Welcome to the Desert Southwest Cup 2025!
EVENT RECAP: We continue to be humbled by the enthusiasm and commitment of our incredible community!
We are thrilled to share the success of the first-ever Desert Southwest Cup. This event would not have been possible without the unwavering dedication of our members, fellow club participants, volunteers, and spectators. Whether you were in the field, judging, assisting behind the scenes, or cheering on the competitors, thank you for making this event truly special.
HONORING A LIFETIME OF DEDICATION
One of the weekend’s most memorable moments was having the honor of participating in the presentation of the Peter Ward Service Award to Linda Rice. This prestigious award, given by CEB-US, recognizes individuals who have dedicated a lifetime of service to the Epagneul Breton breed and its community. We cannot think of a more deserving recipient than Linda and are proud to have her and her husband, Don, as part of our club. Congratulations, Linda, and thank you for all you do!
OUTSTANDING DOG WORK & ACHIEVEMENTS
While the event focused on bird dogs, the food was center stage. The weekend started with a yellowfin tuna feast served by Woody Brickley and Bill Higdon. Shawn Kearney and a host of volunteers served lunches on the trial grounds both days, and Saturday evening culminated with a meal for 30 people at the Steak Out restaurant in Sonoita. It is through shared experiences in the field and around a table that make our community stronger, and the shared stories of upland adventures has us aching for the next season to roll around.
The bird dog performances over the weekend were nothing short of inspiring! We saw seasoned dogs demonstrate their refinement and skill, while young up-and-comers showcased their drive, tenacity, and boundless potential. It was a true celebration of the hunting spirit that defines our breeds.
A special congratulations to our members whose dogs earned new ribbons and even completed titles during the trial—your hard work and dedication to training and fieldwork are paying off!
THANK YOU TO OUR VOLUNTEERS
It takes an incredible team to pull off an event like this, and we are grateful to everyone who stepped up to help. While we’re bound to miss a few names, we want to give special recognition to:
Trisha Wherley – Field Marshal
Shawn Kearney – Bird Planter, Chef, and All-Around Do-It-All
Kurt Davis, Spencer Daines, Bill Higdon, and Guy Mollicone – Gunners
Woody Brickley and Robert Poor – Bird Planter
Linda Rice, Jeanne Cassara, Lisa Puccio and Jill Yoerin – Providers of Scrumptious Food
To everyone who contributed their time, skills, and effort — thank you!Join us for an unforgettable weekend celebrating the art of bird dogs in the beautiful Southwest desert. Hosted by Epagneul Bretons of the Southwest and Korthals Griffon Desert Southwest, this event is a testament to the passion and dedication of two clubs united by their love for pointing breeds.
RESULTS
Saturday, February 15, 2025
OPEN SOLO LIBERATED | Judged by Hon. Shooter Smith | Gunners: Spencer Daines & Kurt Davis
CAC: Takoda Kaycee de Copper Spur | Jim Cassara
RCAC: Ourson de la Ferme Brune | Don Rice
EXC: TR Smith’s Nikon Rebel | Jim Cassara
PASS: Roscoe de Pays du Soleil | Pat Rogers
GUN SOLO LIBERATED | Battery 1 | Judged by Hon. Butch Nelson | Gunners: Bill Higdon & Guy Mollicone
CAG: Titus de l’Etoile du Nord | Mary Simmons
RCAG: Riri des Grandes Origines | Carroll Kemp
EXC: Sweet Trinity du Ten Bar Ranch | Ric Haulenbeck
EXC: Hun Hill Repo’s Business | Dan Thompson
EXC: Steeleshots Red Ryder Roxy | Michael Steele
PASS: Trigger de la Trinite | Thomas Johnson
GUN SOLO LIBERATED | Batter 2 | Judged by Hon. Shooter Smith | Gunners: Spencer Daines & Kurt Davis
CAG: Trilliums Alchemy | Laine Jewell
RCAG: Hun Hill Dona Diggs | Frank Puccio
EXC: Agassiz Moppie Steele | Michael Steele
EXC: Hun Hill Kamiah Idaho | Frank Puccio
PASS: Steeleshots Tank the Toad | Michael Steele
GUN BARRAGE | Judged by Hon. Butch Nelson & Hon. Shooter Smith
CAGT: Titus de l’Etoile du Nord | Mary Simmons
RCAGT: Trilliums Alchemy | Laine Jewell
TAN | Judged by Hon. Butch Nelson
Seaview Yanielle | James Carpenter
Trillium Alchemy | Laine Jewell
Vincent de Hyalite | Thomas Johnston (judged under Hon. Shooter Smith)
Steeleshots Tank the Toad | Michael Steele
Titus de l’Etoile du Nord | Mary Simmons
Trigger de la Trinite | Thomas Johnston
Agassiz Valkyrie | James Carpenter
Hun Hill Sonoita Sunset | Frank Puccio
Valkyrie du Big Sky Bretons | Ric Haulenbeck
Venice du Big Sky Bretons | Ric Haulenbeck
WRT | Judged by Hon. Shooter Smith
Phoebe de Pays du Soleil | Woody Brickely
Sunday, February 16, 2025
OPEN SOLO LIBERATED | Judged by Hon. Butch Nelson | Gunners: Bill Higdon
CAC: TR Smith’s Nikon Rebel | Jim Cassara
RCAC: Takoda Kaycee du Copper Spur | Jim Cassara
GUN SOLO LIBERATED | Judged by Hon. Shooter Smith | Gunners: Guy Mollicone & Kurt Davis
CAG: Riri des Grandes Origines | Carroll Kemp
RCAG: Titus de l’Etoile du Nord | Mary Simmons
PASS: Agassiz Moppie Steele | Michael Steele
PASS: Steeleshots Red Ryder Roxy | Michael Steele
Desert Southwest Cup Winner: Riri des Grandes Origines | Carroll Kemp
Below are the Event Details:
The first annual Desert Southwest Cup invites you to showcase your dog's talent, connect with like-minded enthusiasts, and compete for top honors. Together, we’re bringing the best of both clubs to create an event that uplifts handlers, dogs, and the rich traditions of the sport.
New to field trials? The CEB-US recently released a fantastic educational series covering everything you need to know about UKC field trials, including how to sign up, what to expect, what to bring, and more. Read all about it here! We’re also excited to offer confirmation evaluations for EBs. Scroll down to read more.
This exciting event is open to all UKC Pointing Breeds and features a variety of field trials and tests to challenge handlers and dogs alike. Don’t miss your chance to participate in the run for The Cup, where the winners of each class go head-to-head in a thrilling Sunday runoff.
Event Details
When:
Saturday, February 15, 2025 & Sunday, February 16, 2025
Where:
Maternity Wells at Empire Ranch near Sonoita, AZ
(GPS Coordinates: 31.76247, -110.66599)
What’s Happening:
Liberated Field Trials & Tests featuring:
OPEN Braces
OPEN Solo
GUN Solo
GUN with TAN
TAN (Natural Ability Test)
WRT (Water Retrieving Test)
Chukars will be used for trials (bobwhite quail may substitute as backup). Note: Unless otherwise noted, no GPS/Locator collars will be allowed.
Hosts:
Epagneul Bretons of the Southwest (UKC Club AZ-51)
Korthals Griffon Desert Southwest (UKC Club AZ-53)
Compete for The Cup
Dogs entered in the Open and Gun classes are eligible to compete for The Cup in a thrilling Sunday afternoon runoff. Winners will earn bragging rights and recognition, though The Cup holds no official UKC affiliation.
Registration & Entry Fees
Take advantage of our EARLY BIRD SPECIAL! Register and pay by January 1, 2025, and receive $10 off each entry fee. Now accepting online payment via JotForm. Click here.
OPEN Braces: $80/dog
OPEN Solo: $80/dog
GUN Solo: $80/dog
GUN w/ TAN: $95/dog
TAN: $55/dog
WRT: $55/dog
Entry Deadline: January 25, 2025. [Late entries may be accepted at the discretion of the Trial Chairman.]
How to Enter
Complete the UKC Field Trial Entry Form:
Download Here
Submit entries via email or mail:
Email: ebsofthesw@gmail.com
Mail:
Epagneul Bretons of the Southwest
Attn: Trisha Wherley
1958 W Desert Hollow Dr
Phoenix, AZ 85085
Event Highlights
Judges: To Be Announced
Saturday Awards Ceremony: Following all events
Sunday Awards: Immediately after trial activities
Confirmation Evaluations for Epagneul Bretons
We’re excited to offer confirmation evaluations at this event! These evaluations play a vital role in preserving the Epagneul Breton breed standard and ensuring future generations remain true to their heritage. Even if you don’t plan to breed, participating is a meaningful way to support the legacy of the breed.
This marks only the second confirmation evaluation offered west of the Continental Divide in over a decade. We’re thrilled to build on the momentum of providing valuable resources to protect and promote the breed standard and tradition in this region.
Curious about the importance of confirmation evaluations? [Read more here]. Want to know what the process looks like? Watch this [video walkthrough of a confirmation evaluation]. Ready to participate? [Click here to sign up]. Print and scan the entry form.
Accommodations
Dry Camping/RV Parking: Available at Maternity Wells (self-contained only).
Nearby Lodging: Sonoita (10–15 minutes away), or Tucson/Vail (30–45 minutes away).
Getting There
From Tucson/I-10:
Take I-10 East and exit AZ-83 South.
Follow AZ-83 South for 18.6 miles, passing the US Border Patrol Checkpoint.
Turn left onto E Empire Ranch Road and follow signs to Maternity Wells.
From Sonoita:
Take AZ-83 North for 6.5 miles.
Turn right onto E Empire Ranch Road and follow signs to Maternity Wells.
Additional Information
Veterinarian Services: A list of emergency and local vet clinics is available on the Premium.
Refund Policy: No refunds due to upfront event costs. In cases of extreme weather, cancellations may occur at the host club's discretion.
Ready to Join the Action?
Don’t wait—register today and be part of this premier event in the Southwest’s stunning desert landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or a first-time handler, the Southwest Desert Cup promises an exciting and memorable experience for all.
Contact Us:
Event Chairperson: Shooter Smith (303-506-2284) ebsofthesw@gmail.com
Event Secretary: Trisha Wherley (720-635-0830) ebsofthesw@gmail.com