For myself, there has been a lot of work answering emails, coordinating clubs and promoting the event. It has been full on, but I would be lying if I said I haven’t enjoyed it. It has been a lot of fun to bring this event to you. Maybe that speaks to more serious mental health concerns on my part, who knows. So, I ask in turn that you remember that even though this is the “main event” of the dog agility calendar, don’t take it too seriously. If you do well – congratulations. If not, there is always next year. Your dog will have fun regardless whether or not they have a ribbon to show for it at the end. Enjoy the social aspect, compete with a smile and remember that this is as much about having fun as it is about competing. I hope you have a safe, happy and enjoyable weekend here in Kihikihi. Welcome from Carl Ranford, Dogs NZ AC Chair It's that time of year again, where our code comes to together for a full on 4-day weekend of the sport we all love and enjoy. Agility! Of course, I am referring to NZDAC. This time Zone 1 is hosting our National Event and we have a Kiwiana theme to help entertain us. We have an unprecedented 5227 entries! Made up of a staggering 632 dogs! This will be the biggest Agility Event in New Zealand on record! The hidden beauty of our National Event is the fact that there is no qualifying criteria required to enter, which makes it open to all so everyone has a chance to attend and compete - no matter the grade they are in. For many, NZDAC is a must do event on their calendar and for very good reasons it is seldom missed. It is also our biggest social event of the year and that alone brings a lot us. It’s a chance to catch up with friends from across the country and enjoy the company of those whom we share the same interests with. With a great line up of judges and a massive 10 rings in action, made up of 9 competition rings and 1 practice ring, all aspects of agility are covered. There will be Champ of Champs, Flygility, YKC, Agility & Jumpers Finals and of course Team Events, where each Zone gets into theme and cheers on their Zone on from the side-line. A line up of fun social events is planned as well, so if you are joining in you will be sure to have a good time! Just don't forget your dog will need you in the ring the next day. I would like to thank Nick Chester and his organising committee for all the hard work they have done to deliver this huge event. It is no easy feat to bring all this together. Special thanks to our premier sponsor Black Hawk and all other sponsors and clubs who help make this event possible. Finally, good luck to all those competing and I will see you there, in and out of the ring. Page 5