Getting nervous about our first trial ...

2GoodDogs

2GoodDogs

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So excited about our first agility trial. I entered Preferred Standard for the weekend of Sept. 17. I plan to run slow and steady and just survive, no expectations of a Q.

We won't pursue an agility career for Justus, but eventually a NAP would be nice. :)

I think I'm more nervous about getting him measured than I am about running (or trotting) a course. :D
 
The most important piece of advice I can give you - is just have fun!!!!!!! And remember to expect the unexpected. You just never know what will happen the first time.

As for getting measured, just ask the trial secretary when you get there. He/she will get you to the right place at the right time.

HAVE FUN!!!!!!!!
 
I'm gonna echo Cara here. Have fun. Q, NQ, doesn't matter. As long as your dog and you are both having fun, it's all good.
 
I will say the same thing. Just have fun. Don't worry about the "what if's". I have fallen, forgotten the course, misdirected my dog, my dog has gotten the zoomies... it happens to everyone at some point. Just remember you're playing a game with your best friend and have fun! Good luck!
 
I'll echo what everyone else has said, have fun! Remember, every single person in that trial started out where you are today; everyone had that first run with their first agility dog. As long as you and your dog have fun playing a game together you are winner regardless of what happens.

Keep in mind - you ALWAYS go home with the BEST prize, your dog. :)
 
I am in the same boat. I do my first trial October 1st and 2nd. I entered two novice standard and two jww. So good luck! It will be fun to see how you do.
 
It's great advice - have fun!! More specifically, I've found that if I'm focussing on giving my dog a fabulous time on course, then I enjoy myself almost as a side effect - AND it takes away any nerves.:wink2:

I can SO relate to the measuring nerves!! The measurers were wonderful though, so kind and patient with me and Epic :biggrin2:

Have a wonderful time, good luck and we look forward to hearing all about it:yes:

If you can, try and get someone to video it for you too. Apart from being very reassuring as it always seems to look better than you think, it is a lovely moment to capture for posterity. I have the majority of Epic's runs filmed but not our first ever competition and not our first clear. Hadn't thought at the time there would be any point but I regret it now :rolleyes2:
 
just a few more days! nervous, but excited! We are going to a friends house to practice this evening on her equipment, reviewing contacts and jump-weave combinations. I can't get him through unless I'm on his right...
 
2GoodDogs said:
just a few more days! nervous, but excited! We are going to a friends house to practice this evening on her equipment, reviewing contacts and jump-weave combinations. I can't get him through unless I'm on his right...
Click to expand...

All of my novice courses had me on the dog's right. I never had offside weaves until we got to Open. Don't worry. Have fun. Anxiously awaiting your after trial report. Good luck!
 
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