The Blue Lake Obedience Dog Club has enjoyed a successful return to its October Dog Trials.

Incorporating agility and jumping, obedience and rally disciplines, the club was pleased with competitor numbers after not holding the event for the past two years, with almost 500 entries nominating for the Mount Gambier event.

Club president Darren Archibald said the trials, held at Hastings Cunningham Reserve over two days, provided an economic boost to the Mount Gambier community with most competitors travelling to compete, including a significant number coming from as far as Port Lincoln.

The event featured classes for novice through to masters, catering for everyone and any dog type was eligible to enter.

“Favourable weather in the lead up and during the event, as well as ground maintenance from Mount Gambier City Council, had the grounds in top condition and was highlighted in the times ran by some dogs,” Mr Archibald said.

“With everything needing to be completed perfectly to achieve passes in the competitors chosen discipline, competition was tight across the whole event and, for some, passes were hard to come by.

“Those competing for the first time were happy to have the opportunity to test themselves in a competition environment.

“Overall, the club was happy with the number of competitors who passed the courses set by the judges over the weekend.”

Mr Archibald said the club focus would now return to weekly obedience training for local members on Wednesday and Sunday mornings and planning towards its next competition trial to be held at Easter 2023.

New members are always welcome and can contact the club for more information.