Edginton the top qualifier for NZ straight hunt title

BEX A FINALIST: Tukemokihi Station shepherd and dog triallist Bex Baynes (pictured competing) is a finalist for the New Zealand Rural Sportswoman of the Year award. File picture

Tolaga Bay dog triallist Leo Edginton won the South Island straight hunt title yesterday and became top qualifier for the New Zealand final in that event this afternoon in Blenheim.

The Mangaheia Station manager and his dog Robert scored 97.5 points and finished just 0.4 of a point ahead of second-placed Murray Child from Whangarei.

The New Zealand final run-off was set to go at 1pm today.

Wairoa triallist Rebecca Baynes and Tom finished sixth in the South Island event with a score of 96.2 points, and will also compete for the New Zealand title in the straight hunt.

Edginton also remained in the top seven in the short head and yard with his dog Dave this morning, along with Waimata’s Merv Utting and Prince.

Edginton and Kim were eliminated from the long head yesterday afternoon.

The runs in South Island short head and yard and long head event should be completed today, with the New Zealand run-offs tomorrow.

The championships continue to be blessed with decent weather.