Pre-Trial Set Up & Trial Time

A list of basics... a work in progress.

Pre-Trial Set Up

Course Set Up

Currently there are as many different ways to set up a cattle trial course as there are hosts - big field/pasture courses with handlers remaining stationary, cross-country trials with handlers traveling with dog and cattle, chore trials requiring handler/dog teams to move cattle around a ranch setting, arena trials, feedlot trials and the list goes on.

In all instances, have the course(s) set up (or outlined) well in advance of the handlers' meeting. The primary consideration when setting courses is the safety of all - animals and human. Don't forget to give a considerable amount of forethought to perimeter areas that may fill with spectators (with big, bright shade umbrellas, busy children and the like), vendor tents, vehicles and the like.

The goal should be to set up a safe course with a focus on avoiding situations where, for example, a dog trailer or sponsor banner is absent in the morning, only to appear in the afternoon in a location that could adversely affect a run in progress.

Official Location

If possible, locate Officials, such as judges, clerks, scorekeepers, timers, etc. in a private area where they will be protected from weather and able to concentrate on the job at hand, rather than a busy area where spectators may feel compelled to ask questions.

Water

Ensure that there are water tanks available for the dogs going on/coming off course, and that they are situated in an area that will allow for freshening the water without flooding a walkway or threatening a power supply.

Trial Time

Handlers' Meeting

Start on time. If possible, ask handlers to hold questions until the end of the handlers' meeting (most often, the meeting will answer most questions, negating the need for individual responses).

Trial Start

Again, start on time.