EGRC Summer Specialty and Trials: A Weekend to Remember

The Evergreen Golden Retriever Club recently hosted a glorious weekend of specialty shows and trials at the Skagit County Fairgrounds in Mount Vernon, WA, on June 28th and 29th, 2025. With the sun shining and a gentle breeze keeping everyone cool, it was the perfect setting for an event that brought together our Golden community for competition, camaraderie, and celebration.

The excitement began with an impressive lineup of two breed specialties, two all-breed obedience trials, and two rally trials packed into just two days. Adding to the excitement were the Fetch, CGC (Canine Good Citizen), and Trick Dog events, showcasing the incredible skills and versatility of our Golden Retrievers. The energy was infectious as participants and spectators alike reveled in the festivities.

We were privileged to have a roster of esteemed judges who brought their expertise and fairness to the weekend’s events. Saturday's highlights included insightful judgments by Pluis Davern for Breed, 4-6 Mo Beginner Puppy, and Junior Showmanship, and John Dewing for Sweeps. On Sunday, Kathleen Carter took over as judge for Breed and Junior Showmanship, with Martin Glover overseeing Sweeps. Meanwhile, the Puget Sound English Springer Spaniel Association (PSESSA) events featured judges like Chris Levy and Shelly Pires on Saturday, and Pluis Davern and Tammie Wilcox on Sunday. Obedience was judged by Hazel Olbrich, and Rally by Chip Taylor, both of whom received high praise for their meticulous evaluations.

One of the most delightful parts of the weekend was the presence of the “She’s Got Bowls” food truck. Offering an array of delicious, seasonal dishes like Chicken Mac and Cheese and Shrimp Rice Bowl, the food truck provided generous portions to satisfy everyone's appetite. With options tailored to various dietary needs, the food experience was nothing short of delightful.

Adding to the vibrant atmosphere were the Club Tables, where attendees could pick up a free tie-dye bandana and gather merit badges by participating in various fun activities. The activities included "Helping Hands," "Have a Picnic," and "Make a New Friend," encouraging everyone to explore all that Camp Out 2025 had to offer. The spirit of community and engagement was truly heartwarming.

The Happy Pooch Booth was another popular spot, offering American Bully chews, treats, and more, ensuring that our Golden Retrievers were well-rewarded for their efforts. We were also honored to have the HOPE Animal-Assisted Crisis teams visit on Saturday and Sunday mornings. They shared their incredible work and engaged with attendees, promoting the important impact of their services.

Isabella Powell from Powell Creative was on-site to capture all the candid and ringside moments, providing us with beautifully preserved memories of the weekend. Her photographs perfectly encapsulated the joy and excitement that permeated the event.

Our Silent Auction Fundraiser was a resounding success, thanks to the generosity of our community. Funds raised will support EGRC activities, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to Kathy Daspit and Maryke for their exceptional organization efforts. The Zazzle Store also saw enthusiastic participation, bringing us closer to our fundraising goals with stylish and exclusive EGRC merchandise.

Despite the warm weather, everyone did a commendable job keeping their Golden Retrievers cool and hydrated. It was wonderful to see such care and commitment to the well-being of our furry friends.

Reflecting on the event, it was truly a celebration of community, competition, and the love for our Golden Retrievers. We are deeply grateful to everyone who participated, volunteered, and supported us in making this event a remarkable success. Looking ahead, we encourage everyone to stay connected for future events and announcements. Let’s continue to celebrate our amazing Golden Retrievers and the extraordinary community we have built together.

Thank you for being part of such a wonderful event, and we look forward to seeing you at our future gatherings! For more detailed recaps, volunteer opportunities, and upcoming events, stay connected with us through our website and social media channels.