Kip     FMCh Breed:       Border Collie Gender:     Male Birth:         5/88 Jumped:    16" Handler:    Phyllis Askew

Like his housemate Toby, Kip began his flyball career with the Front Runners.  After he had retired from competition with them, we offered him a spot with our development team (our 5 points team) so that he could assist us in teaching the sport to our new dogs.  A bonus for him was that he could once again run in an occasional  tournament as he helped his pupils learn the game (and gain another flyball title).

Kip helped to introduce the game to many of our competing dogs.  His easygoing disposition was perfect for teaching the fine art of passing to new dogs.  His presence on the course did not intimidate them, and he forgave them their every mistake.  Nothing seemed to phase him as these rookies worked at learning the new game.  Kip made it very easy to transition these dogs from running alone to running with others.

Unfortunately, age caught up with this great guy.  His body could no longer do what his mind told it to, and we had to retire Kip.   After a while, he could go on no longer, and Kip crossed over the rainbow bridge to continue playing his favorite game.

Kip left us with quite a legacy.  His "kids" will be running with us for many years to come.   In many ways, he became our MVD (Most Valued Dog) during a major rebuilding period.  

We miss his easy going style, but his "kids" are doing well, keeping his presence on the floor, even if he cannot actually run with them anymore.  They all say, "thanks Kip, it was a real ball."
 

This page is under constant renovation, visit often to see new additions.                                                      Last updated:  February 9, 2003