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by Hope Roberts

Judging Nationals

The following are some guidelines for review, consideration and discussion with your co- judges. The points have been identified through input from a number of Judges of previous Nationals and are meant to promote harmony and a smooth running event. They have been put together by a Judge Selection Committee under the direction and sanction of the NRCC. They are not intended to dictate what tests are to be run or how the dogs should be evaluated.

Guidelines

Read and understand the philosophy applied to Judging a National. Clearly the standards are different from that of an Open/Amateur Stake in a weekend trial. Callbacks should be generous and when there is uncertainty, benefit the dog and handler. This is better than reinstating dogs that were not included in the callbacks. The National is a week long event and every effort should be made to carry dogs well into the middle of the week. This will go a long way to facilitate the social events and provide workers, contributing to the overall success of the particular National.

Discuss with your co- judges how you want to resolve differences in opinion when setting the tests and evaluating the work. It may be agreed upon that any one Judge can insist on a callback or veto a test or some aspect included in a test. If guidelines are established before issues arise, it will assist in resolving those issues quickly, without hard feelings.

Time management is a key issue.. Set tests that start and finish on the same day, if at all possible. This may require an adjustment to the test after the test dog has been run and timed. The finish time should be estimated to allow for participation in the scheduled social events for that day. These add up to a timely completion of the National.

The difficulty of the tests should increase gradually over the week, culminating in some very challenging tests where there is room for all participating to have an opportunity to gain some ground. Save a single and very significant final test for the last day, anticipating completing the National in the early afternoon. This allows time for the proper celebrations in relation to the finalists and the eventual winner. To allow for this, give yourself an extra day when booking your flight home.

Avoid setting what could be called “Fatal Tests” in the early days of the National. By that we mean tests that will result in elimination of the dog. Examples are poison birds in conjunction with blinds or blinds set up in such a manner that the dog can round a corner and lose communication with the handler. Or, marks set up where a dog in trouble cannot be handled back to a fall. This suggestion is in concert with the National philosophy of giving everyone a chance to play on where possible. This is not to suggest these tests cannot be used later on when difficult tests can be expected.

Try and utilize a wide variety of concepts when setting your tests. Ensure the finalists are well rounded and capable of handling all situations. Be creative in your test design and in the use of terrain. Adequate elevation is very important and should allow all handlers to see their dogs and their dogs see them. This applies to both blinds and marks. Handler movement should be allowed within reason.

Tests should be set with an awareness of the impact on the dogs. Extreme weather or terrain should require you modify the demands on the dogs. Insist on the availability of cooling ponds and drinking water should temperatures dictate, and in extreme heat, try to include at least one retrieve through water. Common sense would suggest you avoid fox tail, spear grass or situations where dogs could suffer injury.

In the event of a complaint or protest, continue on with the trial unless otherwise directed by the Field Trial Committee. Complaints/ protests take considerable time to resolve and therefore the Trial should be continued while the matter is dealt with by the committee.

These guidelines are by no means all inclusive. It is suggested you and your co- Judges discuss those items you consider important. A review of all minor and moderate faults as outlined in the Rule Book will assist you in determining how you evaluate each dog’s performance. Try and establish agreement on how you plan on assessing potential faults. This pre-planning should facilitate a good working relationship and help to ensure a successful and smooth running event and an enjoyable experience for everyone.

Along with this correspondence, the NRCC is supplying their philosophy and some reading material on the subject of Judging, some of which you may find interesting.

The NRCC expresses our sincere thanks and appreciation for volunteering your time and providing us and all the competitors with your experience, common sense and ability. We know you will work co-operatively with your co-judges to provide fair and challenging tests for both dogs and handlers. Hopefully this will culminate in identifying a clear National winner and be an enjoyable experience for everyone.

Judging Fundamentals and Checklist

One Judge’s Perspective

The Philosophy of the National Retriever Trial

by Hope Roberts

On the Grounds Behavior and Conduct

  1. In the National Retriever Championship Stake, the Guidelines For Ethical Training at Nationals has been adopted. As much training may be done as required BEFORE entering the trial grounds or AFTER running a test. NO TRAINING may be done after observing a test until you have run. After a series has been officially set up by the judges, during the running of the stake, no competing dog shall, while on the grounds, be exercised, trained or worked with the exception of a bumper thrown by the handler and this only in an especially approved area and only for the purpose of exercising the dog.
  2. Any dog not entered in the stake and interfering with the running of the stake may be required to be removed.
  3. Exercise areas to be clearly defined.
  4. Rules on the failure to appear on line when called to be strictly enforced. It is a practise of some competitors to be late when they are No. 1 or 2.
  5. No dog to be allowed to watch any test having just run the test or not, thus eliminating confusion as to who has run and who has not and reducing the chance of dog fights.
  6. Rotation number will be 1/5 (20%) of the number of dogs that will run the next test. (If the calculation does not result in a whole number round up to the nearest whole number ie. if the calculation results in 10.2 round up to 11.)
  • Use the rotation number to count the number of running dogs after the previous starting dog to identify the next starting dog. (In the example below the next starting dog would be the 11th running dog after the previous starting dog.)
  • There shall be a minimum rotation of 3 dogs
  • No dog should be the starting dog more than once. (If the rotation identifies a dog that has already started once select the next running dog that has not yet started.)
  • Example:

If 51 dogs are called back to the next test, the rotation number will be 51 X 0.2 = 10.2 which is rounded up to 11.
The starting dog of the previous test was #33. Dog numbers 25, 27, 33, 34, 42, 44, 45 and 51 were not called back.
All other dogs between 25 and 55 were called back, therefore, dogs 26, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 43, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 52, 53, 54 and 55 will run the next test along with 28 others. #48 will be the starting dog for the next test as it is the 11th running dog after #33 the previous starter.

  1. The first scheduled test of the National will be announced. Each next scheduled test will be posted with callbacks. The procedure will help create fairness for all by eliminating possible competitive advantage for those involved in putting on the trial. Judges have no obligation to go ahead with a scheduled test as conditions may change.
  2. White clothing is not allowed in the gallery or behind the line.
  3. Please note that in order to qualify to run the National, the host club where you received your placing must be a paid up member of the NRCC in good standing

by Hope Roberts

Guidelines for Ethical Training at Nationals

The object of the National is to bring out the best performance.

To further this end:

  1. As much training may be done each day as required BEFORE entering the trials grounds or AFTER running a test. NO TRAINING may be done after observing a test until after you have run.
  2. Train with as many people as required, excluding any person who has been to the trial and observed the test in progress.
  3. Train on designated areas or ask permission on private property.
  4. Keep corrections away from the public eye and ear.
  5. Dispose of birds in a manner that will not effect public perception, or disrupt another training group.

It is our belief that once a test is viewed, any training which follows will be tainted and distorted by the viewing. Whether training alone or with a group, the viewing of the test will be reflected in what is done and how it is done. This influence is inevitable. Even if only the mannerisms of the handlers are influenced the test will be reflected. It well be reflected in the number of retrieves and whether the retrieves are short or long. It will be reflected in whether the retrieves are across the ditch, along the ditch, up the hill or down the hill, into the wind, crosswind, or downwind. Whether they be marks or blinds, whether “pattern work” sets up a mark or a bind, short or long, the test will be reflected. It may be reflected in so little as voice tone.

Any training done before actual viewing of the test is guesswork. Any training done after viewing is unfair advantage. This advantage is true even if the test is carried into the next day. When a test is carried to the next day the competitors have had the advantage of observing (or training prior to arriving at the trial) all the previous day’s work. Often there is also the advantage of partial call-backs. Any “disadvantage” of running the following day is outweighed by the advantage of knowing what the other dogs have done. Training overnight is an unfair advantage to late competitors.

Rotation is the means of neutralizing the draw. By and large it does a good job. Dogs which run early in one test will run late in the next test. Sometimes running early is best, sometimes late is best. One thing for sure, once you’ve seen the test, any training done is not fair competition.

The future of our great sport depends upon the ethical guidelines which we place upon ourselves. In the final analysis we are only competing against ourselves. We’re only winning or losing according to how we conduct ourselves.

When training at any time, caution should be taken to keep the image of field trails at a high level. Ask permission to train on private grounds. Keep corrections away from the public eye and ear and dispose of birds properly.

The object of the National is to bring out the best performance. The best performance involves every aspect of preparation and every part of ourselves. The winner is within.

by Hope Roberts

Guidelines for Hosting a National

Preferred Trial Dates

The national championship stake should be scheduled as follows:

  • National Stake -September or October

The trial should not be scheduled on a long weekend. The National normally starts on Monday and is typically six days long ending on Saturday. Consideration should be given to starting on Sunday to allow sufficient time for completion on Saturday. Completion on Sunday is sometimes required due to unavoidable delays and should be allowed for in scheduling of the trial.

Entries

The entry fee for National stakes is $275.00. Consideration may be given to fee increases in future years. Entries will be mailed to the Field Trial Secretary of the host club. Upon receipt of the necessary information from the host club, the premium list and entry forms will be drafted by the NRCC Secretary and posted on the Canuck Dogs website.

Judges

Potential judges are expected to review the Philosophy of the National Retriever Trial and confirm their qualifications and willingness to judge by completing the Judge Acceptance form.

Judges selected must meet all the requirements and have a have a majority of the votes as received by the NRCC Secretary, from a majority of member clubs in the nominating zone. After reviewing votes, qualifications and compatibility, the Executive Committee ratifies the judges.

Judges are to be amateurs, Canadian residents (one judge may be an American providing they meet the remainder of other requirements) and must be a C.K.C. member in good standing. Normally 2 judges will be selected from the zone not hosting the National. When a National is hosted in a zone that is not scheduled on the rotation, judges shall be selected from the scheduled, not actual host zone. When the judges have been selected, the Secretary of the National Retriever Club of Canada will secure their approval from the Canadian Kennel Club. The NRCC Secretary will also forward an official invitation to each of the judges.

Individuals must have judged at least five Licensed All-Age stakes within the past five years. Individuals must be presently active in the field trial game as evidenced by handling a dog in the All-Age stakes within the past five years. Overall experience and active involvement in the sport must be considered when making judge selection.

Accommodation, transportation and entertainment for the judges are the responsibility of the host club. Transportation costs are based on actual expenses, not to exceed economy class airfare. Judges will be expected to make their own travel arrangements and will be reimbursed by the host club. A pin will be given to each judge marked with the date of the trial and it is customary for the host club to give each judge a gift.

Judges will arrive 5 days prior to commencement of the National. Normal completion is Saturday, but they should be prepared to finish on Sunday if necessary due to conditions etc. It should be arranged that the judges will go over the trial grounds 3 full days setup and 1 day to rest up before the start of the trial and advise the Field Trial Marshal of their tests and their requirements in some detail in order to facilitate efficient handling of trial mechanics. The judges will want two set-up dogs available, together with throwers and birds for evaluating areas and tests. The judges should not use their own dogs as set-up dogs or test dogs. Judges will endeavour to use the tests designed during set-up.

At the conclusion of the trial the judges will sign the judges book for the CKC indicating the winner and top Amateur handled winner, if selected will be named at these trials.

The judges are to select a reserve to the winning dog, but such selection is not to be considered an official award. It is to be made only as a precaution should it be necessary to cancel the award to the winning dog. The reserve selection is to be marked in the judges’ book but no announcement or other recognition is to be made of such selection. If the top Amateur handled dog is selected, the judges are to select a reserve to the top Amateur handled dog, but such selection is not to be considered an official award. It is to be made only as a precaution should it be necessary to cancel the award to the top Amateur handled dog. Reserve to the top Amateur handled dog must be handled by an Amateur and have completed the 10th series. If no dog meets the criteria, no reserve to the top Amateur handled dog is selected and should it be necessary to cancel the award to the top Amateur handled dog, the NAFTCH title is not awarded. The reserve selection is to be marked in the judges’ book but no announcement or other recognition is to be made of such selection.

The NRCC Secretary handles all CKC details.

Selecting a Replacement Judge

Prior to setup

  • First Choice - In consultation with the Zone's Directors, select a qualified judge from the same Zone as the judge being replaced.
  • Second Choice - In consultation with the Zone's Directors, select a qualified judge from the alternate Zone.

After Setup has Begun

Immediate availability takes precedence. However, the above choices should be followed as closely as possible

Grounds

Should be selected well in advance by the host club. The land should provide a variety of cover and should be of sufficient size to permit moving to fresh ground for each land series. There should be adequate water available with good cover out from the shore to permit birds being thrown in cover. The area selected should reduce the amount of moving from one area to another to a minimum. Each area must be well marked by directional signs and the use of a map.

The host club is to select the grounds at least fourteen days in advance of the Championship Stake at which time they are to be closed to all dogs that might compete.

Liability Insurance

The host club should be sure it is covered by insurance for any liability for personal injury or property damage during the course of the National stake and include NRCC as a named insured on its policy. The NRCC provides third-party insurance coverage but each host club is responsible to ensure that it meets individual club requirements.

Start-up Loan

After the date and location of the trial have been set, the Letter of Undertaking has been signed and the preliminary budget has been submitted, the host club may apply to the Board of Directors for an interest-free loan usually $5,000.00 payable on or before the last day of the National, to help with preliminary trial expenses. The Loan Application is available on the NRCC website.

Loan Agreement

Sponsorship

The NRCC has established a memorandum of understanding with major sponsors for financial sponsorship of the National Open and National Amateur trials. The sponsorship agreements are subject to enhancement and will be reviewed annually. It is very important that host clubs fulfil their obligations for this sponsorship.

Funding

In addition to Corporate Sponsorship, the NRCC collects a $5.00 Fee for each dog run in any all aged stakes hosted by Member Clubs. This fee shall be collected by each member club at the time of their club events and submitted to the Treasurer of the NRCC. 100% of this funding will go directly to the National Host club.

Philosophy of the National Retriever Trial

Retriever trials, in the beginning, involved smaller numbers of dogs and less demanding tests. As years went by, the pressures of time, numbers and competition created a necessity for relatively quick elimination. Dogs whose performances, on that day, were of a high standard indeed won the ultimate placings. Good dogs, by virtue of a single inferior performance, might of necessity be dropped from competition. Running parallel to this problem was the spirit of competition among owners and handlers, which urged for a competition, which would declare an annual winner among winners - a National Champion for all Canada.

The passing of time has seen many changes in the National, and many differences of opinion have developed regarding the staging of the trial and the standards that should apply to the actual competition. Certain basic standards have become established. They are:

  1. The National Stake should comprise ten separate and distinct tests: five on land and five on water.
  2. It should be run over a period of five to 7 days.
  3. It should be run alternatively, in the various geographical areas defined by the club.
  4. The Field Trial Committee should represent, if possible, all geographical areas.
  5. There should be three judges, one from the host zone and 2 from the zone not scheduled to host the National, regardless of where the trial is actually held.
  6. Judges shall be amateurs whose experience in judging and handling dogs qualify them for the task.
  7. The CKC. Field Trial Rules and Regulations will apply, and special attention will be given to "On the Grounds Behavior and Conduct", for this is the "show place" of Canadian Retrievers.
  8. Whereas the present "host club" method of operating the trial is most practical at this time, it may become desirable to work towards the operation of the trial by a National Committee. Location of the trial should recognize the excellence of an area for promotion and operation of the best trial.
  9. The "Stake" should be recognized as The National Competition, a competition among champions, all of which have passed the qualifying tests. It should be appreciated that the minimum number of tests, over a period of 5 or more days, gives the opportunity of a broad testing of dogs in many circumstances, including terrain, weather, prolonged competition, and by three judges, each from a different geographical area.
  10. Much discussion and some controversy has taken place regarding elimination of dogs, and it is a fact that on occasion dogs have been eliminated early in the trial for faults no more serious than those committed later on in the trial by dogs permitted to complete all tests. It should be agreed that the National Stake is to select the best dog of those having completed all tests, over the five to seven days of the trial. Careful consideration should be given, therefore, to elimination of dogs early in the trial, for who knows what tomorrow may bring to the survivors? At the same time, it should be agreed that "Open" All-Age" standards must be met and time must always be considered in order to be practical in ensuring that the trial is completed in the time set aside for the trial. In any event, elimination before completion of two or three tests should be considered undesirable except for failure to complete all retrieves or for some other most serious fault, which causes virtually automatic elimination.
  11. It is an honour to be a finalist in the National Stake and finalists include the dogs completing the 10th series without an eliminating fault.

Trial Notification

The host club should send invitations, premium lists, entry forms and any other pertinent information or advertising regarding the trial to all owners of all qualified dogs by August 1st, for the National Retriever Championship Stake. Retriever Results will provide names of qualifiers as reported by trial-giving clubs.

Dogs which qualify at a trial held so close to the national stake as to make it impossible to enter the stake in the current year would be eligible to enter the qualified dog at the national stake the following year. Dogs qualifying in trials held in the 2 week period immediately preceding the National Retriever Championship stake and before the draw for the stake are qualified. The owner or agent must indicate their intent to the field trial secretary of the national stake. Any dogs qualified under this clause are at the owner's risk as to qualification.

Photographs

The host club is to arrange for a capable person to take individual photographs of all the competitors with their dogs, usually done the opening morning of the national. The photographer should have the photos available for the competitors to purchase by third day of competition, at the latest.

Catalogue

The catalogues should feature a picture of last year's winner and handler on the cover. A high quality production is recommended to maintain the standard. The NRCC Secretary will supply copies of the previous year's program and a picture of the previous year's winner for use in designing the cover. The programs may contain advertising and this is a useful source of revenue to help finance the trial. A minimum of one hundred souvenir programs, allowing for participants, spectators, judges, calcutta, workers, advertisers, NRCC and CKC. should be printed for a National.

General

Sample catalogues are available from the NRCC Secretary. Programs are usually half page size (i.e. 5.5" x 8.5") and bound together by staples or coils. Normally, 100 copies of the catalogue should be printed for a National.

Cover

The catalogue cover should include a photo of the previous year's winner(s) as well as a listing of the year, current national event, location, date and host club.

Title Page

The title page should include "Official Premium List", year, name of event, date, location, NRCC and club logos and CKC listing of officers.

Letters of Welcome

Letters of welcome and photographs from local dignitaries, NRCC and committee chairman are usually included at the beginning of the catalogue.

Judges’ Biography

A one page biography and welcome to competitors from each judge is provided near the beginning of catalogue. Judges should be contacted early for this information along with a photograph.

Listing of National Committee

Provide a listing of the national committee members, judges, official test dogs and handlers, honorary test dogs, etc.

Schedule of Events

Provide a schedule of events for the week including meetings and locations, banquets, vetting of bitches, hospitality information, trial information, worker parties and awards.

General Information

General information should be provided for explanation of titles and breeds, qualification requirements for competing dogs, on grounds behaviour and conduct, CKC caution, tips to the gallery, and winners of previous national trials.

Advertising

Paid advertising space is usually sold beforehand in order to raise additional revenue for the trial expenses. Advertisements are usually sold relative to size including business card, ¼ page, ½ page, and full page with special prices for inside and back covers.

Listing of Competitors

Based on the draw, each of the competitors are listed by number in the running order. Dogs should be listed by name including all recognized titles, registration number, breed, sex, date of birth, sire, dam, breeder, owner, owner address and handler. Four to five dogs are typically listed on each on each page. Spectators often make notes during the trial and it is beneficial to leave space on each page. The catalogue should include the proper titles recognized by CKC such as FTCH AFTCH instead of CFC and CAFC.

Callback Summary

A callback summary sheet is also beneficial for spectators and competitors and can be included near the end of catalogue.

Draw

The draw should be held fourteen full days before the first day of the National to permit the host organization adequate time to prepare for the trial. Females will be drawn with the males.

The draw is to be posted in the hospitality room when it opens at the National Retriever Championship Stake.

A copy of the running order should be sent to Canuck Dogs and the NRCC Webmaster for posting at least five days in advance of the trial commencing. It is recommended that the Running Order be posted on the NRCC Website prior to sending the catalogue to the Printer. This allows time for owners/handlers to correct errors before final printing.

Host clubs may request that the starting dog number be determined at the opening banquet.

Running Order

The running-order will be changed for each series, after the judges have done their callbacks. The Marshal will post the starting number for the 2nd through 10th series. The rotation for the remaining field of dogs will be rotated by 1/5th (20%). See duties of the Field Trial Marshal

Accommodation

A Director in the Zone will be required to ensure that accommodations meet NRCC's Standard.

Adequate motel or hotel or other accommodation should be arranged with one designated as the primary accommodations. As well, there should be a room for entertainment and another room available for the business meetings of the club. All room charges for judges, entertainment and business meetings are the responsibility of the host club. The banquet can be held at any suitable location. It is particularly important that arrangements be made for early breakfasts for contestants and judges.

Lunch Wagon

Arrangements must be made for breakfast and lunches on the trial grounds. The host club will be responsible to provide Judges meals on a daily basis.

Pre-Trial Training

Areas that are suitable for pre-trial training on land and water should be available. Birds should be made available for contestants to use at their own expense. Training and Trial Site areas should be marked on the grounds prior to contestants arriving in the area. No training in test site areas is permitted 14 days prior to or during the trial.

Entertainment

Historically there is a banquet held before the start of the National where judges are introduced, marshal's instructions announced and handlers given their contestant bibs.

A workers party should also be held in accordance with the major sponsorship agreement reference in Appendix A - NRCC Corporate Sponsorship Program. Additional entertainment is at the discretion of the host club.

Silent Auction

Silent auctions are optional and can be excellent fund raisers. Usually silent auctions begin at the opening banquet and terminate mid-week at a workers’ party or other scheduled event.

Calcutta

A Calcutta is a useful means of helping finance the trial and adds a great deal of interest. If one is held, it is usually run at the conclusion of the pre-trial banquet.

Winnings may be split into three parts as follows:

  1. Winner
  2. Finalists
  3. Host Club

Various options are possible for splitting the proceeds but the method should be clearly designated to bidders before the start of Calcutta. After completion of the Calcutta, a summary table of each dog, bid price and buyer should be posted together with the total proceeds.

Birds

Dead pheasants and ducks must be used. Pheasants should be well scented and well feathered cocks or hens. Ducks must be kept dry in order that they will float well up in the water and should not be reused more than a few times as they tend to become water-logged. Arrangements should be made for an adequate number of ducks and pheasants well in advance.

Recognition

A sound system will be used to announce the competing dogs name, title, owner and handler upon walking to line prior to the first and last tests.

Gallery

Spectators are an important part of the National stakes and consideration should be given to the gallery by the marshal and judges, however the gallery should at no time be positioned behind the line, nor should the route to the gallery be located behind the running line. White clothing is not allowed in the gallery or behind the line.

Throwers and Gunners

There should be a minimum of six experienced people available at all times. Normal procedure is to provide two people at each gun station. If this procedure is varied it should remain the same for all competing dogs.

Veterinarian

An official veterinarian should be appointed and should be readily available during the trial.

All bitches are to be vetted within twenty-four hours of the start of the trial by a veterinarian appointed by the host club. Bitches in season cannot compete and must be withdrawn.

Any dog or bitch may be required to be vetted at any time thereafter at the request of the Field Trial Committee.

Trophies

The winner will be presented with a permanent trophy to remain in his or her possession, made available by the National Retriever Club of Canada.

The handler will be presented with an engraved lanyard band to remain in his or her possession, made available by the National Retriever Club of Canada.

The challenge trophy will be delivered in time for presentation to the winner. A photograph of the winner, handler, and challenge trophy is desirable and instructions for engraving the winner's name should be obtained. After the trial the challenge trophy must be returned to the NRCC Secretary.

Finalist Awards

The Host Club is responsible for providing gifts in recognition of all finalists.

Ribbons

The NRCC Secretary will secure the necessary ribbons. A blue rosette is presented to the winner only. Identification name tags will be provided for the judges, marshal, officers and committee members.

Pins

National pins will be made available by the NRCC One will be provided for each dog entered and run in the trial. The host club pays for these pins.

One pin will be awarded to each of the Judges, the Field Trial Chairman, the Field Trial Secretary, the Field Trial Marshal, the NRCC President, the NRCC Secretary, retiring NRCC Directors, and the NRCC Auditor. The NRCC pays for these pins.

Twenty worker pins will be provided to the host club at no cost. Additional pins will be made available at cost. Distribution of pins should be on the basis that they are to be awarded only to those who have made a sincere and valuable contribution to the success of the trial.

Handlers may purchase a contestant pin from the NRCC as a souvenir when the handler is other than the owner.

Trial Reporting

Trial reporting is the responsibility of the NRCC Communications Officer. During the trial, the daily progress will be posted on the NRCC website along with digital photos and scanned test drawings. The daily progress report should include a description of the tests and subsequent callbacks. A list of running dogs should be provided to the NRCC Webmaster before the start of the trial to facilitate updating the callback list.

A write-up of the trial should also be prepared by the NRCC Communications Officer and sent to Retriever News. This report encompasses the aforementioned daily progress reports but usually includes more detail and provides recognition of various contributors to the trials success.

In regards to Retriever News the deadline for publication for the National Retriever Championship Stake is October 1st. The following is required:

  1. Marked catalogue (for starters in order of the draw) submitted by the NRCC Secretary
  2. Text describing the trial
  3. Diagrams
  4. Photographs of the winner and judges for magazine cover
  5. Candid photos of trial or activities

Additional material will be included if space is available.

Accounting

The host club shall open a special bank account. All transactions connected with the National stake should be made through this special account. An accurate record should be retained for everything possible.

At the end of the National the host club is to repay any loans made by the National Retriever Club of Canada, as well as trial expenses paid by the NRCC per invoice, and to remit the $125.00 per running dog fee to the National Retriever Club of Canada.

Within the sixty-day period after the trial, a statement of expenditures and receipts should be forwarded to the NRCC Treasurer. Host clubs will retain all profits.

The NRCC pays for:

  • NRCC Secretary/Communication Officer's travel, meals and lodging
  • 20 worker pins
  • All the officials pins
  • Insurance

The host club pays for:

  • Judges' meals and lodging
  • Judges' gifts
  • Judges' travel expenses to and from the stake
  • Printing of premium lists and entry forms
  • Printing of catalogue
  • Meeting rooms
  • Keeper trophies (NFTCH, NAFTCH), supplied by the NRCC
  • Keeper trophies (NFTCH, NAFTCH), supplied by the Host Club
  • Finalist gifts
  • Invoice from the NRCC for expenses related to listing and recording fees, $125 running dog fee, contestants pins, extra workers pins, engraving on keeper trophy
  • Club Liability Insurance

Jackets

Jackets are NOT Mandatory at National Championship Stakes and are therefore not a necessary part of a National. Gifts to participants are left up to the discretion of the host club. As of March 2003, a sponsorship agreement has been arranged for provision of jackets. Clubs should abide by the terms of this agreement

Alternative Site

The host club should select an alternative site in case of bad weather. This site may be removed some distance from the actual club's area and would only be used in case of severe weather which prevents access to the designated grounds or causes the water to freeze up.

Field Trial Committee

There shall be a committee of five, chaired by the Field Trial Marshal, to manage the stake and deal with any complaints. It is preferable that contestants not be members of the committee and any member of the committee with an interest in any dog should abstain from participating in any discussion of a complaint. This committee must also give directions to the judges. It consists of the Field Trial Marshal, Field Trial Chairman, and three individuals, 2 from the host zone and 1 from the other zone, and is chosen by the NRCC Board of Directors at a meeting held the day prior to the start of the stake. It is clearly the responsibility of the official committee of five to supervise all aspects of the trial when it is in progress, however, assistants must be appointed to cover all of the mechanics of the trial and ensure its efficient operation.

Members of the Field Trial Committee are to be introduced at the banquet and are to get together for a meeting at some point during the trial.

The following functions should be looked after by the host club's organizing committee members or assistants:

  • Field Trial Chairman
  • Field Trial Marshal
  • Assistant Field Trial Marshal
  • Field Trial Secretary
  • Field Trial Reporter -NRCC Communications Officer
  • Treasurer
  • Publicity Director
  • Program Chairman (Advertising)
  • Gun Captain
  • Game Steward
  • Traffic Chairman
  • Finance Chairman
  • Social Chairman

Organizing Committee Duties

PRE-TRIAL

  1. To ensure the organization of the "National" is coordinated and complete.
  2. To act as the liaison between the (current year) host club and the NRCC
  3. To arrange and chair meetings as required to conduct the "National".
  4. To coordinate and oversee activities of the Field Trial Marshal, Finance Chairman, Fund raising Chairman, Social Chairman and Treasurer.
  5. To arrange for a presentation of the host club's National package (i.e. -land, water, committee, accommodations, etc.) at the up coming years National Annual General Meeting. Can be a slide show, written report or verbal presentation.
  6. To ensure that sponsorship commitments are fulfilled and that sponsor banners are displayed at headquarters and are available for photos with the winner.

DURING TRIAL

  1. To oversee and maintain responsibility for the conduct of the National activities hosted by the trial giving club.
  2. To be a part of the Field Trial Committee

POST TRIAL

  1. To ensure the post trial duties of the various Chairmen and Committees are achieved.
  2. To ensure documentation of the success or failures of the Host clubs National

Field Trial Secretary

PRE-TRIAL

  1. To determine qualifiers for the National in conjunction with the NRCC Secretary.
  2. To liaise with the NRCC Secretary regarding the information for the premium list, as soon as judges are announced. The NRCC Secretary also needs headquarters location, name, address, phone; banquet time and date, meeting room; who chairman is; and the Field Trial Secretary should have a fax number for the premium list.
  3. To prepare and send out a "National Package" to all qualifiers.
  4. To receive and process entries.
  5. To conduct a draw to determine the running order and to generate the catalogue so that it includes this running order. To e-mail a copy of the running dog list to the NRCC Secretary ASAP after the drawso that the NRCC Secretary can verify that all dogs entered are qualified. Make sure to give all the entry forms to the NRCC Secretary when she arrives at the trial.
  6. Provide Running Order to NRCC Webmaster for posting on website. This should be done prior to sending the catalogue to the printer to allow for last minute changes by owners/handlers.
  7. Responsible for contacting judges regarding travel arrangements, judges' write-ups and photo of judge for catalogue.
  8. Arrange accommodations for the judges, the NRCC Secretary/Communications Officer at the Field Trial headquarters if at all possible.

DURING THE TRIAL

  1. To liaise with the NRCC Secretary regarding the status of any entrants.

Treasurer

PRE-TRIAL

  1. To set up a bank account for the (current year) National.
  2. To bank all revenues as received.
  3. To arrange payment for all expenses as required.
  4. To work in conjunction with the Finance Chairman to assure adherence to budget.

DURING TRIAL

  1. To remit running dog fees to NRCC Treasurer.
  2. To reimburse judges for expenses on receipt of their claim.

POST TRIAL

  1. To ensure all outstanding debts are paid.
  2. To ensure all outstanding revenue is received.
  3. To prepare final budget for submission to FT Committee and to NRCC Secretary as soon as possible after Trial.
  4. To ensure NRCC interest free loan and final budget are returned to the NRCC Treasurer on or before the last day of the National.

Fund Raising Chairman

PRE-TRIAL

  1. To liaise with the Finance Chairman to ensure income for (current year) budget.
  2. To liaise with Field Trial Secretary and Social Chairman.
  3. To organize committees as required to achieve adequate funding through budgeting, advertising, developing promotions, auctions, draws and delegating responsibilities to committee members.

DURING TRIAL

  1. To coordinate fund-raising activities taking place at the Trial; i.e. calcutta, silent auction, etc.

POST TRIAL

  1. To document fund-raising activities of the (current year) National.

Finance Chairman

PRE-TRIAL

  1. To propose a budget for (current year) National.
  2. To ensure income for (current year) budget is adequate to meet expenses. This will be achieved by budgeting, advertising, developing promotions, auctions, draws and delegating responsibilities to committee members.
  3. To coordinate with the Fund raising Chairman in arranging adequate funding of the (current year) National.

DURING TRIAL

  1. To oversee financial arrangement of the (current year) National activities.

POST TRIAL

  1. To document financial activities of the (current year) National.
  2. To liaise with Field Trial Treasurer regarding final accounting and to ensure that the NRCC interest free loan and final budget are returned to the NRCC Treasurer on or before the last day of the National.

Social Chairman

PRE-TRIAL

  1. To prepare a schedule of social activities to be conducted during National.
  2. To ensure arrangements for social activities including hotels and amenities for contestants are available and adequately communicated.
  3. To arrange for and oversee activities at headquarters.
  4. To organize banquet, including set-up, tickets, meals and coordination.
  5. To arrange Workers Party.
  6. To organize a program of souvenirs, entertainment and pre-trial hospitality as required.
  7. To provide a list of "things to do and see" for those attending the National.
  8. To organize an assisting committee as required.
  9. To provide Field Trial Secretary with a list of the social events and prices which should be included in the handlers packages.
  10. To ensure the local media is aware of the events and act as their liaison.

DURING TRIAL

  1. To oversee Social Activities of the National.
  2. To delegate committee members to conduct and organize social activities.

POST TRIAL

  1. To provide documentation of social activities of the National.

Host Club Sponsor Liaison

The Host Club Sponsor Liaison Officer will work directly with the NRCC Sponsor Liaison Officer to ensure all commitments to the Sponsors are met.

PRE-TRIAL:

  1. Liaise with and assist NRCC Corporate Sponsor Liaison Officer
  2. Obtain the Corporate Sponsor Agreements/MOU, Contracts from the NRCC Corporate Sponsor Liaison Officer and ensure understanding of the Club and NRCC obligations during and following the National
  3. Ensure the other members of the host club are aware of these obligations.
  4. Work with the NRCC Corporate Sponsor Liaison Officer to order and arrange for delivery of all donated items from the sponsors.

DURING TRIAL

  1. Ensure that the NRCC and the Host club fulfil their obligations to the corporate sponsors.
  2. Work with the equipment Manager to ensure sponsors’ banners are erected at each test site, headquarters and at the banquets.
  3. Ensure Sponsors representatives are invited to the banquets.
  4. Ensure sponsor material is displayed and recognition is made throughout the National.

Field Trial Reporter - NRCC Communications Officer

PRE-TRIAL

  1. The NRCC Communications Officer will arrange and set up internet access for email communications and will be responsible for all equipment including digital camera, scanner, etc.
  2. Contact The Retriever News regarding links to National coverage
  3. Post Running Order at least 5 days prior to trial.

DURING TRIAL

  1. Post daily trial results including callbacks, test description, digital photos of tests and activities, written test description and test sketches. This is an important task and prompt reporting of results is greatly appreciated by those not able to attend trial. File sizes of photos and sketches should be suitable for electronic submission.

POST TRIAL

  1. Submit trial write up with test descriptions, summary of callbacks, and test photos and sketches to the Retriever News. Include photo of winner. Photos of winner must be high resolution electronic copy for magazine quality presentation.

Duties of the Marshal’s Committee

The Marshal's Committee has responsibility for the mechanics of the (current) National. The guidelines that follow provide details of duties of Chairman and the requirements for conducting the trial.

A full description of duties can be found in Duties of the Marshal (revised May 1, 2024).

NRCC Duties of the Marshal final 05.01.2024

General

A pre-trial handler package is usually forwarded to each competitor that has qualified for the current national championship stake. A listing of the qualified competitors is provided by the NRCC. Since dogs can qualify for the event up to approximately two weeks prior to the trial, it is expected that there will be several "mail outs". For National Amateur events, the first mail out of the pre-trial package should occur by mid May and for National Open events by mid July. As additional dogs are qualified, additional packages can be mailed out. Usually the handler information will include the following:

  • Letter of congratulations identifying the trial location, dates, host club, head quarter locations, costs, etc.
  • Premium List
  • Entry Form
  • Schedule of Events
  • Purchase forms for meal tickets and merchandise (optional)
  • Maps to trial location
  • Listing and contact information for accommodations and camping sites
  • Listing of travel connections and vehicle rentals
  • Pre-trial training information
  • Qualification certificate indicating dog is qualified to compete at trial

Local tourist brochures, vendor coupons, etc.

13 National Retriever Championship Stake

(Excerpts from Retriever Field Trial Rules & Regulations)

13.1 National Retriever Championship Stake”

13.1.1 Guidelines

(a) A National Retriever Championship stake shall be for dogs which, by reason of placings previously made, qualify under special rules subject to approval by the Board.

(b) This stake shall be run not more than once in any calendar year and hosted by a club in good standing with the CKC and the National Retriever Club of Canada.

(c) The winner of the National Retriever Championship stake is awarded the title of National Field Trial Champion (NFTCH).

(d) If and when the winner is handled by an Amateur as defined in these rules, the National Amateur Field Trial Champion title, NAFTCH is not awarded.

(e) If and when the winner is handled by a Professional as defined in these rules, the National Amateur Field Trial Champion title, NAFTCH is awarded to the top Amateur handled dog who has completed the 10th series of the National Retriever Championship stake. If no dog meets the criteria, the NAFTCH title is not awarded.

13.1.2 Entries

(a) Before each National Retriever Championship stake, the CKC shall decide those dogs which shall be eligible for invitation to compete in the stake, and shall notify the club staging the stake of the qualifications for entry in the stake.

(b) Any information furnished by the CKC regarding wins placings of dogs at trials held under its rules is entirely without prejudice to the CKC for such information is intended solely to assist the organization staging the stake. The responsibility for determining the dogs which qualify and are entitled to be invited rests with the organization staging the stake.

(c) The secretary of the organization hosting the stake shall forward to each owner of a dog eligible for entry in the stake an invitation to enter the dog in the stake.

(d) Dogs qualifying in trials which may be held in the 2 week period immediately preceding the National Retriever Championship stake and before the draw for the stake may be invited. Such invitation is to be made in writing or electronic document and delivered or mailed or sent electronically to the owner or agent of owner. The owner or agent must accept in writing or electronically and forward such acceptance to the field trial secretary of the National Retriever Championship stake. Any dogs invited under this clause and invitation are accepted at the owner’s or agent’s risk as to qualification.

(e) Any dog entered in the National Championship stake must be registered individually or the necessary documentation must have been submitted to register the dog individually in the records of the CKC.”

13.1.3 Results

(a) The winning dog and top Amateur handled dog, if selected will be named at these trials.

(b) The judges are to select a reserve to the winning dog, but such selection is not to be considered an official award. It is to be made only as a precaution should it be necessary to cancel the award to the winning dog. The reserve selection is to be marked in the judges’ book but no announcement or other recognition is to be made of such selection.

(c) If the top Amateur handled dog is selected, the judges are to select a reserve to the top Amateur handled dog, but such selection is not to be considered an official award. It is to be made only as a precaution should it be necessary to cancel the award to the top Amateur handled dog. Reserve to the top Amateur handled dog must be handled by an Amateur and have completed the 10th series. If no dog meets the criteria, no reserve to the top Amateur handled dog is selected and should it be necessary to cancel the award to the top Amateur handled dog, the NAFTCH title is not awarded. The reserve selection is to be marked in the judges’ book but no announcement or other recognition is to be made of such selection.

13.1.4 Specifics

(a) Except as provided for in this section, owners invited to enter qualified dogs are to have not less than 2 weeks in which to decide to enter any qualified dogs and shall be provided with an entry form for each dog invited, together with the following information:

(i) Information regarding the stake

(ii) What a dog must have accomplished in order to qualify for entry

(iii) Entry and other fees

(iv) Date of closing of entries

(v) Name and full address of person to whom entries are to be sent

(vi) Dates of trial

(vii) Exact location

(viii) Names of approved judges; and

(ix) Prizes offered

(b) Owners are to be advised that entries received after close will not be accepted. Owners of invited dogs should be advised to send entries by guaranteed mail or electronically.

(c) Persons entering a dog in the stake are required to certify that any dog which they enter is qualified according to the conditions laid down in these regulations.

(d) The stake:

(i) Must have at least 10 tests or series of which at least 5 should be land tests and five should include water. Land tests should include upland game whenever possible

(ii) Not less than 3 judges shall officiate

(iii) Ribbon: To the winner – The “year” National Field Trial Championship blue rosette

(iv) Prizes: To the winner – such prizes as may be offered in the premium list of the stake

(v) Ribbon: To the top Amateur handled dog – The “year” National Amateur Field Trial Champion blue rosette

(vi) Prizes: To the top Amateur handled dog – such prizes as may be offered in the premium list of the stake

(e) The organization staging the stake shall name a field trial committee of 5 persons to manage the stake and all arrangements connected with such stake. The Field Trial Marshal shall be chairman of the committee which shall also deal with any complaints.

(f) After the trial, the organization staging the stake shall submit the following to the CKC so as to be received not more than 21 days after the closing of the trial.

(i) A full list of the owners who entered dogs in the stake

(ii) Entry forms of the winner, and the reserve winner and if selected, the top Amateur handled dog and the reserve top Amateur handled dog

(iii) The name and full particulars of the winning dog and the dog selected as reserve to the winning dog, certified to over the signatures of the officiating judges

(iv) If selected, the name with full particulars of the winning dog top Amateur handled dog and the dog, selected as reserve to the winning dog top Amateur handled dog certified over the signatures of the officiating judges

(v) All recording and TCN fees set by the CKC

(vi) Information regarding each of the tests conducted on land and water

(g) Except where such field trial rules and regulations are inconsistent with any part of this section, the field trial rules and regulations adopted by the CKC shall apply in connection with this stake.

13.1.5 Qualifications

(a) The winner and finalists of the previous year’s National Retriever Championship stake.

(b) The winner and finalists of the previous year’s National Amateur Retriever Championship stake if run.

(c) The dog declared the winner of the last National Championship stake, USA, shall be eligible for and shall be invited to compete in the National Retriever Championship stake provided reciprocal qualifications for the National Championship stake, USA, is granted to the new Canadian National Field Trial Champion. Dogs must be eligible under CKC rules to compete in the National Amateur Retriever Championship stake.

(d) The dog declared the winner of the last National Amateur Retriever Championship stake, USA, shall be eligible and shall be invited to compete in the National Retriever Championship stake provided reciprocal qualifications for the National Amateur Retriever Championship stake, USA, is granted to the new Canadian National Amateur Field Trial Champion. Dogs must be eligible under CKC rules to compete in the National Retriever Championship stake.

(e) Those dogs which have placed first, second, third or fourth in Open, Special or Limited All Age, stakes in which championship points were awarded, in trials approved by the CKC and hosted by members in good standing of the National Retriever Club of Canada during the period of the current year and the previous calendar year.

(f) Those dogs which have placed first, second, third or fourth in Amateur All Age or Owner Handler Amateur All Age stakes in which championship points were awarded, in trials approved by the CKC and hosted by members in good standing of the National Retriever Club of Canada during the period of the current year and the previous calendar year.

19 Protests

19.1  A protest against a dog may be made by an exhibitor/handler, any member of the CKC, or a member of the club or association holding the retriever field trial. It must be in writing, on a form provided by the CKC (or facsimile thereof), and be lodged with the Retriever Field Trial Committee Chair before the closing of the trial. A hearing shall be held prior to the departure of all parties. No protest will be entertained unless accompanied by a deposit. This deposit will be returned if the protest is sustained. If the protest is not sustained, the deposit will be forwarded to the CKC with the Retriever Field Trial Committee's report.

19.2  Where the Retriever Field Trial Committee consists of more than 5 persons, the president of the trial-giving club shall name 5 members of the Retriever Field Trial Committee to act on any protest received by the trial-giving club.

19.3  Written copies of all decisions on protests must be forwarded immediately to the Discipline Committee of the CKC. The Discipline Committee may take such action as it deems fit in connection with such protest, provided no appeal is submitted to the CKC within 10 days of the date on which the decision of the Retriever Field Trial Committee was rendered. Such action may include barring the dog from future CKC approved events, imposition of an administrative fee, and/or cancellation of awards. The fact that the Retriever Field Trial Committee did not sustain a protest in no way inhibits the right of the Discipline Committee to take such action as it deems advisable.

19.4  An appeal to the Discipline Committee of the CKC from a decision of the Retriever Field Trial Committee where a dog has been protested must be forwarded to the CKC within 10 days of the date on which the decision was rendered, together with a deposit.

19.5  If a trial giving club fails to hear a protest as prescribed above, or in the opinion of the Discipline Committee improperly handles a protest, the Discipline Committee shall have the authority to take such action as it deems fit and necessary, and it may at the same time take disciplinary action against the officials of the trial-giving club concerned.

20 Complaints

20.1  A complaint against a person regarding a violation of the rules and regulations related to retriever field trials must be in writing, on a form issued by the CKC (or facsimile thereof), and must be accompanied by a deposit. A deposit is not required on a complaint alleging that a judge officiating at a retriever field trial held under these rules and regulations has been subject to indignities of any kind during the progress of the trial.

20.2  A complaint should be lodged with the Retriever Field Trial Committee Chair of the trial-giving club no later than 15 minutes after the completion of judging of the trial, or should the complainant choose to do so, a complaint may be submitted directly to the CKC within 10 days of the trial. All such complaints shall constitute complaints under the CKC By-laws and the provisions of same shall apply.

20.3  Any complaint against the club holding the trial or any of its officials must be submitted directly to the CKC within 10 days of the trial. All such complaints shall constitute complaints under the CKC By-laws and the provisions of same shall apply.

20.4  A complaint shall be restricted to any of the following:

  1. An act of omission or commission on which is based an allegation of a violation of the Retriever Field Trial Rules & Regulations.
  2. Any act on which an allegation of misconduct is based.
  3. The alleged failure of an officiating judge to excuse or remove from competition a dog for which a provision for excusing or removal from competition appears in these rules and regulations.

20.5  Where the Retriever Field Trial Committee consists of more than 5 persons, the president of the trial-giving club shall name 5 members to form a Retriever Field Trial Committee to act on complaints received by the trial-giving club.

20.6  When a complaint is received against a judge by the trial-giving club, the club will hold a hearing while all parties are still in attendance. The report and all statements given by all parties will be forwarded to the Discipline Committee along with the deposit from the complainant. The Retriever Field Trial Committee will not render a decision but will collect all pertinent information.

20.7  Upon receipt of a complaint the Retriever Field Trial Committee of the trial-giving club shall conduct an investigation as soon as possible thereafter, but in any event, within 14 days of receipt, shall conduct a hearing in accordance with the procedures set out in the Procedure for Conducting a Retriever Field Trial Committee Hearing as provided in these rules and regulations.

20.8  The Retriever Field Trial Committee shall promptly forward the complaint, the deposit and a record of the hearing together with its recommendation on the disposition of the complaint to the CKC. Copies of the record of the hearing and the Committee's recommendation will be forwarded to the parties concerned at the same time.

20.9  Notwithstanding any contrary provisions in these rules and regulations, the procedure specified herein for dealing with complaints shall govern.

20.10  Disciplinary action will be taken against any official and the trial-giving club of which he is an official when it is established to the satisfaction of the CKC that an attempt was made to discourage the submission of a complaint. Disciplinary action will be taken against a trial-giving club which fails to properly deal with complaints as provided in these rules and regulations.

21 Discipline

21.1  The Discipline Committee may take disciplinary action against any club, person, partnership, company or organization for any act of omission or commission, which violates any section or sections of the rules and regulations for CKC retriever field trials. Such action will be taken as provided for in the By-laws of the CKC.

21.2  No person shall abuse a dog on the grounds or premises of a trial, or conduct himself in a manner prejudicial to the best interest of the event.

21.3  Any club, member, person, partnership, company or organization availing themselves of the privileges of participating in any capacity or manner whatsoever at a retriever field trial, shall by such participation, be deemed to have agreed to the authority of the CKC and its Board as conferred on the CKC by its By-laws and all other rules and regulations adopted by the CKC.

21.4  At its discretion and subject to the appeal process, the Discipline Committee may cancel any or all passes/awards earned by a dog owned by a person debarred, deprived, suspended or expelled of all privileges of the CKC when such wins were earned following the date on which such act occurred that resulted in disciplinary action.

21.5  The administration to a dog competing at a retriever field trial of a drug or any substance, in any form, which alters the nervous system by stimulation, sedation or tranquilization shall be considered as misleading the judge and will be considered misconduct. The person or persons responsible will be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with this section.

21.6  Any person, either within or outside the field, who does anything calculated to attract, distract or otherwise interfere in any way with the attention, deportment, or performance of a dog under judgment, may be disciplined by the Discipline Committee in whatever way it considers to be in the best interest of the club, or the judge may take summary action.

21.7  It shall be the duty and obligation of the trial-giving club to see that a judge, club official, volunteer, or any participant at an event held under these rules, is not subject to indignities of any kind. The Retriever Field Trial Committee Chair shall promptly report to the CKC any infringement of this regulation, and the Discipline Committee shall have the authority to take such action as it deems fit on receipt of a report indicating that this has occurred. A copy of this regulation shall be prominently placed in every premium list and catalogue.
22 Procedure for Conducting a Field Trial Committee Hearing

22.1  It is essential that the defendant be given the opportunity to be present during the whole hearing and to testify and present his own witnesses. If a defendant refuses to attend or defend himself, the hearing may proceed without him. In notifying the defendant of the hearing, it is essential that he be informed specifically of the nature of the charges against him and that a record of such notice be made.

22.2  The complainant must also be informed of the hearing and allowed to be present throughout the whole hearing.

22.3  Both the complainant and defendant should be informed that they may be represented by legal counsel or an agent at the hearing if they choose but this is not necessary.

22.4  The chair is to call the meeting to order and then announce: "We are proceeding by reason of our appointment to the Retriever Field Trial Committee by (name of trial-giving club)."

22.5  The chair shall identify all persons present and the reason for their presence (i.e. complainant, defendant, witness) and then ask the witnesses to withdraw until required to give evidence. After giving evidence a witness may be excused.

22.6  The complaint is to be read except that if the complainant and defendant agree, it may be necessary to relate only the substance of the complaint as set out on the Official Complaint form.

22.7  The chair is to ask the defendant whether he wishes to admit or deny the complaint as it has been read or stated.

22.8  The complainant is to give evidence on the complaint. He may then be questioned by the defendant. At the chair's invitation, any member of the Committee may question the complainant. If the complainant has brought witnesses, such witnesses may then give evidence individually. Each witness may be questioned by the defendant or any member of the Committee. Each witness is to leave the hearing after evidence has been given.

22.9  Upon completion of the evidence given by the complainant and any witness appearing on his behalf, the defendant may then give evidence and may then be questioned by the complainant or any member of the Committee. If the defendant has brought witnesses, such witnesses may then give evidence individually. Each witness may be questioned by the complainant or any member of the Committee.

22.10  The chair may then call any other witness which the Committee considers appropriate to the proper hearing of the complaint.

22.11  The complainant may then have the opportunity of summing up the complaint and the evidence presented in support thereof. The defendant shall have the opportunity of summing up his defense and any evidence presented in support of his defense.

22.12  The chair shall announce that the Committee will be submitting a report on the hearing together with its recommendation on the disposition of the complaint to the Discipline Committee of the CKC and the parties concerned. All but the Committee members shall be dismissed so that the matter may be considered.

 

NRCC's Obligations (program has been revised for 2023)

  • appoint a NRCC Corporate Sponsor Liaison Officer Responsibilities:
    • solicit Corporate Sponsorship
    • develop contracts/agreements/memorandums of understanding
    • review contracts/agreements/memorandums of understanding annually
  • liaise with and support Corporate Sponsors
  • liaise with Host Club Liaison Officer
  • appoint a Club Sponsor Liaison Officer, Responsibilities:
    • review contracts/agreements/memorandums of understanding annually and update Corporate Sponsor information
    • liaise with and assist the Host Club's Sponsor Liaison Officer
    • ensure that the Host Club knows its obligations to the Corporate Sponsors, knows the Corporate Sponsors obligations to the Host Club and has the Corporate Sponsors' contact information
  • during the National ensure that the NRCC & Host Club fulfil their obligations to the Corporate Sponsors
  • accept potential Corporate Sponsor information, vet it through the NRCC Executive and if acceptable forward the information to NRCC Corporate Sponsor Liaison Officer for action
  • appoint a Communications Officer. Responsibilities include:
    • maintain the NRCC website
    • perform Internet/Trial Reporter duties
    • write and publish daily Internet reports to document the National's social (banquet, workers party, gallery, etc) and trial events; Corporate Sponsors' names & attending representatives should be mentioned frequently as should the Judges and Host Club's workers as well, pictures highlighting the Corporate Sponsors' banners/products, Judges, Host Club's workers and gallery should be included.
    • take official photographs of the National winner and finalists which should include the NRCC table cloth, perpetual trophy, winner's trophy/gift, finalists' trophies/gifts, small Purina sign, Corporate Sponsors' banners/winner's gifts
    • provide the official photographs to the Host Club
    • provide winner's photograph to the next year's host Club
    • write a comprehensive National report for publishing in The Retriever News, and other publications
    • update the NRCC website to display this year's National information and record same for history

  • appoint a Sponsor Liaison Officer Responsibilities: -liaise with NRCC's Host Club Liaison Officer to obtain the Corporate Sponsor information -review the Corporate Sponsor contracts/agreements/memorandums of understanding to learn the Host Club's obligations as well as the Corporate Sponsors' obligations -ensure that the organizing committee is aware of its obligations to the Corporate Sponsors, and knows the Corporate Sponsors obligations to the Host Club -liaise with the Corporate Sponsors to arrange delivery of product, banners, tents, advertisements, bibs, jackets, hats etc. and provide the information required by the Corporate sponsors -during the National ensure that the Host Club fulfils their obligations to the Corporate Sponsors
  • invite the Corporate Sponsors representatives to attend the banquet, workers party and other social events gratis
  • provide space for the Corporate Sponsors brochures and products
  • raffle/sell donated items in such a way that the Corporate Sponsor is recognized
  • place the Corporate Sponsors' advertisements in proper locations in the catalogue
  • place the Corporate Sponsors' banners, tents and products in the proper locations
  • ensure that the Corporate Sponsors and their representatives are acknowledged and thanked during the banquet, Workers Party, other social events and during the toast to the champion
  • assign workers to prepare the handlers' bags
  • assign workers to organize the jackets, hats, bibs and handlers' bags to be handed out at banquet
  • assign workers to assist with presenting the competitors' pins, jackets, hats, bibs and handler's bags
  • prepare a list of the people who worked prior to the National, during the National and who will work to clean up after the National, the list should include participants and others who helped out either throwing (usually twice is the minimum) planting blinds or who helped in any other fashion during the National
  • assign workers to assist with distribution of any products provided by Corporate Sponsors, to workers at the Workers Party
  • assign workers to set up the winners table which should include the National tablecloth, the perpetual winner's trophy and winner’s rosette supplied by the NRCC, the winner’s and finalists trophies or prizes supplied by the host club, the small signs provided by Corporate Sponsors' as required for the winner's and finalists' photographs, the banners or signs and any other items provided for the winner, by the Corporate Sponsors should also be available so that individual photographs of the winner can also be taken with these items
  • send thank you letters to all the sponsors for their contributions for the national
  • the Host Club's Liaison Officer liaises with the NRCC Club Corporate Sponsor Liaison and is knowledgable about the Club’s obligations to the Corporate Sponsors, knows the Corporate Sponsors obligations to the Host Club and has the Corporate Sponsors' contact information

by Hope Roberts

Policies & Procedures

Club Policies & Procedures

President*

Term: As per section 7.01 of the bylaws "The Board shall at the first meeting of directors following each annual meeting of members, or more often as may be required, elect a President …" . The bylaws do not stipulate a term. Subsequent terms are acceptable as determined by the Board of Directors.

Time Commitment: Variable from a few hours per week to several hours per week to no hours per week

Accountability:

  • The President is accountable to the Board of Directors of the National Retriever Club of Canada and all of its members in all zones in Canada.
  • The President is the leader of NRCC, responsible for running the Board smoothly and effectively.
  • The President's duties include maintaining strong communication with the Board, formulating NRCC strategy, representing Board and the organization to the members and the general public and maintaining operating integrity.

Authority: The President will act in accordance with the By-Laws of the NRCC and with the policies as established by the NRCC.

Personal Characteristics to Consider:

  • Ability to listen, analyze, think clearly, work well with people individually and in a group and to "seek first to understand before you are understood" when confronted with differing views.
  • Willing to prepare for and attend Board and committee meetings, ask questions, take responsibility and follow through on any given task or assignment.
  • Possess: honesty, sensitivity to and tolerance of differing views, friendly responsive approach, personal integrity and a sense of humour
  • Responsibilities:
  • Serve as a spokesperson for the NRCC.
  • Work as a team member and support Board decisions.
  • Preside at all meetings of members, the Board and the Executive
  • Maintain knowledge of the organization and personal commitment to its goals and objectives.
  • Exercise general supervision over all NRCC activities in accordance with By-Laws and policies determined by the Board.
  • Serve as member ex-officio of all committees.
  • Appoint all committee chairs and endorse all endorse all committee members.
  • Provide direction to the Secretary, in preparing the agenda for Board members.
  • Work with the Nominating committee to recruit new Board members and members of the executive.
  • Provide approval for all Role Descriptions and written feedback to paid positions of the NRCC i.e. Secretary, Treasurer, Communications, Statistician.
  • Directly manage the Major sponsor of the NRCC (Purina)

Vice-President*

Term: Elected by the Board of Directors at the first Board of Directors meeting following the National Meeting. May be elected for a further term.

Time Commitment: Variable from a few hours per week to several hours per week to no hours per week

Accountability:

  • The Vice-President is accountable to the Board of Directors of the National Retriever Club of Canada and all of its members in all zones in Canada.
  • The Vice-President supports the President, taking assigned tasks and serving in place of the President when he or she is not available to conduct official business
  • An effective Vice President will not only learn as much as possible about each committee's goals and projects but may chair specific committees as assigned by the President or the Board of Directors

Authority: The Vice President will act in accordance with the By-Laws of the NRCC and wit the policies as established by the NRCC.

Personal Characteristics to Consider

  • Ability to listen, analyze, think clearly, work well with people individually and in a group and to "seek first to understand before you are understood" when confronted with differing views.
  • Willing to prepare for and attend Board and committee meetings, ask questions, take responsibility, and follow through on any given task or assignment.
  • Possess: honesty, sensitivity to and tolerance of differing views, friendly responsive approach, personal integrity and a sense of humour

Responsibilities

  • Support the President in managing the Executive and the Board of Directors
  • Is a member of the Executive Committee
  • Work as a team member and support Board decisions.
  • Chair the Finance Committee to oversee the development of an annual budget and submit to the Board of Directors for approval.
  • Preside at meetings of members, the Board of Directors and the Executive when sked to do so by the President
  • Maintain knowledge of the organization and personal commitment to its goals and objectives.
  • Exercise general supervision over all NRCC activities in accordance with By-Laws and policies determined by the Board.
  • Serve as member of specific committees as assigned.
  • Work with the Nominating committee to recruit new Board members and members of the executive.
  • Provide input to the President for all Role Descriptions and written feedback to paid positions of the NRCC i.e. Secretary, Treasurer, Communications Officer.

Director*

Term: Three years. Elected as per By-laws. Clubs nominate a director using the Nomination of a Director form

Time Commitment: Variable from a few hours per week to several hours per week to no hours per week

Accountability:

  • The Board of Directors are collectively accountable to The National Retriever Club of Canada members in all zones in Canada. They are accountable for NRCC's performance in relation to its Mission and Strategic Objectives and for the effective stewardship of Financial and human resources.
  • Individually each director is accountable to NRCC Members in the zone in which they were elected. They are to be a communication link from the members in their zone to the NRCC Board and ensure their member concerns and/or ideas are addressed.
  • Authority: Individual Board members have no authority to approve actions by the NRCC, to direct staff or to speak on behalf of the NRCC unless given such authority by the Board.

Personal Characteristics to Consider

  • Ability to listen, analyze, think clearly, work well with people individually and in a group and to "seek first to understand before you are understood" when confronted with differing views.
  • Willing to prepare for and attend Board and committee meetings, ask questions, take responsibility and follow through on any given task or assignment.
  • Possess: honesty, sensitivity to and tolerance of differing views, friendly responsive approach, personal integrity and a sense of humour.

Responsibilities

  • Attend or participate in all Board and committee meetings.
  • Work as a team member and support Board decisions.
  • Review agenda and supporting materials prior to a Board and Committee meetings
  • Make a serious commitment to actively participate on committees, task forces and offer to take on special assignments.
  • Volunteer for and willingly accept assignments and complete them thoroughly and on time for NRCC and its members.
  • Abide by By-laws and other policies that apply to the Board.
  • Attend and participate in the Annual General Meeting if at all possible.
  • Be responsive to NRCC zone members.
  • Educate NRCC members about the role of the NRCC and encourage their participation on committees and task forces.
  • The Board may by resolution appoint and constitute committees as it deems necessary which may but not need include members of the Board. Until otherwise provided, the President shall be ex officio of all committees. All committees created by the Board shall be given written terms of reference. Any committee member may be removed by resolution of the Board;
  • The directors shall have the power to authorize expenditures on behalf of the corporation from time to time and may delegate by resolution to an officer or officers of the corporation the right to employ and pay salaries to employees. The directors shall have the power to make expenditures for the purpose of furthering the objectives of the corporation.
  • The Board shall take such steps as they may deem requisite to enable the corporation to receive donations and benefits for the purpose of furthering objectives of the corporation.
  • The directors may exercise all such powers of the corporation, which are found in the Not For Profit Act or by these by-laws required to be exercised by the members at general meeting.

Secretary*

Term: Appointed for 1 year term by the Board of Directors at the first Board of Directors meeting following the AMM. May be appointed for a further subsequent term as the Board of Directors determines

Time Commitment: Variable from several hours to no hours per week

Accountability: The Secretary is accountable to the Board of Directors of the National Retriever Club of Canada and all of its members in all zones in Canada.

Authority: Has no authority to approve actions by the NRCC, to direct staff or to speak on behalf of the NRCC unless given such authority by the Board.

Personal Characteristics to Consider

  • Ability to listen, analyze, think clearly, work well with people individually and in a group and to "seek first to understand before you are understood" when confronted with differing views.
  • Willing to prepare for and attend Board and committee meetings, ask questions, take responsibility and follow through on any given task or assignment.
  • Possess: honesty, sensitivity to and tolerance of differing views, friendly responsive approach, personal integrity and a sense of humour.
  • Has good listening and word processing skills

Responsibilities

  • Provide the coordinating and communication link between members, the Board of Directors and outside agencies.
  • Act as an information and reference point for the President and other committee members, clarifying past practices and decisions, confirming legal requirements and filing and retrieving relevant documentation.
  • Participate as a member of the executive committee
  • Maintain knowledge of the organization and personal commitment to its goals and objectives.
  • Maintain all Board of Directors records and ensure their accuracy and safety
  • Prepare and review minutes of meetings of members, the Board of Directors and the executive
  • Receive all correspondence and reports of committee members.
  • Provide notice of meetings of members and the Board of Directors
  • Be the custodian of the Corporation's corporate seal and all its documents
  • Meet the reporting obligations under the Canada Not-For-Profit Corporations Act.

Treasurer*

Term: Appointed by Directors for 3 year term at first meeting following the AMM and can be renewed

Time Commitment: Ranges from a couple of hours per week to couple of hours per month

Accountability: To the Board of Directors

Authority: In Accordance with the By-laws and Policies

Personal Characteristics to Consider

  • Ability to listen, analyze, think clearly, work well with people individually and in a group and to "seek first to understand before you are understood" when confronted with differing views.
  • Willing to prepare for and attend Board and committee meetings, ask questions, take responsibility and follow through on any given task or assignment.
  • Possess: honesty, sensitivity to and tolerance of differing views, friendly responsive approach, personal integrity and a sense of humour
  • Some knowledge of accounting principles and practices

Responsibilities:

  • Record financial transactions, receive and deposit funds
  • Receive and pay invoices for expenses
  • Prepare Financial Statements for year ending Dec. 31
  • Keep Board informed of financial position
  • Prepare annual cost flow projection ( Budget) on a monthly basis for board planning

Communications Officer*

Term: Appointed by Directors at first meeting following the AMM for a 3 year term and can be renewed

Time Commitment: Ranges from a couple of hours per day to a couple of hours per week

Accountability: To the Board of Directors

Authority: Has no authority to approve actions by the NRCC, to direct staff or to speak on behalf of the NRCC unless given such authority by the Board.

Personal Characteristics to Consider

  • Ability to listen, analyze, think clearly, work well with people individually and in a group and to "seek first to understand before you are understood" when confronted with differing views.
  • Possess: honesty, sensitivity to and tolerance of differing views, friendly responsive approach, personal integrity and a sense of humour.
  • Has good computer graphics and organizational skills

Responsibilities:

  • Act as NRCC point of contact for Retriever Results
  • Maintain the NRCC website for broad based communications, trial dates, trial results, premium lists, national information, writes the daily and end of national reports, takes photos of winner, finalists, random photos throughout the national and provides these to RFTN. Identifies the major sponsors in daily internet reports, and identifies the major sponsors in her various other write ups including banquet workers party, gallery photos. Write-ups of the banquet, workers party and daily reports should include specific names especially of the local club, members, workers, and judges etc.
  • Communicate effectively with clubs across Canada
  • Take official photos of finalists and the winner. These photos should include the NRCC official photo with the NRCC tablecloth/ perpetual trophy, winners trophy, winners rosette, winner trophy or prize from the host club and include a small Purina sign
  • Work with Corporate Liaison Officer to ensure official winners photo is taken with the sign or banner provided by every major sponsor, as well as any items provided by the major sponsor to the winner. Provide these photos to the Corporate Liaison Officer so they may be included with the Thank You letter to each individual sponsor.
  • Provide the winner's photo to the next year's host club for their inclusion on the next year's catalog.

Corporate Sponsor Liaison Officer*

Term: Appointed by the Board of Directors at the first Board of Directors meeting following the National Meeting. May be appointed for a further term.

Time Commitment: Variable from a few hours per week to several hours per week to no hours per week

Accountability: The Corporate Sponsor Liaison Officer is accountable to the Board of Directors of the National Retriever Club of Canada and all of its' members in all zones in Canada. The Corporate Sponsor Liaison Officer the Corporate Sponsor Liaison Officer's duties include maintaining strong communication with the Board, and the major sponsors.

Authority:

  • The Corporate Sponsor Liaison Officer will act in accordance with the By-Laws of the NRCC and with the policies as established by the NRCC.
  • The Corporate Sponsor Liaison has the authority to negotiate on behalf of the NRCC with current major sponsors and potential new ones.
  • The Corporate Sponsor Liaison has the authority to commit the NRCC and the Host club of a National to providing specific services for the sponsor before during and after the Nationals. These services include banquet tickets, workers party tickets, photos with the winner, display areas and installing advertising banners. Other items may be specified in each MOU

Personal Characteristics to Consider

  • Must maintain a positive attitude
  • Have strong negotiating skills

Responsibilities

  • NRCC Focal point for all major Corporate Sponsorship
  • Solicit Corporate Sponsorship
  • Develop contracts/agreements/ memorandums of understanding with Corporate Sponsors
  • Review contracts/agreements/ memorandums of understanding annually
  • Renew contracts/agreements/ memorandums of understanding annually to ensure continuity.
  • Liaise with and assist Host Club Liaison Officer
  • Ensure the Host club knows its obligations to the Corporate sponsors.
  • Prepares and distributes the Contact information for the Host clubs and the corporate sponsors
  • Works with the Club liaison to order the Sponsor materials and ensure on time delivery. This may include actually ordering materials from the various suppliers and managing delivery
  • Works closely with the NRCC President to manage the Major sponsor of the NRCC ( Purina)
  • Make every attempt to be attend each National.
  • At each National ensure that the NRCC and the Host club fulfil their obligations to the corporate sponsors.
  • Work with the Host Club to ensure banners and other advertising materials sent by the sponsors are installed properly and for the beat effect.
  • At the conclusion of each National assist the Photographer in obtaining the necessary photographs of the winners.

Send Thank you letters, photos and a program to each of the Corporate Sponsors.

Meeting Protocols

Type of Meeting Frequency/How/who Calls Notice Who can Attend Quorum Who votes Votes to Govern
Annual General Meeting Annually 1-2 days prior to the commencement of and in a location near the National Open Stake.

If no National stake, the AMM will take place within 15 months of the previous AMM. Time, date and location to be determined by the Board

 21-60 days, notice by mail, courier, personal delivery, telephonic, or electronic Members, non- members, directors, public accountant 40 % of the members and or proxy delegates entitled to vote All voting members in good standing or delegates with proxy in attendance Majority of members or delegates with proxy in attendance
Directors Meeting As required. The president, vice-president or any director.

Usually one held immediately following the AMM

 10 days notice by mail, courier, personal delivery, telephonic, or electronic. Duly elected directors and executive members of the Board

Specific invitees for presentation of information

 Majority of Directors All Directors present Majority of Directors present
Special Meetings President, the Board or any 3 directors

Or Written request of by 5 Voting Members

 10 days notice by mail, courier, personal delivery, telephonic, or electronic.

Include Topic for Discussion at meeting . Only this topic to be discussed

 Members, non- members, directors, public accountant 40 % of the members and or proxy delegates entitled to vote All voting members in good standing or delegates with proxy in attendance Majority of members or delegates with proxy in attendance

 

Responsibilities of a Delegate

As per the By-laws each member club shall appoint a delegate for the period of 1 year from Jan 1 to Dec 31.

The delegate will represent the Members' interests in all meetings including voting on any and all issues that arise from the business of the Board. This includes financials, election of officers, approval of National Judges, approval of National Host Clubs, election of directors for the Zone in which they reside or are representing. It is critical that the delegate vote on these matters in the interest of the club members that they represent and not just their own preferences. This should be done through consultation with their club members prior to any meetings or votes.

The Delegate is appointed using the Appointment of a Delegate form

Responsibilities of a Proxy

As per the By-Laws Section 4.07 " At any Meeting of members a proxy duly and sufficiently appointed by a member, shall be entitled to exercise, subject to any restrictions expressed in the instrument appointing them, the same voting rights that the member appointing them would be entitled to exercise if present at the meeting. An instrument appointing a proxy shall be in writing for one meeting, unless revoked, and deposited with the Secretary of the Corporation before the commencement of the meeting."

  • This proxy would only be needed if the Delegate who has been appointed by the member for a one year term cannot be present at a particular meeting.
  • The person carrying the proxy must be a member in good standing of a Class A member club.
  • The proxy representative may carry the proxy vote for up Three (3) members.
  • The proxy representative must be familiar with the issues being voted on at the specific meeting and vote as the member delegate would have voted and not as their personal opinion. This may be a different vote for each member they are representing.

The Proxy is appointed using the Appointment of a Proxy form

By-Law Committee*

Objective: Ensure NRCC Bylaws are documented and current to consistently remain in compliance with the NFP Act (2011).

Goals

  • Committee appointed by Board of Directors (2 or 3) for a term of 3 years
  • Annual review of Bylaws to ensure any changes made or proposed in NRCC operations are in compliance with the Bylaws.
  • Periodic review (3 years) to ensure no changes to the NFP (2011) that the NRCC has not been made aware of.
  • Changes are made to the Bylaws when necessary to reflect changes in the NFP (2011) and /or the NRCC operations.
  • All changes in the Bylaws are presented at the AMM immediately following the change.
  • All approved changes to the Bylaws are communicated to the NFP (2011)

Process

  • A standing committee is appointed / elected by the Board of Directors each year. Does not have to be a member of the Board of Directors
  • The term is for 3 years with a change of one member each year. Committee members can be re-elected /appointed.
  • All proposed changes in operations will be circulated to the committee for endorsement for compliance with bylaws.

Finance Committee*

Objective: Manage financial health of the NRCC through effective revenue generating projects and investments.

Goals

  • Development of a financial plan based on the needs of the NRCC.
  • Development of a short term and long term budget which forecasts all expenses.
  • All financial activities that the NRCC is involved with are documented.
  • Each financial activity that the NRCC is involved with is detailed in a step by step process outlining Management fees, Maturity date, accessibility of funds, rate of return, historical gains and losses.
  • The NRCC continues to grow financially to support the Retriever sport.

Process

  • The Board of Directors to establish a committee to further develop goals and objectives of the Finance committee. The Committee will work closely with the Treasurer and be accountable to the Board of Directors
  • Review and recommend to the Board of Directors the annual membership fees for the NRCC and NRCC share of National fees.
  • Review, report and recommend Investments.
  • Identify what investments are held by the NRCC, who holds them and where they are located.
  • Ensure that the NRCC revenues ( i.e. club dues, donations from sponsors etc. ) are being managed in accordance with Revenue Canada laws pertaining to NFP organizations.
  • Recommend an Auditor for year end.
  • Continually look for new sources of revenue and develop plans for these ideas. i.e. bequests in wills,
  • Continually look for new ways to add value to the benefits for members of the NRCC. i.e. discounts at car rentals, discounts at sports stores etc.
  • Document Govt. grant money available in each province for Nationals and club projects. This process seems to change for Province to Province.
  • These recommendations and review should be presented to the Board of Directors at least 2 X per year and to the AMM.

Host Club Selection Committee*

Objectives: Follow the planned schedule of Region and Zone for host clubs for the following year's National and Amateur. Identify the Region and Zone for host clubs for the following years.

Steps

  • NRCC Board of Directors selects a Chairperson for the Selection Committee.
  • Committee members will be selected by the Board of Directors or the Chairperson of the Committee. Members do not have to be Directors but can be members of Member Clubs in good standing.
  • Committee members should include representatives from the planned zones for the following two years.
  • Committee to the best of their availability will encourage proposals and review proposals from potential host clubs keeping in mind the guideline to have the east /west split each year. Exceptions to the process may be made by the Directors on the recommendation of the Committee.
  • Chair of the Committee briefs all directors at Board of Directors meetings and/or e-mail. On at least a quarterly basis.
  • At the AMM, Chair will make motion on the selection of host clubs for the following year.

As per the Guidelines; The general rule of thumb that has been used in the past to select sites for the National and the Amateur has been to have one of the Stakes west ( Western Zone) of the Manitoba /Ontario border and the other east (Eastern Zone of the Manitoba/Ontario border in any one year. The following year the stakes would be reversed. See the following table for examples of how the system is supposed to work. As per recommendations of the Committee Investigating the Future of National Events (2017), there shall only be 2 Zones and this shall create a 2 year rotation for hosting Nationals. These Zones shall be as follows so as to include all eight area's as laid out by the NRCC By-Laws.

West - British Columbia & Yukon, Alberta/NWT/NU, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba

East - Southern Ontario, Northern Ontario, Quebec, Newfoundland & Labrador, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, PEI

 

Current Rotation for National Retriever Championship

Year National Amateur National
Location Zone Scheduled Zone Location Actual Zone Scheduled Zone
2026

2025

2024

  

 

North Bay, ON

  

 

East

 East

West

East
2023 Comox Valley West West
2022 Combined with National hereafter Port Rowan East East
2021  Cancelled West Brighton East East
2020  Cancelled East Cancelled West
2019 Keoma West West  Brighton East East
2018 North Bay East East Red Deer AB West
2017 Mission West Central Brighton S. Ontario S. Ontario
2016 Iron Bridge East S. Ontario Saskatoon Central Central
2015 Balmoral Central West Brighton S. Ontario East
2014 Kapuskasing East East Strathmore West West
2013 Rowley West Central Brighton S. Ontario S. Ontario
2012 Red Deer West S. Ontario Iron Bridge East Central
2011 Ancaster S. Ontario West Balmoral Central East
2010 North Bay East East Merritt West West
2009 Regina Central Central Brighton S. Ontario S. Ontario
2008 Brandon Central S. Ontario Fredericton East Central
2007 Balmoral Central West Iron Bridge East East
2006 Brighton S. Ontario East Tofield West West
2005 Saskatoon Central Central Port Rowan S. Ontario S. Ontario
2004 Lanark S. Ontario S. Ontario Balmoral Central Central
2003 Logan Lake West West North Bay East East
2002 Balmoral Central East Strathmore West West
2001 Bradwell Central Central Logan Lake West S. Ontario
2000 Orangeville S. Ontario S. Ontario Brandon Central Central

 

The actual does not always follow the planned as intended. The East West split was followed as planned. In most cases it falls to the club willing to host. It is critical that we continue to have one of the stakes in Western Canada and the other in Eastern Canada each year. The clubs in the scheduled zones should be encouraged to host. Unfortunately, not all clubs can host and in most if not all cases they cannot host without the support of the all clubs within their zone. This has generally been happening for the last few years.

National Judge Selection Committee and Process

Objective: To ensure a judges panel is in place and approved by the Board of Directors the year prior to the National and the Amateur

Process: NRCC Board of Directors to select a chairperson to head up the Judges Selection Committee to enact the following selection process

Basic Qualifications Criteria

  • Must have judged at least five (5) Licensed All-Age stakes within the past 5 years.
  • Must be presently active in field trial game as evidenced by the handling a dog in the All-Age within the past five (5) years.
  • Overall experience and active involvement in the sport.
  • Must have attended and participated in a National or National Amateur as a handler, part of the organizing committee, or assisting in the actual event.
  • Must be a member in good standing of the Canadian Kennel Club. May be an American as long as other criteria are met. Only one American in judges' panel.
  • Must be an amateur

Selection Criteria

  • Three Judges will be named for each Stake.
  • National and National Amateur judges selection will consist of 2 judges not from the host zone and 1 judge from the host zone

Process

  • Names of qualified Judges from the zones will be submitted to the Judges Selection Committee by member clubs using the National Judge Selection Ballot or the National Amateur Judge Selection Ballot. If there is no Judges Selection Committee, the selected judges shall be submitted to the President and NRCC Secretary.
  • The Judges selection committee will
    • Review all nominations to ensure compliance with the Qualification criteria
    • Consider the nominations and select their preferred judge primarily based on the number of clubs supporting the nomination.
    • Select the best panel in their opinion for the National Amateur and the National.
    • Present to Board of Directors at a Board of Directors meeting prior to AMM.
  • Approval or change by Board of Directors
  • Announce Judges at AMM

Exceptions

The following table indicates possible scenarios when exceptions must be made;

Situation Recommended Actions
Selection committee cannot find approved judges from each zone 1. Examine potential people from other zones trying to ensure no more than one judge from each zone.

2. If no other person available and a qualified person is available from Host zone and host zone clubs support, select as Judge.

3. Selection Committee Responsible
Judge asks to be excused immediately after accepting 1. Examine potential people from other zones trying to ensure no more than one judge from each zone.

2. If no other person available and a qualified person is available from Host zone and host zone clubs support, select as Judge.

3. Selection Committee Responsible
Judge asks to be excused within 6 months of stake 1. Examine potential people from other zones immediately trying to ensure no more than one judge from each zone.

2. If no other person available and a qualified person is available from Host zone and host zone clubs support, select as Judge.

3. Selection Committee and Host Club Director Responsible
Judge is forced to withdraw within one month of stake 1. First Choice - In consultation with the Zone's Directors, select a qualified judge from the same Zone as the judge being replaced.

2. Second Choice - In consultation with the Zone's Directors, select a qualified judge from the Host Club's Zone.

3. Third Choice - In consultation with the Zone's Directors, select a qualified judge from the remaining Zone which most recently hosted the event.

4. Fourth Choice - In consultation with the Zone's Directors, select a qualified judge from the last Zone.
Judge is forced to withdraw after the start of the stake The stake will continue with two judges and the documentation from the withdrawn judge for as far as he was judging for consideration in final evaluation.

 

Committee to Review Guidelines to Host Nationals

Objective: To ensure the "Guidelines to Host Nationals" manual is current and represents best practices for our events.

Goal: Review the "Guidelines to Host Nationals" manual regularly to ensure it continues to be a useful tool for host clubs to use. The approved Guidelines will be re published as needed.

Process

  • Assign Director or other approved member of NRCC to keep Guidelines current.
  • One time only Review of complete document to ensure practices are current from last revision
  • Following each National and Amateur have the host club provide comments on what worked well and what didn't work so well as outlined in Guidelines.
  • Make changes/additions/upgrades to Guidelines as per comments received.
  • Review recommendations annually with directors

Publish approved revised Guidelines on NRCC web.

  1. The responses to the survey did not indicate a clear consensus on the questions of whether to hold a combined National event or to continue to hold both a National and a National Amateur the committee has decided to recommend that the Board should continue to maintain the status quo and attempt to hold both events within the present format. The committee does however recommend that should there not be 2 Host clubs in place by the Annual Meeting held generally in Mid September, then the board needs to contract with a single host club to hold a Combined Event the following year. This event will be considered a onetime occurrence and the NRCC board will then continue to hold two separate events if and when possible. The combined event will only be used as an option when necessary. Clubs considering and or applying to host a National Event need to be pre warned that this outcome is a possibility.
  2. The committee recommends that at no time does the NRCC become the host club. We feel this is the responsibility of the Member Clubs and as such they must find a host for the events. This does not preclude that members of the Board of Directors cannot step in and assist in any way possible in the hosting of a national.
  3. The Survey results show that 65% are in favour of changing the number of zones. So the Committee recommends that the BOD approve the change to 2 Zones
  • Western Zone  This zone will be made up of British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba.
  • Eastern Zone  This zone will be made up of Southern Ontario along with Northern Ontario , Quebec and the Maritime Provinces.
  1. The changes to zones also requires a change in how judges shall be selected. National and National Amateur judges selection will consist of 2 judges from the host zone and 1 judge from the other zone If a zone is unable to provide a judge then the BOD will be tasked with appointing a judge.
  2. The survey shows that a large majority feel that due to rising costs of hosting a National Event that the host club should be able to dispense with traditional items during the National Event week to cut expenses if they find it necessary. The committee endorses this recommendation and the Board of Directors approves.
  3. Another item that the survey shows is favoured, involves the NRCC charging the member clubs $5.00 for every dog that competes in each All Aged Stake that they hold. The committee endorses this recommendation and the Board of Directors approves.
  4. The committee also recommends that the set standards for dogs to Qualify to run a National Event remain as they are. One change that we feel is necessary is to incorporate the rule allowing for a qualification period of the current year and the previous calendar year for the National. The Board of directors approved this recommendation (August 14, 2017) We can now proceed with the necessary rule changes through the CKC Retriever Council.

8. The survey results show that the National Open Event should remain being held in or around September. The National Amateur Event did not have a definite result so we recommend that this event should be held on the dates as always. Should we ever hold a combined event the results favour holding this in September.

  1. The National format is to remain the same with two Nationals, the National Amateur in July and the National in September when there are two host clubs in the appointed host zones. If there is only one host club that submits an application to host National events in a year, then that club will host a combined National Amateur and National in September.
  2. The NRCC will require applications to host National events from clubs by July 1 of the year prior to the National year to award Nationals.
  3. If no club from the scheduled host zone has submitted an application to host National events by July 1st of the year prior to the National year, applications to host National events will be accepted from clubs in all other zones until the Annual General Meeting, held normally in Mid-September of the year prior to the National year.
  4. If there is only one host club that submits an application to host a National event in a given year, then that club will be contracted to host a combined National Amateur and National in September. For a combined National, there will be two titles awarded: National Champion and National Amateur Champion. Both titles may be awarded to the same dog when handled by an Amateur. If there is no Amateur handler that finishes the 10th series, then judges will not select a National Amateur winner and no National Amateur title shall be awarded for that year.
  5. If no host club has been selected, then the Executive of the NRCC shall be tasked with recruiting a suitable host club.
  6. National and National Amateur judges selection will consist of 2 judges from the host zone and 1 judge from the other zone. In the event of a combined National, the National judges selected will judge the combined National.
  7. If at least 3 judges are not selected, then the Executive of the NRCC shall be tasked to recruit the desired number of judges.

 

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