A workshop sponsored by the Ontario Association of Beagle Clubs regarding Field Trials was held on March 20, 2005. This event was mediated by Ray Iredale (CKC Field Trial Representative for Ontario West)

We were pleased to see seventeen people interested enough in our sport to spend the day at this workshop discussing the procedures and the concerns that are present in Field Trials today.

The OABC enlisted the services of Mr J. Borrowman in 2003 to conduct a survey of all participants to collect data and form a baseline of information regarding our sport.

After the survey were completed Mr. Borrowman chaired two seminars sponsored by the OABC in 2004 . The first Seminar was limited to judges and prospective judges, the second seminar was open to all participants.

This workshop was conducted using a different format by allowed all people present to have input by explaining, clarifying, and questioning. The diversity of those in attendance added to the proceedings of the day.

The morning session focused on the operation of a field trial by explaining, what is required, who is required, and what the responsiblilities of the people are.

Lunch was sponsored by the OABC and presented by Ken Powell (with our thanks)

The afternoon session was focused on the rules, what the rules are, who is responsible to enforce these rules, interpretation of some rules.The merits and demerits also came up for discussion with thoughts from those present.

Now although there were no laid out constructive changes agreed to at this event it was felt that just communication about some of the issues helped to bring the concerns to everyones attention.

These educational exercises are valuable and should be attended just to keep informed of concerns that others have, I am hoping that some form of training may be under taken each year.

We would like to thank every one that contributed to the day.