First time handling jitters

[andyhilt27]

Well I am off to get into the ring for the first time today. I am a bit nervous. There are more bitches at this show than I wanted to compete aginst since this is my first time in the ring. It is not a major but there are still 12 bitches today. Eva is in the 12-18 month class.

I was making my checklist, and I made sure to put Eva on it. I could imagine driving all the way there and not having the dog with me.:D Wish me luck!

[Sonquest]

Good Morning Andy!
Take a deep breath and smile like you know that you have the best bitch in the ring! :) Pay attention to the judge and Ava!! :D The competition will take care of itself!! :eek::eek:
A check off list is good....and since you only have one dobe, you're good. I had a friend who let her husband load her dogs while she showered and did not realize till she was at the show that he had loaded the wrong one!!! :eek::confused::D

HAVE FUN and report back!!:p

Tina

[andyhilt27]

Good Morning Andy!
Take a deep breath and smile like you know that you have the best bitch in the ring! :) Pay attention to the judge and Ava!! :D The competition will take care of itself!! :eek::eek:
A check off list is good....and since you only have one dobe, you're good. I had a friend who let her husband load her dogs while she showered and did not realize till she was at the show that he had loaded the wrong one!!! :eek::confused::D

HAVE FUN and report back!!:p

Tina

Oh blame it on the husband!!! :D:DSorry ladies....we aren't the most organized. We often "hear" the complete opposite of what you say to us. So write it down for us!:D:D

[Sheila]

Hi Andy
Good luck at the show! Let us know all about your first time in the ring experiences<G>

Sheila

[andyhilt27]

it could have been worse....Eva deserved more of a look from the judge for winners bitch but such is life. Not her fault. Mainly mine. He knew it was my first time in the ring. He really didn't give me much of chance to stack her let alone look at her. there is tomorrow though.

[Elaine]

Andy,

Remember, all good things take time… Rome wasn’t built in a day, a journey of a thousand miles starts with the first step… these shows are your “first steps.” Enjoy the process. Relax, clear your mind, be calm, focus on Eva. Before you even walk into the ring, take three deep breaths and remember to exhale. Whatever happens, remain calm… think “smooth.” Even if you trip over the judge and fall flat on your face, act like it was part of the plan.

Do not stare at the judge, focus on how spectacular Eva looks. And, have fun.:)
-Mom

[andyhilt27]

Eva showed well today. Most likely because I was NOT on the lead. She stood out. For good reasons. She needs to lose a little more weight but I couldn't be happier with her overall. I haven't measured her lately but I think she may at the upper end in terms of height. She held her topline well. Her movement was good and had a noble look to her. She needs to work on her free stacking a little bit. We will get there.

[andyhilt27]

Oh I forgot. Would she have a bette chancer if she were entered in the open class vs. the 12-18 month class?

[andyhilt27]

Ok, it is my turn to take in the ring again. Only because I have to. I will have a comedic report at the days end.

[Lou's mom]

Oh I forgot. Would she have a bette chancer if she were entered in the open class vs. the 12-18 month class?

I haven't been in the ring in years, and I'm sure folks more knowledgeable than me will chip in, but here's what I recall...

Depends on the judge, the individual dogs & handlers in each class, and what your goal is. For now I'd work on keeping it fun for her and helping you get past your jitters -- prolly 12-18. Once you both believe in your skills then move to open.

My 2c.... hope it helps.