This spring, the scenic highlands of Ellenburg, New York will set the stage for an extraordinary celebration of sport, tradition, and partnership. From April 17–19, 2026, BraeVal—a nationally acclaimed, outdoor sporting apparel brand for men and women proudly hosts the BraeVal Cover Dog Classic at the William P. McFadden Trust, 449 Steam Mill Road. This event brings together bird dog enthusiasts, upland hunting devotees, and dedicated sporting competitors for a weekend that embodies the very essence of field trial excellence.
Founded by Gregor McCluskey, creator of BraeVal, the Cover Dog Classic was established to honor the extraordinary bond shared between humans and their bird dogs. McCluskey’s vision celebrates how these remarkable dogs enrich our lives—with unwavering dedication, noble spirit, and a language beyond words. His vision extends beyond competition, embodying BraeVal’s core values of attention to detail, camaraderie, and conservation throughout every aspect of the event. His goal is to create the best Class Field trial in the country.
A Premier Weekend for Dogs & Handlers
The BraeVal Cover Dog Classic stands as more than just a field trial—it's a three-day celebration of the grit, grace, and camaraderie that define the upland sporting tradition. Set across six expertly managed wild bird courses, competitors and spectators alike will witness the exceptional teamwork of dogs and handlers as they navigate the dense, authentic grouse and woodcock habitat on the trust’s grounds. Each team competes in 45-minute braces through a variety of courses, that they are drawn on including: Stone Creek, Inukshuk, Upland Almanac, Bertucci Field Watch, Muller Field Choke, MPE/Warner Sporting, and Pepi Family Taxidermy. Judges, handlers, and a gallery of enthusiasts follow each brace through tangled woods and overgrown thickets, witnessing the artistry and precision of performance pointing class bird dogs.
Handlers and dogs are vying for Grand National Invitational, and the Cover Dog Points. No birds are shot; instead, dogs are judged solely on their ability to find, point, and hold wild birds in their natural cover. Beyond the field, attendees will enjoy a festive awards dinner recognizing the top-performing dogs and handlers, with a coveted rotating trophy prize package valued at over $2,500. And important handler and dog points for the Grand National Invitational and Cover Dog Points. Additional awards and giveaways are offered to spectators and handlers alike throughout the weekend. The BraeVal Cover Dog Classic is sure to deliver an unforgettable sporting experience.
Why Cover Dog Trials Matter
When it comes to testing the mettle of a sporting dog, nothing compares to the challenge of cover dog trials. Unlike open field trials with pen-raised birds, these events are held in dense, unpredictable woodlands. They demand far more than basic obedience—they require sharp instincts, keen noses, and unwavering stamina.
Cover dog trials are not simply about speed or style—they are about genetically bred bird dogs honed genetically selected pedigrees for top bird dog traits through generations and the unspoken teamwork between dog and handler. Cover dog trials rely on the dog's ability to hunt to the front, thoroughly check likely cover, and remain steady on point until released. The unique partnership between dog and handler is at the forefront. Handlers sing to their dogs and listen intently to the direction of the dogs bell, sometimes the only clue that a dog has locked on point is the sudden silence of its bell, signaling the handler to search and locate the dog on point and flush for the dog.
Two game birds stand out in these trials—the elusive Ruffed Grouse and the wily Woodcock, also known as the “Timberdoodle.” The Ruffed Grouse is known for being cunning, wary, fast-running, and quick to flush, presenting a true test of a dog’s ability. In contrast, the Woodcock tends to hold tighter, demanding that dogs rely on their noses and patience. While a grouse find is considered the gold standard in the field, a woodcock find is equally essential for proving a dog’s true field worth.
The BraeVal Cover Dog Classic invites competitors, spectators, and newcomers alike to experience an immersive weekend where sporting tradition seamlessly blends with heritage-inspired style—what we proudly call #BraeValStyle. Attendees can explore scenic courses, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and enjoy thrilling wild bird dog competitions, complete with exciting sponsor surprises along the way. For event updates, follow BraeVal on Facebook or reach out directly to Gregor McCluskey at 860-539-9696.
No comments:
Post a Comment