Since January 2022, handlers have been trying to qualify their dogs for the prestigious International Gundog League (IGL) Retriever Championship. It is no easy task simply to qualify, let alone finish the three gruelling days of hot competition. Throughout the season, dogs and handlers from all over the world make their bid to secure a spot on the running card.
This year the championship was held at the beautiful Holkham Estate, by kind permission of the Earl of Leicester, and Kevin Butler’s FTCh Turpingreen Bohol showed a very strong field how it was done and landed the top honours. Holkham is believed to be the birthplace of driven game shooting and it is truly a privilege to attend. The championship was last held here in 2004, and before that in 1996. It was an absolute pleasure to be back.
The sheer variety and abundance of game and wildlife on such a beautifully managed estate was wonderful
