Full Blast, son of Pennstar, was named Runner-Up Champion at the Pennsylvania Grouse Championship, October 31, 2013. “Jeb” competed in a field of 54 of the best grouse dogs. Congratulations to Dr. Roger McPherson and his pointer Suemac’s Coventry who was named Ch. This is three-year-old “Jeb’s” second trip to the Championship circle this fall as he was Champion at the Michigan Woodcock Championship earlier in the month. He was skillfully handled by Dave Hughes.
Conditions were tough as drought conditions greeted those who competed in the first three days of the four-day event. The dry conditions and relatively warm temperatures were a challenge to the dogs and made grouse spooky and difficult to scent. “Jeb” ran in the last brace of the second day. His first half hour featured a strong, wide hunting effort which big “Jeb” executed with the smooth, snappy gait he has been known for. It’s a pleasure and something of a thrill to watch him go about his work. Through the middle of his heat, “Jeb” was more moderate in his pace, but as the hour ticked on he picked it up and was going strong down the stretch. At 59 the bell stopped. It’s estimated that the walk to “Jeb’s” point took the judges, handler and scout 400+ yards from the path. There he was standing tall, intense, with his tail still at 12 o’clock and the grouse right off his nose. All perfect for the flush and the bark of the .32. An impressive find for such a young dog, but much in the tradition of his earlier win at the Michigan Woodcock Ch. where conditions were especially hot and several of his four finds came later in the hour.
“Rosie”, Full Blast pup owned by Bob Watts
A pup from “Jeb’s” first litter (ex Jumpstart) stepped into the winner’s circle in early October as Thor Kain guided his female, Full Throttle, to a win at the West Branch Open Puppy.