Hastings, MI HZP Test Results (Sept. 14, 2024)

The GLC hosted our third consecutive HZP in Hastings, Michigan this year.

Chapter member Kim Beach and her husband Joe graciously allowed us to use their property again this year for another successful fall puppy test. These testing grounds have turned out to be consistency good with nearby access to drag fields and absolutely fantastic water. Their large pole barn acts as a terrific gathering place to enjoy lunch and read scores at the end of the day.  

Unfortunately, the weather was hot and dry on test day with little wind. These conditions made judging the dogs very challenging and time consuming. Pointing work was especially slow as dogs needed to be cooled off between runs. 

We again employed the "shot bird" method of testing which replaces the feather game drag. The dog must do a free search and retrieve of a freshly shot game bird per VZPO Sec. 15(2). This method works great. We have found it slightly speeds up the test but, more importantly, we do not need nearly as large game drag fields (which can be challenging to find here this time of year). 

All judges and volunteers put in a very long day. Everyone started well before sunrise and due to heat and PAPK computer trouble ended long after dark. Many did not arrive back at home until after midnight. We truly appreciate all the hard work, travel and hours our volunteers put in. 

We would like to thank test director Jim Smith and Test Coordinator Tom Shook for organizing the event. Dan Carlisle, Ron Figler and Jim Smith graciously served as judges. We are also very excited to have had Chapter member Josh Logan as an apprentice judge.

Finally, we would especially like to thank out-of-chapter judge Ron Figler for stopping in Michigan to judge our test on his way out the the 2024 Armbruster. Ron also lent us the use of his camera to capture some quality pictures of the event. 

Test Results 

1 = Track
2 = Nose
3 = Search
4 = Pointing
5 = Cooperation  

Saturday, September 14, 2024