked up by the handler.

Brace 9A - B M B's Freeloader ("Hewey"), handled and owned by Brandon Blum, had four finds, but they were right off the path. He had a good race. Brace 9B - P W The Real Deal ("Deal"), handled by Rich Robertson Jr. and owned by Keith and Bobbi Richardson, had two finds, a back and a UP.

Brace 10A - A O Tripps To Win ("Tripp"), handled by Josh Nieman and owned by Alan Davison, was picked up. Brace 10B - Outbak's How You Doin ("Joey"), handed and owned by Larry Bradley, had a back one find and was picked up due to heat.

Brace 11A - Hi Tailyn Nakia ("Nakia"), handled and owned by Scott Bodenstab, was picked up. Brace 11B - H C K's Clowns Last Straw ("Jet"), handled and owned by Sam Hare, was picked up.

Brace 12A - Red Oaks Lucifers Lucky Lucy ("Lucy"), handled and owned by Jason King, was picked up. Brace 12B - Woody was covered above.

Brace 13A: Hongo's Layla ("Layla"), handled by Joe Orndorff and owned by Kathleen Malone, was picked up. Brace 13B: Heafner's Hi-Tailyn Pistol ("Pistol"), handled by Jason King and owned by William Heafner, was also picked up.

Brace 14A: B D K's Molly's Game ("Molly"), handled by Keith Gulledge and owned by Brooks Mary Carmichael, had two finds, one UP and a moderate race. Brace 14B: Dee was named champion and reported above.

Brace 15A: Lambourn's Surface Air Missile ("Sam"), handled by Josh Nieman and owned by Robin Lambourn, was picked up. Brace 15B: Stoney Hill's NK Deadman's Hand (Ace), handled and owned by Kirk Loftin, was also picked up.

Brace 16A: AO Llano Action Jackson ("Jackson"), handled by Josh Nieman and owned by Alan Davison, was picked up. Brace 16B: Uodibar's Back In The Game ("Dakota"), handled and owned by Kirk Loftin, was also picked up.

Brace 17A: Chicoree's Riden High Trixie ("Trixie"), handled by Dan DiMambro and owned by Rondal Alexander, had two finds, and the tracker was requested. Brace 17B: B D K's Fire Chief ("Chief"), handled by Keith Gulledge and owned by Jake Phipps, had three finds but made too much use of the roads.

Brace 18A: Snowy Rivers So Far So ("Sophie"), handled by Kirk Loftin and owned by Mike Kindler, was picked up. Brace 18B: P W Lightening Bolt (Bolt), handled by Rich Robertson Jr. and owned by Keith and Bobbi Richardson, was picked up. Brace 19A: Heafner's Hi-Tailyn Gunner ("Gunner"), handled by Jason King and owned by William Heafner, was also picked up.

Brace 19B: Texas Hot Potato ("Tater"), handled by Keith Gulledge and owned by Kirk and Terry Bomer, went with a bird. Brace 20A: Rocky was named runner-up and covered above.
Brace 20B: Texas Preacher Man ("Mikey"), handled by Keith Gulledge and owned by Kirk and Terry Bomer, had a find and a back, but was picked up.

Brace 21A: Heafner's Hi-Tailyn Bullet ("Bullet"), handled by Jason King and owned by William Heafner, had a find and went with a bird on the second. Brace 22B was a bye.

General Comments by the Judges
There were plenty of birds by which to judge the dogs, which had not always been their experience on these grounds. They were impressed with the excellent sportsmanship displayed.
by the competitors. The trial was well organized, and there was a lot of camaraderie and people helping out. All in all, they felt the National Championship was a class event.

NGSPA National Championship: Steve Auxier (judge), Keith Richardson, Kirk Loftin, Bobbi Richardson, Gailen Cooper, Sherri Tangsrud with Stoney Hill's Pinnacle Dee, and Rich Robertson with Twin Creeks Running Rocky.

Judges: Steve Auxier and Gailen Cooper
NGSPA NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP [One-Hour Heats] - 41 German Shorthairs
Winner-STONEY HILL'S PINNACLE DEE, F1694168, German Shorthair female, by Twin Creeks Running Ruger-P J Wildfire's Little Lexi. Larry & Kirk Loftin, owners; Kirk Loftin, handler.
Runner-Up-TWIN CREEKS RUNNING ROCKY, F1685652, German Shorthair male, by Twin Creeks Running Ruger-P J Wildfire's Little Lexi. Kirk Loftin, owner and handler.

56th National Shooting Dog Championship
By: Alex Jacocks & Mark Wasserman
The 56th running of the National Shooting Dog Championship proved to be another outstanding display of talent, determination, and top-tier competition, drawing a strong field of 46 exceptional dogs from across the country. Judged by Alex Jacocks and John Bonner, the stake was conducted with a high standard of professionalism befitting a national championship.
The trial faced early challenges, as weather played a role, with rain delays cutting into a half-day of running on day two. Despite this setback, the stake maintained its momentum, and the grounds ultimately provided fair and competitive conditions. The quail held well, offering ample opportunity for dogs to demonstrate their abilities, and the overall quality of performances throughout the field made for difficult and thoughtful decisions by the judges.

Taking top honors as champion was O B's Stick in the Mud ("Stick"), owned by David O'Brien and expertly handled by Keith Gulledge. Stick delivered a commanding and forward race that immediately set him apart from the field. Covering ground with purpose and intelligence, he maintained consistent application throughout his hour. Six outstanding finds highlighted his performance, each handled with precision and style. While his race was expansive, it remained completely under control, requiring minimal scouting by Robbi Gulledge, a testament to both his training and natural ability. His bird work was flawless from start to finish, marked by intensity, composure, and impeccable manners. It was a performance worthy of a national title.

Earning the runner-up position was P W Evolution's Recreation, owned by Keith and Bobbi Richardson, and handled by Richie Robertson. Known as "Spike," this dog put together a strong and polished performance featuring a forward, well-balanced race complemented by four excellent finds and two stylish backs. His work on birds was consistently sharp, demonstrating textbook manners and composure under pressure. The judges noted his intensity on point. Spike's effort stood out in a highly competitive field and earned him well-deserved recognition as runner-up.

Several other dogs turned in noteworthy performances, keeping them firmly in contention and contributing to the depth and quality of this championship. Among those were: Snowy Rivers Power Punch, owned by Harlan Higginbotham and handled by Chase Verdoorn; Mack's Jax Black Label, owned by Katelyn Macke and handled by Dan DiMambro; and P P P's Hammerin' Hollywood, owned by Jake Phipps and handled by Josh Nieman. Each of these contenders delivered high-caliber performances, showcasing the strength and competitiveness of today's shooting dog field.

In summary, the 56th National Shooting Dog Championship was a true testament to the excellence of the sport. From challenging weather conditions to a deep and talented field, the event highlighted the dedication of owners, handlers, and dogs alike. Performances throughout the stake reflected the continued advancement and quality of shooting dogs nationwide, leaving no doubt that the future of the sport remains strong.

Judges: John Bonner and Alex Jacocks
NGSPA NATIONAL OPEN SHOOTING DOG CHAMPIONSHIP [One-Hour Heats] - 47 German Shorthairs
Winner-O B'S STICK IN THE MUD, F1687879, German Shorthair male, by B D K's Sam I Am-B D K Allie's Miss Sassy Pants. David O'Brien, owner; Keith Gulledge, handler.
Runner-Up-P W EVOLUTION'S RECREATION, F1666903, German Shorthair male, by Evolution's Primo Creation-P W Derailed. Keith & Bobbi Richardson, owners; Rich Robertson Jr., handler.

NGSPA National Open Shooting Dog Championship: John Bonner (judge), Mark Wasserman, Keith Gulledge, Andy Daugherty, and Alex Jacocks (judge). (Kneeling): Robbi Gulledge with O B's Stick In The Mud and Rich Robertson with P W Evolution's Recreation.

Dogs of the Year Awards: Mark Wasserman, Dan DiMambro, Katelyn Macke, Abraham Macke, Kirk Loftin, Sherri Tangsrud, and Anthony Rusciano.

Open Handler of the Year Award: Keith Richardson, Dan DiMambro, and Terry Trzcinski.