Excellence in Function
Rhodesian Ridgebacks were bred to run long distances over rough terrain to bring down or bay game on the African savanna. If we are to preserve the character of our breed as well as their distinctive look, we should strive to breed dogs capable of, and eager to do their original purpose.
Few of us have the opportunity to put our dogs to the test by hunting game in open country. (Most of the American wilderness is wooded anyway, which is why American hounds are primarily scent hounds.) Lure coursing is a sport where sighthounds can hunt an artificial lure in an open field, and we can measure their fitness to their original purpose.
Dateline Escondido, CA, December 10:
After taking almost nine months off to whelp and raise a litter of five beautiful puppies, Ridgeview Ranch Amazing Gracie (Gracie to her fans) made her return to the coursing fields in brilliant fashion.
On Saturday at the Ibizan Hound Club Coursing Trials in Escondido, CA, Gracie won the Open Ridgeback class, taking a five-point major over a huge field of fast dogs. Gracie came back the next day to take second in the Open Ridgeback class over another huge field of ridgebacks.
With the points from last weekend Gracie completed her field championship and became a Dual Champion.
Here are some photos of Gracie coursing -- it's easy to see that she has the drive, strength and will to run and best of all, loves doing it!
