Rotherham 18th October 2009

The Tyne teams went to play flyball in the big top at Rotherham for a very enjoyable weekends racing.

Winter flyball is always a little different, mostly run on rubber matting in sports centres or equestrian centres. However, Rotherham's flyball teams run their winter shows on grass in a lit marquee.

We had three division teams running, the Tailgunners, Tailspinners and the Titans and our starter dogs the Tinkers.

The Tailspinners were up first with Bruno, Floyd, Misty, Meg and Moi. The team enjoyed some close racing with everyone running well. Despite a controversial judging decision the team came a well earned 2nd.

The Tailgunners were in next and with a new team line up of Shadow, Cassie, Storm and Jack had some initial teething troubles but we soon sorted ourselves out and had some good racing to come 4th.

Then it was the turn of the Titans, first time in a marquee for most of these dogs and there was a cocker bitch in season at home so it was bound to be an entertaining day. The team started well with our Rottweiler Bruno running well and clearly enjoying running over 11" jumps. Then Bailey spotted the cocker in the other lane and just had to go check it out - hormones just took over!

Bailey ended up sitting most of the morning out and supporting the rest of the team. In the afternoon however, despite a momentary detour outside he got his paws back in order and ran great!

By this time the outside light had gone and the artificial lights cast a variety of shadows which Jake was not convinced about.

All in all the team ran well in a new environment. Best of all Bruno ran brilliantly and achieved the final points for his flyball dog award!!

Well done to Ali for all your hard work and perseverance!!

Finally it was the turn of our starter dogs who ran really well coming third.

We then judged and ring partied for the last division of starters and it was nice to see another new team running in the shape of Newton Heath.

A busy but good days racing! Well done to all!