Sussex Dog To Compete In London After Winning Agility Festival

Saturday, 19 August 2023 00:00

A local dog and his owner are celebrating their success at the world-renowned Kennel Club International Agility Festival.

Lara Staplehurst, from Sussex, and her two-year-old Springer Spaniel, Apache, took first place in the Medium Kennel Club Starters Cup Agility Semi-Final on Saturday, August 12, qualifying the pair to compete in the final at The London International Horse Show in December against five other competing pairs.

Thrilled owner, Lara, who has been competing in agility for ten years, said of their achievement:

“Apache loves his agility. He always makes me smile. He is sweet and funny and loves his ball!”

The action-packed four-day festival, which is supported by Skinner’s, welcomed dogs of every size, shape and breed. Skilled competitors from all over the UK and abroad entered the rings to navigate the jumps, weaves and tunnels.

Ben Skinner of Skinner's, said:

"Congratulations to all of this year's winners and competitors. It is wonderful to see everyone enjoying competing at the festival again this year - we are always proud to sponsor this incredible event.

“It is inspiring to see the dedication and skill displayed by all the competitors and their dogs. Everyone who has taken part should be very proud of their achievements in the ring.”

Catherine Guiver, Head of Events at The Kennel Club, said:

“Congratulations to all the winners at this year’s International Agility Festival! We look forward to seeing winners of the Starters Cup return to compete at The London International Horse Show in December!

“And well done to all the dogs and handlers that have competed and shown great skill and confidence in the rings over the last four days.”

More information about The Kennel Club International Agility Festival and results from the event can be found at thekennelclub.org.uk/IAF. For those interested in getting started in agility with their dog, a specially-made video can be found at thekennelclub.org.uk/newtoagility.

More from Sussex News

‘A Kick In The Teeth For Lewes’: Lib Dem MP Expresses Disappointment Over Bus Station Loss

Lewes Lib Dems, including MP James MacCleary, have reacted after efforts to persuade Secretary of State Angela Rayner to overturn the South Downs National Park Authority’s (SDNPA) decision to allow the demolition of Lewes bus station were unsuccessful.
Results For Worthing’s Bathing Water Sites Revealed

Teams from Worthing Borough Council are working with the Environment Agency and Southern Water to identify sources of pollution impacting the town’s seawater.
£100,000 Robbery Of Bexhill Mobile Phone Store

An estimated £100,000 worth of electronic equipment was stolen from a shop in Bexhill on Monday evening (November 25).
Organisations In Wealden Receive Funding To Help Tackle Inequalities In Physical Activity

Six organisations have received grant awards to support physical activity projects within Wealden and improve health and wellbeing outcomes.
Festive Children’s Stories Brought To Life With Interactive Story Session

A selection of festive stories for young children will be brought to life in Chichester’s historic Guildhall in Priory Park thanks to an interactive Christmas story session.
Jail Time For Shop Owner Who Sold Illegal Tobacco

A shop owner who failed to appear in court after the discovery of £6,000 worth of illegal tobacco and cigarettes has been jailed.
Funding Boost For Community-Led Waste Prevention Projects In West Sussex

West Sussex County Council has partnered with its recycling and waste contractor Biffa, to launch a new Waste Prevention Community Grant Fund for community-based household waste prevention projects in West Sussex.
Newhaven RNLI Welcomes Quartet Of Mayors To Share Gratitude

Mayors of Peacehaven (Debbie Donovan), Seaford (Sally Markwell), Lewes (Imogen Makepeace) and deputy Mayor of Newhaven (Kim Bishop) were welcomed today by Susan Carroll, Newhaven RNLI’s LMG Chair to visit the lifeboat station. Roger Cohen MBE, (LOM) showed them around.
University Of Brighton Launches Health Innovation Hub To Tackle Health Challenges

The University of Brighton today unveiled its groundbreaking new Health Innovation Hub designed to reshape health research, education, and practice by addressing critical health challenges through collaboration, innovation, and education.
New Residential Care Home For Disabled Children In Brighton

Brighton & Hove City Council are developing a new residential home for disabled children and young people in the city.