10/31/2022
We had an amazing week at the 2022 U.S. Cocker National in Pinckneyville, Illinois. Unbelievable field of competitors, truly one of the most competitive Nationals I have ever been involved in.
Out of 72 dogs, 18 got to the water series and all 18 passed with flying colors, 18 back to the 5th series and not one dog eliminated itself, including FC Triple Ridge’s Little Minnie Joy, who had a great run and finished strong. Amazing competition!
Great grounds, nice weather, and excellent guns. The tough competition didn’t make it easy on the two judges, Mike Wallace and Mark Mercie, who did an outstanding job sorting out excellent dog work.
A big shout out to everyone involved in putting on this event. All said and done, coming back to NJ with the blue ribbon for this year’s 2022 National Champion and 2022’s U.S. High Point Open dog, Fallen Wings Cassandra of Triple Ridges “Sandy”, is something I never thought would be possible.
I am humbled by the support of all of my spaniel friends and family all over the U.S. and Canada. A special thanks to Rumi and Mike Schroeder for breeding Sandy, to Barry and Faye Littlewood for believing in me with their little white dog, and my training group for always putting up with me!
Years of hard work go into winning a National, and they are far and few between. It’s been 28 years since my last National win. And I’ve got to say, it feels damn good!
