The Practice Day - Friday

Thankfully Team GB had quite a leisurely day on Thursday as Friday was going to be busy day and night.  The morning was spent exercising the dogs before visiting the Championship Venue.

Each Team had been allocated a 20 minute slot for practising - not long for a possible 8 dogs and handlers!   Team Leader Carol suggested that the 4 HTM Handlers had 10 minutes in the ring then the 4 Freestyle Handlers but as Team GB was allocated a mid afternoon spot of 2:10 to 2:30, there was plenty of time to check out the venue.

The AstroTurf was still being laid and with a ring of at least 25m x 20m there was a lot to put down.

Synchronised Carpet Fitters - working in unison!!!

Team GB decided where they would be sitting to watch their fellow team mates and of course the other competitors.  No mistaking the GB Seating area!!!

Team Denmark laid out their claim too!

All relaxed and ready for the practice sessions!

After practice it was time to return to the hotel and for the "Team Vet" Hetty to look after the Pet Passports for the return journey - so all the dogs gathered in the Hotel Reception to be given their compulsory worming tablets in order to have a safe entry to GB on Monday.  Amber Hardman double checking the paperwork and stamp!!!

Dylan's Chase being given a cuddle after taking his wormer.  Job done Hetty - thank you!!

And now it was evening and all Team GB in full uniform, with dogs and huge flag set off to join the parade which had been organised around Burgum, the town where the Championships were being held.

It was a proud time to be in such a smart team!

It took about 30 minutes (or more!) to walk from the Car Park at the venue to the Town Centre!!!

But Team GB made it at a cracking pace!!

At last - they arrived in the Town Centre where cold drinks and coffee had been laid on by a local restaurant.

Lots of support for the organisers as all the teams met in the Town Centre - pictured here is Asako and friend (Team Japan), also in this photo: Team Germany, Team Finland, Team Belgium, Team Russia.

The Mayor of Burgum gave a very welcoming opening speech to the Championship Organisers and all the teams.

Team Sweden and Team Denmark.  With a little of Team Holland with the judges.

A very happy Team Norway!

After the Mayor's speech all the teams were led around the shops in Burgum where they were given mementos of the visit.  Team Denmark and supporters.

And proof that Team GB were there!

After the parade, all the teams marched back to the venue and then it was time for the Welcome Dinner where the teams exchanged Good Luck gifts and cards.