The 126th National Field Trial Championships for Bird Dogs is Underway!
The 126th National Field Trial Championships for Bird Dogs kicked off this morning, February 10th, at Ames Plantation in Grand Junction, Tennessee. The competition features some of the finest bird dogs and handlers, and the excitement is already building! Here's your update on the first day of action:
Morning Brace (Release at 8:01 AM, 37° and Cloudy)
Erin's Perfect Storm ("Colt")
Handler: Luke Eisenhart
Owner: Brad Woodie
Colt, a five-year-old white, orange, and ticked pointer, is making his second appearance at the Nationals. Last season, he achieved four finds before being lost two hours and forty minutes into the run. Colt has had a stellar year, claiming victories at the Missouri OAA and the Masters Open Quail Championship. Bred by Sean Derrig, Colt inherits his lines from Chelsea's Thunderbolt and Erin's Bet On Me.
Rebel Cause ("Gus")
Handler/Owner: David Williams
Gus, a six-year-old white liver and ticked pointer, is making his debut under the new qualifying rules. Bred by David Williams, Gus boasts lineage from Dominator's Rebel Heir and Rebel Maiden.
Both dogs finished the three hour course and delivered stellar performances, setting a high standard for this year's competition.
Afternoon Brace (Release at 1:11 PM, 48° and Partly Cloudy)
BMB's Free Ride ("Lewey")
Handler/Owner: Brandon Blum
Photo of Owner/ Handler Brandon Blum and BMB's Free Ride. Photos Courtesy of Brandon Blum
Lewey, a nearly eleven-year-old German Shorthaired Pointer, is a seasoned competitor with an incredible legacy of 41 championships, including twice taking the NGSPA National Title. Bred by Matthew Smith, Lewey comes from legendary lines—Kimber Tactical and Time to Pay The Piper.
His experience and skill shine through as he takes on the field with determination as the first German Shorthair Pointer to contend in this year's Championship..
Bonner's Hot Rize ("Bud")
Handler: Patrick Siebels
Owner: John Kampeter
Bud, a rookie contestant, boasts an impressive lineage from Miller's Speed Dial and Miller's Martha White (a pairing that also produced contender Bonner's Bullet Proof). With a winning history, including the 2021 American Quail Classic, Bud brings youthful energy and drive to his debut run.
Stay Updated
Follow the brace-by-brace synopsis for detailed updates and insights on all the action at Ames Plantation's website: https://www.amesplantation.org/2025-brace-by-brace-synopsis
Thank you to the competitors, handlers, and dedicated supporters who make this event such a celebration of skill, camaraderie, and tradition. Stay tuned for more updates as this thrilling championship unfolds!
*Dog details and profiles compiled by Steeple Bell. Time of release and weather documented by Ames Plantation.
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