A grand day out in north Wales...

This year I've joined the North Wales Sheepdog Society for the first time.

Having thought about it and calculated that the distance we travel to some south Wales trials is just as far, I decided we might as well head north too.

Last weekend we ventured to the hills to compete at our first trials there.

If I'd looked at the map before we set off I probably would have thought twice about it, but I'd left the route planning to mum.

So, it was off to the beautiful Lleyn peninsular to compete at Sarn and Abersoch trials.

The Lleyn peninsular is one of those places in Wales that you have to make an effort to go to. It's not as if it's on the way to anywhere. However, it's well worth a visit and next time I plan to stay for at least a night and take the time to savour its delights.

As soon as fellow triallers discovered we were from Pembrokeshire they couldn't believe we were driving there and back in a day. Yes, we must be mad.

Travelling through the stunning countryside it almost felt as if we were on holiday, with unfamiliar roads, towns and seaside villages ­ and once the mist had dispersed ­ great sunny weather.

It wasn't just the new scenery that felt different to south Wales trials.

The general atmosphere seemed far more laid back and relaxed. Usually if we'd arrived at a trial at 9.30am we'd be waiting all day to run our dogs.

The field was fairly full of vehicles, but there were plenty of gaps in the running order. However, the hesitation to walk to the post may have had more to do with the sheep. They weren't what you'd describe as easy. Maybe they would come good much later in the day. We couldn't wait all day to test that theory ­- at least not if we wanted to return home before midnight.

Either way, it was a grand day out. Corrie and I didn't have the best of runs but Corrie enjoyed it. I'd have been happier if she'd stopped a bit more on the fetch at Sarn and if we'd caught the gates at Abersoch, but that's trials life for you.

It was good to catch up with some handlers and to meet new people. Driving home I realised it wasn't that different to a normal Saturday ­- the whole day had been spent watching and talking dogs, sheep and trials.

It doesn't seem a minute since the start of the 2009 trialling season in Wales and already plans are being made for this year's South Wales nursery final in December.

Before we know it, the Nationals will be here and then we'll all be heading to the 2009 International in Cumbria.

Is it me or is the trialling season flying by?

Life in the k9tales office has been hectic too.

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