HTM Team GB

Karen Receives the Sponsor's "Winners Jacket"

2011-12-03T19:33:00.001Z

Karen was so proud this week on receiving
her Open European Individual Heelwork To Music Champion's Jacket

Fully embroidered with Fly's new title

A "Three In One" Jacket - very useful and each layer embroidered!

Thank you to MindDogs one of the Sponsor's of the Championship
for supplying the jacket

Ah!!!!

Fly with Karen and the Winner's Jacket, trophy and rosette!!

Karen and Fly Invited to Discover Dogs

2011-11-14T21:05:00.002Z

The 12^th and 13^th of November was Discover Dogs weekend, an annual event organised by the Kennel Club and held at Earls Court Exhibition Centre in London.

Allan and Karen arrived just before 10:00 and settled in with Fly, decorated the bench and chatted to lots of folk about HTM and Fly’s fabulous performance at the Open European Championships. The size of the cup was a crowd stopper with many folk moving in for a closer look.

Nice to know Karen and Fly were in the right place!

There were over 150 trade stands - Karen found the Joint Aid Stand where she showed the cup and Fly to Nigel

And of course Crazydogs (Simon and Helen Taylor) were there too.

Allan, Karen, Fly and the cup!

Although their performance was not scheduled until 16:05 the time flew by and it was soon time for Karen to get into costume and warm up with Fly.

They were given a fabulous introduction and entered the ring waving to the crowd.

Fly gave a brilliant performance

..... full of energy and enthusiasm and they really enjoyed themselves.

Thank you to the Kennel Club of Great Britain for inviting them to perform their winning routine at Discover Dogs

Photographs by Allan Brown

HTM Team GB Celebrate with Westglen

2011-10-31T20:58:00.002Z

HTM Team GB visited the Westglen Training Show on Sunday.
Westglen had made a fabulous Congratulations Poster with photos of the team included

Karen presented Kath Hardman with a Thank You present
for being "a great Team Manager"

Then everyone at the show posed for this superb photograph

The Team were happy to display the flags, cups, rosettes
and an enormous cake they brought for everyone at the show.

What a lovely cake - enjoyed by all

Allan Brown captured some lovely moments on camera - Kay Dunn

Erin Sykes

Nala Hindson

Kes Sykes

Chip Dunn

Goldem Maid "Dunn"

Jenny Knudson's sweet Sheltie

Radio Derby Invite The European Champions For Breakfast

2011-10-31T20:37:00.000Z

After receiving a phone call from Radio Derby in Denmark, the Team arranged to meet there on the Friday morning after their return to Great Britain.

Karen and Fly proudly wearing full uniform and with their Champions cup on the steps of the Radio Station

Yes - you look good from every angle ;-)

The Last Day in Denmark and Arrival Home

2011-10-31T16:07:00.001Z

Fky, ready for the last walk before leaving Soro.

Checking the dogs look OK for their long journey.

Wow - who found this ball! Now the walk is more worthwhile ;-)

Angus and Amber checking the undergrowth for more balls!

Looks like Fly has taken charge

OK - biscuit? - ball? - biscuit? - yes biscuit wins every time!!

Lovely dogs all set to play

Angus found the ball again!!!

Three playing nicely with the ball - and one pretending not to notice!

Well OK - it may be worth joining in the Angus' game

Almost done running and ready for the ferry.
Once again, great weather meant dry and clean exercised dogs.

Just one more throw of the ball please?

Well if Angus had shared it then maybe!! ;-)

On the road to the Ferry -
a service area stop gave the team a close view of one of the fins of a wind turbine.

Karen and Lesley standing in front of the fin showing the immense size!

All aboard the ferry for another rough crossing.
But forewarned, the Team had a supply of "Sea Legs" tablets.

Thank you to Karen's anonymous supporter
who treated the Team to a drink to celebrate their acheivements.

A good meal and a glass of bubbly!!!

A lovely bottle of Rose Champagne!! Thank you.

The Team arrive home to celebrations and a decorated house!!
Their partners, Roger, Allan and David had been busy!!

Just enough room to get into the drive!

Rosettes and flags decorating the inside cabin of the van.

And flowers too!! Thanks from the Team for all this great support.

Visit to the Vet in Denmark

2011-10-31T15:20:00.002Z

Nothing wrong with the dogs, but of course a visit to the vet is compulsory for the Team to get their dogs home on the ferry. Fly on the table first for worming tablet, anti tick treatment and "healthy to travel" stamp in the Passport.

Second on the table - Spice who looks like she lost one ear :-(
But pronounced fit to travel so maybe he didn't notice it dropped off ;-)

Oh dear - Amber looks so sad - but hoping for a clean bill of health so she can go home with the team too!!!

Almost completed and looking a bit happier

The rear view of Angus - Lesley looks happy - he must have passed the test too!

Just teeth to check and worming tablet to swallow - easy peasy!!

Yippee - everyone can go home together the next day. Thanks to Emmy for arranging the vet appointments and to the vet for passing them all "Fit For Travel"

The Venue, Preparations and the Competition

2011-10-29T21:54:00.002+01:00

After a good night's sleep in the hotel,
the team moved on to the venue to check out the facilities

The hall was totally empty
so the Team took time to check their plans for the routines

Fabulous area at the venue for walking the dogs.

And it was one of the few areas that dogs could be run off lead -
what a bonus

Back at the hotel - the other teams were arriving -
this was the Belgium supporters gear!

Goodness!!!
This competitor looks like they meant business!!!!

Time to attach the Good Luck cards the team had received
to one of the Union Flags!!

Don't they look good? Can you see yours?

Time to join the other 12 Countries for the Welcome Dinner

Team GB making the most of their uniforms :-)

Cards and Good Luck presents were exchanged -
the atmosphere was great

Show Manager Iben introduces herself
and sets out the format for the following days.

Karen and Fly performing Hernando's Hideaway -
thanks to Vincianne Hubbert for these photos

HTM TEAM GB - Open European Team Champions

The cheering was deafening! What an experience!

And Karen with Fly and their huge cup -
Individual HTM Open European Champions

Sorry - the Team doesn't have any photographs yet of Freestyle Day, but are pleased that Team GB were placed fourth and Lesley with Angus 4th and Kath with Spice 7th in the Individual Championship.

The Journey to the OEC

2011-10-29T20:59:00.000+01:00

Wednesday 19th October - all ready to set off to Denmark

And they are off! Flags Flying for the four hour drive to Harwich

Great for the dogs to have a very familiar vehicle to travel in.

Once in Harwich - time for a good walk for the dogs.
Super weather keeping the dogs clean and dry for the ferry journey.

Beautiful sunset whilst waiting for the ferry on the harbour. The departure time was delayed by one hour due to the awful weather at sea the night before.

Champagne for the ferry crossing

Lesley checks its a good vintage

Looks like she is pleased!

And to prove Karen travelled with us - here she is

Oh dear!!! And it wasn't the drink! The sea was awful during the night - both Karen and Kath were very seasick!

Luckily Lesley wasn't affected so helped Karen prepare for the world outside!

Out on deck - hoping the fresh air clears the sickness

Whoops - hope Lesley is ready to help with the hair again!

This is the deck where the dogs can be walked during the journey - not much room - but there weren't many dogs on board

Looking for land

Not many other passengers out on deck!!!

At least the sun was shining

And Lesley still feeling OK! Almost on dry land.
Thank goodness - it was a long long journey!

TWO GOLDS FOR HTM TEAM GB

2011-10-23T19:02:00.006+01:00

Team GB put in three great performances on Saturday for the Heelwork To Music Championship.

Team GB - Karen with Fly, Lesley with Angus and Kath with Amber WON the OPEN EUROPEAN HEELWORK TO MUSIC TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP.

The Top Ten Handlers and Dogs from the day's competition then performed once more to determine the Individual Title. The scores from the Team performances were carried forward and Karen, Lesley and Kath with their respective "dance partners" were all placed in the Top Ten.

KAREN AND FLY WON THE OPEN EUROPEAN HEELWORK TO MUSIC CHAMPIONSHIP!!!!!

Freestyle Day (Sunday) saw Kath with Spice and Amber and Lesley with Angus compete in the OPEN EUROPEAN FREESTYLE TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP where they were thrilled to take FOURTH PLACE.

Once again, the Top Ten Handlers and Dogs from the day's competition then performed once more to determine the Individual Title. Lesley with Angus and Kath with Spice were delighted to be placed in the Top Ten therefore they competed once more. Kath with Amber were just outside the placings.

Lesley with Angus finished in very respectable 4th place and Kath with Spice finished in 7th place in the Individual Competition.

THANK YOU FROM ALL THE TEAM FOR YOUR SUPPORT AND ALL THE MESSAGES OF GOOD LUCK AND CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!

Lots of photographs to be uploaded once the Team arrive home. Check this link for full reviews of both days competition.

Updates

2011-10-18T22:13:00.000+01:00

HTM Team GB will try to update the Blog whilst in Denmark but the Open European Blog will be updated minute by minute!!!

Thank You Supporters!

2011-10-18T21:32:00.000+01:00

Thank you to Jenny Knudson, Ali Buck, Kathleen Stubbings, Angela Richens and her Dog Club and Lucy Heath for all helping towards the funding of HTM Team GB.

Your help is truly appreciated - THANK YOU!

Penny Draper - HTM Team GB Masseuse

2011-10-18T21:26:00.002+01:00

Time for the dogs in HTM Team GB to have some quality TLC.

Penny Draper, Canine Masseuse, contributed her time and expertise towards supporting the team by ensuring the dogs were all fit for their journey to the competition.

After their massage, they looked very relaxed and very grateful to Penny - is that really Angus looking camera shy?

The dogs have all been washed and groomed by Team Member Karen!!! Don't they look good!

Now what is Angus doing!!! It's making Penny laugh!!!

Day before travelling - looks as if the entire team is ready!
Thanks to Penny and Karen for giving the dogs the finishing touches!!

The Final Touches!

2011-10-18T20:29:00.000+01:00

HTM Team GB had a little TLC Time yesterday - they decided to visit the Nail Salon and have their nails especially painted for the OEC.

Drying time - almost done!

WOW!!!! Flying the Flag ;-)

New Jackets too - collected by Lesley from Helen Taylor (Crazydogs) at Anglesey!!

These were all handpainted within a hour!!!

All that was missing was a spare hand for a cup of tea!!!!!!!!!!!!

Fit For Travel

2011-10-12T22:25:00.002+01:00

HTM Team GB visited Alfreton Park Veterinary Hospital today for a check that Angus, Spice, Amber and Fly were all fit for travel to Denmark next week.

Karen Sykes and Fly

Babs, the vet, checked each dog carefully

Kath Hardman and Spice

Kath and Amber

Lesley Neville and Angus

All dogs passed!! Thank you to Alfreton Park Veterinary Hospital for checking the dogs and for supplying both the Flea and Worm Treatment required for their return journey.

The Team is very grateful for your support.

The Flag Handover

2011-10-12T22:16:00.001+01:00

Cllr George Wharmby, Chairman of Derbyshire County Council, met HTM Team GB at Matlock County Hall for the official handover of the Ceremonial Flag for the Team to take with them to Denmark for the opening and closing ceremonies.

A beautiful sunny day - as Cllr George Wharmby wished the team a successful competition.

HTM Team GB are very grateful for the generosity of all at Matlock County Hall.

Thank you.

Crazydogs Support HTM TEAM GB

2011-10-11T14:35:00.000+01:00

Thank you to Crazydogs for your support of HTM TEAM GB

Your help is really appreciated.

Top Lodge Dancing Dogs Sponsor HTM TEAM GB

2011-10-11T14:30:00.001+01:00

Top Lodge Dancing Dogs are now the third Major Sponsor of HTM Team GB.

Thank you Robin

2011-10-11T13:54:00.001+01:00

Grateful thanks to Robin Neville for his very generous donation received today.

HTM Team GB will be leaving the country for the competition next Wednesday knowing they have received a lot of support and good wishes from so many people!
Thank you.

Wow - more Friends Fundraising

2011-10-09T18:39:00.001+01:00

More grateful thanks from the entire Team.

Many many thanks to Mick and Louise Betts, LJB Jewellery for the donations from them, their customers and friends.

And more Thanks

2011-10-09T18:05:00.001+01:00

Thank you to Sarah Thackeray, her neighbours & work mates for funds raised over the past few weeks!

You are wonderful.

More to Thank

2011-10-09T17:54:00.001+01:00

Many thanks from HTM TEAM GB to those who have sent donations this week -
Alfreton Veterinary Hospital, Mary Muxworthy, Angela Richens, Ali Buck, Kathleen Stubbings, customers of Awash With Wags.

PLUS

Hair Design of Belper.

The Team is very grateful to all those who have contributed. Thank you.

HTM TEAM GB - Masseuse

2011-10-09T10:17:00.001+01:00

Penny Draper has been appointed as HTM Team GB 2011 Masseuse and will be looking after all the dogs until they leave GB.

Thank you Penny - your help is appreciated by the Team handlers and their dogs.

A Flag or two!!!!

2011-10-05T21:54:00.002+01:00

HTM Team GB have been trying to source a flag for the opening and closing ceremonies at the Open European Championships.

And now they have two!!!

Thank you to fellow HTM enthusiast, Jill Davis who has lent them her own flag and thanks to Matlock County Hall who are giving the team a ceremonial flag complete with extending aluminium pole!!! But it comes at a price - the Team of handlers and dogs are to meet The Chairman at Matlock County Hall on Wednesday 12th October for an official hand over!!! Thank You

New Major Sponsor confirmed

2011-10-05T21:40:00.000+01:00

HTM TEAM GB are extremely grateful for the support of PEDIGREE as one of their major sponsors.

Many, many thanks.

A Photograph Session

2011-10-04T15:26:00.000+01:00

Thanks to Allan Brown for taking these photographs or HTM Team GB.

HTM TEAM GB gathered on a lovely sunny evening for a photo shoot

Not just a photo shoot but a day for trying on the uniforms

Kath Hardman with Spice and Amber

Lesley Neville with Angus

Karen Sykes with Fly

All alone ...................... Spice

Fly ......................

Amber ...................

and finally Angus.

Dogs Coats made and styled by Lesley

very smart!!!

And they look very comfy too!

All looking good so far!

Thank you!!!

2011-10-04T15:14:00.000+01:00

Jenny & Robert Kihara-Boyd and Oscar the Bearded Collie of Belper, Derbyshire - customers of Karen's "Awash With Wags" gave a fabulous donation today.

HTM Team GB are very, very grateful.

Unfortunate News

2011-09-30T09:25:00.000+01:00

Unfortunate news from yesterday. Kathleen Stubbings has informed the Kennel Club that she has had to withdraw from Team GB and the forthcoming Championships to be held in Denmark next month.

Team GB now stands as follows :
Heelwork To Music Team:
Karen Sykes – Iatka Spring Spangle HTM A Ex (Fly)
Kath Hardman – Stillmoor Lady In Red FCI HTM WCh 2010, HTM A Es, FS I Ex (Amber)
Lesley Neville – Choxxstart Dream Angus FS A Ex, HTM A Ex (Angus)

Freestyle Team:
Lesley Neville – Choxxstart Dream Angus FS A Ex, HTM A Ex (Angus)
Kath Hardman – September Spice FS A Ex (Spice)
Kath Hardman – Stillmoor Lady In Red HTM A Es, FS I Ex (Amber)

The competition alllows a team of four dogs to compete with the highest 3 scores counting towards the Team Total - so Team GB is still able to compete as a full team in both HTM and Freestyle.

Good Luck Wishes

2011-09-29T08:27:00.000+01:00

Thank you for the Good Luck wishes to HTM Team GB received from the K9 Freestyle Group in Australia.

2011-09-28T08:36:00.000+01:00

Thank you to Michael Sykes, Iris Lewis & Hector Thunder-Paws of Kempsford, Gloucester for their very generous donation to Team GB and Good Luck wishes.

Hugely appreciated - Thank You!

More Fund Raising

2011-09-24T20:19:00.003+01:00

Kath and Karen arrived at Rugby Dog Training Club early this morning - Karen was competing in Novice Freestyle for the last time with Erin who has moved up to Intermediate in both divisions and Kath was judging Novice HTM and Novice Freestyle.

Armed with collection box and a large Dog to "Name" they set up a small table for Team GB Fundraising.

Jackie de Jong brought along Tuggies for sale made by Lesley Neville and Margret Christie.

THANK YOU TO ALL AT RUGBY DTC FOR SUPPORTING HTM TEAM GB - TOTAL RAISED TODAY £54.50.

The Northern Self Help Training Group

2011-09-23T18:54:00.000+01:00

WOW!!!! Karen and Kath set off for a day's training in sunny Yorkshire where they met with a few good friends.

Good friends? You bet - they donated £50 to HTM Team GB!!!!!

Thank you so much for this very generous donation.

HTM Team GB news hits the Belper Express

2011-09-21T20:56:00.000+01:00

Thank You to the Line Dancers

2011-09-21T18:03:00.004+01:00

Thank you to The Crooked Line Dancers of Derbyshire for your show of support for Heelwork to Music Team GB.The money which your Club raised will help considerably towards the expenses of Team GB.

Once again, many thanks for your support.

Derbyshire County Cricket Club

2011-09-21T16:23:00.006+01:00

HTM Team GB 2011 is very grateful to Derbyshire County Cricket Club for allowing them to use the indoor Cricket Hall to practice for The Open European Championships.This means the team can keep warm and dry whilst planning and practicing their routines in an area that is larger than the official European Ring on a fabulous non slip rubberised floor. Perfect!!!!

THANK YOU DERBYSHIRE COUNTY CRICKET CLUB

At the Team's first practice session, BBC Radio Derby called in to interview Kath and Karen and their dogs. Listen Again at 2:41

BBC Radio Derby

2011-09-21T15:43:00.009+01:00

BBC Radio Derby featured an interview with Kath Hardman and Karen Sykes on the Morning Show 21st September
Aleena Naylor's programme - to Listen Again - fast forward to around 2hours 41 mins - Introduction by Amber :-)

Ian Williams carried out the interview and he tried a spot of weaving with Spice. He was rather good to say he hasn't got a dog or tried it before ;-) Well Done Ian - there may be some video - will link if found!

In The Press

2011-09-20T15:47:00.007+01:00

The Derby Telegraph caught up with the three members of HTM Team GB from Derbyshire. Hoping that this article raises attention to the funding needed.

(The reporter seems to have misunderstood some of the details re the sport!)

Ring Size Announced

2011-09-19T17:36:00.005+01:00

Today the Organisers of the Open European Championship announced that the ring will be 20m x 25m. That is a super size to work in.

This is a picture of the ring that was used in the World Championships in 2010 - but it gives an idea of size. (The venue in Soro is much nicer)

Carpet will be laid onto the concrete floor. The judges will be positioned centrally on one of the longer sides. There will be a warm up area in the same hall as the competition ring but please remember, no noisy toys or clickers are allowed in the warm up area.

Gina Pink supports the Team

2011-09-18T18:29:00.005+01:00

Gina Pink is kindly donating her time and travel to oversee Kathleen and Jake’s training to make sure that they are in tip top form to perform their very best in Demark.Gina was a Member of Team GB in 2010 so understands the needs of the HTM Team members.

Thank you Gina for offering your time and travel expenses free of charge - this is really appreciated.

Westglen HTM Club supports HTM TEAM GB

2011-09-16T18:39:00.002+01:00

Many thanks to the Committee of Westglen Heelwork To Music Club for their very generous donation towards the funds being raised by HTM Team GB.

Your support is truly appreciated.

Alfreton Park Veterinary Hospital Supports Team GB

2011-09-12T18:16:00.000+01:00

Many thanks to Alfreton Park Veterinary Hospital for supporting HTM TeamGB by providing complimentary Health Checks prior to travelling to Denmark and for necessary medication needed for the return journey.
This is a great boost towards the Team's travels in October.

There is also a donation box and sponsor form available for all to give.

THANK YOU.

What A Great Weekend at Canine Freestyle GB, Tomlinson's

2011-09-12T17:54:00.003+01:00

Fundraising was in full flow on 10th & 11th September at the Canine Freestyle GB Competition, Tomlinson's, Leicestershire. Jill Davis and her dog Holly won the Name The Bear Competition. (Not sure "Joseph" was too happy!)

Penny Draper raised over £100 with her Dog Massage Assessments.

Canine Freestyle GB donated over £120 raised from the raffles both days.

Alan Eves donated monies from the sales of the two day DVD.

Personal donations were received from Nicci Hindson, Annette Leslie, Roger Neville and Lorraine Peace.

Donations towards the raffle were made by Pawz Pet Shop, Riddings.

The members of HTM Team GB would once again like to thank everyone for their generous support.

If you would like to support the Team please email kath.hardman@btinternet.com for details

More Funds Received

2011-09-09T18:43:00.004+01:00

HTM Team GB would like to express their thanks for donations received from Penny Hudson, Aldyth Kitchin, Diane Jones, Lynda Edmondson and Tracey Wessels of the Blue Merle Academy.

Without all your help - it would prove very difficult to compete in Denmark next month.

THANKS TO YOU ALL

Thank you Nottingham Canine Hydrotherapy Centre

2011-09-09T18:05:00.001+01:00

Many thanks to Nottingham Canine Hydrotherapy Centre for their very generous donation towards HTM Team GB expenses.

The centre is based in Hucknall - Nottinghamshire in just over a quarter of an acre of what many of their clients consider is a tranquil & inviting ‘little bit of the countryside in the town’.Angus Neville is a regular swimmer at the centre.

Fundraising at Canine Freestyle GB Competition Weekend

2011-09-08T12:02:00.003+01:00

Penny Draper - member of HTM Team GB 2010 has kindly offered her services to help raise funds for HTM Team GB 2011. See below for details .........................

Focused on preventative care, dog massage is part of a holistic approach to your pet’s health care. Massage is a gentle and non-invasive therapy that can relieve pain and stress. Massage is a great way to maintain your dog’s health and well-being. Massage can help reduce stiffness and fatigue when they return home by increasing the circulation and flushing waste products from the muscle tissues Or, for your older dog, massage may be just what the doctor ordered. They can feel the effects of a good massage in their joints and immune system.
For a full treatment a vets permission is required, but for assessment and relaxation massage this is not necessary. Penny will assess your dogs needs and talk you through this before performing some relaxation massage, this may be useful after competition to ensure the dog does not stiffen up, or just as a pleasurable treat, or a reactive dog could find this relaxing before going into the ring to enable them to concentrate on the owners commands. Penny will also talk you through some simple techniques you can do your self.
Each session will last 10-15 minutes and it is essential that you sign up as demand will be high. £5.00 per dog per session

Thank you from HTM Team GB 2011.

Local Press Article

2011-09-04T07:07:00.003+01:00

The Derbyshire Press contacted HTM Team GB for a photo and details of the forthcoming competition.
The Team hope that people will support them by raising the funds needed for travel, accommodation, competing and the compulsory veterinary treatment needed before the return journey.

Thank you Motorama

2011-08-31T18:45:00.006+01:00

Motorama are proud to be supporters of HTM Team GB and gave products today to help them on their journey to and from Denmark.

HTM Team GB are very grateful for your help.

First Major Sponsor - Canine Freestyle GB

2011-08-31T08:09:00.003+01:00

Many thanks to Canine Freestyle GB for supporting HTM Team GB as a major sponsor. Your continued support is greatly appreciated.

PNM weekend fund raiser

2011-08-30T08:18:00.006+01:00

Well done to Team GB Member Kathleen for working hard raising £65.50 during a very busy weekend at PNM Show over the Bank Holiday.

PNM Chairman Carole Dodson presents Kathleen with a donation to the TeamGB from PNM. And then it all got quite cuddly!!!

Jenny joins in with the hugs :-) Thanks to Michelle Dodson for the super photos.

Many thanks to Paws N Music for their kind donation towards HTM Team GB.

All donations are helping towards the costs incurred for this competition and HTM Team GB have the task of raising as much as possible over just a few weeks so thank you for all who helped raise money this weekend.

Introducing The Team - Kath Hardman with Amber HTM and Freestyle and Spice Freestyle

2011-08-26T19:50:00.019+01:00

Kath Hardman and Stillmoor Lady In Red FCI HTM WCh 2010, HTMA Ex, FS I Ex
Kath Hardman and September Spice FS A Ex

Currently, Kath has three dogs, Spice, Amber and puppy 5 months old Denby. Spice and Amber have successfully competed in both divisions (Heelwork To Music and Freestyle) at the Advanced level. She has judged, demonstrated and trained the sport of Heelwork To Music throughout the UK and travelled with Top Lodge Team Member Karen to Denmark, Belgium, Holland, The Czech Republic,Switzerland, Japan, Finland, France, Eire, Sweden, Russia, Australia, Israel and USA to promote the sport further.
Kath and her dogs are proud to be members of The Top Lodge Dancing Dog Team – a group of three Advanced Handlers who travel the country demonstrating the sport of Heelwork To Music and Freestyle and who are also HTM Team GB Members (Lesley and Karen). She is also a founder member and Show Secretary of Canine Freestyle GB, a nationwide Heelwork To Music Kennel Club Registered Club who produce two highly successful and popular Heelwork To Music Competitions each year.

Kath Hardman and her dogs have been successfully competing in Heelwork To Music since 1999, travelling throughout the British Isles and within Europe. She is a Member of the Kennel Club, the Kennel Club Heelwork To Music Working Party and the Kennel Club Judges' Working Party and she is also a Heelwork To Music Kennel Club Accredited Trainer (Judges). Kath was honoured to be invited by the Kennel Club to judge the HTM and Freestyle Competitions at Crufts in 2006 and has also accepted the invitation to judge all three days competitions at Crufts 2012.
She will be competing with both Amber and Spice at the Inaugural Heelwork To Music and Freestyle Open European Championships.
Stillmoor Lady In Red FCI HTM WCh 2010,HTM A Ex, FS I Ex, pet name Amber, is a 6 year old Red and White Border Collie and is maturing into a beautiful dog. She is the youngest dog to have ever competed in the Crufts Finals when she was under two years of age. Amber has been competing at Crufts for the last consecutive 5 years and she loves her training and the rewards that go with it, especially her tuggy and the ‘Chuck It’. Kath is very proud that Amber won the FCI HTM World Championships in Denmark 2010 and this time she will be competing in both HTM and Freestyle.

September Spice FS A Ex, a 10 yr old crossbreed who has also competed at Crufts every year since 2007. Spice is a super little dog who loves her training, food and chasing birds! Kath's proudest moment with Spice was in 2008 when she won the Crufts Freestyle competition and went on to represent England in the International Freestyle competition which she also won!

Kath is honoured to have been selected with both Amber and Spice to represent Great Britain and is also HTM Team GB Manager.

Kath wishes her fellow Team GB members the very best of luck together with everyone organising and competing at the Open European Championships.

Introducing The Team - Karen Sykes and Fly HTM

2011-08-26T19:42:00.004+01:00

Karen Sykes and
Iatka Spring Spangle HTM A Ex

I have 3 dogs, 2 Working Sheepdogs and 1 rescue crossbreed. Kes is 13 years old and has been in the top 10 Freestyle dogs in the UK for many years, she has competed at Crufts every year since the Finals began. Kes is still keen to dance & continues to compete although a little less often these days. She has qualified for the Crufts semi finals again this year which is a wonderful achievement for a dog of her age. I am sure that she will tell me when she is ready to retire but it seems that the time is not yet - I am so proud of her! Erin is a 2 year old rescue crossbreed. We don’t know what breeds are mixed into her but she is a great comic with an amazing personality. Initial illness & behaviour problems made for a slow start in the sport but she is now working her way through the classes and doing very well. The dog that I am taking to the Open European Championships in Denmark is Fly who is a 10 year old Working Sheepdog. Fly is a very fast and intense dog who anticipates everything which makes training a real challenge and lots of fun. Sadly Fly has had problems with skin allergies for years which have been very difficult and expensive to manage but I still wouldn’t swap her for the world. Around the home you could not wish for a more loving and well behaved dog, she is a real joy to live with. Fly has competed at Crufts every year since the very first competition in her speciality of Heelwork to Music. Our proudest moment together was winning the Crufts Heelwork to Music competition in 2008. I first competed in 2001 when Kes and I won the Starters Freestyle class. I also had my first judging appointment in that year too. I have continued to compete, judge and teach but never did I imagine back then where this sport would take me. Thanks to HTM I have travelled the world with my friend Kath Hardman, holding seminars and judging which has resulted in our making many great friends through this fabulous sport.

What I love about Heelwork to Music and Freestyle is that it is the only dog sport where you can do exactly what you want to within the rules and let your imagination run free. You can show-case the individuality of your dog and never have to perform a move that the dog doesn’t like. Dogs, dancing and music are a magical combination which gives so much joy to many!

I cannot finish my profile without mentioning my constant companion, Allan. He has been by my side since 1983 encouraging me in everything I have done, looking after our dogs and helping me to achieve things that I never thought I was capable of. To represent your country is a huge honour and I shall do my very best with Fly but whatever the result, I can be sure of taking the best dog home to my wonderfully supportive family and friends!

Introducing The Team - Lesley Neville and Angus HTM and Freestyle

2011-08-26T19:33:00.008+01:00

Lesley Neville and
Choxxstart Dream Angus FSA Ex, HTM A Ex.

Angus and I are very proud to have been chosen as one of the Team GB for the Open European Championships this year.

People often say “be careful how you name your dog – you may not get what you wished for!” But with Angus I can honestly say that he is a “Dream” dog!

Angus is the second Beardie that I have owned (numbers three and four are at home too so as you can see I am quite besotted by the breed) and originally he was to be mainly my Working Trials Dog, with Dancing as his part time hobby. He quickly gained his CDEX and UDEX in Trialling but the Heelwork To Music was taking over as the main sport in my life and fortunately Angus was very capable of dancing his way right up to the top of this sport.

My own life had been in teaching Art at a local Comprehensive School where the pupils were aware of the strange sport that their teacher indulged in at weekends, but an opportunity to take early retirement from teaching Art arose in 2006.

Angus and I had the honour of demonstrating HTM at Crufts 2005 as one of the “Top Lodge Dancing Dogs” team, dancing to “Om Pa Pa” in the Special Events Ring, and over the next year rose through the classes up to the Advanced Level in Freestyle, qualifying for Crufts in 2006.
Unfortunately our debut in the Crufts ring did not go to plan as Angus had an upset tummy, but he made up for it in 2007 when we won the Freestyle Competition at Crufts, and then went on to win the International Competition as well! I was invited to Judge the Crufts Competitions the following year, 2008, but am happy to say that by 2009 Angus was Advanced in both Freestyle and HTM and competed in both divisions at Crufts that year.

2010 and 2011 again saw Angus and me competing at Crufts in the Freestyle division, and at the moment we have qualified for the Crufts Semi Finals for 2012.

As I said, a Dream Dog.

Of course he can be naughty too. (Beardies do have their own sense of humour and the trick is to go with it rather than against it) but we are determined to do our very best to represent this lovely country this year in Denmark, and support what I think is a very strong team.

Good Luck Everybody!

Team GB Announced

2011-08-24T21:35:00.006+01:00

Lesley with Angus, Kath with Spice and Amber and Karen with Fly

The Danish Kennel Club has accepted the Great Britain Team entry for the 2011 European Open Championships. The teams were selected carefully and are comprised of the following members:

HTM Team: Karen Sykes – Iatka Spring Spangle HTM A Ex
Kath Hardman – Stillmoor Lady In Red HTM A Es, FS I Ex
Lesley Neville – Choxxstart Dream Angus FS A Ex, HTM A Ex

Freestyle Team: Kath Hardman – September Spice FS A Ex
Kath Hardman – Stillmoor Lady In Red HTM A Es, FS I Ex
Lesley Neville – Choxxstart Dream Angus FS A Ex, HTM A Ex

The Judges

2011-08-08T20:54:00.003+01:00

The three judges have now been named for the Open European Championship

Head Judge Emmy Marie Simonsen from Denmark

Anja Magnussen Schüller from Norway

Jackie Clarke from England

READ MORE HERE!!!

Important Information

2011-08-08T20:53:00.001+01:00

For all important information click HERE

The Open European Official Blog

2011-08-01T20:48:00.000+01:00

Keep up to date with all announcements HERE

Rules and Regulations

2011-07-30T20:48:00.000+01:00

Learn about the Rules and Regulations HERE

Application Form for the Open European Championship

2011-07-29T20:44:00.000+01:00

Complete your Application Form - follow this link HERE

The Open European Championship

2011-07-28T20:40:00.000+01:00

Thank you to Denmark who have provided another great competition for all Heelwork To Music enthusiasts in Europe.

Open European HTM & Freestyle Championships on 22 - 23 October 2011 in Sorø, Denmark.

France Cancelled

2011-01-12T16:13:00.004Z

France cancelled the World Championship for HTM in 2011 due to lack of funds and space.

2010-12-15T19:34:00.001Z

WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP FRANCE 2011

Follow this link to keep updated as news is released.

The World Championships

2010-12-15T19:28:00.001Z

To follow information as its released Click Here World Championship 2011 France

WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP 2011 PARIS

2010-12-08T16:53:00.002Z

Today we received news that there will be an HTM Championship at the World Show to be held in Paris, France 7th - 10th July 2011.

Applications for HTM Team GB 2011 should be made as soon as possible.

Anyone with a pedigreee dog on the Breed Register, working in Intermediate or Advanced, that has a current Pet Passport or is willing to Pet Passport their dog starting by THIS SATURDAY (11th December), and would like to be considered for the team please contact Debbie Deuchar at the Kennel Club for an application form urgently.

Please email Debbie Deuchar debbie.deuchar@thekennelclub.org.uk

More from the Ferry

2010-08-07T19:54:00.005+01:00

The Team met a very interesting lady on the ferry - Inge Mitchell from Denmark who gave some of the team a very good lesson on how Great Britain helped Denmark during the war.
Inge lives in London now but was on her way to Denmark to visit relatives.

It was great to have someone else take the photos!!!

And David got in the picture too! Thanks for passing these photos on Inge - they are appreciated.

The "exercise" area for the dogs!! No wonder it took some persuasion for them to "go" on deck - especially later in the journey with nothing but the North Sea on either side!!

The Final Competition Day

2010-08-03T19:05:00.010+01:00

SUNDAY - the day of the Individual HTM and Freestyle World Championship Finals Carol Dodson and Clifton had drawn to be first into the ring where they performed a superb routine to Escala Compilation..

Clifton showing his beautiful Paw Work. They competed well scoring a cumulative total from Friday and Sunday of 54.73 and finished the individual competition in 5th Place.

Kath Hardman and Amber had drawn to run 10th. They performed yet another superb routne to the music No More Tears (Enough is Enough) but would their performance be enough to keep their first place reached in the Team event on Friday? Amber was well focussed on Kath and Kath knew they needed to perform as well or better than Friday to keep the lead. Happily they did just that and finished with a total score of 57.40, winning the First Ever Individual World HTM Championship Title.

Following straight on from the HTM Competition was the Individual Competion where Michelle Dodson was the representative of the Great Britain Team.Tamar looked so happy performing - he seemed to be smiling in parts - maybe he knew this was to be his last competition as Tamar was to be retired directly on his return home. They finished in 7th position with a grand total score of 53.00. Well Done Tamar - and of course Michelle!

The three judges with champagne at the ready, congratulated all the finalists as they were welcomed into the HTM Arena.

Individual HTM World Championship

1st Kath Hardman with Stillmoor Lady In Red W Ch HTM 2010, HTM A Ex, FS I Ex 57.40
2nd Anja Christiansen with Faehunden's Queeny Las 57.10

3rd Vanda Gregorova with All That Brandy Gentle Mate 56.20

A very happy partnership with trophy, rosette and certificates.

Individual World Freestyle Championship

1st Thierry Thomas with Ubac - 57.47
2nd Vanda Gregorova with All That Brandy Gentle Mate - 57.00
3rd Alena Smolikova with Dapper Dame Black Chervers - 56.80

The presentation in the Main Arena - one dog press reported that there were 19,354 dogs entered at this world Dog Show and the only time the National Anthem of Great Britain was played was when Kath Hardman and Amber received their winners' bouquet in the Main Ring.

The proud GB Team Members receiving their bouquets in the Main Ring

The HTM Team World Championships - won by Denmark 81.14

2nd Place Great Britain 78.47 - 3rd Place The Czech Republic 73.03

The two Individual World Champions gather again for one more photo call!Celebrations over, the vet was the team's next port of call. The dogs had to be checked for fitness to travel home, given tick/flea treatment and wormed - then their passports signed and stamped - in all the right places!!! A small marquee had been erected close by to the HTM Hall just for this purpose. There would be a lot of dogs travelling home the next day.

The vet and assistant completing the necessary paperwork to get their pets home. Luckily the Team had been told that they could provide both their own wormers and Flea/tick treatment - so this saved more money - but they still had to pay for a consultation for each dog.

The final morning in Denmark - Jack the very Lucky Team Mascot sits in pride of place with the Team's Trophy.

The Freestyle Team Day

2010-08-03T19:04:00.007+01:00

Friday was the Competition Day for all the Freestyle Teams.

Running first in the Team GB Freestyle was Penny Draper and Secret (Delark Gavotte) a Belgian Shepherd.

After a tentative start both Penny and Secret performed some great moves to "The Man In The Iron Mask"

And they finished on 15.50 points.

The second team member for Team GB was Jenny Deakin with Tom (Shepwood Morning Sunrise) a Border Collie.

A fast paced routine to "A Pencil Full Of Lead" they covered the entire ring with a confident routine.

And it's a "High Five" from Tom as they finished with 25.53 placing them 11th - just missing the Individual Competition on Sunday.

And the final member of Team GB Freestyle was Michelle Dodson with Tamar(Kamarda Doctor Foster)

This was a lovely routine which matched both Michelle's and Tamar's style of work.

They completed the round in superb fashion scoring 26.57 and secured themselves a place in the Individual FS Championship Competition to be held Sunday.

Team GB Freestyle - Michelle & Tamar, Jenny & Tom, Carole & Clifton (reserve) and Penny & Secret. The team finished the day in 5th place with a total score of 67.60.

1st Position went to The Czech Republic with 81.64, 2nd to Denmark with 77.60 , 3rd to Russia with 75.40

The HTM Team Day

2010-08-03T19:03:00.005+01:00

Friday was the day for the opening ceremony and the Heelwork To Music Teams to compete for the World Championship Title. The trophies and rosettes already on display.
Team GB led into the ring by Gina Pink - Team Manager with Bailey, followed by Kath Hardman and Amber and Penny Draper with Secret ..........................

Followed by Carole Dodson and Clifton and Jenny Deakin with Tom.

............................. and Michelle Dodson with Tamar.

Team GB looked great in their uniforms - red jackets (Crazydogs)with the logos of their main Sponsors Rugby DTC, Belgian Shepherd Dog Association, Paws N Music Association and Canine Freestyle GB. Navy trousers, black shoes and white embroidered T Shirts. The dogs each wore a Union Jack Dog Coat! No mistaking the Team were representing Great Britain! The three judges - Karen Sykes, Head Judge - England, Marleen Van Hees - Belgium and Carina Enevoldsen - Denmark. Karen made all the competitors very welcome with her opening speech. The President of the FCI Obedience Commission Mr Johann Kurzbauer followed with an enthusiastic speech opening the Inaugral FCI World HTM Championships

Ready for action - the Heelwork To Music Team now had their work to do. The nerves began not only for the British HTM competitors but all of the Team as they realised that the competition that they had prepared long and hard for was actually starting; from training the dogs, choreographing routines, the massive task of the fundraising and finding sponsors – yes, it really had started!!!!

Gina Pink was the first British competitor; the HTM team had drawn a running order of 8th in the event. Gina and Bailey (Daraydala Piccolo) performed to a funky Black Eye Peas' number.

Their final score was 22.57 which left them just outside the top ten who would go through to the final on Sunday. Kath Hardman with Amber (Stillmoor Lady In Red HTM A Ex, FS I Ex) was second to compete for Great Britain performing to No More Tears (Enough Is Enough) by Barbra Streisand and Donna Summer.

Amber was on top form and they gave a lovely performance. They finished the day on the highest score of 28.60 which took them into the Individual Competition to be held Sunday. And the third team member, Carole Dodson with Clifton (Kinaway Dr. Watson) performing to an Escala Compilation. Clifton is a stunning dog to watch and he did not disappoint. Clifton’s breeder, Kathy, was in the audience and she was very proud too; thank you Kathy for your company and support throughout the whole competition. They scored 27.30 which took them into the final to be held Sunday.The Team made a discovery on the FCI HTM blog, that this was updated throughout the competition with the scores so they were finding out the judges scores prior them being announced at the end of the competition! Jenny and David were keeping tally on where the team was, which was rather exciting as HTM TEAM GB were delighted to be placed second with a score of 78.47. Denmark won the Team Competition with a score of 81.14 and The Czech Republic were placed third with a score of 73.03.

Carole and Clifton and Kath and Amber qualified through to the individual HTM finals which were held on the Sunday. This individual final would title the first World Champion in HTM.

The Team's benches covered in Good Luck Cards and the Blue and Silver Rosettes for the HTM Team's second place.

The Team thank everyone for their support and good luck wishes - looks like they worked!

The Practice Day - Thursday

2010-08-03T19:00:00.008+01:00

The Team arrived at the venue for the 2010 World dog show early as Jenny had been invited to demo her reserve HTM routine in the main arena.

It was a short walk from the Car Park to the HTM/FS Arena but the Team were pleased they had taken their sturdy trolleys.The Team stuck together like glue for their first venture into the massive venue. Main Sponsor of the event was Eukanuba.Ted had a short break taking in the scene and the atmosphere! On getting there, the team began setting up camp in the HTM teams' area! Cages, cards, bunting and pictures all filled the HTM Team GB area, giving it some colour and throughout the 4 days received many compliments about it! One person saying we have heard about this decorating the area from Crufts!

The Main Arena - all ready for the show to begin..Jenny and Tom in the warm up area.Jenny’s demo went very well and being in the spotlight performing her routine was somewhat of a new thing! Tom did not bat an eyelid and was on true Tom form! The routine even had some coverage on a local Danish TV news programme who were explaining about the World Dog Show and the events taking place there. The team returned to the HTM Hall waiting for the allocated practice times in the HTM competition ring. Each team had a HTM and Freestyle time to practice in the ring. There was also a warm up ring just behind the competition ring which was very useful throughout the whole competition.
The team’s times were used effectively walking through their routines, floor plans and checking movements on the ring’s red carpet.

Whilst the HTM competitors were preparing for the start of the competition there were other events going on in the World Dog Show and some of the team saw the Obedience and Breed showing too. It was amazing to see some breeds that we do not have in this country, or maybe not very often!
Thursday night there was a prearranged Team dinner where some of the competitors had a a chance to dine together, getting to meet other Team members.

The Accomodation - in Denmark

2010-08-03T18:08:00.007+01:00

The Team arrived at the house - not easy as it wasn't signed and the Sat Nav couldn't pick it up since in the middle of a field. But at least it would be quiet and no neighbours for the Team to annoy!

Plenty of room for parking too! The house was found on the Internet with help of Emmy Simonsen (Thanks Emmy). 6 bedrooms, 2 kitchens, utility room, 3 bathrooms, a lounge and a games room - but very cheap. Only problem was that it needed cleaning - top to bottom!

Michelle taking a little time out with book, Tom and Teddy.

And sleepy Amber - well it had been a long journey!

And sleepy David too - but only after he had cleaned the oven and washed and sorted crockery and cutlery for the 7 staying in the house! Remember - he was going to be spending 9 days with 6 women and 6 dogs!

One morning - a sea fret crept in - the journey to the venue in Herning was an hours drive away so the fog wasn't going to help matters!

A good roomy kitchen plenty of space for prepping the night's meals and breakfast which Team GB did every day!

And it was Kath and David's Wedding Anniversary whilst there too - a surprise party was waiting for them both on the Saturday night! Balloons, cards, love hearts, champagne, cake, chocolate and a steak dinner!!

Amber checking that the cleaning had been done!!!

Whoops - no it hadn't so Penny did more cleaning after the previous occupants!!

The Games Room - shame the floor was so slippy! But it was used for careful training the day before the competition began - and for watching the World Cup!!!

Planning the menu! The Team took on all the tasks required to keep the home running smoothly! And not one argument all week!!

The beautiful Church in the village. These fields had hares running in them both morning and night.

There were some good features of the "BIG" house - the Team all had their own space - very important in competition mode!

More on the Ferry from Harwich to Esjberg

2010-08-03T16:20:00.007+01:00

The top Bunk in one of the cabins! Well at least Jack the Team's ted looked comfortable :-) Ted looking out across the stern of the ship and the deck area where the Team could exercise their dogs at given times.
Penny - on a deck a bit higher than she felt comfortable! Well done Penny - you did it!!!

"Are we there yet?????"
At last - 17 hours later and the Team landed in Esjberg, Denmark.

The journey continued for a couple more hours before the Team found their accommodation.

All travelled on convoy - Kath, David and Penny in the lead car, followed by Carole and Gina in the centre car and holding up the rear was Jenny and Michelle - all drivers muttering "Remember to keep on the RIGHT!!!".

The Journey Began

2010-07-12T21:15:00.019+01:00

HTM Team GB began their journey to Denmark on Monday 21st June. Each member had a long drive to their first meeting place close to Harwich but were able to give all the dogs a great free run before catching the DFDS Ferry to Esjberg that evening.

Three Team Members used their cars for transporting the Team to and through Denmark. It wasn't planned but they were all silver and looked like part of the uniform!

Welcome to Jack, provided by Gina to keep an eye on the Team as they travelled.

The jackets supplied by Crazydogs looked great as the Team inspected the Sea Conditions ready to board the ferry.

.Last photo of the Team before setting off to Harwich Port.

Gina ready to travel already sporting the Union Flag!

The Port Officials checked the dogs' Passports and Microchips. Good to know that all the official paperwork was acceptable before setting off.

Jenny supplied Champagne and Strawberries as her Good Luck gift for all the Team. Yummy!!!!

Penny looking thoughtful as they set sail on the 17 hour journey. A timetable was handed to the Team giving visiting times for the dogs. 19:30, 23:00 and 08:15. The dogs were allowed out onto the deck for a little exercise at these times. No one was in any hurry to put them back into the cars and the DFDS Staff were lovely - never rushing anyone to get back.

A beautiful sunset.

This was Inge Mitchell, whom the Team met in the morning after a night's sleep on board. A very interesting lady from Denmark who now lives in London. Her husband was the very famous Leslie Mitchell who was one of the very first BBC TV Presenters.

Carole decided it was time to re-enact Titanic!!!! Not the movie most of the Team wanted to think about!!!!

Hope to post more photos of the journey soon.

Not long to go

2010-06-18T20:11:00.006+01:00

Logo as on the back of the HTM Team GB official Jackets
Supplied and created by Crazydogs

Not much longer and HTM Team GB will be on their way travelling to Denmark.

The Team would like to say thank you for all the wonderful messages of support they have received in the past few days. These messages along with the continual support shown through the competitions and fundraising that has been carried out since the Team was announced has been unbelievable.

Thank you to everyone who has supported the Team.

Want to know how the competition started?........

2010-06-17T19:32:00.001+01:00

The organisers of the HTM & FS Event at the World Show give an insight as to how this competition evolved Click Here to find out more.

The Main Arena

2010-06-12T14:48:00.002+01:00

HTM in the Main Arena at the World Show

The reserves and many others have been invited to perform in the main Arena at specified times throughout the four day show.

HTM Team GB wish them all a very happy time.

The Programme for the HTM and Freestyle in the Main Arena

9 Days to go!

2010-06-11T21:18:00.006+01:00

Just 9 days before HTM Team GB leave for the competition in Denmark.

Preparations are going really well - the team members live quite some distance away from each other (except Carole and Michelle Dodson) so practice is not being carried out on a team basis.

The Team Members are all very involved with the sport of HTM and Freestyle and are already competing hard as there is a big competition in Great Britain once or twice a month at the moment with around 200 entries per competition. Because of this, the Team's dogs are in constant training which is good as this means they do not need to intensify training for the World Championships.

Kath Hardman and Amber have competed at 3 competitions in the past 8 days so their training and practicing is continuing gradually with lots of play and reward and lots of "time out" too. They have been making sure over the past two months that their training is kept very motivated.

Photo courtesy of Allan Brown - Official Photographer for the World HTM & FS Championships

New Visitors to the Blog

2010-06-01T14:36:00.002+01:00

Thanks for visiting our Blog. The Team is still preparing for their journey and the competition - not long to wait now!!!

Allan Brown named as the World Championship HTM Official Photographer

2010-05-25T14:26:00.004+01:00

Great news, Allan Brown has been named the Official HTM Photographer for the three days of the World HTM Championships.

CD's of each day or all three days will be available. ORDER FORM

Practice Times Allocated

2010-05-21T08:50:00.006+01:00

The World Show Organisers have now allocated practice times to the competitors.

HTM TEAM GB Timetable

2010-05-18T20:28:00.004+01:00

The Team are in the final stages for preparing for their travel to compete in Denmark next month with House Sitters booked to look after the handler's non competing dogs whilst they are away.

In just over four weeks, the entire Team GB will set off to Harwich to catch the ferry to Esbjerg in Denmark. The DFDS Seaways Harwich-to-Esbjerg ferry service connects Essex in South-East England to Esbjerg in the pretty Ribe region of western Denmark. Travelling on DFDS's newest ferry the DANA SIRENA.

This 17 hour journey will have set times when the dogs are allowed out of the cars for a little exercise, and as it is an overnight ferry there will be a good stretch of time when all will be sleeping.

Once in Denmark, the Team will then drive for approximately 90 minutes to the house they are renting on the West Coast and arrive there on Tuesday 22nd June.

Wednesday will be a very welcome free day for the Team to rest and practice before competing.

Thursday the Team will be visiting the Messecentre Herning, the venue for The World Show. There are 19,354 dogs entered at this show!!!! Thursday afternoon will be practice time (15 minutes for each team of three) which will be allocated for each team by the organsers followed by a Dinner for all competitors and their partners.

There is a catalogue available showing all competitors - but no running orders given yet - the team has to wait for the draw to be made on Thursday before the competition.

On Friday at noon, all the teams are invited to the opening ceremony.
This will be followed by the Heelwork To Music Competition when Carole, Gina and Kath will be competing.

Saturday is the Freestyle Competition when Michelle, Penny and Jenny will be competing.

The Competitions then conclude on Sunday with individual handler competitions for both HTM and Freestyle - ie the Top 10 highest individual scoring dogs taken from the Team Competitions.

Monday the Team will be starting their journey home - again taking the DFDS Ferry from Esbjerg to Harwich and then onwards back home.

The Team will endeavour to keep the Blog updated during their time away.

Visitors To The HTM Team GB Blog

2010-05-10T14:28:00.002+01:00

This is the Stats report for 10th May 2010 - thank you for visiting our Blog.

More Sponsorship for HTM Team GB

2010-05-06T22:56:00.002+01:00

A further offer of support has been received from Oscar

Thank you Oscar Pet Food for your support.

More Sponsorship Announced

2010-05-06T22:52:00.001+01:00

HTM Team GB are delighted to announce support has been received from the West Of England Border Collie Club. Thank you for your support - it is truly appreciated

More Photos from the Cabaret Night

2010-05-06T19:09:00.005+01:00

Take a trip down Memory Lane for reminders of a great night out.

More photos - taken by Ollie Deakin - can be found on this link.

On ordering any of the photographs 25% OF COST WILL BE DONATED TO HTM TEAM GB WITH EACH PURCHASE**

Thanks to Ollie Deakin

HTM Team GB - the Cabaret Night

2010-05-01T22:06:00.028+01:00

Tuesday 27th April 2010 - the Big Fund Raising Event. Held at The Kennel Club Building, Stoneleigh. A beautiful evening - and an enthusiastic audience. What could be better?

The Team were proud to be introduced into the ring wearing their HTM Team GB uniforms to open the show. Jackets supplied and designed by "Crazydogs" with a superb Union Jack Paw Print on the back, featuring the four Main Sponsors of HTM Team GB - Rugby DTC, Belgian Shepherd Dog Association of GB, Paws N Music Association and Canine Freestyle GB.Many thanks to Dave Ray who gave up his time and supplied the PA equipment and great commentary throughout the evening.

All photographs featured on the blog are thanks to Allan Brown, who was kept busy from the moment he arrived!

Firstly the GB Heelwork to Music Team were introduced.
Gina Pink with "Bailey" Daradala Piccolo HTM I Ex German Spitz

Carole Dodson and "Clifton" Kinaway Doctor Watson HTM A Ex. FS A Ex. B Ex Border Collie

Kath Hardman and "Amber" Stillmoor Lady In Red HTM A Ex, FS I Ex Border Collie

Then was the GB Freestyle Team - Michelle Dodson and "Tamar" Karmarda Doctor Foster FS A Ex, HTM I Ex
Jenny Deakin and "Tom" Shepwood Morning Sunrise FS N Ex, HTM I Ex Border Collie

Sadly missing from the evening, due to work commitments, was Penny Draper with Delark Gavotte FS I Belgian Shepherd (Terveruen). She was in our thoughts though!

Each member performed a routine or two - this is Jenny and Tom - they are the Reserve Dog and Handler for HTM, dancing to "Sing Sing Sing" by The Spitfire Band. Jenny loves this track and is avid fan of Strictly Come Dancing, where she first heard a version of track. Jenny has already qualified, with this routine, for the 2011 dfsCrufts semi-finals to be held in January 2011 by Rugby Dog Training Club, one of the main sponsors of Team GB .

Followed by Carole Dodson and Clifton - the Reserve handler and dog for Freestyle performing a "Pirate" routine. Clifton got a big cheer from the audience when he found the treasure!

Gina with Bailey performing an HTM Routine. Bailey and Gina performed to some very moving music - demonstrating all the different positions which the HTM team will need at the Champs.

Michelle and Tamar - performing a Freestyle Routine to "Busker Alley". The track is from a musical and tells the story of a busker called Charlie who spends his life entertaining the crowds on the streets of London.

The team was very honoured and grateful that Mary Ray also joined in the night's entertainment performing her 2010 DFS Crufts routine.

Kath Hardman also joined in with another of her dogs, crossbreed Spice with their Crufts 2008 winning Freestyle Routine to "If I Only Had A Brain". This helped show how GB also has some great non-pedigree dogs working in the sport.

This was followed by the very popular auction which raised over £500. Thank you to everyone who bid for items and those who gave items for the auction.

After the short interval, Michelle and Tamar completed another Freestyle routine, performing to "Another Cup Of Tea". The crowd, mesmorised by the storyline, could see how much Tamar loves this routine - this team were placed 3rd with this routine the first time they ever performed in the Crufts Freestyle Finals.

Kath and Amber performing a Heelwork To Music routine to "No More Tears (Enough is Enough)" by Donna Summer and Barbra Streisand. A piece of music which lends itself to Heelwork To Music with its forever changing of pace and phrasing. Kath and Amber have already qualified for the DFS Crufts 2011 Semi Finals with this routine and they were placed 2nd at the DFS Crufts HTM Final held in March 2010.

And Jenny with Tom performing to Pencil Full of Lead by Paolo Nultini.

An upbeat number that leaves Jenny rather breathless at the end!!! Tom won't be – shows Jenny up!
Jenny is a secret (not anymore!) country and western fan from her many trips to the USA in her childhood and where her Dad now lives for most of the year! This is where the theme of this routine was inspired from…

And to close the evening's entertainment, Carole and Clifton took to the floor performing their Crufts 2010 winning HTM Routine to "Escala". Carole’s interpretation took us into the world of a Russian Secret Agent, which does not know whether to run and hide or stay and fight. But of course she eventually is saved by her trusty dog Clifton!

Once again - thank you to everyone who supported this event.

The Cabaret Night

2010-04-29T10:19:00.003+01:00

Thanks from all the Team to everyone who supported this terrific event.

Thanks to everyone who attended
Thanks to Mary Ray for freely giving her time to entertain
Thanks to Dave Ray for supplying the "music" and commentary
Thanks to all who helped keep the guests refreshed
Thanks to all supporters of the Raffle and Auction
Thanks to Leamington DTC for loaning the hall
And
Thank you for your enthusiastic reception and total support shown to the Team.

Photos to follow shortly.

CABARET NIGHT - TONIGHT'S THE NIGHT!!!!!!

2010-04-27T08:40:00.002+01:00

Coming to the Cabaret Night?

Some tickets still available on the door.

Don't forget your hands to clap,
your voice to cheer & your wallet to bid

Post code is CV8 2LZ. Stoneleigh Park - 7pm.
Doors open from 6.30pm

Two ways to support team GB and scoop a bargain!

2010-04-23T00:01:00.007+01:00

Have you had a look through the fabulous list of items we have to auction at the Cabaret Night next Tuesday? Starting to wish you could come as something has caught your eye?

No fear - there are two options open to you:
1) Buy a ticket for the show and bring your wallet!
2) put in a silent bid and let us bid on your behalf.

To put in a silent bid all you need to do is email David on davidjhardman@btinternet.com or ring 07963252923. Obviously P&P will be charged extra but hopefully we can get any successful bids to you at an event you are attending during the year. David will need to know your name, contact details, the items you want to bid on and your maximum bid. He will then bid for you on the night.

If you would rather go for option one we do have a some tickets left, just contact a member of the team.

We not only have an auction we are also running a raffle for you - wow and what a raffle - lots of real quality items.

Large Dog Bed by "YAP" (RRP £19.99) 36" x 30"

Several Ancol Dog Toys

4 x Royal Canin £10 Vouchers for Dog Food

2 x Skinners Vouchers for Large Bags of Duck & Rice

2 x small Dog Training Human Books

Various balls

Various Frisbees

4 x dog leads and Collars

2 x £10 Online Molevalley Farm Vouchers

2 x £10 Pets at Home Vouchers

1 x Silver & Stone Necklace

1 x Pearl Bracelet

1 x Stone & Silver Necklace and Bracelet set

1 x Bottle of Port

PUS LOTS MORE!!!!!!

Items for Auction - Silent Bids Welcomed

2010-04-21T17:41:00.011+01:00

The Cabaret Night is almost here. The Team have been practicing hard to make sure everyone attending enjoys themselves. Not only have they a superb raffle with many quality prizes, the Team are holding an Auction during the interval. If you want to bid for any of these items, we will be taking "Silent Bids" so no one misses out. (Details to follow on Friday)

Items for your bids are as follows :

Rhythmic Paws DVD plus a one hour training session with Attila Szkukalek. Attila is an animal behaviourist and trainer; canine freestyle tutor and winner of both national and international competitions. The highest bidder of this item will be able to prepare their dog using the DVD for their one hour private lesson with Attila. You will be expected to travel to Attila's premises in Norwich at your own expense for the lesson.

Genuine Henry Heath Black Top Hat. Kindly donated to Team GB by Carol Mortimer this unique item is very slightly crumpled at the back but otherwise in excellent condition. Would enhance any "white tie and tails" routine and fits a lady's head very comfortably. Circa 1920's. There is a reserve price on this item.

A Marshall & Snelgrove Hat Box. The above Top Hat fits snuggly into this hat box and bought separately would protect any hat needed for your routine. Circa 1940.

A One Hour Private Training Session with Kath Hardman. Kath was the Winner of the Crufts Freestyle competition and International Freestyle competition at Crufts in 2008. The highest bidder of this item will be expected to travel to Derbyshire (close to Junction 28 M1) at their own expense for the lesson.

A Limited Edition Black Nationwide "England Three Lions Crest" Embossed Briefcase. Nationwide are the Main Sponsors of the England Football Team and this briefcase has been produced as a memento. Very handsome briefcase with two large front pockets; three large compartments and two large zipped compartments which would securely protect any valuable paperwork and files. Additional pockets for pens and business cards. Comes with a comfortable shoulder strap. AND Falcon Notebook Case. Securely protects your laptop whilst in transit size 15". Black and grey.

John Deere Sit N Scoot Child's Tractor - Fabulous toy from aged 1 upwards! Makes engine noise, encouraging voices and is a very well made tractor for a young enthusiast. Brrrrrm Brrrrrm ...............

One Portrait by Ian Turner - to be painted from a photograph. Ian paints beautiful pictures of your favourite pet. Post and Packing and framing to be paid for by the buyer on completion of the portrait.

Two Canvases - (to be auctioned separately) photographs of your dog transferred to a canvas.

A Hand Made Quilt - donated by Annie Clayton who has taken over a year to make this lovely quilt. It is a hand crafted pink and white patchwork quilt (made for Single Bed) which is potentially worth up to £200!

Watch this space to find out how you can forward a "Silent Bid" if unable to attend.

The World Championship HTM Judges

2010-04-19T17:26:00.002+01:00

There are three judges at both the HTM and Freestyle Team Competitions.

1 Head Judge - Karen Sykes England

2 Judge - Marleen Van Hees Belgium

3 Judge - Carina Enevoldsen - Denmark

Team GB hope they enjoy their time officiating at the event.

Cabaret Night

2010-04-18T16:48:00.000+01:00

You can still buy tickets for the Cabaret Night. £10 Adult £3 Children
Available from all team members. (Prices increase on the night £15/£5.) Send cheque and SAE to "HTM TEAM GB" , PO Box 7680, Alfreton, DE55 9BX

There will be a quality Raffle and a very special Auction.

Auction Items include Top Hat - circa 1920's, Marshall & Snellgrove Hat Box, Painted Portrait of your dog, an HTM lesson from Attila, a hand made quilt, an HTM Lesson with Kath Hardman, Briefcase with Lap Top cover, 2 canvas photos of your own dog to be auctioned separately.

A great night - not to be missed.

Hope to see you there!

Visitors to the Blog

2010-04-17T22:08:00.002+01:00

Thanks for visiting our Team Blog

Kath and Amber on BBC Radio Derby

2010-04-16T07:21:00.004+01:00

Kath Hardman and her Border Collie Amber from Team GB have been interviewed about the World Championships for Radio Derby.Click here to listen to the interview! They are on from 40:00 to 52:30.

Jenny and Tom at the Auditions for Toto

2010-04-15T07:25:00.006+01:00

Jenny and Tom took a break from rehearsing for the World Championships and joined hundreds of other dogs and handlers in the auditions for Toto.

They did really well.

Read more about it HERE.

And the Results are in - Photo Competition take two!

2010-04-13T17:02:00.010+01:00

As you will have seen, we ran our 2nd Photo Competition at the Westglen Heelwork to Music Show last weekend. Our thanks goes to everyone who had a go and also to those who simply could not choose and gave donations or brought some of Jenny's delicioius doggie treats instead! Also thank you to the Westglen Team for letting us fundraise at their show.

And the Winner was......after a tie breaker.......GARETH EDWARDS - Well done to Gareth who won a pink MP3 player - lucky man!

So if you are still itching to find out who was 'tickled pink' and who was 'green with envy' the answers are as follows:

Photo 1 - Gina Pink

Photo 2 - Kath Hardman

Photo 3 - Michelle Dodson

Photo 4 - Carole Dodson

Photo 5 - Jenny Deakin

Photo 6 - Penny Draper

So did you get them all right? Leave us a comment and let us know!

Kath and Jenny at Westglen HTM Show

2010-04-10T21:05:00.004+01:00

Just a month after DFS Crufts 2010 - the first DFS Crufts HTM Competitions, holding Crufts Qualifiers for the Semi Final for DFS Crufts 2001 was held today. Amber and Kath were placed First

And Tom (Shepwood Morning Sunrise) with Jenny were placed second - so those teams are through to the Semi Finals to be held in January 2011 by Rugby DTC - one of the main sponsers of Team GB.

Kath and Amber Make The News!

2010-04-09T13:32:00.001+01:00

The local Derbyshire newspaper (Derby Telegraph) contacted Kath a couple of weeks ago - asking if anything interesting was happening in the "World of Dogs". After Kath had updated the reporter on Top Lodge Dancing Dogs' successes at DFS Crufts, Kath was then able to give them the news that her dog Amber had been selected for HTM Team GB for the World Competition being held in Denmark in June 2010. She also told them that another of the Top Lodge Dancing Dog Team had been invited to be Head Judge at this prestigious event.

You can read the article which was printed on 7th April 2010 here.

Gina's Pet Passport Journey

2010-04-08T08:32:00.013+01:00

Many people didn’t apply for the Team GB in Denmark either because their dogs were not pedigrees (i.e. registered on the Kennel Clubs breed register) or they didn’t want to go through the Pet Passport scheme which involves having your dog inoculated with the rabies jab. I, too, had the same reservations and here is my diary of events through Bailey’s process. Added to my concerns was the fact that the Kennel Club were not selecting HTM Team GB until early December 2009. However in order for Bailey to have a positive blood test at least six months before leaving for Denmark meant he needed to start the procedure by mid November at the very latest. Here are snippets of my diary of this event

23 October 2009
Following the Kennel Clubs press release for the HTM World Championships in Denmark in June 2010, I considered entering Bailey for the competition. Bailey is currently the only German Spitz in the United Kingdom to be working Advanced Heelwork To Music and, in accordance with the World Championship rules and regulations, he is also registered on the Kennel Clubs breed register as opposed to the activities register which most of my other dogs are registered on.

But Bailey was not pet passport registered and so I rang my Vet for more details. I was in luck as three vets in our surgery are certified vets with DEFRA, which means they are qualified to give the rabies jabs and register the passports. We made an appointment for Tuesday morning.

I emailed Debbie Deuchar, at the Kennel Club, to advise her I would like Bailey & I to be considered for Team GB HTM.

26 October 2009
I did my internet research and downloaded everything I could on the Pet Passport scheme; I then made my list of questions for my vet regarding the scheme that I needed clarification on.

27 October 2009
At our veterinary appointment I first discussed the scheme and what it entailed. I am not keen to give my dogs unnecessary vaccinations and the rabies jab did hold many questions for me. My vet, Philip du Plessi (as pictured here with Bailey) was brilliant; he patiently went through the whole procedure with me before I decided to proceed. Your vet has to adopt a strict procedure as set out by DEFRA. Firstly, Philip gave Bailey a full health check and gave him a clean bill of health, which every dog owner likes to hear. All of my dogs are micro-chipped but we needed to next check Bailey’s micro-chip was active and note where it is location – Bailey’s is still between his shoulder blades. So far, so good! Philip is not permitted to give Bailey his rabies jab until the micro-chip is either given or/and located. Bailey’s microchip is unique to him and is used on his Pet Passport. Next we discussed Bailey’s annual vaccinations as they were due this month. Philip advised me that we would give him the rabies jab today; his annual vaccinations in two weeks and take his rabies blood test two weeks after that as he did not like to give all the vaccinations at once and if the rabies vaccination failed we still had time to re-vaccinate him. So that is what we did. The rabies jab was given; Bailey had half a tub of the dog treats from Philip as way of compensation for his time and I paid £38 for the visit and the rabies jab.

I kept Bailey as quiet as you can keep a German Spitz that day and he showed no signs of side-effects from the rabies jab such as swelling around the jab area.

The day after Bailey had a great run.

9 November 2009
Today Bailey had his annual boosters. Philip was pleased he had been fine after his rabies jab. Appointment made for 23 November 2009 for Baileys blood test.

23 November 2009
Today was a morning visit as Philip likes to post blood tests off in the morning instead of taking blood at night and keeping it overnight. I was advised that the blood is taken from the vein in the neck as the blood flows better from his part of the dogs’ body. Bailey was as good as gold and sat patiently whilst Philip shaved his coat from this area and attempted to take the blood sample. Unfortunately Bailey did not want to give us any blood and Philip had trouble accessing the vein. In the end he took the blood sample from his leg and Bailey once again claimed his compensation of half a pot of the vets’ dog treats! The bill this time was £71.96. Total so far £109.96.

27 November 2009
At Guildford’s HTM show today Jenny Deakin told me she had entered her dog Tom for Team GB HTM so I asked how Tom was progressing with his Pet Passport. Jenny said it was going well but she had shopped around as her Vet had wanted to charge £250. Another Vet close to her was charging £150 so she took Tom to them; I don’t blame her.

7 December 2009
Today I received good news. Philip telephoned me to say Bailey’s blood tests have come back showing he has passed and the rabies vaccination has taken effect. I can collect his Pet Passport when I was ready. When I arrived at the Vets I checked through the Passport to make sure all of his details had been entered correctly. They hadn’t. Bailey’s date of birth was listed as 1 November 2003 instead of 27 October 2003. Philip apologised and a new Passport was issued that night with the correct details on; after all I didn’t want to find myself abroad with a dog and having trouble getting him back into the UK. The bill this time was £23 for the Pet Passport, making a total of £132.96.

23 December 2009
More good news – today I received a letter from the Kennel Club confirming Bailey and I have been selected for Team GB HTM 2010. Looking forward to meeting the rest of the Team. Denmark here we come.

Bailey’s rabies jab lasts for two years so had he not been successful this time around I could still put him forward for Team GB HTM 2011.

Anyone considering putting their dog/s forward for Team GB 2011 should contact their Vet for further details on the Pet Passport Scheme.

Useful websites: http://www.dogsaway.co.uk/
www.saferpets.co.uk/all-about-pet-passport-scheme.html
http://www.defra.gov.uk/

Photo Competition Take Two! - Sixth and Final Day

2010-04-07T11:14:00.000+01:00

So this is the last one and not an easy one at that. Whoever said we were gonna make this easy?

So you think you know who is who? or maybe you are split between two options? Why not place an entry for both - the more the merrier. Lets hope the sun shines and we see you all at Westglen. Don't forget to pop over- we would love to see you.

For those who cannot make it - we will of course give you the answers next week. Hope you can wait till then!

Picture 6

Photo Competition Take Two! - Day Five

2010-04-06T07:00:00.000+01:00

Just when you thought you had this down - even I get stuck on this one and I took the photo's. We are itching to see how many people can get this right!

Picture 5

Want to know more about this competition? Find out more HERE

Photo Competition Take Two! - Day Four

2010-04-04T11:02:00.000+01:00

Well there are certainly no shades of grey in this bunch! - take a look at our next picture...

Picture 4

We are publishing 6 pictures on the blog this week - each one being a distorted photo of one of our HTM Team GB members. We will be at Westglen Heelwork to Music show this weekend, where we are holding a competition to let you guess who is who. See if you can win the top prize!

Photo Competition Take Two! - Day Three

2010-04-03T10:58:00.000+01:00

So how are you getting on with our photo competition sneak preview? Well, let's see what you make of this one......

Picture 3

Want to know more about this competition and how you can enter? Find out here