Fish Hoek agility dogs return from World Championships

Two agility dogs from Fish Hoek have returned from Switzerland after representing South Africa at the World Agility Championships held last month.

Reeva, an eight-year-old Shetland Sheepdog, and Duke, a ten-year-old Border Collie, competed alongside their handlers, Yvonne Zwiegelaar and Philip Fourie of Fish Hoek Agility Dogs.

They were part of a four-dog national team and were accompanied by team manager Jacqueline van Heerden.

For Ms Zwiegelaar, the highlight of the trip was the opening ceremony. “Walking out with my teammates waving the South African flag was such a proud moment for me,” she said.

She added that Reeva rose to the occasion.

“Reeva handled the pressure like a pro, coping well with the flights and not being bothered by competing indoors on a different surface; I think all the cheering just encouraged her."

Another memorable aspect, she said, was the opportunity to observe top international talent.

“There were so many amazing handlers to watch and learn from. It was great to see the type of courses that are being run overseas and the different skills needed to navigate them. I will definitely share what I’ve learnt.”

Reflecting on the experience, Ms Zwiegelaar said local agility athletes are not short on talent, but financial constraints remain a major obstacle.

“I believe South Africa has many talented dogs and handlers. The biggest challenge we face is not a lack of talent but a lack of funding. For example, the American team was fully funded by the government, including flights, accommodation and team clothing.”

She hopes Reeva will qualify again next year when the championships take place in Valencia — but added that participation will depend on whether she can raise the necessary funds.

Team manager Jacqueline van Heerden said South Africa’s representatives performed admirably.

“Team South Africa was composed of talented handlers with their dogs. They showcased exceptional skills at the World Agility Championships, which were held in Switzerland last month.”

Mr Fourie and Duke placed 10th overall — a result Ms van Heerden described as a great achievement, given the level of competition from 14 other countries.

“Yvonne and Reeva, Renee with Frankie all demonstrated their talent and dedication to the sport, and their placings were always amongst the top 20,” she said.

She also commended team member Leanne, who faced an unexpected hurdle when her own dog, Lyric, was injured just before the event.

Travelling with dogs internationally poses several logistical challenges, Ms van Heerden said.

“Travelling to Switzerland for the championships is incredibly daunting with considerations for local and overseas vet requirements and, of course, local and overseas customs paperwork.”

Long flights and unfamiliar environments added to the pressure.

“Dogs and handlers alike had to adapt to long flights and new environments, all of which impact their performances. Leanne had the biggest task of having to run with two lone dogs with very little time to train and bond with them, but she did incredibly well under those circumstances.”

She echoed Ms Zwiegelaar’s concerns about the cost of competing on the world stage.

“As far as South Africa's presence at international events like this, our handlers can confidently hold their own, but the biggest drawback is the enormous cost and the fact that the trips are self-funded. This means that we have to do a lot of fundraising well before the time of departure, but it can be a lot of fun, and the experience for all was amazing.”

Looking back on the event, Ms van Heerden said she was proud of the dedication shown by the entire team.

“They have worked so hard to qualify for this prestigious event, and they’ve done South Africa proud,” she said.

For more information or to support the club, contact Ms Zwiegelaar on 083 499 2474.