The Journey

In Early January of 2006, I(Larry) imported a young male without training from Germany to train for police work. After several weeks of training Angie and I realized he was something special. At that time, Angie decided to try her hand at schutzhund. Thus began a very interesting journey. With no schutzhund experience she began her training with the help of the members of O. G. Bierstadt, myself and many others along the way.

In 2006 they obtained the SchH 1 and SchH 2 along with V2 in conformation and KKL-1; in 2007 they obtained their SchH 3 and IPO 3. In 2008 she felt they could begin to train at a higher level and they received their first V score in protection. They then worked very hard to reach our Regional Trial; unfortunately, Chico contracted ehrliccea (a very nasty tick borne disease) and had to pull from the trial.

It took some time for him to recover but it made Angie more committed than ever; as several rumors circulated about Chico and his lack of drive at the Regionals and about her handling abilities. She dedicated herself to working harder over the Winter and early Spring to try to receive a qualifying score for this year's National championship and everything culminated today, May 29, 2009 when they received 98 in Tracking; 96 in Obedience; and 98 in Protection for 292 points!

I personally congratulate her on this achievement as this is the highest score obtained at OG Bierstadt in more than 30 years of existence. I would also like to thank Gordy Esselman, Chris and Minna Becher and all of the other people who have assisted and supported this team in the past 3 years. I also would like to especially thank Angie for her dedication and commitment during this time.

Larry