Tennessee WildCast · Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency

TW 428 - Unleashing the History of the National Field Trial Legacy

·29 min·2 clips

Stan Wendt, president of the National Championship Field Trial Association, reveals insights from his six years as a judge.

This episode of Tennessee WildCast features host Jason Harmon and co-host Amy Spencer interviewing Stan Wendt, president of the National Championship Field Trial Association, at the Ames Plantation. The conversation centers on the history and operations of the National Championship for bird dogs. Stan Wendt provides a unique perspective from his six years of experience as a judge for the competition. The discussion begins with the history of the Rue Bray Memorial Clubhouse, named for an integral figure in field trials. Wendt explains the format of the National Championship, a multi-day event where dogs are judged in three-hour heats across diverse terrain. He details the specific criteria judges use to evaluate a dog's performance, including its independence, bird-finding ability, and style. The episode covers the logistical challenges of running the trial, such as managing a large gallery of spectators on horseback. Wendt shares stories about legendary dogs from the event's history and their notable handlers. The conversation also touches on the role of the Ames Plantation as the permanent home for the championship. A key insight is how the three-hour heat tests a dog's endurance and intelligence beyond simple speed. Wendt reveals that the judges' scoring involves detailed note-taking and constant communication during each heat. He emphasizes that a dog's final score is a comprehensive assessment of its entire performance, not just a single moment. The episode highlights how the event preserves traditional hunting skills through structured competition. One memorable point is the description of the intense concentration required from judges who must watch a dog for such a prolonged period. Wendt also explains how the championship has adapted its rules over 126 years while maintaining its core principles. The tone is conversational and educational, with the hosts asking questions to draw out Wendt's deep expertise. The style is informative and anecdotal, blending historical facts with personal stories from the field. This episode would appeal to hunting enthusiasts, bird dog owners, and anyone interested in outdoor sporting traditions. Listeners with no interest in field trials or canine sports might find the niche subject matter less engaging.

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