BevLive: on character-building and pizza

I'd sure love to report that Amanda and I covered ourselves with glory after all our practice, but I'm afraid this was one of those character-building trial days.

I ran Mirk 14th, and my having visualized the run of a lifetime didn't help our performance. Between over-flanking and catching the eye of the sheep and not liking to walk up when the sheep were stamping at him, Mirk was in trouble from the lift. At the first drive gate I decided we weren't doing it and retired.

Amanda and Clive rounding the post.

Amanda ran late in the day. It was hot and the sheep were not any easier to get on with. Clive ran out really well but just wasn't quick enough on his flanks. In spite of a valiant effort on both their parts she just didn't score enough to make the cut.

Amanda and Clive at the pen.

We both have three more kicks at the can. So we are keeping our spirits up, aided by the great hospitality here. Tonight is free beer and pizza for the handlers.

There are few greater optimists than dog handlers. Five handlers got in today. The rest of us are sure we'll get in next time.

The standings, Day 1.