Charity sheepdog trials at Magheramorne

Sheepdog Trials enthusiasts from across Northern Ireland and further afield gathered at Sam and Linda Gault’s farm, Ballylesson Road on Saturday to take part in the Magheramorne Charity Sheepdog Trials.
By The Newsroom
Published 16th Aug 2014, 09:00 BST
Jill Davidson, Phyllis Gilliand, Edith Crawford and Linda Gault at the Magheranorne Charity Sheepdog Trials. INLT 33-676-CONJill Davidson, Phyllis Gilliand, Edith Crawford and Linda Gault at the Magheranorne Charity Sheepdog Trials. INLT 33-676-CON
Jill Davidson, Phyllis Gilliand, Edith Crawford and Linda Gault at the Magheranorne Charity Sheepdog Trials. INLT 33-676-CON

Almost 60 handlers and dogs took part in the all day event in bright sunshine on a hillside overlooking the scenic Gleno valley.

Dogs were sent off by their handlers to collect four sheep from a distance of almost 300 yards and proceeded to bring the sheep back to the handler, through a number of gates and into a pen, finishing off with separating the sheep into two lots of two sheep each, all in a set time.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

In sheepdog trials the dog is controlled by a whistle or by calls from the handler. The judge awards points for each activity.

Top prize with first place in the Open Competition was won by Donegal handler James McCloskey and his six year old sheepdog Kim.

The event was in aid of Crohn’s sufferers in St Thomas Hospital in London. Robert Crawford of Maghermorne organised the event, and the judge for the day was Mike Field from Cullybackey. Susan Kelly acted as starter and Linda Gault distributed the prizes.

Related topics:Northern IrelandDogs