We often take the things we are familiar with for granted
– expecting others to envision the scene as we know it. By no fault of any, this happens often and we’re appreciative when some one says “please explain this to me.” Over the years, we have filed away notes and tidbits from spectators, volunteers and handlers. We regularly peruse the contents of that file to see if something might provide inspiration, answer a question or lead to a story.
Such is the case with a note that came to my desk in 2017.
My uncle, Lloyd Garrison, wrote this note after visiting the Meeker Classic. A journalist by trade, covering Europe and Africa for the New York Times and founding a newspaper in his retirement, he had a knack for grasping a situation and putting it to words. His note was short and simple, yet gave one so much to think about.
He shared some good thoughts on our website
and suggested we paint a picture through words and photos for those that had never attended Meeker. While we have tried to heed his advice, we can always do a bit more. I’ll share his words with you, and then elaborate on them while giving a visual rendition of the scene he sets (his words in large italic):
“At any rate, while the site intrigued me and I loved the primary focus on the dogs and handlers,
I had to wonder how someone who had never attended the trials would react to it. I was struck by the absence of establishing shots to set the scene”
the wonderful undulating field across which the sheep are herded.”
The trials are situated at Ute Park. A park that borders the western city limits of Meeker, Colorado. Approximately 115 acres and includes a natural open native space venue, that also serves as a trailhead to BLM property at the north end. During the spring, the south facing slopes, cedars and brush provide good habitat for a local rancher’s cows. The rest of the year people can walk or bike the trails and enjoy the open spaces with their dogs. The irrigated meadow on the south side provides a good crop of hay. The park is used by the Meeker Classic for a week each year for our annual sheepdog trials.
and the hills behind;”
flanked by a prominent sandstone ridges and cliffs that run north of Ute Park and the town of Meeker, nature has provided a natural amphitheater for the trials. Your eyes are drawn eastward to the White River Valley and wilderness area beyond.
“the mounted riders escorting the sheep from the holding pens”
600 to 700 yards to the east from the grand stands and the handler’s post the sheep are held in pens while they wait their turn for a run. Each dog gets a fresh batch of sheep to work. They’re guided by our set-out crew from the pens to a spot where they will wait while the dog is sent to fetch them. Once the sheep are in place at the far end of the field, and the dog is sent, the run and the clock starts. The handler may send the dog either to the left or the right. The outrun should be a “pear shaped” with the blunt end of the pear at the far end of the field behind the sheep. A successful outrun is completed when the dog has circled around behind the sheep without disturbing them. The challenge for the set-out crew is to make sure the sheep stay put until the dog gets to them, then the set-out crew heads back to the sheep pens. 
Thus commences the course where the dog must bring the sheep into the infield, working them quietly and safely though a series of obstacles. Demonstrating practical working skills for the farm or ranch, handlers guide the dogs with a series of commands to complete six scored components of a sheepdog trial. 
As the competition advances from qualifying runs, to the Semi-Finals and the Double Lift Finals – so does the length and difficulty of the course. Beginning with 5 sheep for the qualifying runs, the Double Lift requires the dogs to work 20 head.
Every successful run culminates with the penning 5 head of sheep.
Let’s not forget the grandstands filled with spectators;
“and the lawn chair crowd behind the fence, etc.”
flags frame the infield representing handlers that have competed from numerous countries throughout the years.
We can’t forget the colorful tents and food stalls
that are set up behind the course and bleachers. Here you find multiple food, artisan and craft vendors. Educational demonstrations are ongoing in various areas. You can explore sheep wagons, watch flyball and agility demonstrations, K-9 Sniffers and a FFA petting farm. 
A historic log barn called the Wilber Barn houses the International Art & Photography Show. An art reception is held one evening during the trial to recognize winning artwork and photographs.
Greeting people as they walk the grounds is the Shepherds Memorial
In remembrance of the many handlers that are no longer with us. These people have left a lasting mark on all of us and on the sheep dog trialing world. The Meeker Classic and several friends and donors worked together to create a permanent memorial that sits at Ute Park.
As you drive into the parking lot, you’ll find a friendly group of volunteers directing you to parking spaces and shuttling you up to the seating area.
So, if you decide to come to Meeker, these scenes will greet you. The Meeker Classic is one big happy family that gathers together each year to celebrate the sport of sheepdog trials, Border Collies, friendships and community. We hope to see you in Meeker!
