MBIF NFC DC Cali N TnTs Spirit of the Wild of Nitro MC LCX5FCh

Spirit looking pretty

2012-01-25T14:48:00.000-05:00

Happy 4th Birthday Day !!!!

2011-11-21T21:43:00.002-05:00

A day late, but a BIG HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO SPIRIT and her brothers and sisters!

To top things off, for her Birthday, Miss Spirit earned her LCX 5 title! I can't say how proud I of her, what a year - a bench championship for her Dual Championship title and a LCX 5 title! Congrats Spirit!! Run on Spirit, Run on!

Deana

One Happy Girl!

2011-10-07T15:33:00.002-04:00

"Red Girl" had a blast this past weekend and proved that Miss Spirit still loves to run. She got to go Lure Coursing in Reidsville, NC on her favorite fields; rolling hills, nice grass and of course course, nice fall NC weather!

I cherish every chance I get to see her run! She is still a sight to behold in my eyes!
Run on Spirit, Run on!

Thanks to Mike for these great shots of her!
Deana

Midwest 2011

2011-08-09T08:47:00.004-04:00

Decided to go to the Midwest Specialty show this year. It is in Canfield, OH.
It is always a fun time and I was excited to be able to present Miss Spirit as a Special this year.

I didn't get many pictures of "us" there, above are a few photos of Spirit in the hotel room playing and below is a photo of Spirit on the ramp taken by Paula Knight.

Here is one of us, also by Paula, sitting ringside.

Thanks Paula for the photos.

Deana

Spirit Looking Pretty

2011-08-02T10:44:00.002-04:00

Happy to be home

2011-07-17T16:42:00.002-04:00

I think Spirit looks quite happy to be home now, just relaxing on a lazy day!

Photos of Spirit in the Group ring

2011-07-01T15:27:00.002-04:00

Mike and I were able to see Spirit show with Phoebe only one time. It was after she finished her championship and the day we picked her up. She went BOB and these photos are Phoebe and Spirit in the Group ring. I think the 2 made a great team. I wish I had been able to see all of her wins, but at least we had the opportunity to see them together one time.

I truly LOVE this moving photo of Spirit and Phoebe - just beautiful on a loose lead!

Deana

Spirit is HOME!

2011-06-25T16:33:00.002-04:00

I couldn't be happier that Miss Spirit is now back home.

I want to Thank Phoebe again for taking such great care of her! I could never have left her be away home for so long if I hadn't trusted her completely! Now not only do we have her back home, she is the Dual Champion that she deserves to be!

One happy Mama, Deana

Second Major Win Photo

2011-06-15T20:41:00.002-04:00

Here is the win photo from June 4th, 2011 - Taconic Hills Kennel Club Show in Yorktown Heights - Spirit went WB for a major win and then went on to go BOW at an AWC supported entry show under breeder Judge Barbara Rupert!
As always, the two girls look so happy together!
Thank you Phoebe!

The hard life of a "show dog"!

2011-06-10T08:43:00.002-04:00

I am not sure how Spirit has managed the "HARD LIFE" of being a "Show Dog"!

I am glad that Spirit made friends with "Nellie" and was happy during her time with Phoebe!
But also very happy to know that soon she will be coming home!

Deana

New DUAL CHAMPION!!!

2011-06-09T14:00:00.002-04:00

I am so very excited and proud to announce that Spirit is now a Dual Champion!

She showed at the Taconic Hills Kennel Club Show in Yorktown Heights, NY today and earned her 3rd Major win going WB. She also went BOS - this gave her the final point she needed to finish her Bench Championship. I can not give enough THANKS to Phoebe Booth for not only handling her for all her points, but also for her taking such great care of her! I know that she has felt right at home at Phoebe's house and I just hope she will be as excited to come home as I am to have her!

If all goes well, she will be back on our sofa in a week or 2.
Thank you again Phoebe and A BIG Congratulations to Spirit!!! We are proud of you as always!

Deana

Spirit earns her 2nd Major in the Ring!

2011-06-06T20:47:00.003-04:00

What an exciting weekend!

Miss Spirit attended the AWC supported entry show in Wrightstown, PA on Saturday (6/4/11) and went WB for a major win under Breeder Judge Barbara Rupert! But they were not done there. The girls went on to go WB and BOW for another point on Sunday, giving her a total of 14 points and both of her major wins! We are so excited that Spirit is so close to coming home! Many Thanks to Phoebe Booth for handling Spirit to this win, and for taking such great care of her.

Win photo to come!

Deana

Fun Photo of Spirit

2011-05-30T16:31:00.003-04:00

Thanks Mike for this cool photo of Spirit! Love it!
Isn't she beautiful!

Deana

Spirit earns her First Major win in the Ring

2011-05-16T12:29:00.004-04:00

On April 22nd, 2011 - at Springfield Kennel Club - Spirit went Winner Bitch, Best of Winners and (to top it off) Best of Breed for her first major win! Congratulations to her and Phoebe for this exciting day!

Since then Spirit has earned several single points and now has a total of 8 points and 1 major.

Way to go girls! Keep up the good work so Spirit can come back home!

Deana

Spirit earns her first points in the Ring

2011-04-11T19:21:00.004-04:00

A big congratulations to Spirit and a "Big Thanks!" to Phoebe for handling Spirit to her first points. I love how happy both of them look in this winning photo!

Deana

2011-03-05T07:41:00.002-05:00

Spirit runs for Fun!

2011-03-04T07:54:00.007-05:00

Spirit was not happy recently when I tried to explain to her that she was now about to become a "Show Dog".

She said ", What are you talking about, I don't want to hear about this "show dog" stuff.
I am only 3 years old!!! and I still LOVE to run!!! "

I promised her that we would call it "semi-retirement" and that if the situation arised, she would still be able to "get the bunny" from time to time! How can one deny her her favorite activity of all time!
Since we headed down to Calhoun, GA this past weekend to "QC" Amos at the GANG trial there, we let her run 2 of 4 days. She proved that she still wanted to run by going BOB on Friday! Congrats to Miss Spirit - this little red girl loves to run more than life itself!!!

This coming weekend will be hard for me, but I know it will be worth it in the end. She will be heading off to spend time with her new friends. Good Luck to Miss Spirit in her new endeavors, I know she will do great and I hope she will be back home in no time!

Thanks to Mike for the great photos.
Deana

Spirit looking pretty

2011-01-10T16:19:00.003-05:00

I just love these photos of Spirit that Mike took this past weekend. So beautiful, some of my favorite photos of her. She is sporting her new "Good Luck" Dragon collar that she received from her Sister "Ruby". Thanks Sis! She loves it and it looks great on her.

Deana

Number 1 again for 2010!

2011-01-01T09:29:00.004-05:00

It is official, Spirit is the Number 1 Whippet and Sighthound in AKC Lure Coursing again for 2010 - Congrats Miss Spirit! We are so proud of you as always!

This is the Top 20 as of December 31st, 2010 - I do think that there were a few trials still pending that are not included in this ........
Deana

		Report Date: 20101231
	THE AMERICAN KENNEL CLUB

Sighthounds AKC TopDogs^sm Bowen System Starting January 1, 2010 and ending December 31, 2010
For Events Processed Through Thursday, December 30, 2010

Rank	Name	Breed	Sex	Points
1	NFC FC Cali N Tnts Spirit Of The Wild Of Nitro MC LCX4	Whip	B	659
2	GCH DC Diamond's Ariel Of Le Creme MC LCX9	RhoRidge	B	429
3	FC Windnsatin Endless Endeavor To Remix O' Tnt MC	Whip	B	313
4	FC Tnt's Black Ice MC	Whip	B	300
5	DC Ableaim Olympic Reign MC	Whip	D	244
6	FC Shine-Wgasa Vienna Creme SC	Whip	B	173
7	FC Tnt's Taking The Checkerd Flag MC LCX6	Whip	D	170
8	DC Hallam's Gysai Gabriel MC LCX	Pharaoh	D	169
9	FC Shine-Wgasa Almond Biscotti SC	Whip	D	166
10	CH Peppertree Barnwood Oracle SC	Whip	B	153
11	FC C'Lestial Wild & Wonderful Of Ryhka SC	Borz	D	146
12	DC Ableaim Keeper Of The Genes MC	Whip	D	144
12	DC Andauer Double Shot Espresso SC	Whip	B	144
14	FC Tnt's Lil Miss Right MC	Whip	B	142
15	GCH CH Ableaim Patent Pending SC	Whip	D	141
16	FC Tadita Written In The Stars SC	Whip	B	131
16	FC Elidas Summit Yellow Submarine SC	Whip	D	131
18	FC Zoiboyz Dillon Ex Libris SC	Borz	D	129
19	Windflight's Route Sixtysix SC	Whip	D	127
20	DC Hallam's Gysai Kali SC	Pharaoh	B	126
21	Tadita Born To Run SC	Whip	B	125
21	FC Shine Wgasa Chips Ahoy SC	Whip	D	125
23	FC Debmar Conserative Commentator SC	Whip	B	121
24	FC Deerpath Dreamy Drusy SC	Whip	D	119
25	FC Shine Wgasa Hydrox Ltd Edition SC	Whip	D	116
25	FC Shannon Down The Entertainer SC	Whip	D	116

Christmas 2010

2010-12-26T08:58:00.007-05:00

Miss Spirit - looking SO pretty here, she is such a beautiful girl! Do you think she knows it???

Thanks to Mike for these beautiful photos of Spirit.....Looking prettier everyday.
Deana

Photos from the 2010 AKC NLCC

2010-12-10T09:30:00.008-05:00

Here are some photos taken by Steve Surfman of Spirit, new NFC, during the weekend of the event! Congrats again Miss Spirit!

Win photo:Right after they announced the winner:Several photos throughout the weekend of Miss Spirit - always beautiful!Look at that position!!!Here is a photo of Spirit during the Best of Breed Finalist run - see 4 whippets all running together:Best of Event run-off #3 for Spirit - the final run with the last 4 breeds:

Spirit wins 2010 AKC NLCC

2010-11-30T13:50:00.013-05:00

New AKC National Lure Coursing Champion!

This past weekend started out cold and windy! Not the kind of weather that Miss Spirit likes, that is for sure. The NLCC starts out as 2 individual AKC lure coursing trials. Spirit is a very consistent runner and did well, earning a 2nd place in the Specials stake both days, but ended up making it to the NLCC finals event by having the highest combined score (tied with another dog) from both days.

By the time we got to the Best In Event/finals, the weather had changed. The sun was out, the wind was gone and the temperatures had risen. Much better running weather for this red girl. The crowd enjoyed it as well and the hillside was covered with spectators, all excited for the upcoming event. The finals course was set up and the final runs began!

The whippet BOB run was beautiful, all 4 dogs ran their heart out and in the end it was given to Miss Spirit. I was thrilled and overwhelmed with joy that this special girl had won the honor of being the 2010 AKC Whippet Breed Finalist. However, Spirit said she was not done and insisted that she had more to give me.

The Best in Event consisted of 4 runs/10 dogs - Spirit was initially paired with the Greyhound (in the 3rd run) and started out having a gorgeous run that was stopped mid-course because the judges felt that the Greyhound was injured. Since she did not run the full course and it was a run of only 2 dogs, they asked her to run again as the 3rd dog in the 4th course. After the initial runs, the judges brought back 4 dogs - a ridgeback, a basenji, an ibizan hound and Spirit. I wish someone had video-taped this final run as it was truely a sight to see! These 4 incredibly talented dogs, all running together, were breathtaking and a sight I will not forget.

The overwhelming joy of hearing her name announced can not be expressed in words. Knowing the company that she was running with, I am truley honored that Spirit was awarded this prestegious title of National Field Champion for 2010! While this girl always runs with her heart, I know on this particular day she was running for me! She gave me her whole heart and made a dream come true! I hope that the "late" great Lyle and her "late" grandpa Moe would have been proud of her running!

I want to thank everyone who made this day happen. I want to thank her breeders for allowing this special girl to live with me. Spirit is a beautiful girl, an amazing athlete, and a loving companion. This talented girl has proven everything there is to prove about her on the coursing field. I can't ask anymore of this her. Thank you Miss Spirit!! From this point on, she is offically retired. I know you have other great accomplishments to achieve! I can't wait to see what your future holds for you next! I know that you will forever be running in your heart! Run on Spirit, Run on!

Deana

Happy 3rd Birthday!!!!!

2010-11-20T20:05:00.002-05:00

Happy "3rd" Birthday to Spirit and all her siblings!
Spirit celebrated her 3rd Birthday doing her favorite thing, "what else"!!! Lure Coursing!
- Congrats to her 1st placement in the Field Champion Stake at the SHOT ASFA trial today in Williamsburg, VA.

Spirit 9/2010

2010-09-26T14:04:00.008-04:00

Miss Spirit - grown up now - she will be 3 years old in November!
Thanks to Mike for these beautiful photos of her at Buck Creek Campgrounds in Marion, NC.
What a pretty red girl!

Deana

Spirit goes Best In Field at SHOT Trial

2010-09-12T18:32:00.003-04:00

We attended an AKC Lure Coursing trial in Williamsburg, VA this past weekend. The weather was much cooler than home and despite the rain on Sunday, we had a great time! We spent Saturday night hanging out with friends in front of bon-fire!

Spirit was happy to be on the field again after a 3 week rest and ran like a wild girl - she went Best of Breed and then on to a Best in Field on Saturday!! The dry field was havock on the dogs feet and the trial on Sunday was much smaller. Spirit went on to win the Specials stake with Morgan placing 5th. I didn't run her for BOB, her pads seemed irritated and I want her to be able to run next weekend when we try out our new field in Marion, NC!

Thanks to Lori Strebritz for these photos of Spirit!

Congrats to Miss Spirit - I am always proud of this girl and her never ending heart and drive! What a joy to see her run! Run on Spirit, run on!

Deana

A Best of Breed Win in Virginia

2010-08-23T19:39:00.005-04:00

Congratulations Miss Spirit on another Best of Breed at the CHAMP AKC Lure Coursing trial this past weekend in The Plains, VA. It was a hot and HUMID and ended up being a long day. However, in the end she performed 4 wonderful runs against some great competition and took home the Purple and Gold Ribbon. I am even happier that my Mom, Carol, and Stepdad, Ray, were visiting from Wisconsin to see this fantastic win. I am always proud of this special red girl! My only regret is not taking any pictures of Mom and Ray while we were there!

Deana

Summer Photos

2010-08-09T18:13:00.006-04:00

SPIRIT

Here are some photos taken of Spirit on a semi hot day in August...... she is about 2.5 years old now, hard to believe!

Back to Back Best of Breeds

2010-08-07T16:14:00.002-04:00

AKC Lure Coursing Trial in Hanover, PA

Congratulations to Miss Spirit on another successful weekend.
During the weekend of July 24th and 25th, she went back to back Best of Breeds against some tough competition. Spirit is currently the #1 whippet in AKC Lure coursing for 2010!! Way to go RED! This special girl always makes me proud and she has such a good time running, who could deny her the fun!

Thanks to Mike for this great photo!
Deana

New LCX 3 title!

2010-06-30T21:21:00.003-04:00

Just like last year, we had a great weekend at the BGCC's spring AKC lure coursing trial. Spirit seems to love the hot weather and ran beautifully! From the bottom of my heart, watching her run makes me smile and she loves it SO much!

To keep things exciting, Spirit went BOB both Friday and Sunday! At just 2.5 years old, her BOB win on Friday earned her, her LCX3 title! I am so proud of this red girl!

Run on Spirit, Run on!

Deana
PS photo by Mike!

AKC Lure Coursing, Hanover, PA

2010-06-21T21:10:00.004-04:00

Back to back Best of Breeds and then, to top it off, a Best in Field!!!

We had a great time in Hanover, PA, this past weekend. The weather was hot (which by the way Spirit LOVES!) and the competition was tough, but Miss Spirit went BOB both days and then went BIF on Sunday. Thanks to all that made this a wonderful experience for us! This makes 8 BOBs out of 13 trials so far this year! Congrats to Spirit!!! I am very proud of this special red girls (as always!!!)

Lure Coursing in Camden, SC

2010-06-09T19:48:00.004-04:00

Every day I get to see this "red" girl run puts a smile on my face.

While it was HOT and HUMID in Camden, Spirit could have cared less. She ran great and had tons of fun! I don't know what this girl would do if she couldn't "chase bunny"!
Congrats to Spirit on her 6th of 11 Best of Breeds so far this year!

Run on Spirit, Run on!
We are proud of you as always!!
Deana
PS. Thanks to Mike for the photos!!!

Photos of Spirit from the 2010 AWC National

2010-05-30T22:27:00.002-04:00

Me and Spirit at the Parade of Honors:
Spirit winning "Best Performance Dog" :
Spirit winning First in the Lure Coursing Bitch Class:
All by Steve Surfman

Another fun weekend lure coursing for Spirit!

2010-05-25T19:23:00.014-04:00

We had a great time Lure coursing in Rocky Mount, NC this past weekend.
I am so proud of this red girl - she is always SO consistent! And boy does she love to run and get the bunny! Check out these photos by Mike - a series of photos from one of Spirit's runs (yellow) this past weekend:

The start:

Mid course:

A strong finish:Yeah - I got the Bunny!!!! Does that mean I win!!

What joy!
Deana

Spirit wins her 4th BOB so far this year!

2010-05-11T07:41:00.012-04:00

We went to Camden, SC for an AKC Lure Coursing trial this past weekend. Despite the hot weather (Spirit actually loves the heat!) - Spirit ran well and went BOB on Saturday. Congrats to this consistently running girl - she has run 7 "days" so far this year and has earned 4 BOBs! We are proud of you as always! Run on Spirit, run on!
Thanks to Mike for these wonderful photos - he just gets better and better!
Deana

Spirit wins title for "Best Performance Dog"

2010-05-04T19:40:00.002-04:00

Not only is this special red girl fast and powerful, she has structure, beauty and grace. She will be selectively shown this year amongst coursing trials and I look forward to her potential Dual Champion title!
Congrats Spirit - I am proud of you as Always!!! What a joy to have you in our home!
Thanks to Mike for the photos above.
Deana

Back to Back Best of Breeds!!

2010-03-21T21:18:00.004-04:00

What a wonderful weekend, we headed to Williamsburg, VA for SHOT's spring AKC Lure Coursing trial! We had great weather and good times with friends, and of course the dogs had a lot of fun!

Congrats to Spirit for going BOB both Saturday and Sunday with some tough competition! She is off to a great start this year and we are excited to head to Tuscan, AZ in a few weeks for the AWC Nationals in a few weeks!

Look out for more photos from Mike, here is a good one of Spirit with Samantha. (Samantha placed 2nd and 3rd in the specials stake - Sat. and Sunday)

Deana

New LCX II Title!!!

2010-03-15T20:33:00.005-04:00

Congratulations Spirit - what a way to start the new year!!!

We went to our first AKC Lure coursing trial this past weekend in Camden, SC. It was wonderful weather! Spirit was SO excited to be on the coursing field aga

in after 3 months off. She went crazy once she knew where she was.

Saturday - a great day - she had a blast and placed first in the large specials stake - a 4pt. major!

Sunday - even better - she placed first again in the specials stake and then went on to take Best of Breed! - 5pt. major

She only needed 7pts. to earn her LCX II - what an accomplishment - all by the age of 2 years and 4 months old!!

I am so very proud of you Spirit - Run on, Spirit, Run on!

Thanks Mike for the photo

Deana

Spirit - Snow Jan. 2010

2010-02-01T10:06:00.007-05:00

After some time off from running - Spirit plans to head back to the show ring in a few weeks.
Photos by me (Deana)

Final results for 2009 AKC Lure Coursing

2010-01-12T07:45:00.003-05:00

Below are the links to the final 2009 AKC Lure Coursing Rankings!

Congratulations to all the top 20 dogs!

Top 20 Whippets

Top 20 Sighthounds

SPIRIT ENDS THE YEAR #1

2009-12-31T12:49:00.006-05:00

SPIRIT
#1 WHIPPET/#1 SIGHTHOUND
2009 AKC LURE COURSING

Spirit's Christmas photo - 2009

2009-12-26T09:32:00.004-05:00

Photo by Mike

Spirit goes Best in Field!

2009-12-15T06:59:00.005-05:00

GO SPIRIT!!!
What a great weekend we had in Camden, SC, at the Afghan Hound Club of America's AKC Lure Coursing trial! On Saturday, despite the cold and the long trip to Texas the weekend before, Spirit decided that the "Bunny" was hers. It was a large field of 17 Open whippets, 15 Specials whippets and 7 Veteran Whippets and a total entry of 90+ sighthounds entered!
Spirit went BOB and then on to her First All Breed Best in Field!!! (I will mention that we have not actually run for BIF all year, however as the year is winding down, we decided to go for it) As always, I am very proud of this little red girl. She makes it all look so easy! and always has such a great time!
Thanks to Mike for these photos!
Deana

Spirit goes BOB on Sunday at 2009 AKC National Lure Coursing Trial

2009-12-08T13:30:00.005-05:00

A big Congrats to Spirit!
It was a long drive to Florence, Texas and the weekend did not provide very nice weather, but despite that, this little red devil girl gave it her all! She ran with such big heart and enthusiasm this weekend - I am very proud of her.
She also paired up well with her "sister" Morgan as they won the Whippet Kennel Stake both Saturday and Sunday and then Spirit and her real brother (littermate) Joe won the Whippet Breeder Stake on Sunday!
Below - "Spirit" - Sunday's Whippet Best of Breed Winner

What a way to finish of such an amazing year!
Thanks to Mike and Spirits Breeders: Donna, Larry, Robin, Scott and Dora!
Spirit could not have done without you guys!
Deana

HAPPY 2nd BIRTHDAY SPIRIT

2009-11-26T07:52:00.005-05:00

Here is Spirit - Lure Coursing the day after her birthday! She is having a blast as always!!!
Thanks for the photo Mike

Group Photo - "Papa with 6 offspring"

2009-11-25T21:17:00.008-05:00

Group photo of TNTs "Gonzo X Sizl" litter (Breeders - Robin Horner, Donna Richards and Dora MacDonald) at 2 years old!

From Left to Right:
Mary with "Ruby", Robin with "Gonzo and Double Live", me (Deana) with "Spirit", Scott with "Tango", and Donna with "Flyer and Joe"!
Wow what a great photo!!

Thanks Mike for taking this picture!

Spirit goes BOB today in Camden, SC!

2009-10-17T19:07:00.003-04:00

Congrats to Spirit for her 9th BOB this year! Run on Spirit - Run on!!!!
Wish I was there to see you run this weekend, thanks to Mike for taking her.
As always, you make me proud!!

Deana

New LCX Title!

2009-10-13T09:56:00.008-04:00

Congratulations Spirit - for earning your LCX (Lure Courser of Excellence) Title this past weeked.

As always, you make us proud! Run on Spirit - run on! We love to see you having so much fun!
Thanks to Mike for these great photos of Spirit this past weekend.

Deana

Spirit wins BOB in Camden, SC

2009-10-06T08:39:00.008-04:00

We headed to Camden, SC this past weekend, our first trip in the motorhome and attended a CLCS AKC Lure Coursing trial. All the dogs had a great time and enjoyed the new "house on wheels!"
As always, Spirit made us proud, going BOB on Sunday (there were 20 open dogs and 11 specials).
Congrats to Spirit and Thanks to Mike for these great photos !!!

Deana

Spirit goes BOB in Williamsburg, VA today!

2009-09-12T17:21:00.004-04:00

Congratulations to Spirit for going Best of Breed today at SHOT's AKC Lure Coursing trial in Williamsburg, VA.
Thanks to Mike once again for handling her to this win! Wish I could have been there.
Thanks to Rhonda Gold for this photo of her at the Hannover trial in PA last weekend.

Run Spirit, Run! I miss you.
Deana

Spirit goes BOB in Hanover today!

2009-09-05T22:25:00.004-04:00

Thanks Mike for Handling Spirit to another Best of Breed at Win in Hanover, PA AKC Lure Coursing Trial!!!!

This is Spirit's 3rd BOB in a row! Way to Go Spirit!

As always, you make me very proud!

I miss you both, see you soon.

Deana

Spirit goes Back to Back BOBs at CHAMP AKC LC Trials

2009-08-26T17:50:00.006-04:00

Congratulations to Spirit !!!- on both 8-23-09 and 8-24-09 she went BOB at CHAMP's AKC Lure Coursing trial in The Plains, VA. She defeated 28 dogs on Satuday and 27 on Sunday!
Way to go Spirit! As always, you make me proud - keep having fun!
Thanks to Mike for these wonderful photos!
Wow Spirit, look at those Muscles!!!

More photos can be seen at the end of her web album:

"Spirits' web album"

Deana

Spirit goes BOB in Hannover, PA

2009-07-21T09:45:00.011-04:00

We had a wonderful weekend up in Pennsylvania this past weekend! The weather was great, the hospitality was great and as always, Spirit had a great time running! There were more whippets than we expected. On Saturday, there was an open entry of 28 dogs, specials had 10 dogs and veterans had 2. Sunday was even larger with 2 open stakes of 19 each, a specials stake of 14 and a vet. stake of 1. Spirit ran great on Saturday and ended up going BOB! I love to watch this girl run! Congratulations Spirit - we are proud of you as always!!!

Thanks to Mike for these great photos that he got of her in Hannover! More can be found in her web album: http://picasaweb.google.com/CaliWhippets/SpiritSPhotos?feat=directlink

Deana

Spirit goes BOB at BGCC in Columbia, KY

2009-06-25T21:34:00.005-04:00

Congratulations to Spirit on her Best of Breed win!
Last weekend, we packed up the van and Spirit, Morgan, Mike and I headed over to Columbia, Kentucky for a long weekend of AKC Lure Coursing with the Blue Grass Coursing Club.
We had a great time despite the heat and the long drive. The Curry farm was beautiful and the competition was great.
After a 5 week lay-off to rest a toe injury, Spirit had a great time. She ran Saturday with no problems to her toe! Yeah! After a warm-up on Saturday, she followed it up on Sunday with a Best of Breed win over 50 other Whippets!
The best news was the long weekend didn't seem to bother her toe at all! As always, she is looking forward to the next trial! Thanks to Donna for all her help and to Mike for these great photos!
Okay Spirit! How do you get into that position?! (above)
Boy this is fun!!! (below)
Deana

NEW AKC Field Champion "Spirit"

2009-05-04T21:20:00.003-04:00

Introducing:
New AKC Field Champion
FC Cali N TNTs Spirit Of The Wild of Nitro FCh SC

We attended the AKC trial in Leesburg, VA this past weekend. We had a great time, the weather was nice on Saturday, but turned rainy on Sunday. It was a good turn out, esp. for whippets - with a field of 20 open, 9 specials and 3 vets on Saturday and 13 open, 13 specials and 2 vets on Sunday. The competition was tough. Despite that, Spirit had a great day, going 1st in the open stake on Saturday - earning her her Field Championship title! On Sunday, she was moved up to the specials stake and went 2nd - earning her first LCX points!!
Way to go Spirit! As always, you make me proud and are giving me the time of my life! I am glad you are having fun!
Thanks to Mike for this photo of Spirit!

Deana

New accomplishments keep coming!

2009-04-29T21:43:00.002-04:00

We just found out tonight that as of April 28th, not only is Spirit currently the

#1 Whippet in AKC Lure Coursing,
she is also the
#1 Sighthound in AKC Lure Coursing!

We are thrilled and shocked at this news. What an exciting time for us here - for as long as this lasts at least :)

Deana

Introducing NEW ASFA FIELD CHAMPION

2009-04-19T17:32:00.009-04:00

Cali N TNTs Spirit of the Wild of Nitro FCh SC
"Spirit"

Congratulations!

to Spirit for finishing her ASFA field championship at MAHA's Lure Coursing Trial in Reidsville, NC today! Thank you to judges Sandra Moore and Jim Anthony for her first placement wins this weekend!
Thanks to Donna, Robin and Dora for this wonderful girl.
Also thanks to Mike for taking her.

Deana, happy and proud as always.

Spirit wins BOB at 2009 AWC National Specialty

2009-04-14T11:57:00.033-04:00

Spirit wins BOB
at the American Whippet Club's
National Specialty AKC Lure Coursing trial

in Atlanta, GA, April 4th, 2009
This young (only 17 months old) girl never ceases to amaze me and made my first AWC National event a memorable one for sure.

On Saturday, the field consisted of 110 dogs (4 stakes of Open whippets (78 total), 1 large stake of Special whippets (26 dogs) and 1 stake of veteran whippets (6 dogs)). The course was a bit more challenging than normal for us, it was about 840 yards long and consisted of rolling hills.
As the day started, Spirit ran well and ended up winning her open stake (Yeah!) for her first Major win (5pts.)! I was so exited, I was in tears. This the first time I have had a dog go first in an AKC trial, so I was trilled! I knew that meant she qualified to run for BOB but at that moment I was so excited about the major win I remember saying to my husband Mike, "I am so happy for this first place, I don't care what she does from here on today, I just want her to have fun running!".
Well, run she did.
I must admit, her third run of the day, the semi-final run, brought tears to my eyes. I couldn't have asked any more out of this special girl in that run and in my mind I will always remember it as perfection. After a short wait I was told she won her course and qualified for the last run-off, the other winner was "Roger", a 6 year old male from the specials stake. I will admit I was a bit worried about the last and final run. She had already run 3 long, hard runs, and as a young girl I had not pushed her this hard yet. Spirit, however, never seemed to have any doubts at all. As they yelled "Tally-Ho" she bolted out of my arms as if she hadn't even run yet that day, took control of the course and finished strong!!
As expected, they kept me waiting for the final results, but once announced I almost couldn't believe they called her name - "Spirit" - as the winner!

Thanks to Donna and Larry Richards, Robin and Scott Horner, and Dora McDonald for this wonderful girl! Thanks to judges Ian Davies and Katie Kaltenborn for noticing my special girl. Thanks to Roger (the other semi-finalist) and all the other whippets who participated in the trial for wonderful competition! Thanks to all the wonderful people that I meet this weekend while coursing, especially David Howton for all of his hard work! And finally, thanks to Mike for all his help, support and of course these photos!

These first few photos of Spirit are taken by Mike on Saturday:

Spirit after her final run wearing her BOB winning collar made by Gail Boyd:
Spirit and Deana in the Hilton Hotel later in the week:
Deana, Robin, Scott, and 4 littermates (Spirit, Missy, Flyer and Double Live) - all 4 littermates placed on both Saturday and Sunday! Way to go pups!
Deana and Spirit in the confirmation ring on Thursday:
Spirit behaved well in the ring and overall showed well for me.

Great job Spirit! We are proud of you as always!!!!
Deana

Spirit Ranked #1 - for the time being that is!

2009-03-31T13:49:00.008-04:00

Another Cali Whippet first!

As of March 20th, 2009, Spirit is ranked #1 in AKC Lure Coursing!

I am so proud of this little red girl! It has been a lot of fun to see her ranked #1 for as long as it last! LOL She is still a young girl and is just out having a great time!

Nationals are this coming weekend, we are very excited to participate in this large event. I can't wait to see if she will do anything there.
Wish her luck! We will keep all informed of the results!

Spirit Shows in Raleigh, NC

2009-03-24T10:30:00.008-04:00

Spirit had a good time this past weekend. She was entered two days in the Raleigh circuit and overall did good. She showed better on Thursday than on Saturday. I think all the noise on Saturday made her a bit nervous. Hopefully this will be good experience prior to the Nationals in a few weeks.
Thanks to Mike for some great photos of Spirit.

Deana

Spirit places Second on Sunday

2009-03-16T18:15:00.002-04:00

AKC Lure Coursing Trial in Williamsburg, VA (SHOT)

Sunday was a new day, however, it was the same story as Saturday. It was cold and wet, but the dogs still had a great time! After her two runs, Spirit took 2nd place (out of 18 open dogs!) - no runoffs needed.
Her current total for Bowen pts. as of today "52" and 15 singles towards her Championship - Now she just needs those elusive Major wins! I am being patient, I know they will come someday.

Way to go Spirit! Another successful day, lots of fun and no injuries!

Deana

Spirit places 3rd

2009-03-14T20:20:00.003-04:00

AKC Lure Coursing Trial in Williamsburg, VA (SHOT)

It was cold and wet, like a few weeks ago, however, this time Morgan and I joined Spirit.
Spirit ran hard, as always. She had 2 strong runs and won a 3/4/5 run-off to earn 3rd place out of 13 dogs.

Way to go Spirit! Another successful day, fun and no injuries!
We will see what tomorrow holds in store.
Deana

Spirit is Ranked in the "Top 7" AKC Lure Coursing!

2009-03-10T12:45:00.008-04:00

A Cali Whippet first!

As of March 7, 2009, Spirit is ranked in the "Top 10 Whippets" - AKC Lure Coursing!
Currently she is tied for 7th place!
Way to go Spirit! As always, we are proud of you!

Spirit's reply to the above info was: "So when do I get to run again?!"
Deana

Spirit places both Saturday and Sunday

2009-03-01T17:24:00.004-05:00

I was not able to attend the AKC Lure Coursing trial in Akien, SC this weekend, but was lucky enough to send Spirit down without me. I heard it was very wet and cold, but the dogs still had a good time.
According to those there, Spirit ran well and had lots of fun! She placed 3rd out of 14 on Saturday and 3rd out of 15 on Sunday, adding another 3 points towards her championship title.
Way to go Spirit - I am proud of you as always!
Next trial will be in two weeks in Virginia, I can't wait as I will be able to go to that one.

New Photos of Spirit

2009-02-24T10:30:00.004-05:00

Mike was practicing taking Portrait photos and got these of Spirit - isn't she beautiful!!!!
Thanks to Mike and to Spirit for being such a great subject.
Deana

Spirit enjoying time outside in the yard

2009-02-21T10:22:00.005-05:00

In the early part of February we had a really nice day (in the 70s). Spirit and Morgan had a grand time and I was able to get a few photos of them in the yard. I can't believe Spirit is 15 months old already. (She was only 14 months old in these photos).
Oh those ears!! what are you trying to be a Jack Russell?

Spirit!

2009-02-08T22:26:00.005-05:00

This is a great photo that Mike took and converted to black and white.
I really love what he did and wanted to share.
Deana

Spirit earns ASFA points

2009-01-20T19:37:00.008-05:00

We had another fun weekend Lure Coursing this past weekend in Camden, SC at CLCS's ASFA January Jam. On Saturday she place 2nd out of 15 dogs in the open class to earn 30 pts. towards her championship title. On Sunday she took a bad spill which took her out of placements, but her second run was good enought to bring her back up to 6th place out of 16 or 17 dogs.
Follow the link to more photos of her and Tyler. Thanks to Mike.

http://picasaweb.google.com/CaliWhippets/LureCoursingCamdenSC11709533PM?feat=directlink

Below are Spirit (yellow) and her littermate, Flyer (blue), getting a chance to course together!

Way to go Spirit! We are proud as always!!!
Deana

Spirit having a great time Lure Coursing!

2008-12-29T21:42:00.010-05:00

Here comes Spirit moving in for score!
She goes for it!

She gets it!!!! Is she having fun or what!

Spirit has run in 5 trials now and she has earned her SC title and a total of 8 points.
Each trial entered there were split stakes and multiple top 20 dogs competing in those stakes. She has placed in the top 5 each of those days!
Way to go Spirit! We are proud of you!
Thanks to Mike for these great photos taken on Sunday!

Christmas Day Portrait

2008-12-25T21:29:00.005-05:00

Merry Christmas from Spirit.
What a beautiful picture Mike took of her!

Spirit earns 5 points towards her championship

2008-12-23T08:44:00.010-05:00

This was Spirits second weekend participating in the open class and it was a tough weekend to course. Being the end of the year, all of the top coursing dogs in this area were out trying to get some of the last available points for the year.
Spirit, did not disappoint us. She continued to run well, straight on the line and full force enthusiasm.
On Saturday she tied for 2-3 and won her run-off to go 2nd place and earn another 3 points.
On Sunday she tied for 3-4 and again won her run-off to go 3rd for an additional 2 points.
She now has 8 singles towards her Field Championship title.
We will be running again next weekend as that is the last trial in this area for some time.
Wish her luck. Here are some good photos of her that Mike took. Thanks Mike!
Notice the tongue ! I am afraid she will bite it off!More photos in the web album:
http://picasaweb.google.com/CaliWhippets/CamdenLureCoursing122008?feat=directlink

Deana

Spirit earns her JC title and places in her first Trial!!

2008-12-02T08:57:00.010-05:00

Spirit had a great week!

This little red girl is a true pistol!!!
She easily earned her Junior Coursing (JC) title and moved up to the open class on Sunday. What an exciting day. -- She tied for first place after the second run. The run-off was close and she ended up in second (however I have to say that that was her 4th run of the day and her 7th run of the weekend!!)
I can't wait to see what this girl will do in the future! She is running straight on the line and full of enthusiasm! She ended up earning 3 pts. towards her championship title. Not bad for her first time out!
Way to Go Spirit!!!! We are proud of you!
Some photos are below - more can be seen in the web album:

http://picasaweb.google.com/CaliWhippets/LureCoursingReidsville112908#

Deana

HAPPY 1st BIRTHDAY SPIRIT!!!!!

2008-11-20T18:57:00.004-05:00

Happy First Birthday to Spirit and all of her siblings!!
This crew is a wild and crazy bunch and I look forward to seeing what they can all accomplish!

Spirit is Test dog for ASFA Trial in Rocky Mount, NC

2008-11-04T09:34:00.010-05:00

Spirit had a great time Lure Coursing this past weekend. She was able to run a full course each day, preparing her for her first test and trial at the end of this month.
More photos can be seen of her and others in the web album:

http://picasaweb.google.com/CaliWhippets/MAHAASFATrialInRockyMountNC#

Thanks to Mike for the great photos!

Deana

Happy Halloween!!

2008-10-30T13:14:00.004-04:00

Spirit (the red-devil girl) says have a Safe and Fun Halloween!!!

Spirit practices Lure Coursing

2008-10-22T08:29:00.009-04:00

This wild and crazy girl had a great time this past weekend! Not only did she get to practice coursing, but she ran with her mother (Sizl) and did amazingly well since she is just 11 months old. I am always amazed at her speed! Way to go Spirit. Only one more month and you can run for real!!
Thanks to Mom Sizl for helping her get her ASFA cert. approval.

Thanks to Mike for the great photos!
more photos can be seen at:

http://picasaweb.google.com/CaliWhippets/MAHAtrialinReidsville101808#

Deana

Spirit attends her first dog show!

2008-09-01T13:53:00.011-04:00

I am proud of Spirit! She attended her first dog show this past weekend and was entered two days. On Friday, she was very excited to be in the building and was not scared of all the noise or people. She did OK in the ring, moving better than I expected but was a bit nervous on the exam (my fault for not practicing her on the floor). Today (Monday) she did better on the exam (table today) and had a good time meeting lots of new people and dogs. I am happy she had a good time and an overall good exprience. She needs a bit more work to be as good as her sister Morgan, but that should come with time and practice.
For now she is happy to be back at home, running in the yard with Morgan! Included are a few pictures from today that Mike took of her in the ring.

Spirit practices Lure Coursing at Rocky Mount, NC

2008-06-15T09:13:00.011-04:00

Spirit is almost 7 months old now and we decided to let her run a little bit longer this practice. She ran about 1/3 of the course and she did great! She stayed true to the course and ran with great enthusiasm! Just look at the pictures Mike took. Look for the tongue, it always seems to be out. Way to go Spirit!
Watch for more of Spirit in the future. Deana

Spirit practices in Rocky Mount

2008-04-24T09:02:00.006-04:00

Spirit's true attitude is finally coming out. She had a great time at the ASFA trial this past weekend. She was able to practice and did wonderful! Here are some pictures Mike took of her during her practice run Saturday afternoon.

Spirit's own page is finally here

2008-04-13T09:26:00.008-04:00

Spirit is finally settling in here at Cali Whippets. She and Morgan have become "best friends". They want to play all day and both love the outdoors. I think having a young puppy for her to bond with has helped the transition greatly.
While she seems to be very comfortable here at home, we are still dealing with some car sickness issues. They are slowly improving but I dare not feed her before going in the car.
It was a nice weekend, so yesterday, for the first time, we decided to try a short lure coursing practice with Spirit in our backyard. Oh, what fun! It didn't last long but Mike was able to get some great pictures.
With some pictures available, Spirit now has her own page to show off her accomplishments. http://caliwhippetsspirit.blogspot.com
Thank you again Donna, Larry, Robin and Scott for this wonderful girl!!!!