Terriers Only Performance Summit

A RUMBLE IN THE ROCKIES

Shh-hh-h…Listen……There’s a rumble in the Rockies -- all the way to the TOPS! What is the buzz about TOPS? For one thing, we’re about to see history in the making -- The Terriers Only Performance Summit (TOPS) is a celebration that brings together all breeds of terriers (only) for three days of Obedience, Rally and Agility, with a fourth day of Earthdog. This Summit is a must for anyone who wants to be in the forefront of performance dog competition. Moreover, there has never been a single show offering this many activities, sanctioned and non-sanctioned, for terrier only participation. For over a year, a very active and enthusiastic group of terrier lovers has been planning an extravaganza of events for May 16 -19, 2008, to be held at Island Grove Park in Greeley, Colorado.

So, why not plan a Colorado vacation this May, if you and your dog do any performance event? Against the background of the Rockies, you’ll find a wonderful green site to park your RV or tent. You’ll go inside to do obedience and rally, as well as agility on packed dirt. You’ll go to beautiful Rist Canyon nearby for Earthdog, where permanent tunnels are set up. And that’s just the beginning!

The TOPS committee has devised a rating system to determine the high point terrier in each breed from the AKC competitions in Rally, Obedience and Agility. So you’ll find out who was TOPS dog in each breed for the trial, and overall TOPS dog.

You’ll also find testing for Canine Good Citizen, Therapy Dog International, and American Temperament Testing Society. You’ll find a terrier tricks contest as entertainment for the Saturday night Bar-B-Q. You can participate in Irish-owner Pat Mueller’s Kids Training Terriers workshop. There will be a photo contest. Above ground earthdog tunnels will be available to tryout, as well as obstacle lure coursing. And everyone can participate in the ever-popular terrier races.

Check out the website at www.tops2008.net/home.html. You’ll find wonderful photos. The premium will soon be posted there, and other information will be updated as plans are finalized.

Carlynn Ricks, carlynnricks@earthlink.net

TOPS Co-chair