I think that is another reason that is adding to my nerves. In novice and open, I was running as early as 2nd and no later than 10th-15th. So basically after the walk-thru, I got my dog out and was ready go. There wasn't much time to really stress over the course, but in excellent, I'm like the 30th or 40th dog to run, so there's so much time. I stress more about forgetting the course and watching all the other dogs run makes me starting doubting how I walked it.
Oh yeah, don't obsess. Just remember, you have to run Bailey, not the other dogs. I too used to think, well, they know what they're doing, and I'd change my mind about how I want to handle the course, and it'd fall apart. Why? Because I'm not running their dog, I'm running mine. One thing I do, is while I'm walking, see what people are doing in difficult areas. Then I walk it a few different ways, think about how Koji is, then choose the best route. And I stick to it! Regardless of what everyone else is doing.
I used to watch the 40+ runs. After awhile, the course would become a blur. What I do now, is pick a handful of dogs/handlers (that I knew - or unique dogs - aka not Shelties, Aussies, or BC's, LOL) that were 15 ahead of me. I'd do something with Koji, or relax. When I'd see them, then I'd start my routine.
I do think when you have a routine down, it's easier. Right now, you're all messed up because you moved up. Don't worry, you'll find your routine again. Trust me, I went through it too. And there are many times I'm at the gate area WAY too early and I've missed runs because of bad timing.
You're doing great. Don't beat yourself up and always remember, you're running Bailey, not some other dog.
