NGSPA REGION 4
The NGSPA Region 4 event took place from May 6th to 10th at the Ionia Recreation Area in Ionia, MI. This year’s weather was nearly perfect for running bird dogs! The grounds were in excellent condition, and we extend our gratitude to all the clubs and individual volunteers who contributed their time to make this event successful. We would also like to acknowledge the support of the amateur and professional trial participants: Dan DiMambro, April Raber, Fred Ryan, Hank Lewis, Kirk Loftin, Sherri Tansgrud, Andy and Becky Dynkiewicz, and Marc McKinley. Also, a big thanks to Dick Lipski for bird planting the entire event. Becky was also a tremendous help in the kitchen and dog wagon support.
Judging this year’s events were David Russell, who judged the Open and Amateur Shooting Dog categories; Aaron McAfee, who judged the Open Shooting Dog and Open All Age stakes; and Justin Hess, who judged the Open All Age and Amateur Shooting Dog stakes. Thank you all for your time and dedication. Lastly, we would like to thank our generous sponsor for this event: Purina, whose support enhances our shared passion. Scott Johnson was in attendance from Purina.
Open Shooting Dog
The champion of the competition was Monkeyshine’s Call Me the Breeze, owned by Helmut Schoen and expertly handled by Dan DiMambro. Breezy delivered an outstanding performance, with several impressive finds and a forward-running style that captivated the judges. Her remarkable grace and impeccable manners on all her birds were evident, as she consistently powered to the front and was found standing strong each time she was released.
Claiming the runner-up spot was Uodibar’s Lover Boy, “Blue,” owned by Sherri Tangsrud and skillfully handled by Kirk Loftin. Blue impressed with four well-spaced finds during the hour, showcasing his strong racing abilities. He smoothly rimmed the fields with undeniable class, earning him the well-deserved runner-up title in the championship.
There were also three other dogs the judged highlighted, Ziggy owned and handled by Jessie Conroy, Lettie handled by Jessica Hann, and Roux handled by Hank Lewis.
Open All Age
This year’s champion was Hi N’s Allison Miranda, owned and handled by Kirk Loftin. During her hour-long brace, Allie displayed multiple impressive finds, running a consistent race that was easy to manage. Her style and behavior around birds were impeccable, earning her the top spot!
The runner up was Slate Rock’s Mountain Heart, owned by Andy and James Dynkeiwicz and handled by Dan DiMambro, also performed very well, finishing strong. Rommel had three finds throughout the hour but had one shortcoming that kept him from claiming victory.
Amateur Shooting Dog
The Amateur Shooting Dog Championship featured 18 dogs competing for the title. The winner received a $500 gift card, while the runner-up took home a $250 gift card—great prizes for the amateurs who dedicate so much to this sport.
This year’s champion was Stoney Hills Pinnacle Dee, owned and handled by Kirk Loftin. Dee showcased her style and manners during four impressive finds, gliding through the course and demonstrating maturity and intelligence with some outstanding maneuvers.
The runner-up was Hi N’s Secret Society, owned and handled by Hank Lewis. Stella performed a mature race, boasting several nice finds. Judges noted that the power and application of the dogs ultimately distinguished the two competitors from each other.
Derby Classic
This year’s Derby featured an impressive field of 12 dogs. The judges noted that on any given day, any dog could have emerged as the winner. The top three participants were:
1. 1st Place: Uodibar’s Lonestart Heat Seeker, “Artemis,” owned and handled by Kirk Loftin.
2. 2nd Place: Weideland’s Slate Rock Bronco, owned by Rebecca Dynkewicz and handled by Dan DiMambro.
3. 3rd Place: MSK’s Chicoree’s Easy Money, “Cash.” Handled by Dan DiMambro
Keep an eye on these young dogs; they have a bright future ahead!
Open all age winners Hi N’s Allison Miranda with Sherri Tangsrud and Slate Rock’s Mountain Heart with April DiMambro. Standing behind Kirk Loftin, Justin Hess, Dan DiMambro, Andy Dynkiewicz, Becky Dynkiewicz, Scott Johnson, and Marc Mckinley.
Amateur Shooting dog winners Sherri Tangsrud with Stoney Hills Pinnacle Dee David Russell, Kirk Loftin, Justin Hess. Missing from picture Hank Lewis and Hi N’s Secret Society.
Open Shooting Dog Winners Monkeyshine’s Call me the Breeze with April DiMambro and Uodibar’s Lover Boy with Sherri Tangsrud. Standing behind David Russell, Dan DiMambro, Kirk Loftin, Aaron McAfee, and Scott Johnson.
Open Derby Winners Sherri Tansgrud with Uodibar’s Lonestar Heat Seeker, Dan DiMambro with Weideland’s Slate Rock Bronco, April DiMambro with MSK Chicoree’s easy money. Standing behind David Russell, Kirk Loftin, Justin Hess, and Marc Mckinley.