As I already mentioned, the spacing between some of the jumps is huge. It is particularly noticeable in the serpentine. Additionally, Belle and I had a very difficult time coping with all the switches involved in getting from 3 to 6. The serpentine became extremely loopy, and toward the end of this morning's session, poor Belle had no idea of which way to turn when I called out "switch."
I originally opted to try this from the 20-pt line so I would have more freedom of movement. But realistically, I think that was just too far for Belle to feel comfortable shifting into the obstacle focus required in the wide open pinwheel after the handler-controlled serpentine. By the time, I finally moved up to the 15-pt line, Belle's brain was frazzled.
Also, I caught myself repeating "switch" commands between jumps. Logical from my point of view since I knew where the course was going. But to a dog without the map, quite confusing. As in "I already changed directions and she wants me to change again? I must have made a mistake."
Eight Hours Later: Belle and I had one last go at this course this evening. I decided I would forget about the 20-pt bonus line and try it from the 15-pt line. I usually rev Belle up and release her from behind the start line when we are attempting a bonus line. However, from the 15-pt line on this course, it made more sense to take a slight lead out so I could be in position for the serpentine. Much to my surprise, we made it through the entire course the first time, and I think I remained behind the 20-pt line for the whole thing. Obviously our bonus line problems are mine and not Belle's.
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