03/17/2026
The Great Salt Lake Dog Training Club held its 43rd Annual Tracking Dog Test on March 15, 2026. We had 10 entries, with three successful passes.
The weather leading up to the test was unusually warm for winter. Utah experienced a very dry season, with little moisture throughout the winter months. Although a cold front was expected to move in on test day—before temperatures climb into the 80s later this week—plotting day turned out to be ideal. Skies were overcast and mild, and the tracks went in beautifully.
Test day began with sunny skies and cool temperatures in the low 30s. As the day progressed, winds increased as the front moved in. By the time the last few tracks were run, the gusts across the terrain seemed to pull some of the dogs off course.
We were fortunate to have many wonderful volunteers. It truly takes a village, and ours came together to make this event a success. We also welcomed several new tracklayers who have clearly caught the tracking “bug”—and we’re confident we’ll see them out in the fields again!
The judges for the test were Kristie Rasmussen and Judy Campbell (Provisional Judge), and we would like to give a huge thank-you to all of our volunteers. This trial simply could not have run so smoothly without you.
Tracking Chair: Kelley Marusich and her husband Chris, who coordinated all of the tracklayers and volunteers for the trial.
Tracking Secretary: Misty Porter, who kept all the paperwork organized and provided the most creative draw gifts, along with thoughtful gifts for judges and volunteers.
Chief Tracklayer: Dorriane Clark (also a Tracking Judge), who traveled down from Wyoming and kept the tracks and tracklayers running in perfect order.
Judges’ Driver: Leanne Miller, along with her co-pilot Rosie, ensured the judges were exactly where they needed to be—right on time—so exhibitors weren’t left waiting.
Equipment Chair: Jeff McCleery, who made sure the trailer, supplies, and facilities were on site. He also arrived early Sunday to organize used flags, bundle them, and cheer on the remaining teams. We truly appreciate everything you do!
Hospitality: Michelle Larsen and Kelly Pippins, who kept everyone well fed both days and created a welcoming home base while others were out in the fields.
Tracklayers: Lisa Beagley, Kel Scudder, Keaton Shirk, Lacey Goforth (who laid two tracks), Stephanie Burdett, Sierra Brown, Becky Anderson, Kate Sieverts, and Sandy Morgan. You have all proven to be some of the best tracklayers around! Your hard work, accurate tracks, and detailed maps over two long days were greatly appreciated.
A special shout-out to Lacey, Sierra, and Stephanie for being “extra stinky.” As any tracklayer knows, having a dog pass on your track makes the celebration twice as sweet!
A huge congratulations to our passing teams: Brittany Wilding and her Pembroke Welsh Corgi, Archie; Heather Berg and her Bernese Mountain Dog, August; and Dan Wheeler with his Standard Poodle, Shadow!
Well done to each of you on this wonderful accomplishment!
To my co-judge and friend, Kristie Rasmussen, it is always an honor to judge alongside you and continue learning from you. You make this journey so enjoyable, and I truly value your knowledge, professionalism, and friendship. Thank you for sharing your time and experience—it is always a pleasure to be in the field with you.
