Ramsey Dog Training Club is paws-itive heading into international competition
The world's premier dog event, Crufts gets underway today (5 March) at the NEC in Birmingham, attracting more than 150,000 visitors across its four-day programme.
This year, the Ramsey Dog Training Club, led by Team Manager Jean Young, will proudly represent the Isle of Man.
The Ramsey Gold Display Team, made up of 12 dogs, will demonstrate advanced pet obedience under The Kennel Club Good Citizen Dog Scheme.
One of those taking part is Rita, an eight-year-old Collie... and her human, Ruth Meade:
The Isle of Man GOLD Team:
- Jean Young & Stone (Team Manager)
- Voirrey Horne & Nuggy
- Ruth Meade & Rita
- Jen Belcher & Molly
- Kate Divers & Quasi
- Ellie Glastier & Vinnie
- Lauren Pressley & Edie
- Raegan Knipe & Dory
- Marie Horne & Skipper
- Janece Pugh & Rhea
- Tracey Duncan & Coco
The team will perform live demonstrations today (Thursday 5 March) and tomorrow (Friday 6 March) in the Good Citizen Dog Scheme Ring — notably positioned as the first ring visitors encounter when entering the show.
In addition to their display performances, the dogs will compete in several exciting and technically demanding challenges:
- On The Money: Dogs are left in a wait position and recalled by their handler from approximately 60 feet away. They must lie down precisely on a £5 note placed midway between handler and dog, demonstrating distance control, accuracy and focus.
- Temptation Alley: A head-to-head recall race against a dog from another team, requiring them to run to their handler through a corridor filled with toys, food and high-value distractions — a true test of reliability under pressure.
- Settle & Control Exercise: Following the excitement of competition, dogs are required to lie calmly in the ring for two minutes alongside unfamiliar dogs, showcasing composure, stability and advanced training.
Team Manager Jean Young said: "To represent the Isle of Man at Crufts is an incredible honour.
"Our GOLD team has worked tirelessly to reach this standard, and we are proud to demonstrate that companion dogs can achieve exceptional levels of obedience, control and partnership with their owners."
The Good Citizen Dog Scheme is the UK’s largest dog training programme, promoting responsible ownership and well-mannered dogs in everyday life.
Achieving GOLD level represents the highest standard within the scheme.
In addition to the GOLD Display Team, five club members are also set to compete individually at Crufts:
- Bryony Jackson & Layla – Young Kennel Club (YKC)
- Raegan Knipe & Dory – Pre-Beginner Stakes
- Voirrey Horne & Nuggy, Amy Carswell & Joey, and Louise Jackson & Parker – representing Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man in Inter-Regional Obedience
Manx Radio would like to wish all involved good luck!
We'll be following along with the team's progress as the event gets underway.
UPDATES 5 MARCH 2026
We've received some photos and videos from the team as they've been competing today:
(2026 team just after first practice at 7.30am)
(The team in action at the NEC in Birmingham)
The 'Tunnel of Temptation' event!
More to follow!
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