Canine Legends: Volume II: Canine Legends, #2

By Marco Magiolo

The LEGENDS are back in an even more thrilling sequel. Marquito, Sany, Amy, Lisa, alongside their dogs Arrow, Maximus, X, Fire will compete again for the national title. This time, the fight won't just be between them because new handlers are also arriving.
Emotions won't just stay inside the track, outside of it, Marquito still has to deal with his family dramas, his unresolved relationship with Amy and the opening of his new training center with students wearing the famous lime green uniforms.
And feelings will be taken beyond borders as handlers travel to the Netherlands to compete in the Dog Agility World Championship.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Marco Magiolo
• Release date: Jul 12, 2022
• ISBN: 9798201826543

Book preview

CANINE

LEGENDS©

volume II

MARCO MAGIOLO

Copyright © 2022 Marco Magiolo

All rights reserved.

Cover picture: FOX by Nicole Pereira

Although this book is based on real events; names, locations and some events have been fictionalized for dramatic purposes and are not intended to reflect any real person or entity.

Positive reviews from wonderful readers like you help other readers confident about choosing this book. Sharing your happy experience will be greatly appreciated.

For FOX

(2009 - 2021)

It’s even harder to stay at the top in sports than it is to get there.

Babe Didrikson Zaharias

Contents

CHAPTER 1

WE ARE BACK!

CHAPTER 2

NEW PARTNER

CHAPTER 3

ORLANDO ON THE CALENDAR

CHAPTER 4

FOR FUN

CHAPTER 5

THE FIRST MEETING

CHAPTER 6

BROOKSVILLE: THE FIRST BATTLE OF THE YEAR

CHAPTER 7

ORLANDO, FLORIDA

CHAPTER 8

LIME GREEN

CHAPTER 9

ATLANTA, GEORGIA

CHAPTER 10

RESTART

CHAPTER 11

AUSTIN, TEXAS

CHAPTER 12

NEW NAME, NEW BLOOD

CHAPTER 13

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA

CHAPTER 14

FIRST STUDENT

CHAPTER 15

MARIO & REX

CHAPTER 16

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA

CHAPTER 17

THE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

CHAPTER 18

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS

CHAPTER 19

NEWS

CHAPTER 20

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE

CHAPTER 21

NEW GENERATION

CHAPTER 22

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA

CHAPTER 23

ROTTERDAM – NETHERLANDS

CHAPTER 24

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS

CHAPTER 25

GUEST

CHAPTER 26

NEW YORK

CHAPTER 1

WE ARE BACK!

2007 was an unforgettable year. A few slips here and there, but what a memorable year. Dog Agility National League Champions. The trophy I proudly displayed on a shelf in my living room told me how much life can change in just one year, one week, one day.

The year of 2007 will not be marked in my life for just being the year I won my first title in the National League. The people I met will also stay in my memory forever. Amy, Lisa, Sany, Mario, Polly, Caitlyn, Joe and other handlers with their own dreams and motivations.

I have never been so close to my mother and my brother. Their support during the last round in New York was what I needed to feel. Like having a family again. You can have great friends, but nothing compares to the strength and motivation that comes from your own family members.

When it comes to my father, things came out of the deep end but who knows, maybe one day we will be complete as a family again. Judging is very easy; forgiving is extremely difficult. And that lesson I was learning day by day. Looking at people and their decisions through other eyes.

Rafi and his father, Mr. Monterey, were the best I had to describe the word FRIENDSHIP. They helped me through the most difficult times of my life. I felt that Rafi would be my eternal friend. The first one that really helped me since I landed in the US from Brazil, protecting me from the bullies at school. Mr. Monterey gave me a job, treated me like a son, and gave me a second family.

About Arrow, oh Arrow! More than a friendship, a successful partnership, an unconditional love. In victories and defeats. Always Arrow!

CHAPTER 2

NEW PARTNER

H olly...!!!

Those were the first words that instinctively came out of my mouth as I held up my cell phone reading the news of Sany's employment by Planet Canine.

Late November 2007, a week after I won the National League title, celebrating with a barbecue at my house. My mother, brother, Leo, Rafi, Mr. Monterey and I were together.

Marquito! Language!!! My mother shouted.

I was stunned at that moment.

What happened, man? Leo asked.

Look at this! I replied handing the cell phone to Leo.

WHAT THE HECK is this? Leo also exclaimed.

Come on, LANGUAGE!!! My mother shouted again.

Planet Canine hired Sany! I said out loud.

Everyone was silent for a few seconds.

Are you serious? Rafi asked.

Apparently, it's official! It came out on the league’s website. I replied.

More silence.

How can they do that? I wasn't even informed! I said again.

Well, in theory the team doesn't need to tell you who they're going to hire. Said Leo. But I understand you, man. Stay cool! We will need to do our job to beat him.

I was mad! Just thinking about having to live with Sany for the rest of the year on the same team, sitting side by side, gave me goosebumps. And the competition within the team was going to be brutal. Not just inside the track, but the mental game that Sany was a master at playing to destabilize the other handlers was going to be a crucial point.

I beat him once! I'll beat him again! I told everyone.

CHAPTER 3

ORLANDO ON THE CALENDAR

Early December 2007 , we were in Plant City checking the final constructions and adjustments in what would be our new training center. The indoor arena was ready. The brand-new artificial grass glistened and gleamed with the reflection of the new lighting installed.

Man, you have no idea how happy I am with this project I said to Leo who was beside me, with a smile on his face.

In January we can start to welcome students. We have eighteen students on our list already. Leo replied also with an open smile stamping his expression.

The kennels are ready, aren't they? I asked.

Yes, and with a new litter arriving.

And the natural grass outside?

We walked out and around the outside of the warehouse.

The grass was planted two weeks ago. A few more weeks and it will be ready to use.

Small grass sprouts were starting to appear on the ground and soon our two training tracks would be ready to receive the first students.

And the obstacles? I asked.

They arrive at the beginning of the year. They're coming from St. Louis from Planet Canine's headquarters. Two complete sets of official obstacles. One for indoor use and another one for outdoor use, more resistant to weather conditions.

I let out a small smile at the corner of my mouth, it was happening!

Guys! Guys! Rafi appeared screaming and running towards us.

What?! Said Leo.

Rafi came to us out of breath after running from inside the ranch's main house to the warehouse area where we were.

What is it, Rafi? I asked confused. What's all this screaming for?

The round... has changed... Rafi gasped breathlessly. The round location...has changed!

What round? Where? Leo asked.

Rafi, unable to speak normally, placed his cell phone into my hand as he arched to catch his breath. I looked at the cell phone screen that was on the National League website and started reading the news.

THE NATIONAL LEAGUE OF DOG AGILITY INFORMS THAT FOR THE 2008 SEASON, TWO CHANGES IN THE CALENDAR WILL HAPPEN. THE LOS ANGELES ROUND WILL BE REPLACED BY SAN FRANCISCO...

Looks like Lisa pulled the strings to bring a round to her backyard, huh? said Leo.

I ignored the comment and continued reading the news.

...AND THE MIAMI ROUND WILL BE REPLACED BY...

I stopped reading for a moment. I could have sworn my heart stopped for a split second. I felt a chill.

Are they taking Miami off the calendar? asked Leo, surprised. One of the most profitable rounds on the calendar? Where are they transferring to?

I looked at Leo, still stunned by what I had read. Rafi was smiling.

Where will the first round be, Marquito? Leo insisted.

Orlando. I replied in a whisper.

What? Leo's eyes widened.

Orlando! I repeated, cracking a small smile. The first round will take place at the Orange County Convention Center on International Drive in Orlando.

Are you kidding me? Leo's eyes widened even more, snatching the cell phone from my hand, and reading the news himself. Oh My God! Oh My God!

The three of us hugged each other and started jumping and shaking. Orlando! Orlando! Orlando! We screamed together!

Hey! Why all the screaming? Mr. Monterey shouted, appearing at the door of the main house on the ranch.

We just ignore it! ORLANDO! ORLANDO! ORLANDO! We screamed even louder!

FOR THE FIRST TIME I would run in a National League round in my city, my house! I wondered if I would get the same love I had seen Amy receiving in Charlotte, Lisa in Las Vegas and Los Angeles, and Mario in Chicago.

People screaming my name, wearing shirts saying Marquito & Arrow. That vibe, people jumping and singing. Feeling the ground literally shaking with people jumping on the stands.

I could already see it! How many people could fit in those bleachers at the Orange County Convention Center? A thousand? Two thousand? I had never been inside that place. I had passed by a lot of times but never went in.

The most important thing was competing for my fans, in my home. And why not start the season with a win, in the city I learned to love. Winning in Orlando during the first round of the National League. I can do this!

I already knew the other handlers well. Only one new handler appeared on the list of competitors in 2008. All others would be the same. I did not fear Lisa, I knew I could beat her. Amy was still a mystery. Our last conversation had been in New York, in front of the elevator after I had won the title. I'll call you when I get to Charlotte, was the last thing she had said to me. But she never called, and neither did I. I missed her. We had not even texted since that moment, and I had moved on. I left behind the moments we lived. What our reaction would be when we met again, I do not know.

There was one pill I still had not swallowed; Planet Canine had hired Sany. My team had hired my biggest rival. Two handlers from the same state in the same team.

That story of recommending me get into a spot in the National League just because he wanted to help me, or because he had been motivated to have another competitor in the League, I still did not buy it. There was something else there, and I needed to figure out what.

Our first meeting as teammates would take place a few weeks later.

CHAPTER 4

FOR FUN

Aweek later, Rafi and I drove to Orlando. It was Saturday night, and the bars at International Drive were on fire. Lots of music, drinks and fun.

We walked into one of the bars next to several tourist attractions. The place was packed. The end of the year was approaching and the city was full of tourists. We managed to find a table in one of the corners of the room. A live band played pop & rock music. Rafi and I had to yell to understand each other due to the loud noise.

Dude, the place is packed! Rafi said.

I know. Trying to get a waiter here so we can get some beers.

The sound of the band's guitar and drums made our table shake.

So, tell me, what about Amy? Have you spoken to her? How are things between you two? Rafi asked.

Oh man, she hasn't called since we last saw each other in New York.

Why don't you call her? Rafi asked.

Nah, I won't be persistent. I like her but, I don't know. I don't know if it's going to work. She is super competitive.

And you are not? Rafi smiled.

Yes, I am. I'm not even blaming her for that. I just find it very difficult to align the two things. You know, personal and competitions. I don't know if it's possible.

Sorry, man!

I like her. Really. She is amazing. Beautiful, intelligent, super handler, the sex is good...

We both laughed.

But it’s just so complicated!

You never know what might happen in the future.

True! So, I am going to wait for the next season and see how things go.

Pause for a few seconds. We look around. People passing by everywhere. Some jumped on the dance floor to the sound of the band.

Man, I'm going to the bar to get us something. I said. I don’t think a waiter will stop here. What you want?

Beer is good for starters. replied Rafi.

I got up and started walking around, dodging people. I managed to squeeze myself in and lean over the bar.

Excuse me! I said raising my arm trying to get the attention of the bartender who completely ignored me, moving quickly to all sides trying to handle the numerous orders from other customers.

I looked to my left as someone else leaned against the counter next to me. Approximately five foot seven, slightly taller than I was, long blonde hair, green eyes and a cleavage that was hard not to let my eyes get lost in.

Hey! I said instinctively, without thinking.

Hey! She answered.

Busy today, huh?

Yes, very full! It must be the tourists.

Are you a tourist? I asked.

No, no. I've been living here for almost seven years. She replied, touching her hair with her left hand.

You have a different accent. Where are you from? I asked.

I'm from Brazil.

I instantly broke into a smile and replied in good, loud Portuguese.

I knew it, it could only be. Beautiful like that, no way. It could only be Brazilian.

Ah... you are also Brazilian! She replied smiling. An absolutely beautiful smile, which made her brilliant green eyes sparkle even more.

Yes, I am! My name is Marcus. I extended my hand, which was promptly returned with a shake.

Michelle! She replied smiling. Wait a minute, I think I know you.

A few seconds of silence.

Aren't you that dog guy? Yes, the one who runs with the dogs!

It’s only one dog. But, yes, it's me.

Wow! Nice to meet you! Congratulations, I saw you've won the championship, right?

Yes. Yes. Can I buy you a drink?

Of course, you can. She replied, with another beautiful smile.

AFTER SEVERAL DRINKS we ended up at my place where she spent the night. Poor Rafi, he had to take a cab home, alone. But he understood, after all Michelle was a stunning woman, and when he first saw her he totally got it.

A week later we spent Sunday at Universal Studios. We enjoyed the attractions, had lunch and from there we went back to my place.

In the following weeks she began to attend my trainings. Leo didn't like the idea, he said she was a distraction. I found it motivating to have her around.

During training breaks I would go to the side of the track and we would kiss and hug, even though I was sweaty.   MARQUITO, LET'S TRAIN. FOCUS HERE!, Leo would say. As the weeks passed I learned to ignore him.

Michelle was helping me forget about Amy, or so I thought.

CHAPTER 5

THE FIRST MEETING

January 2008, one month before the season began, we traveled to St. Louis to the Planet Canine headquarters. It would be my first official meeting with Sany as a teammate.

We got out of the car that brought us from the airport. It was just Arrow and I that day. At the entrance to the building, Rich was waiting for us.

Marquito! With open arms and the same goofy way as always, he welcomed us.

Hey Rich! How are things?

Everything's good! Did you have a good trip?

We exchanged a quick handshake and started heading inside the building.

Yes, all good.

That's great! And how has the life of a champion been?

I let out a small smile.

It's not a bad feeling, you know?

We both laughed.

I bet it isn't!

WE ENTERED THE ELEVATOR and quickly reached the upper floors of the building, the same place where a year ago I had signed my first contract with Planet Canine.

We walked down corridors until we entered Kurt Audian's office, who was already waiting for us, sitting at his desk with Paula next to him. But this time it wasn't just them. Sitting in the chair in front of him was Sany with Maximus on the leash lying at his feet.

Ah... there's our champion! Mr. Audian got up with a wide smile and approached me, giving me a hug. How is everything Marquito? How were the holidays?

Good, very good! Thanks for asking. I hope you also had a great start to the year.

And how could I not? After the League title, the company couldn't be happier. Thank you very much for your efforts. We will not forget this.

I kept silent. Sany's presence in the room bothered me. He remained silent, but with a small, hidden smile that seemed to tease me.

Hello Marquito! Paula greeted me.

I greeted her with a handshake and a nod of my head.

Mr Audian returned to his chair.

Please Marquito, sit down! He said pointing to the chair next to Sany.

I sat down, greeted Sany quickly.

Undoubtedly one of the most awkward situations I have ever experienced. It was Sany and I with our respective dogs on leash at our feet. Sitting side by side across from Kurt Audian, the team director staring at us. Paula and Rich were standing to the side. The word awkward might not yet correspond to that situation. It was surreal to say the least.

After a long silence, Mr Audian began to speak.

Isn't that amazing? We have two League champions as teammates now. I'm sure you both will bring us many joys this year. We've never been so strong and focused on winning more titles.

Silence.

And on top of that the two from the same state. The great state of Florida. I'm sure you guys have a lot in common to talk about, don't you?

More silence.

Many things in common. Mr. Audian insisted.

I'm from South Florida. Said Sany.

Central. I replied.

Awkward silence.

Maybe the same basketball team? Do you guys like the NBA?

Miami Heat! said Sany.

Orlando Magic! I answered.

More awkward silence.

I'm sure the atmosphere in the team this year will be sensational. Very friendly between teammates right? Mr. Audian still insisted.

Rich and Paula looked at each other. It felt like it was starting to sink in and they realized it was going to be a long and interesting year ahead.

Anyway, I just wanted to welcome you both and wish you a great season. I'm sure we'll have a great year. Now you can follow Paula and Rich as they will give the uniforms to you guys and take you for some pictures with the dogs. Then maybe a lunch together?

Sany and I were still silent.

I think it's an excellent idea! Rich interrupted. Maybe some Brazilian food. What do you think?

Not my kind of food. I don't really like Brazilian food said Sany.

How so, Sany? Rich was still trying to lighten the situation.

Not my style. Sany replied.

Don't you like the good things in life? Rich insisted.

Apparently not! I said.

More awkward silence. No doubt it would be a long and interesting year.

CHAPTER 6

BROOKSVILLE: THE FIRST BATTLE OF THE YEAR

February 2008, two weeks before the National League season starts. 

We were in Brooksville, Florida, for our first competition of the year. It would be a local event organized by Sonia Bates who always brought many competitors from around the state with her events. It was there that I had taken Arrow for the first time as a puppy. And it was there that I had met Leo for the first time.

We arrived around 9:30 in the morning with the competitors of the Beginners category on the track with their dogs.

We got out of the car, Arrow, Michelle and I. We started heading towards the arena, and to the place where our tent was.

Other competitors started to approach us. Several greeted us. That same scene I'd seen in the past with Amy in Winter Park after she won the National League title in 2006, with people approaching to talk with her. Now it was me.

Congratulations, handshakes, small hugs. There was no way I would be a hypocrite and say I wasn't feeling good with all those people petting my ego. But I remembered Sany and I didn't want to be like him.

Marquito! A shrill voice echoed beside me amidst all the handlers that surrounded me. It was Kristen Halcey. An experienced handler and owner of a training center in Brandon. The one that in 2004 told me that I would need a dog from a better breeder to one day be competitive in major tournaments.

Kristen, how are you? I answered.

"Very well, thanks for asking! Congratulations on the National League title. Very proud of you for our state. And Arrow, what an amazing dog! I remember her when she was still a little puppy and I held her in my lap.

Kristen bent down to pet Arrow.

Yeah, not bad for a puppy from a herding dog breeder, right?

Kristen stood up with a regretful expression.

"Marquito, sorry for what I said in the past. I know how