World Sheepdog Trials underway in Co Down this week
🐕 240 sheepdogs and their handlers will be vying to be named ‘top dog’
Last updated 13th Sep 2023
The World Sheepdog Trials are underway in Northern Ireland for the first time today.
The global four-day event is happening at Gill Hall Estate, Dromore, County Down from the 13th to 16th September 2023.
Around 30,000 spectators from across the world are expected, with 240 competitors from over 30 countries competing for the World Champion title.
21 people have been selected to represent Ireland, including a grandfather and grandson duo from County Donegal.
Cool FM & Downtown Radio News is at the prestigious event where we have been hearing from County Wicklow competitor Paddy.
He said: “I seen some of the handlers that are running today and it’s a scary line up. I’ve seen people with the programme, but I haven’t looked because it’s a bit intimidating.
“My dog’s called Bruce, he’s about 9 and a half so this will be the last year for the Sheep dog Trails. He’ll retire and just be a farm dog after this.
“I love the comradery part and 20 years ago it wasn’t like that.
“We know so many people from all around the world. I’ve friends from South Africa he was down training with me there at the weekend. There was a Dutch guy he came down Monday morning and he did a little bit. So, we all kind of know each other even though it’s a worldwide crowd
“Today all I want to do is get qualified for the semi-final and try and get that one off.
“The semi-final is on Friday so then I’ll start thinking about finals and things.”
Over 30 countries will be represented at the event including the USA
30,000 spectators from around the world are expected to attend the four-day event
This is the first time that the prestigious event has been hosted in Northern Ireland
The World Sheepdog Trials will take place at Gill Hall Estate, Dromore, County Down.
Organisers had 16 months to pull the event together
Big numbers of spectators are expected at the event on Friday and Saturday
Around 240 dogs are expected to take travel to the event
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