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This is Chris Redgrave for Zions Bank Speaking on Business.
The last holiday weekend of the summer is quickly approaching. If you're like me, you often wonder what to do over Labor Day weekend, and here's a suggestion. How about watching some of the world's best border collies and shepherds as they maneuver wild Rocky Mountain range ewes down the hillside during the Soldier Hollow Classic?
This is the 12th anniversary for this Utah classic, and the event attracts participants from all over the world. As the world's premier invitational competition, the shepherd and their dog have to qualify somewhere else to be invited to the Soldier Hollow Classic. This means you'll see folks from as far as Ireland, Brazil, Canada and South Africa.
Mark Petersen, who founded this well-known event, was inspired to start it following a trip to Scotland some 18 years ago. He witnessed a sheep herding/Border Collie contest and thought people at home would also love this unique competition, especially with the deep sheepherding history in the Heber Valley. Later, when Soldier Hollow was built, the pieces fell into place. The Soldier Hollow Classic is now widely recognized as one of the best sites in the world for this sport.
Of course Mark has added some other fun events besides watching the competition. Kids will love the acrobatic dog and pony show, Earthwings raptor show and high-flying Splash Dogs Championship. Visitors will also find great food representing the shepherding cultures of the world and can enjoy traditional Scottish music performed throughout the event.
On Labor Day the top dogs will face off in the Grand Championship, followed by something brand new. The Soldier Hollow Shootout will feature 15 great dogs in an exciting new competition, followed by the closing ceremonies, steeped in Olympic and Scottish tradition. This year the medal ceremonies will feature a hillside performance by the Salt Lake Scots Bagpipe Band.
So rather than planning an expensive trip out of town for Labor Day weekend, why not stick close to home and attend the Soldier Hollow Classic in the beautiful Heber Valley? Visit soldierhollowclassic.com for more information.
For Zions Bank, I'm Chris Redgrave, speaking on business.
Soldier Hollow Classic 648 Parleys Road Park City, UT 84098 435-654-2002; www.soldierhollowclassic.com
