1.10 Natural Field | Final Field Track in Phase I

Date: Aug 19, 2024
Track Layer: Lorie
Location: Field of Dreams, Browns Flat
Weather: Sunny, ~17C
Wind: No wind.
Track Lengths: 120 yds. and 240 yds.

Today marked a significant milestone as we headed back to the “Field of Dreams” for the last field track in Phase I. This wasn’t the end of our journey, though; we still have urban lawn and parking lot tracks to tackle before Phase I is complete. But for now, we focused on making the most of our final field day.

Rumor had some company today—her friend Paxton joined us for a couple of runs. Rumor had two long tracks on the schedule today: one 120 yards and the other a whopping 240 yards. Laying those longer tracks was no small feat—I have to admit, it was a little exhausting. I think it’s time I shape up alongside my dog!

But all that effort paid off. Rumor was brilliant today. On the first track, she was fast, with her head down the whole way. She went right down the track without missing a beat—or a hot dog! The second track was much the same. There were a couple of moments where she drifted a few feet off track, but she quickly found her way back on course. Watching her work today was so rewarding; it’s clear that she’s really getting the hang of this sport.

Evaluation: Rumor showed impressive focus and drive. Each time, she sniffed and pulled herself to the start line, hitting the track with enthusiasm. There was a lot of head-down work, and while I’m not sure her nose is in every footstep, that’s not necessarily what we’re looking for. Her head is definitely in the track, and she’s not air-scenting. She’s picking up her hot dog drops and moving on quickly. I’m also happy to report that my handling was really good today—I’m getting more comfortable with the process, and it’s showing in our performance.

As we move into the final round of Phase I, I’m excited to see how Rumor handles the urban lawn and parking lot tracks. If today was any indication, we’re in for some great progress ahead!