Invitational Information
The Invitational is NAVHDA’s premier hunt test, and is held annually in September. The Invitational is the ultimate test of both dog and trainer. In this test, dogs are required to: 1) run an hour field brace with another dog, point and retrieve upland birds, and honor its bracemate’s point and retrieve, 2) do a blind retrieve over water of approximately 100 yards, 3) honor another dog’s waterfowl retrieve, and 4) do a double marked retrieve. You can find more details on the Invitational on our About the NAVHDA Testing System and Invitational FAQ pages. Please Click Here to view our many NAVHDA Invitational sponsors, without whom the Invitational would not be possible.
2023 Invitational
September 13-17, 2023
Hosted by the Buckeye Chapter
Mingo Sportsman Club
Bloomingdale, Ohio
Site Map
(click on the map to enlarge)
2023 Invitational Test Entry Form
CLICK HERE for the 2023 Invitational Test Entry Form
The deadline for submitting your entry is March 1, 2023.
2023 Invitational Travel and Lodging
Travel and Lodging
See below for host hotel information as well as the airport and other lodging in the area.
Closest Airport
Pittsburg International Airport (PIT) – approximately 45 minutes from the Mingo Sportsman Club
Host Hotel
Holiday Inn Weirton
350 Three Springs Drive
Weirton, WV 26062
Please click on these two attached fliers for information on BOOKING A ROOM as well as RENOVATION INFORMATION
coming in 2023.
NAVHDA Invitational Participants – request group code to receive group rate
Group Code: NIP
Group Rate: $130.00 per night
One King Bed or Two Queen Beds
Dates: Group rate available September 11th – September 17th 2023
Reservations: Book Online HOLIDAYINNWEIRTON.COM or call the hotel directly 304-723-5522.
Please note: If booking before the renovations are complete, the rooms will show as one queen or two doubles
when booking on the website and in the confirmation email but will be one king and two queens by the
time of the Invitational.
NAVHDA Invitational Pet Policy/Fee: CLICK HERE to view the flyer for more information regarding the pet policy
and $100 per stay fee. This fee will be in effect during the Invitational due to the large number of dogs
participating in the Invitational and the amount of intense cleaning required by housekeeping to prepare
the rooms for the next guests. Please note the hotel reservation confirmation received may indicate a
lower fee, however, the $100 fee will be in effect during the Invitational.
Campgrounds
Mingo Sportsman Club – primitive
Contact Chris Frantz
Fernwood State Forest – primitive
740-733-7941
11 Township Road 181
Bloomingdale OH 43910
Friendship Park
740-266-6021
Friendship Park Rd
Rayland OH 43943
Austin Lake Park and Campground
740-544-5568
1002 Township Hwy 285 A
Toronto OH 43964
2023 Invitational Eligible Dogs
CLICK HERE to view the dogs that have qualified for the 2023 Invitational
2023 Invitational Banquet
Banquet Update
The banquet will be held on Friday, September 15, 2023 at Mingo Sportsman Club.
Details will be available at a later date regarding cost, sign up, etc.
2023 Invitational - Volunteer Here!!!
2022 Invitational Photographers
Below is the schedule of photographers during the Invitational.
Handlers/Owners can email the photographers directly for photos that were taken of their dog.
Thursday:
Double Mark – Waylon Lunn
Blind – Albert Watters
Field A – Ted Wentink
Field B – Tyler Sladen
Filed C – Chris Nellos
Friday:
Double Mark –Nancy Anisfield
Blind AM – Tyler Sladen
Field A- Waylon Lunn
Field B (Brace 1-5) – Charles Coulter
Field B (Brace 4-5) – Tyler Sladen
Field C – Chris Nellos
Floating – Albert Watters
Saturday:
Double Mark AM – Charles Coulter
Double Mark PM – Tyler Sladen
Blind – Nancy Anisfield
Field A (last two braces) – Charles Coulter
Field B – Waylon Lunn
Field C – Terry Ann Fernando
Sunday:
Double Mark – Chris Nellos
Blind (last few dogs) – Waylon Lunn
Field A – Waylon Lunn
Field C – Albert Watters
Charles Coulter
Tyler Sladen
Waylon Lunn
Nancy Anisfield
Terry Ann Fernando
Chris Nellos
Albert Watters
Ted Wentink
2022 Invitational Daily Test Scores
Click on the dates below to view the daily test scores.
2022 Invitational - Volunteer Here!!!
2022 Volunteer Assignments
2022 Invitational Test Site with Pictures
The 2022 Invitational will be held September 15-18, 2022, near Albuquerque, NM at the New Mexico Boys and Girls Ranch, known as “The Ranches” and will be co-hosted by the Zia Chapter and NAVHDA International.
Plan to arrive in the area a day or two prior to your running day to give you and your dog time to acclimate to the altitude and the terrain.
The fields and water sites which will be used for the Invitational are off limits to all training until Monday, September 19 or in the event of a “make-up” test, until Tuesday, September 20.
Click on the photos below to enlarge and see the typical field cover you will encounter at the Invitational.
Updated Field Site
Representative Fields
Double Mark Retrieve Site
Blind Retrieve Site – Please note that the send site appearing in both the picture and the diagram below may be altered at test time at the discretion of the attending Senior Judge.
Things to keep in mind for this year’s Invitational:
- Handlers may need to walk into the mesquite to flush the birds as they will be seeking shade;
as such, it is advisable to wear chaps when running your dog in the field. - Contrary to what you may have heard, there is very little cactus in the fields.
- As this is a Boys and Girls Ranch there is no alcohol allowed on the premises; as such, we respectfully
request that you do not have any open alcoholic beverages while you are onsite. We also ask that you
keep away from the horses and have no contact with any of the occupants of the Ranch. - Please also note there is a 15MPH speed limit on the grounds.
- Trucks/SUVs are recommended due to some two track sand roads.
2022 Invitational Travel and Lodging - New Mexico
Closest Airport
Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) – approximately 49 minutes from The Ranches
Host Hotel
Western Skies Inn and Suites
Phone: (505) 865-0001
2258 Sun Ranch Village Loop SW
Los Lunas, New Mexico 87031
Rate: $84/night; $10 pet fee, max 2 pets
Other Area Hotels
Days Inn By Wyndham, (505) 312-5062
1919 Main St. SW, Los Lunas, New Mexico 87031
Quality Inn, (505) 865-5100
1902 W Street South, Los Lunas, New Mexico 87031
Baymont by Wyndham, (505) 273-9450
2110 Camino Del Llano, Belen, New Mexico 87002
RV Sites
La Vista RV Park, (505) 966-6585
2300 Camino Del Llano, Belen, NM 87002
20 minutes (north)
Topspot 191 RV Park, (505) 864-1919
2200 Camino Del Llano, Belen, NM 87002
20 minutes (north)
Corazon RV Park, (505) 306-4363
2285 Roldan Dr, Belen, NM 87002
20 minutes (north) – 2 dog maximum
Cottonwood RV Park, (505) 440-2487
1703 Main St NE, Los Lunas, NM 87031
35 minutes (north)
Isleta Lakes RV, (505) 244-8102
4051 NM-327, Albuquerque, NM 87105
43 minutes (north)
Park Las Casitas RV Park, (575) 740-8417
1 S Alamillo Rd, San Acacia, NM 87831
18 minutes (south)
2022 Invitational Running Day Assignments
Please CLICK HERE to view the 2022 Invitational Running Day Assignments. (Revision 9/7/2022)
If you were not assigned one of your preferred running days and would like to be placed on a wait list, please email Mike Neiduski with your alternate preference(s) of running day(s) as soon as possible. Those on the wait list will be notified as openings occur. Requests will be considered up until September 1st.
Please also email Mike Neiduski if you will be traveling with someone to the Invitational. We will do our best to accommodate your needs but cannot work with more than two handlers traveling together in the same vehicle as keeping a group of handlers at one site too long backs up all the venues. Braces will be revealed to handlers prior to the opening ceremonies on each day of testing. Should severe weather cause the cancellation of part of or full day of testing, a “make-up” test will be held Monday, September 19th. Although this is unlikely, it would be prudent to keep this in mind when making return travel plans.
Plan to arrive in the area a day or two prior to your running day to give you and your dog time to acclimate to the altitude and the terrain. There will be grounds available for training beginning 2 days prior the start of the Invitational. If you would like to order birds and/or have questions on the grounds, please reach out to the local chapter contact Tony Bridgman via email or phone 419-779-2332.
On the day you are running, plan to arrive at the test grounds and be checked in no later than 6:30 a.m. When you arrive at the grounds, go directly to the Handler Sign In Tent. If you are running a female, even if she is spayed, please bring her with you to the check in area and proceed to the Female Check In tent after you have signed yourself in. A check of all females must be done each morning before the test can begin.
Opening ceremonies will begin at 7:00 a.m. with testing beginning immediately thereafter. Please feel free to bring your dog with you to the opening ceremonies, there will be a placard with your name as well as your dog’s name to stand next to. This is an exciting event and can be a great photo opportunity. If you do bring your dog with you, please always be observant of both your dog and those around you.
Females in season are automatically assigned to the last day the test will be held and will also be the last dogs to run at each venue. Females in season will be quarantined to a specific area throughout the test and changes to the running order may be warranted. If possible, it would be best to not bring any female in season to the grounds until Sunday. Please email Mike Neiduski as soon as you know your dog will be in season during the test so we can adjust running days accordingly.
There will be a walk-through of the test grounds Wednesday, September 14 at approximately 3:00 p.m. for any handlers that would like to attend; more information on the meeting location will be sent as we get closer to the Invitational.
We expect that you will provide safe and comfortable housing for your dog throughout the day. Dogs are to be leashed or kenneled when not testing to prevent dangerous situations or interference with the test. Please do not approach other dogs without the owner’s permission. Instruct your children to stay out of the testing areas and away from other dogs.
Lunches (at a cost) will be made available on the grounds Wednesday through Sunday for handlers and the gallery. The banquet will be held on Friday night from 5:30-8:30PM. Please note banquet tickets must be paid for in advance. More information on the banquet, including a link to the Zia Chapter website for purchasing tickets, will be posted soon.
All scores will be read at the end of each test day at the Invitational Headquarters. The timing of reading scores is dependent upon many factors which occur throughout the day and therefore can be unpredictable. As a rule of thumb, we recommend you return to Invitational Headquarters no later than 4pm. As Sunday will be a shorter test day, scores will be read earlier in the day. If you are running on Sunday, we recommend you return to Headquarters as soon as you have completed testing at all sites. If you would like, bring your dog’s pedigree to the test as the judges will be more than happy to sign it and indicate the test score your dog receives that day.
Volunteering at the Invitational is a fun and productive way to see great dog work and an outstanding way to learn more about the test. The Invitational is an International event, which means each of us plays a part in its success. Please consider volunteering to support those who are volunteering to support you on your big day! If everyone who handles a dog would volunteer to work at least ONE day, there would be enough workers for all days. We are asking everyone to volunteer using the form posted on the Invitational page of the NAVHDA website.
Test entry refunds will be made for MEDICAL reasons only. Requests for refunds must be submitted in writing and accompanied by a verifying statement from a physician or veterinarian before the Invitational test begins. Fifty percent of the entry fee will be refunded for approved requests. In the event of the death of the handler and/or dog, 100% of the entry fee will be refunded. Questions pertaining to withdrawals or refunds should be emailed to the Invitational Program Manager Deb Stott or phone 920-265-5334
Best of luck with your training and safe travels to New Mexico this fall.
2022 Invitational Hospital and Vet Information
Hospitals & Urgent Care
UNM Hospital (Level 1 Trauma Center), (505) 272-2111
2211 Lomas Blvd. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106
(49 minutes from test site)
Presbyterian Urgent Care, (505) 864-5454
609 S. Christopher Road, Belen, NM 87002
(20 minutes from test site)
Duke City Urgent Care, (505) 814-1995
1044 Main St. NE, Los Lunas, NM 87031
(32 minutes from test site)
Presbyterian Socorro General Hospital, (575) 835-1140
1202 Highway 60 West, Socorro, NM 87801
(35 minutes from test site)
Emergency Veterinarians
Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Center (24 hour), (505)884-3433
4000 Montgomery Blvd. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87109
(50 minutes from test site)
Yucca Veterinary Medical Center, (505) 864-6001
1837 Camino Del Llano, Belen, NM 87002
(19 minutes from test site)
Los Lunas Animal Clinic, (505) 865-4604
575 Highway 314 NW, Los Lunas, NM 87031
(32 minutes from test site)
Animal Haven Veterinary Clinic, (575) 835-3545
1433 Frontage Rd. NW, Socorro, NM 87801
(28 minutes from test site)
Frequently Asked Questions
Eligibility
All dogs receiving a prize one Utility score between January 1, 2022 and December 31, 2022, are invited.
Posting of qualified dogs
Membership and DNA Certification
Effective with the 2005 Invitational, the primary owner and handler must be a NAVHDA member in order to qualify for entry. Also, for all entries, DNA information must be on file or applied for with NAVHDA by the closing date of the entry period. If you are planning to enter this year’s Invitational, be forewarned that it can take six to eight weeks to get your DNA results back. If your DNA sample is submitted through NAVHDA, we will consider this submission as completion of the requirement.
Refund policy
Once the test entry application and payment has been received at the NAVHDA office, the refund policy goes into effect. Requests for refunds must be submitted in writing to the NAVHDA Central Office, accompanied by a verifying statement from a physician or veterinarian excusing the handler or dog for medical reasons. NAVHDA must be notified before a dog is scheduled to run; letters of documentation from veterinarians and physicians must be received no later than 15 days after the last day of the Invitational. Fifty percent of the entry fee will be refunded for medical reasons only.
Dams in season
Dams in season may still run in the Invitational, however they will run on the last day of the test. If you think your dam may be coming into, going out of, or will be in heat during the test, please note this on the top of your entry form. There will be a bitch check each morning immediately following the opening ceremony.
Training/Running on Invitational Grounds
Running orders
Running days are primarily assigned on a “first come, first served” basis but please note that many other factors are taken into consideration when compiling the final list. Handlers will be notified which day they are running no later than April 30. Braces will be revealed to handlers on the day of testing.
Test results and plaques
All handlers will receive an official test record after the test, at no cost to the owner. It is imperative all member and dog names be correctly recorded on the entry forms to avoid errors. Co-owners will only be listed if they are listed on the dog’s record in the database. Adding a co-owner on the application will not be recognized unless it is listed in the dog’s record. Each owner who passes the Invitational will receive a plaque to commemorate their success.
Photographs
NAVHDA will have photographers on premises to take pictures for NAVHDA and the VHD. These photographers will be allowed access to all test grounds. Please note these photos are for NAVHDA’s sole and absolute use and are not available for sale through NAVHDA. To purchase copies of the photos you must contact the photographer directly. The Invitational Photographers receive direction from NAVHDA on what and who to photograph. Any individual requests to the Invitational Photographers will be handled after they have completed their assignments for NAVHDA first.
Photographer information will be made available at and after completion of the Invitational. Due to the number of dogs and size of the grounds, not all dogs will be photographed and not all photographs will be available for purchase.
As with all NAVHDA tests, it is ultimately the handlers’ and judges’ decision whether or not to permit a photographer to walk along.
Policy for entrance acceptance
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- A dog must earn a Prize I Utility score within the qualification period, which is the calendar year prior to the test.
- Entries must be postmarked by March 1.
- Dogs entered must be NAVHDA registered or a completed application must have been received for NAVHDA registration (including appropriate payment) prior to the deadline for test entry.
- Entries must have DNA information on file, or applied for, through NAVHDA, prior to the closing date of test entry.
- The primary owner and handler, if different from the owner, must be a NAVHDA International member.
- Dogs that have previously passed the Invitational are not eligible to run in another Invitational.
Volunteer Job Descriptions
All volunteers must be members of NAVHDA International in order for the event to be properly insured.
Test Instructions -- Double Mark
NAVHDA’S expectation is that all dogs are well mannered and under control throughout the event.
Once your dog is set you should nod your head to signal the judges you are ready to begin. Excessive time taken to get your dog positioned will affect your steadiness at the double mark score. You are not allowed to position or align your dog by grabbing it or its collar, moving or lifting it in any manner without being severely penalized.
When the first dead duck (memory bird) is thrown you will swing and fire at the top of the arc. After the first duck hits the water the second duck (wiper bird) will be thrown. The second dead duck, “wipes” across the line of the memory bird, at this time you will fire your second shot. The second duck will pass close to you and your dog. It must be retrieved first. Your dog has to remain steady through all sequences; if not, your steadiness by double mark score will be severely affected. After the second duck (wiper bird) has hit the water, pause to demonstrate steadiness before sending your dog with a line and/or a tap on the head or ear. You may hand the gun to the judge after you have sent your dog on the first retrieve or you may choose to keep it through the entire sequence. You should tell the judges in advance what you intend to do. If you choose to keep your gun throughout the entire sequence you may NOT mount and point the gun in the direction of the memory bird when the distraction shot is fired. Once the dog has the wiper bird in its mouth and has turned back towards you, a diversion shot will be fired by a distraction gunner. After receiving the first retrieve you may hand the bird to the judge behind you before sending your dog on the next retrieve, or keep it until you have sent your dog and then hand it off. Again, let the judges know in advance what you will be doing.
Position or align your dog and send it for the second retrieve (the memory bird). You are not allowed to position your dog by grabbing it or its collar in any manner without being severely penalized. Heeling your dog to line its direction to the memory bird is allowed as is sending your dog with a line with your hand and/or a tap on the dog’s head or ear. Entry into the water should be direct; excessive running the bank and avoidance to do the task will result in the termination of the retrieve portion of the event.
Minimal handling is permitted on the second retrieve. Excessive handling and commands that are not obeyed will affect your score. After your dog has a bird in its mouth a single light whistle or verbal praise is allowed; harsh return commands will negatively affect your score.
After you receive your second retrieve you will hand the bird to the judge. You are to keep your dog under control and in a heel position. A single command is permitted. The gun will then be handed back to you if you don’t have it and you will heel your dog off lead back to the marker where you started the event. A single command is allowed but excessive commands to get control of your dog will negatively impact your score.
On mobile devices, the image below is best viewed in landscape mode.
Test Instructions -- Field Work
NAVHDA’s expectation is that all dogs are well mannered and under control throughout the event.
A judge will meet you at the starting line. If you have any questions, this is the time to ask. You are required to wear orange in the field and carry an empty break action shotgun. The use of a reflective collar will be allowed to more easily identify dogs that have similar appearances. If you do not have any of these items they will be provided for your use. All rules established for Utility field work as posted in the AIMS, Programs and Test Rules book apply to the Invitational in addition to the following parameters.
Test Instructions -- Blind Retrieve & Honor by Blind
in a NAVHDA’s expectation is that all dogs are well mannered and under control throughout the event.
A judge will meet you at the starting line. If you have any questions, this is the time to ask. Your dog will be expected to heel off lead from the designated marker to the water’s edge where you will position your dog anywhere between the two markers. You are not allowed to position your dog by grabbing it or its collar, moving or lifting it in any manner without being severely penalized.
Invitational Hosting Requirements
Invitational Hosting Requirements:
Grounds
Equipment
Hotel
Other
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- An on call veterinary clinic within an hour drive (max).
- Chapters must be able to provide lunches for all workers, approximately 40-45 workers per day. A banquet facility to host dinner Friday or Saturday night, approximately 100-125 people.
- A local bird supplier or suppliers that will contract for chukars and ducks at a reasonable rate ($7 to $9 for chukars and $12 to $15 for ducks.)
- Sufficient signage to get participants and spectators to the different venues. Parking signs at venue. Signs to get people to and from exercise fields.
- Signs to mark exercise fields. (A total list of needed signs will be given to any chapter that will be hosting the Invitational.)
- The hosting chapter may inquire about renting the signs and other equipment from chapters that have previously hosted the Invitational.
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Invitational Contacts
Invitational Coordinator: Deb Stott
Invitational Test Secretary: Mike Neiduski
Invitational Volunteer Coordinator: Annie Nuss
2021 Invitational Training Bird Order Form
- The deadline for ordering birds is Wednesday, September 1, 2021. Orders will NOT be accepted after that date. Pre-payment will be required to process your order.
- The only payment form that is accepted is via check (in US funds) made payable to: HAWKEYE NAVHDA
- All orders are final. There will be no refunds on cancelled orders. (No exceptions)
Training grounds will be open for use on Saturday, September 12, 2021
- Handler will be responsible for having a bird pen or a bird bag for their training birds.
- Training birds will be available for pick up on Saturday morning at 8am in the parking lot between Fields A and B.
- Handlers will also be able to pick up their training birds in the parking lot each morning from 8am to 9am on Sunday through Friday of the Invitational. If that time is not convenient, Charles will work with you to arrange a mutually convenient pick-up time
To place your order, save and email this completed form to the Chapter Contact: Charles Coulter
2021 Click here to Volunteer!!
The NAVHDA Invitational would not be such a success each year without the support of its volunteers.
If you would like to volunteer, make a change on your volunteer application, or have any other general questions regarding volunteering, please send Annie Nuss an email at .
The volunteer assignment chart will be posted toward the end March and will be updated on a weekly basis. You will be able to find this chart under the 2021 Volunteer Assignments below.
Thank you for your interest in volunteering to be a part of the 2021 NAVHDA Invitational team!
The 2021 Invitational Committee
Versatile Champions 1988-2022
Please CLICK HERE to view the list of NAVHDA Versatile Champions, by year.
2021 Invitational Photographers
2021 Invitational Photographers and contact info. Handlers/owners can contact the photographers directly for photos of their dog. Click here to see where each of them was on specific days.
2021 Invitational Banquet
Banquet Update
All attendees of the banquet are required to sign a COVID waiver. A copy will be available upon entering the banquet facilities but please take a moment beforehand and read it here.
Banquet Details
2021 Invitational Banquet will be held on Friday, September 17, 2021
Cocktails will begin at 5:30 p.m.
Dinner will be served at 7:00 p.m.
Elks Lodge
720 3rd Ave.
Grinnell, Iowa 50112
Admission is $38 per person
Please email Charles Coulter to make your reservation.
2021 Volunteer Assignments
2021 Invitational Travel and Lodging
Closest Airports
The Des Moines, Iowa (DSM) is approximately 75 minutes from Searsboro.
The Cedar Rapids, Iowa (CID) is approximately 90 minutes from Searsboro.
Host Hotel
Country Inn and Suites (641) 236-9600
1710 W Street South, Grinnell, Iowa 50112
Rate: $119 per night single or double
Dogs welcome
Complimentary Continental Breakfast
Other Area Hotels
Comfort Inn and Suites, (641) 715-9752
1630 W Street South, Grinnell, Iowa 50112
Quality Inn and Suites, (641) 236-6710
1902 W Street South, Grinnell, Iowa 50112
Best Western Pioneer Inn (641) 236-6116
2210 W Street South, Grinnell, Iowa 50112
Super 8 by Wyndham (641) 812-2051
2111 W Street South, Grinnell, Iowa 50112
Camping Facilities
Rock Creek State Park (641) 236-3722
5627 Rock Creek East Street, Kellogg, IA 50135
- 7 miles from Grinnell
- Electrical sites, modern rest rooms and showers
- Daily fee is dependent on the site type.
Reservations can be made 3 months in advance
Diamond Lake Park
Electrical and primitive sites, shower facilities, pump station
Self register on-site
Daily fee is dependent on site type.
Fun Valley Event Center
1066 500th Ave
Montezuma, IA 50171
(641) 660-5668 or (641) 660-2251
- Approximately 10 minutes east of Big Springs Shooting and Hunting Complex
- 12 full hook-ups which include water, electric and sewer
- 3 sites just electric but within walking distance of shower house
- Daily/weekly fee is dependent on the site type
2021 Invitational Running Day Assignments
The current revision posted is dated 9/7/21.
2021 Invitational
When: September 12-18, 2021
Where: Big Springs Shooting and Hunting Complex, 4945 Hwy 146, Searsboro, Iowa 50242
Hosted by: Hawkeye Chapter
2021 Invitational Scores
2021 Invitational Photographers
2021 Invitational Photographers and contact info. Handlers/owners can contact the photographers directly for photos of their dog. Click here to see where each of them was on specific days.