Does your dog have the chops to be a ‘World Champion Boatyard Dog?’
ROCKLAND — The anticipation for the 14th annual World Championship Boatyard Dog Trials is building among canines and their adoring fans. Would you like to compete? Then Maine Boats, Homes & Harbors Show organizers have some serious questions for you: Does your tail wag faster when you dream of cold ocean water? Does the applause of the crowd entice you to strut your stuff? In short, are you dog enough to compete in the World Championship Boatyard Dog Trials?
If the answers are yes, then please cast your paw into the ring for a chance to stand up, sit down and roll over before an adoring crowd.
A few choice slots are available for prospective contenders in the trials, which are to be held Sunday, Aug. 14, at 10:30 a.m., as part of the Maine Boats, Homes & Harbors Show (Aug. 12-14, in Rockland.) Any well-behaved dog is eligible to apply, but preference will be given to dogs that work in a boatyard, crew on a boat, or direct operations of any kind on the waterfront (or think they do).
Dogs (and their handlers) who are chosen for the quirky competition will navigate a tippy dock, fetch objects from the water and participate in a "freestyle" event of their own creation that must incorporate a Frisbee.
Any dog that thinks they are crazy enough is encouraged to have his or her "person" submit a letter of interest, a flattering high-resolution image and daytime contact information. Extra points will be given for humor, as this is NOT a serious competition. Apply to compete by June 25 to byd@maineboats.com. Finalists will be notified by July 1. (For liability reasons, no pets will be allowed on show grounds except the field of predetermined trials competitors on Sunday only. Plan accordingly.)
FMI: maineboats.com/boatshow.
The show appreciates the support of Boatyard Dog Trials sponsors Bell's Furry Friends Photography and Loyal Biscuit, and overall show sponsors Awlgrip/Interlux, Bangor Savings Bank, Epifanes, Maine Boats, Homes & Harbors magazine, Maine Made: America's Best, Port Harbor Marine and USHarbors. The support of the City of Rockland is also much appreciated.
