All volunteers must be members of NAVHDA International in order for the event to be properly insured.

*** All workers are to arrive at the fields and water sites with all necessary equipment and be ready to go at least fifteen minutes before the judging team gets to the fields each morning. ***

[Click here for a PDF copy that you can print.]

Field – Volunteer Descriptions

Field Marshal. A Field Marshal is assigned to each field. This person has overall responsibility for the field they are stationed in. They will make sure they have all necessary equipment (and a vehicle to transport equipment), workers, water in the field (if necessary), ATVs, and birds at each site. This work should be completed before or during opening ceremonies every morning. The Field Marshal has radio access to the Judges and the Test Marshal to keep the test running smoothly. They will supervise the gunners and bird planters; will make sure all gallery members stay at a safe distance and are out of the line of fire, and that all persons in the field are wearing one or a combination of the following blaze orange garments: hat, vest, or jacket. They will make sure gunners read the safety rules on page 24 of the NAVHDA Aims, Programs and Test Rules book. They will be responsible for participants and dogs being ready to go in the field in the order they were drawn. They will answer directly to the judging teams and the Test Marshal. They are responsible for making sure the sites are picked up and secured at the end of each day. Equipment must be returned to the Equipment Marshal immediately following the completion of all participants at your site.

Gunners. There will be two sets of gunners at each field site. Gunners must have been previously approved to gun the invitational. If you have not gunned at a previous Invitational, you must get a written endorsement from a senior judge and submit a request to the Volunteer Coordinator. Any senior judge that wishes to offer their endorsement should complete the digital form in the “Invitational Gunner Recommendation” tab on the NAVHDA Invitational webpage. Gunners must read safety rules at the beginning of each day from page 24 of the NAVHDA Aims, Programs and Test Rules book and agree to abide by them.

Gunners will bring their own shotguns to the fields (ONLY 12/16/20 gauge shotguns are allowed). These must have a break-open action. 12- & 20-gauge shells will be provided by NAVHDA. If gunners bring a 16-gauge shotgun, they must supply their own shells. The requirements for shells are 1oz/7.5 shot. Nothing else is allowed. They may be asked to help clean birds if the field site is short on bird cleaners. Gunners will answer directly to the judging teams and the Field Marshal.

Bye Dog. A previously named Versatile Champion and its handler must be available to be used as a bye dog in the field event. The handler of any Bye Dog must have previously handled a dog at the Invitational. Please ensure your dog is steady and will honor a bracemate. It is important that the bye dog and handler are prepared in the event they need to run an entire brace. It is necessary to have at least one female bye dog for Sunday in the event one is needed to run with a female in season. Please note, E-collars may NOT be used.

Bird Planter. There will be three bird planters for each field. Two are essential, and three is preferred for bird planter “breaks.” Bird planters will use ATVs and bird bags to plant birds. Experience with all-terrain vehicular safety and operation is required. Bird planters will help bird stewards to make sure the birds are sheltered from sun or rain and are well cared for. Bird planters will also assist if we are short bird cleaners. Bird planters will answer directly to the judging teams and the Field Marshal.

Bird Cleaner. This person makes sure salvageable birds are being cleaned at the various venues (bird planters & gunners are available to assist with this task) and put in coolers (or right to fridge/freezer) on site.

Double Mark – Volunteer Descriptions

Water Marshal. One Water Marshal is needed each day at the Double Marked Retrieve water site. They will be sure to have all necessary equipment (and a vehicle to transport equipment), workers, and birds, at each site. As there are bird stewards, an assistant marshal, and judge/worker hosts each day, (see “Overall Test” descriptions) the Water Marshal will always have direct access to these people to keep the test running smoothly. They will have access to radio communications with a member of each of the judging teams and the Test Marshal. They will assist the Judges with the supervision of the duck wingers for their site. They will make sure that all gallery members stay at a distance where they are not a disturbance to the dog. They will be responsible for participants and dogs being ready to be tested in the order they were drawn. The Marshal should regularly communicate with the Bird Steward to ensure ducks are delivered in a timely manner. They will answer directly to the judging teams and the Test Marshal. The Water Marshal will also make sure the sites are picked up and secured at the end of each day along with the Assistant Water Marshal. Equipment must be returned to the Equipment Marshal immediately following the completion of all participants at your site.

Assistant Water Marshal. One person is needed each day to make sure the water site is set-up and ready to go for testing. This will entail making sure that dead birds, wingers, a table, and chairs, shotguns, blank shells, toilet paper in port-a-potty, etc. are ready at each site. This person will have access to radio communications and will report directly to the Water Marshal. The set-up work should be completed before or during opening ceremonies every morning. Throughout the day, this person will be responsible for getting dispatched ducks to the winger location. He/she is to be available to address any last-minute details as assigned by the Marshal. The Assistant Water Marshal will also make sure the sites are picked up and secured at the end of each day along with the Water Marshal. Equipment must be returned to the Equipment Marshal immediately following the completion of all participants at your site.

Test Dog- Double Marked Retrieve. Test dog must be a reliable retriever. Previously named Versatile Champions are most desirable, however UT dogs are suitable as well. Must be available immediately following opening ceremonies.

Duck Winger – 1 & 2. There will be two duck wingers needed each day. The wingers should have the strength to consistently pull back a winger repeatedly (up to 42 times per day) or throw it by hand, depending on the request of the judges. It is possible that the person throwing ducks may be stationed in a boat in the water. If this is the case, they must be able to throw well and swim well (just in case). They will have access to radio communications with the judging team and the Water Marshal and will answer directly to the judging team and the Water Marshal. The duck wingers should wear camouflaged or dark shirts in the event they are visible to the dog and handler. The winger operators may want to bring their own hearing protection as numerous shots will be fired at this site daily.

Distraction Gunner. This person will fire a blank from a single-barrel break-action shotgun at the command of the Judging team. They should bring hearing protection as they may have to do this up to 42 times a day and numerous shots will be fired at this location daily.

Blind Retrieve – Volunteer Descriptions

Water Marshal. One Water Marshal is needed each day at the Blind Retrieve water site. This person has overall responsibility for the water site they are stationed at. They will make sure they have all necessary equipment (and a vehicle to transport equipment), workers, and birds at each site. As there are bird stewards, field set-up workers, and judge/worker hosts each day, (see “Overall Test” descriptions) the Water Marshal will always have direct access to these people to keep the test running smoothly. They will have access to radio communications with a member of each of the judging teams and the Test. They will supervise the duck handlers and the honor dog/handler team for their site. They will make sure that all gallery members stay at a distance where they are not a disturbance to the dog. They will be responsible for participants and dogs being ready to be tested in the order they were drawn. The Marshal should regularly communicate with the Bird Steward to ensure ducks are delivered in a timely manner. They will answer directly to the judging team and the Test Marshal. The Water Marshal will also make sure the sites are picked up and secured at the end of each day along with the Assistant Water Marshal. Equipment must be returned to the Equipment Marshal immediately following the completion of all participants at your site.

Assistant Water Marshal. One person is needed each day to make sure the water site is set-up and ready to go for testing. This will entail making sure that birds, wingers, a judge table, judge chairs, honor dogs, shotguns, and blank shells, are ready at each site. This work should be completed before or during opening ceremonies every morning. This person will transport ducks to the Duck Handlers as needed throughout the day. This person will have access to radio communications and will report directly to the Water Marshal. He/she is to be available throughout the day to address any last-minute details as assigned by the Marshal. The Assistant Water Marshal will also make sure the sites are picked up and secured at the end of each day along with the Water Marshal. Equipment must be returned to the Equipment Marshal immediately following the completion of all participants at your site.

Test Dog- Blind. Test dog must be a reliable retriever. Previously named Versatile Champions are most desirable, however UT dogs are suitable as well. Must be available immediately following opening ceremonies.

Duck Handler-Blind Retrieve. The duck handler at the blind is responsible to make sure there are always enough ducks ready during the test. He or she will drag dead ducks from the shoreline to a specified (by the judging team) location away from the water, will leave the bird and quickly retreat to a hiding spot where they will remain hidden. The extra ducks will be kept in a cooler a good distance from the site so this worker must be in good enough physical condition to hurry back and forth to get the duck ready for the next dog. Please note that at some sites, this may involve walking up and down a hill all day long.  The Duck Handler for the blind will have radio communications with and report to the judging team and the Water Marshal.

Duck Winger-Honor Segment. The Duck Winger for the Honor Segment will toss a dead duck into the water (possibly via a winger depending on the site and how the judging team designs the test) in front of the honoring and retrieving dogs. The Duck Handler for the blind will have radio communications with and report to the judging team and the Water Marshal.

Duck Handler-Honor Segment. The duck handler at the winger station will collaborate directly with the winger operator and judges regarding delivering ducks to and from them as needed. They are to deliver the bird and quickly retreat to a hiding spot where they will remain hidden. The extra ducks will be kept in a cooler a good distance from the site so this worker must be in good enough physical condition to hurry back and forth to get the duck ready for the next dog. The Duck Handler at the winger station will work with both the winger operator as well as report to the judging team and the Water Marshal.

Retrieving Dog at the Honor Site. There will be a minimum of three retrieving dog and handler teams available at the Blind Retrieve water site each day. These teams can either rotate throughout the day or switch at the half-way point. The dog must be extremely steady and be a reliable and obedient retriever. Dogs that have already passed their Versatile Championship are ideal. Dogs need to have a UT Prize as a minimum to be used for this segment. These handlers will answer directly to the judging team and the Water Marshal. There should be at least one female retrieving dog on Sunday in the event any of the participating dogs are in season. Please note, E-collars MAY be used.

Overall Test – Volunteer Descriptions

Test Marshal.  The Test Marshal is responsible for the overall test on the assigned day.  They will directly supervise the Equipment and Electronics, Field and Water Marshals.  All overall test decisions and changes from the judging teams will be directed to the Test Marshal.  They will rally with all the daily volunteers before the start of the test to make sure the Field and Water Marshals get all their help, equipment, and birds for the day organized.  Any major problems will be addressed to the Test Marshal.  The Test Marshal will provide a list of workers to each of the SR. Judges at the top of each day.

Assistant Test Marshal.  The Assistant Test Marshal (Chapter Member) will act as a procurement agent and assist the Test Marshal. It should be a person from the host Chapter and very familiar with the testing grounds, knowledgeable of all the equipment used for the test, and have a vehicle available. They will be in direct communication with the Test Marshal, understand the test, and know how to contact property officials.

Bird Steward.  This person makes sure all sites have the necessary birds for testing that day. They will also make sure the birds are well cared for with food and water, have plenty of shade and are kept dry in rainy conditions. This person will ensure the birds are at each site before the test starts, will check supplies throughout the day and will make sure birds are picked up at the end of the day and housed adequately overnight. The Steward should regularly communicate with the Marshals at the Double Marked Retrieve and Blind Retrieve sites to coordinate the transporting of retrieved ducks from the Double Marked Retrieve site to the Blind Retrieve. They will also be responsible for making sure salvageable birds are being cleaned at the various venues (usually the gunners and/or bird planters are available to assist with this task). This person will have access to radio communications and will report directly to the Test Marshal and will be available to all Marshals.

Sales Table. Two people each day are needed to be sure that the Invitational and NAVHDA promotional items are displayed and sold to those interested.  These people will be hosts and representatives of the organization and report directly to the Test Marshal.

Equipment & Electronics Marshal.  Assembles and organizes all necessary equipment for each venue. Distribute materials to field and water marshals each morning and check in materials at the end of each day. They are responsible for organizing materials for the next day. Distributes and tracks radios and batteries for each site and checks them in at the end of the day. Monitors radios to ensure they are working properly, checks fuel status of the generator for the antennae and base unit, and addresses any issues throughout the day. May also have to be responsible for charging batteries for remote wingers if used during the test. This position will work closely with the Test Marshal and all site marshals to ensure efficient and accurate test conditions.

Judge/Worker Host.  One person is needed each day to work with the Test Marshal to be sure the judges and workers have refreshments, shelter, and food. This person must have access to a vehicle as they may assist gathering lunch counts and be responsible for delivering lunches and anything else needed for judges and workers.

Standby Worker.  This person will be available first thing in the morning to fill in where needed when last minute changes occur. This is not a position that you can sign up for. It will be assigned.

—

If you have any questions on volunteering, send an email to:

Please CLICK HERE to view the 2026 Invitational Running Day Assignments. (Posted on: 8/26/2026)

The 2026 NAVHDA Invitational Test, hosted by the Zia Chapter and NAVHDA International, will be held at the New Mexico Boys and Girls Ranch (known as The Ranches) near Albuquerque, NM.  Based upon the number of entries received (89 dogs), the test has been reduced to three days and will be held Thursday, September 24, through Saturday, September 26.

Please note the following:

• Running days were assigned with preference given based upon the date the entry was received.
• If you were not assigned your preferred running day and would like to be placed on a wait list, please contact Elizabeth Anton via email at with your alternate preference of running day as soon as possible. If by chance there are any openings, those on the waitlist will be notified as they occur. Requests will be considered until September 7.
• If you have not already informed us that you will be traveling with another handler to the Invitational, please let Elizabeth know as soon as possible. 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 test site for too long will back up all of the field and water sites.
• Females in season – All females will be inspected on the day of testing prior to the opening ceremony. Any female determined to be “in season” will be rescheduled for testing on the last day of testing after all males have run. There will be a separate field assigned specifically for exercising females in season, and we ask that you be cognizant of those around you while you are onsite so there is no impact to any males running. If possible, it would be best to not bring any female in season to the grounds until Saturday. Please contact Elizabeth as soon as you know your dog will be in season during the test so we can adjust the running days and running orders accordingly.
• Braces will be revealed to handlers prior to the opening ceremonies on each day of testing.
• Should severe weather cause the cancellation of a partial or full day of testing, a “make-up” test will be held Sunday, September 27. Although this is unlikely, it would be prudent to keep this in mind when making return travel plans.

Refund Policy
Refunds will only be granted for MEDICAL reasons. Please refer to the FAQ tab further down on this webpage.

Volunteering
The Invitational is an international event and each of us plays a part in its success. It requires an army to ensure the Invitational runs smoothly. Please be a part of that army. We are asking everyone who is attending to complete the volunteer application form located on this webpage in the “2026 Invitational – Apply Here to Volunteer!!!” tab.

Walk-Through
There will be a walk-through of the test grounds beginning at approximately 3pm on Wednesday, September 23 for any handlers that would like to attend.
Attending this walk-through is a great opportunity to:

• Familiarize yourself with the route you will take from your lodging to the test grounds.
• Learn where to meet the morning of your test day for opening ceremonies.
• Learn where to go for each water site and mark the pin(s) on your GPS.
• Hear the judges explain the details of how the water events will be run.
• Watch a demonstration of each element of each water event.
• Ask any questions you have about the test ahead of time.
• Use the information you learn from this walk-through to formulate a plan for what you and your dog will do on your test day.

If you are interested in participating, please plan to arrive at Headquarters no later than 2:45pm as there will
be a brief announcement at 3pm and shortly thereafter we will be leaving to go to the first test site to begin the
walk-through.

On the day you are running, please note the following:

• Plan to arrive at the test grounds and be checked in no later than 6:15 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 promptly at 6:30 a.m. with testing beginning immediately thereafter. Please feel free to bring your dog with you to the opening ceremonies, as there will be a placard (with your name as well as your dog’s name) to stand next to. This is a great photo opportunity for such an exciting event! If you do bring your dog with you, please always be observant of both your dog and those around you.
• Immediately after opening ceremonies and throughout the day, it is important that you arrive at each test site as expeditiously as possible. With the large number of dogs running this year, it is very important that testing begins on time first thing in the morning, and everyone is at the field and each water site throughout the day when it is their turn to test.
• If you are running on Saturday and have a female in season, we ask that you do not bring her to the opening ceremonies as to not interfere with other dogs running that day.
• All scores will be read at the end of each test day at the Invitational Headquarters. The timing of reading the 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. If you would like, you can 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 received that day.

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.

If you have any Invitational questions which have not been answered above, please contact Elizabeth Anton via email at:

Click on the image to see an enlarged version.

Blind Send Site

Double Mark Send Site

Please Note: The featured visuals are intended to illustrate the anticipated test setup. Actual conditions may vary due to weather, water levels, ground conditions. As a result, the final test setup will not be determined until the week of the test. The exact location of the winger for the long bird at the Double Mark will be determined on site during final setup.

Test Site Address: 775 NM-304, Veguita, NM 87062
Click HERE to view a map of the test site.

• Plan to arrive in the area a day or two prior to your running day to give yourself and your dog time to acclimate to the altitude and the terrain.
• Training fields will be available for use on September 22 and 23 at The Ranches. Training birds can be ordered in advance and will be available to pick up on those dates. You have until September 16 to submit your preorder, the order form is available on the Zia Chapter website. More details regarding the location, time, and contact info for pickup will become available online at a later date.
• There are visual representations posted on the Zia Chapter website of the typical field cover you will encounter at the Invitational. Please note, 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.
• As this is a Boys and Girls Ranch there is no alcohol allowed on the premises. 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 Ranches.
• Please note that there is a 15MPH speed limit on the grounds. Trucks/SUVs are recommended due to some two track sand roads.

Visit the Zia Chapter website and watch their video for more information: https://www.navhdazia.com/2026-invitational.html

Food Truck

More details will be available soon regarding food options for purchase onsite.

Banquet

This year’s banquet is hosted by the Zia Chapter at the Horseshoe Event Center!
Where: 4555 New Mexico 314, Los Lunas, NM 87031
When: Friday, September 25th, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Cost: $55 per person
Click HERE to purchase your banquet ticket.

Host Hotel:
Western Skies Inn and Suites
2258 Sun Ranch Village Loop SW, Los Lunas, NM 87031
Phone: 505.865.0001
Pet Fee: $20 pet fee per night per pet
Breakfast is available at the hotel at 5:00 AM local time
To Book Online: https://live.ipms247.com/booking/book-rooms-westernskiesinnsuites

Closest Airport:
Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) – approximately 49 minutes from The Ranches.

Other Area Hotels:
Days Inn by Wyndham
1919 Main St. SW, Los Lunas, NM 87031
Phone: 505.312.5062

Quality Inn
1711 Main St. SW, Los Lunas, NM 87031
Phone: 505.357.0573

Baymont by Wyndham
2110 Camino Del Llano, Belen, NM 87002
Phone: 505.273.9450

RV Sites:

La Vista RV Park
2300 Camino Del Llano, Belen, NM 87002
Phone: 505.966.6585
20 minutes (north)
2 dog maximum

Topspot 191 RV Park
2200 Camino Del Llano, Belen, NM 87002
Phone: 505.864.1919
20 minutes (north)  

Corazon RV Park
2285 Roldan Dr., Belen, NM 87002
Phone: 505.306.4363
20 minutes (north)

Winery Road RV Park
5 Winery Rd, Bosque, NM 87006
Phone: 505.720.4096
18 minutes (north)

Isleta Lakes RV Park
4051 NM-327, Albuquerque, NM 87105
Phone: 505.244.8102
43 minutes (north)

Las Casitas RV Park
1 S Alamillo Rd, San Acacia, NM 87831
Phone: 575.322.0444
18 minutes (south)

Kiva RV Park & Horse Motel
21 Old Hwy 60, Bosque, NM 87006
Phone: 505.861.0693
15 minutes (west)

Below are the photographers and their schedule during the Invitational.
Handlers/Owners should email the photographers directly for photos that were taken of their dog.
When reaching out, please provide the registered name of the dog, the name of the handler, and which day the dog was tested on.

Click HERE to view the daily schedule.

Lindsay Becker:

Denise Heath:

Kaytlyn Heesacker:

Jerry Imprevento:

Jennifer Kellogg:

Autumn Koback:

Gabriel Lavoie:

Waylon Lunn:

Ted Wentink:

CLICK HERE for the 2026 Invitational Test Entry Form

The 2026 Invitational entry submission procedures are as follows:

Entries will be accepted beginning January 1, 2026, and the deadline for submitting your entry is March 1, 2026.

All primary owners and handlers of entered dogs must be members of NAVHDA International at the time of testing.

DNA certification is required and must be submitted by close of entry, March 1, 2026.

The entry fee of $550.00 is to be paid to NAVHDA in US Funds and must be submitted with the official Invitational Test Entry Form.

Entries can be submitted with a credit card via fax to NAVHDA’s Central Office at 847- 255-5987 or emailed via https://www.navhda.org/submit-forms-securely/. They can also be mailed to:
NAVHDA
Attn: Elizabeth Anton, Invitational Entry
P.O. Box 520
Arlington Heights, IL 60006-0520

Entries submitted by email or fax must be received by 11:59 PM CST March 1, 2026; if submitted by mail they must be postmarked by March 1, 2026. Confirmation will be sent to the owner via email. If you wish to also have confirmation via mail, please indicate this by marking the box at the bottom of your test entry form.

Once the test entry application and payment have been received, the refund policy goes into effect.

Refund Policy
Requests for refunds must be submitted in writing to the NAVHDA Central Office, accompanied by a statement from a physician or veterinarian verifying that either the dog or handler is unable to participate in the test for medical reasons. NAVHDA must be notified prior to the day the dog is scheduled to run and letters of documentation from veterinarians and physicians must be received no later than 15 days after the last day of the Invitational. If the handler is unable to participate, the specific medical condition should NOT be provided. Fifty percent of the entry fee will be refunded for medical reasons only.

Click here to view the list of dogs that are eligible for the 2026 Invitational.

The running order is not announced until the morning of that test day. After being announced, a PDF of the list will be available here.
To view, please click on the day you wish to see a list for.

Monday, September 8th

Tuesday, September 9th

Wednesday, September 10th

Thursday, September 11th

Friday, September 12th

Saturday, September 13th

Scores are not announced until the end of the test day.
To view, please click on the day you wish to see scores for.

Monday, September 8th

Tuesday, September 9th

Wednesday, September 10th

Thursday, September 11th

Friday, September 12th

Saturday, September 13th

Please CLICK HERE to view the 2025 Invitational Running Day Assignments. (Current revision posted on: 9/8/2025)

Thank you for submitting your entry to run your dog in the 2025 NAVHDA Invitational Test. An unprecedented 228 dogs are entered to run in the 6-day test to be held the 8th-13th of September 2025 at Brownell’s Big Springs Hunting and Shooting Complex near Searsboro, IA.

Please note the following:

• Running days were assigned with preference given based upon the date the entry was received.
• If you were not assigned one of your preferred running days and would like to be placed on a wait list, please contact Elizabeth Anton via email at with your alternate preference(s) of running day(s) as soon as possible. Due to the large number of dogs running this year, it is not likely you will be able to move to a different day. However, if by chance there are any openings, those on the wait list will be notified as they occur. Requests will be considered until September 1st.
• If you have not already informed us that you will be traveling with another handler to the Invitational, please let Elizabeth know as soon as possible. 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 test site for too long will back up all of the field and water sites.
• Females in season during the Invitational are automatically assigned to the last testing day of the event and will also be the last dogs to run at each field and water site. 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 Saturday. Please contact Elizabeth as soon as you know your dog will be in season during the test so we can adjust the running days and running orders accordingly.
• Braces will be revealed to handlers prior to the opening ceremonies on each day of testing.
• Should severe weather cause the cancellation of a partial or full day of testing, a “make-up” test will be held Sunday, September 14th. Although this is unlikely, it would be prudent to keep this in mind when making return travel plans.

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 directed to the Invitational Program Manager Deb Stott via email or phone (920) 265-5334.

Volunteering
With the sheer number of dogs running this year, it is extremely important that EVERYONE volunteers at least ONE day! Keep in mind, there are many who are volunteering on your big day, so please reciprocate and volunteer for them on their big day!
The Invitational is an international event and each of us plays a part in its success. It requires an army to ensure the Invitational runs smoothly. Please be a part of that army. We are asking everyone to complete the volunteer application form located on this page in the “2025 Invitational – Apply Here to Volunteer!!!” tab.

The fields and water sites which will be used for the Invitational are off limits to all training from May 1st until Sunday, September 14th or in the event of a “make-up” test, until Monday, September 15th. If you have any questions as to the location of these sites or any other questions pertaining to the Invitational grounds, please send an email to the Invitational Grounds Committee at and someone will get back to you as soon as possible.

Walk-Through
There will be a walk-through of the test grounds beginning at approximately 3pm on Sunday, September 7th for any handlers that would like to attend.
Attending this walk-through is a great opportunity to:

• Familiarize yourself with the route you will take from your lodging to the test grounds.
• Learn where to meet the morning of your test day for opening ceremonies.
• Learn where to go for each water site and mark the pin(s) on your GPS.
• Hear the judges explain the details of how the water events will be run.
• Watch a demonstration of each element of each water event.
• Ask any questions you have about the test ahead of time.
• Use the information you learn from this walk-through to formulate a plan for what you and your dog will do on your test day.

If you are interested in participating, please plan to arrive at Headquarters no later than 2:45pm as there will
be a brief announcement at 3pm and shortly thereafter we will be leaving to go to the first test site to begin the
walk-through.

On the day you are running, please note the following:

• Plan to arrive at the test grounds and be checked in no later than 6:15 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 promptly at 6:30 a.m. with testing beginning immediately thereafter. Please feel free to bring your dog with you to the opening ceremonies, as there will be a placard (with your name as well as your dog’s name) to stand next to. This is a great photo opportunity for such an exciting event! If you do bring your dog with you, please always be observant of both your dog and those around you.
• Immediately after opening ceremonies and throughout the day, it is important that you arrive at each test site as expeditiously as possible. With the large number of dogs running this year, it is very important that testing begins on time first thing in the morning, and everyone is at the field and each water site throughout the day when it is their turn to test.
• If you are running on Saturday and have a female in season, we ask that you do not bring her to the opening ceremonies as to not interfere with other dogs running that day.
• All scores will be read at the end of each test day at the Invitational Headquarters. The timing of reading the 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. If you would like, you can 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 received that day.

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.

There will be a designated field training area available on the grounds; signs will be posted with directions. More information on availability and ordering of training birds will be posted soon on the NAVHDA Invitational webpage and Hawkeye Chapter website.

If you have any Invitational questions which have not been answered above, please contact Deb Stott via email at

I wish you the best of luck with your training and safe travels to Iowa this fall.
Deb Stott – 2025 Invitational Program Manager

All volunteers must be members of NAVHDA International in order for the event to be properly insured.

Click here to view a PDF map of the test site. 
Please note the directions given on this map and follow the outlined path.

Coordinates
HQ & Double Mark: 41°35’28.5″N 92°33’05.7″W
Field A & B: 41°35’15.2″N 92°41’04.8″W
Field C: 41°34’27.9″N 92°41’08.6″W
Blind & Honor: 41°35’22.1″N 92°33’04.2″W

Lunches will be available for purchase on the grounds Monday through Saturday for handlers and the gallery.
Food Truck: Keepin up with the Jones’s Mobile Catering
Tentative Menu  *Subject to change throughout the week to offer variety*
Pulled Pork Sandwich
Chedder Bacon Burger (w/ or w/o bacon)
Pepper Jack Bacon Burger (w/ or w/o bacon)
Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich
BBQ Chicken Sandwich
Veggie Burger
Sides: Coleslaw, Baked Beans, Garden Salad, Fries, & Chips
Drinks: Soda, Water, & Gatorade

~

The Banquet will be held on Friday night at the Elks Lodge: 720 3rd Ave, Grinnell, IA 50112
Click here to make your reservation. Deadline to sign up is August 30th.

For any questions, contact:

See below for host hotel information as well as the airport and other lodging in the area.

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
1710 West Street South
Grinnell, Iowa 50112
Phone: 641-236-9600
Rate: $134+ tax per night single or double
Booking link: https://www.choicehotels.com/reservations/groups/yn14u9?ratePlanCode=BUVRIA&checkInDate=2025-09-06&checkOutDate=2025-09-14
Pet fee: None
Booking code: NAVHDA
Complimentary continental breakfast with hot items is available Monday through Friday from 5:00 am-
9:30 am and Saturday/Sunday from 5:00 am-10:30 am.

SECONDARY HOTEL/ADDITIONAL BLOCK OF ROOMS
Comfort Inn and Suites
1630 West Street South
Grinnell, Iowa 50112
Phone: (641) 236-5236
Rate: $134 + tax per night single or double
Booking link: https://www.choicehotels.com/reservations/groups/en58l8?ratePlanCode=BPRQMD&checkInDate=2025-09-06&checkOutDate=2025-09-14
Pet fee: None
Booking code: NAVHDA

OTHER AREA HOTELS
Quality Inn & Suites
1902 West Street South
Grinnell, Iowa 50112
Phone: (641) 325-4120

AmericInn by Wyndham
2210 West Street South
Grinnell, Iowa 50112
Phone: (641) 328-5225

Super 8 by Wyndham
2111 West Street South
Grinnell, Iowa 50112
Phone: (641) 812-2051

CAMPING FACILITIES
Diamond Lake Park www.poweshiekcountyparks.org
4896 Stagecoach Road, Montezuma, Iowa 50171
9 miles from Big Springs Shooting and Hunting Complex, electrical and primitive sites, shower facilities,
pump station. Self-register on-site. Daily fee is dependent on the site type.

Fun Valley Recreation www.funvalleyrec.com
1066 500th Ave
Montezuma, Iowa 50171
(641) 660-5668 or (641) 660-2251
6 miles from 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.

Click here to view the list of dogs that are eligible for the 2025 Invitational.

The Hawkeye Chapter will have training birds available for purchase the week of the Invitational.
Click here to place an order. Deadline is August 30th.

For any questions, contact:

CLICK HERE for the 2025 Invitational Test Entry Form

The 2025 Invitational entry submission procedures are as follows:

Entries will be accepted beginning January 1, 2025, and the deadline for submitting your entry is March 1, 2025.

The entry fee of $550.00 is to be paid to NAVHDA in US Funds and must be submitted with the official Invitational Test Entry Form.

Entries can be submitted with a credit card via fax to NAVHDA’s Central Office at 847- 255-5987 or emailed via https://www.navhda.org/submit-forms-securely/. They can also be mailed to:
NAVHDA
Attn: Maria Bondi, Invitational Entry
P.O. Box 520
Arlington Heights, IL 60006-0520

Entries submitted by email or fax must be received by midnight March 1st, 2025; if submitted by mail they must be postmarked by March 1st, 2025. A confirmation will be sent to the owner within a month after receipt of entry; please contact the NAVHDA Central Office if you do not receive a confirmation in the mail.

Once the test entry application and payment has been received, the refund policy (see below) goes into effect.

Refund Policy
Requests for refunds must be submitted in writing to the NAVHDA Central Office, accompanied by a statement from a physician or veterinarian verifying that either the dog or handler is unable to participate in the test for medical reasons. NAVHDA must be notified prior to the day the dog is scheduled to run and letters of documentation from veterinarians and physicians must be received no later than 15 days after the last day of the Invitational. If the handler is unable to participate, the specific medical condition should NOT be provided. Fifty percent of the entry fee will be refunded for medical reasons only.

This form is to be completed by a Senior Judge that wants to recommend a qualified individual to be a Gunner for the Invitational test.
(If you are having trouble with this digital form, you can complete this PDF form instead.)

TO BE CONSIDERED FOR APPROVAL the recommended Gunner should be an active NAVHDA member in good standing who meets the requirements to gun at the Utility level AND:
• The recommended Gunner must have gunned for at least two Utility tests.
• This form must be completed by the Senior Judges of at least two Utility tests.
• The recommendations must be from two different Senior Judges.

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 free 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

1. 1. A dog must earn a Prize I Utility score within the qualification period, which is the calendar year prior to the test.
   2. Entries must be postmarked by March 1.
   3. 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.
   4. Entered dogs must have DNA certification on file, or applied for, through NAVHDA, prior to the closing date of test entry.
   5. The primary owner and handler, if different from the owner, must be a NAVHDA International member.
   6. Dogs that have previously passed the Invitational are not eligible to run in another Invitational.

How much does it cost NAVHDA (per participant) to run the Invitational? Click here to view a breakdown.

Please CLICK HERE to view the list of NAVHDA Versatile Champions, by year.

Invitational Hosting Requirements:

Grounds

Equipment

Hotel

Other

• • • 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.

Invitational EC Liaison: Kim Arnett

Invitational Coordinator: Deb Stott

Invitational Volunteer Coordinator: Annie Nuss

Invitational Test Secretary: Elizabeth Anton

Below are the photographers and their schedules during the Invitational.
Handlers/Owners should email the photographers directly for photos that were taken of their dog.

Terry Ann Fernando:  
9/12 – Field B
9/13 – Field A [Braces 5-6], Field B [Braces 8-11]
9/14 – Field C
9/15 – Double Mark

Denise Heath:
9/11 – Field A
9/12 – Double Mark

Kaytlyn Heesacker:
9/11 – Double Mark
9/12 – Blind
9/13 – Field C
9/14 – Double Mark
9/15 – Field A [Braces 2-5], Field B [Brace 6]

Autumn Koback:
9/11 – Roaming, Field A
9/12 – Field A
9/13 – Roaming
9/14 – Field B

Waylon Lunn:  
9/11 – Field C
9/12 – Double Mark, Field A [Braces 4-5]
9/13 – Double Mark, Field A [Brace 7]
9/14 – Roaming

Ted Wentink:
9/12 – Field C

Scores are not announced until the end of the test day.
To view, please click on the day you wish to see scores for.

Wednesday, September 11th

Thursday, September 12th

Friday, September 13th

Saturday, September 14th

Sunday, September 15th

The running order is not announced until the morning of that test day. After being announced, a pdf of the list will be available here.
To view, please click on the day you wish to see a list for.

Wednesday, September 11th

Thursday, September 12th

Friday, September 13th

Saturday, September 14th

Sunday, September 15th

CLICK HERE for the 2024 Invitational Test Entry Form

The 2024 Invitational entry submission procedures are as follows:

Entries will be accepted beginning January 1, 2024, and the deadline for submitting your entry is March 1, 2024.

Due to rising costs to run the Invitational, the entry fee for the 2024 Invitational has increased to $550.00. The entry fee is to be paid to NAVHDA in US Funds and must be submitted with the official Invitational Test Entry Form.

Entries can be submitted with a credit card via facsimile to NAVHDA’s Central Office at 847- 255-5987 or emailed to https://www.navhda.org/submit-forms-securely/. They can also be mailed to:
NAVHDA
Attn: Maria Bondi, Invitational Entry
P.O. Box 520
Arlington Heights, IL 60006-0520

Entries submitted by email or fax must be received by midnight March 1st, 2024; if submitted by mail they must be postmarked by March 1st, 2024. A confirmation will be sent to the owner within a month after receipt of entry; please contact the NAVHDA Central Office if you do not receive a confirmation in the mail.

Once the test entry application and payment has been received, the refund policy (see below) goes into effect.

Refund Policy
Requests for refunds must be submitted in writing to the NAVHDA Central Office, accompanied by a statement from a physician or veterinarian verifying that either the dog or handler is unable to participate in the test for medical reasons. NAVHDA must be notified prior to the day the dog is scheduled to run and letters of documentation from veterinarians and physicians must be received no later than 15 days after the last day of the Invitational. If the handler is unable to participate, the specific medical condition should NOT be provided. Fifty percent of the entry fee will be refunded for medical reasons only.

Please CLICK HERE to view the 2024 Invitational Running Day Assignments. (Revision 09/06/2024)

Thank you for submitting your entry to run your dog in the 2024 NAVHDA Invitational Test.  Two hundred dogs are entered to run in the five-day test to be held on the 11th-15th of September 2024 at Brownell’s Big Springs Hunting and Shooting Complex near Searsboro, IA.

Please note the following:

• Running days were assigned with preference given based upon the date the entry was received. While every effort was made to assign you the running day you requested, there were many entrants who requested Wednesday and Thursday, therefore the date of which entries were received played a key role in the assignment of running days.
• If you were not assigned one of your preferred running days and would like to be placed on a wait list, please contact Elizabeth Anton via email at InvitationalTestSecretary@navhda.org 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 inform Elizabeth 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 for too long will back up all of the venues.
• Females in season during the Invitational are automatically assigned to the last testing day of the event 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 contact Elizabeth as soon as you know your dog will be in season during the test so we can adjust running days accordingly.
• Braces will be revealed to handlers prior to the opening ceremonies on each day of testing.
• Should severe weather cause the cancellation of part or full day of testing, a “make-up” test will be held Monday, September 16th. Although this is unlikely, it would be prudent to keep this in mind when making return travel plans.

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 directed to the Invitational Program Manager Deb Stott via email or phone (920) 265-5334.

Volunteering at the Invitational is a fun and productive way to see great dog work and is 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.
We can’t stress enough of how important it is to volunteer at least ONE day!
It requires an army to ensure the Invitational runs smoothly. So please volunteer to support the volunteers who are supporting you on your big day!  We are asking everyone who wants to volunteer to complete the application form posted in the “2024 Invitational – Volunteer Here!!!” tab below.

The fields and water sites which will be used for the Invitational are off limits to all training from May 1st until Monday, September 16th or in the event of a “make-up” test, until Tuesday, September 17th.  If you have any questions as to the location of these sites or any other questions pertaining to the Invitational grounds, please send an email to the Invitational Grounds Committee at and someone will get back to you as soon as possible.
There will be a walk-through of the test grounds Tuesday, September 10th 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.

On the day you are running, please note the following:

• 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 promptly at 6:45 a.m. with testing beginning immediately thereafter.  Please feel free to bring your dog with you to the opening ceremonies, as there will be a placard (with your name as well as your dog’s name) to stand next to. This can be a great photo opportunity for such an exciting event! If you do bring your dog with you, please always be observant of both your dog and those around you.
• If you are running on Sunday and have a female in season, we ask that you do not bring her to the opening ceremonies as to not interfere with other dogs running that day.
• All scores will be read at the end of each test day at the Invitational Headquarters. The timing of reading the 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. If you would like, you can 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 received that day.

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.

There will be a designated field training area available on the grounds; signs will be posted with directions.
More information on availability and ordering of training birds will be posted soon on the NAVHDA Invitational webpage and Hawkeye Chapter website.

If you have any Invitational questions which have not been answered above, please contact Deb Stott via email at

I wish you the best of luck with your training and safe travels to Iowa this fall.
Deb Stott – 2024 Invitational Program Manager

The 2024 Invitational Banquet will be held on Friday, September 13, 2024 at The Elks Lodge in Grinnell.

The deadline to RSVP by is August 30th. For complete information on the banquet, including payment options and making reservations, click here to view The Hawkeye Chapter’s webpage.

There will be free coffee and food available for purchase on site daily for breakfast, lunch, and through the reading of scores.

Click here to view the list of dogs that are eligible for the 2024 Invitational.

Click here to view a PDF map of the test site.
Please note the directions given on this map and follow the outlined path.

Blind Retrieve:

Double Mark Retrieve:

See below for host hotel information as well as the airport and other lodging in the area.

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
1710 West Street South, Grinnell, Iowa
Phone: 641-236-9600
Rate: $119 per night single or double
Booking link: https://www.choicehotels.com/reservations/groups/GC64V1
Pet fee is $10 per night.
Booking code is NAVHDA
Complimentary continental breakfast with hot items is available Monday through Friday from 6:00 am-
9:30 am and Saturday/Sunday from 7:00 am-10:30 am.

SECONDARY HOTEL/ADDITIONAL BLOCK OF ROOMS
Comfort Inn and Suites
1630 West Street South, Grinnell, Iowa
Phone: (641) 236-5236
Rate: $119 per night single or double
Booking link: https://www.choicehotels.com/reservations/groups/XO80A7
Pet fee is $10 per night.
Booking code is NAVHDA

OTHER AREA HOTELS
Quality Inn & Suites
1902 West Street South, Grinnell, Iowa
Phone: (641) 325-4120

AmericInn by Wyndham
2210 West Street South, Grinnell, Iowa
Phone: (641) 328-5225

Super 8 by Wyndham
2111 West Street South, Grinnell, Iowa
Phone: (641) 812-2051

CAMPING FACILITIES
Rock Creek State Park
5627 Rock Creek East Street, Kellogg, Iowa
(641) 236-3722
7 miles from Grinnell, electrical sites, modern rest rooms & showers, daily fee is dependent on the site type.
Reservations can be made 3 months in advance

Diamond Lake Park www.poweshiekcountyparks.org
4896 Stagecoach Road, Montezuma, Iowa
Electrical and primitive sites, shower facilities, pump station
Self register on-site. Daily fee is dependent on site type.

Fun Valley Recreation www.funvalleyrec.com
1066 500th Ave
Montezuma, Iowa 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

Below are the photographers and their schedules during the Invitational.
Handlers/Owners can email the photographers directly for photos that were taken of their dog.

Nancy Anisfield: 
9/13 – Blind
9/14 – Field B (two braces)
9/15 – Double Mark

Charlene Cross:
9/16 – Field A
9/17 – Field A

Charles Coulter:
9/14 – Double Mark
9/15 – Field A (Brace 6)
9/16 – Field B

Terry Ann Fernando: 
9/14 – Field C
9/15 – Field A

Waylon Lunn: 
9/13 – Double Mark
9/14 – Field B
9/15 – Field C
9/16 – Blind
9 /17 – Field B
Hero shots everyday

Ted Wentink:
9/13 – Field C

Jennifer Kellogg:
www.buckwoodphotography.pixieset.com
9/13 – Field A
9/14 – Blind
9/15 – Field B
9/16 – Double Mark
9/17 – Field C

Erik Raynes:
www.eraynes.com
9/14 – Field A
9/15 – Blind
9/16 – Field C
9/17 – Double Mark

Kaytlyn Heesacker:
9/13 – Field C
9/14 – Double Mark
9/15 – Roaming
9/16 – Blind
9/17 – Blind

The Buckeye Chapter will have training birds available for purchase the week of the Invitational

• The email for ordering birds is
• The Chapter Contact for Training Birds is Steve Smith.
• There will be Chukars available at a cost of $18 dollars per bird. PayPal is preferred for bird purchases.  If paying by check please use American Currency.
• Upon ordering at the above email address, payment information and contact information will be provided including Steve’s cell phone number.
• The deadline for ordering birds will be Friday, September 1, 2023. No orders will be accepted after that date.
• There will be no refunds on cancelled orders. No exceptions.
• Handler will be responsible for having a bird pen or a bird bag for their Training Birds.
• Training Grounds will be open for use on Tuesday September 12, 2023. Training Birds will be available that morning at 8 a.m. for pick up.  Handlers will also be able to pick up their Training Birds at the Campground each morning from 8am to 9am on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday of the Invitational.   If that time is not convenient, Steve will be available throughout the day to try to get your birds to you.  However, since Steve will be assisting with the event on a daily basis, bird pick up will have to be flexible.

Invitational Banquet

The banquet will be held on Friday, September 15, 2023 at 6:30pm at the Mingo Sportsman Club.
The meal will be served as a buffet and will include the following:

• Tossed Salad
• Prime Rib
• Romano Chicken
• Penne Pasta w/Alfredo or red sauce
• Roasted red potatoes
• Green beans w/bacon & ham
• Sheet cake
• Iced Tea and Water
• *Cash Bar

The cost will be $50.00

Reservations and money are due by Sept 1, 2023
You can email reservations to
Please make check/money order payable to: Buckeye NAVHDA (US FUNDS ONLY)

Send your check to:
Kelli Christian
170 Gumps Lane
Wintersville, OH 43953

Daily Food Truck

• There will be the All American Burger Co. food truck at this year’s Invitational.
• They will be located at the shelter (Invitational Headquarters) where Opening Ceremonies are held.
• They will be available for Lunch on Tuesday as well as for breakfast, lunch and dinner Wednesday thru Sunday 6am-7pm.
• Click on the Menu Links below:
• Food Truck Hours
• Breakfast Menu, 6AM – 10AM
• Lunch Menu, 12PM – 4PM
• Dinner Menu, 4PM – 7PM

Please CLICK HERE to view the 2023 Invitational Running Day Assignments. (Revision 08/31/2023)

Thank you for submitting your entry to run your dog in the 2023 NAVHDA Invitational Test.  One hundred and ninety-four dogs are entered to run in the five-day test to be held at Mingo Sportsman Club in Bloomingdale, Ohio, September 13-17, 2023.

PLEASE NOTE, the fields as well as the water sites which will be used for the Invitational are off limits to all training until Monday, September 18th or in the event of a “make-up” test, until Tuesday, September 19th.  If you have any questions as to the location of these sites or any other questions pertaining to the Invitational grounds, please send an email to the Invitational Grounds Committee at and someone will get back to you as soon as possible.

Running days were assigned with preference given based upon the date the entry was received.  While every effort was made to assign you the running day you requested, there were a large number of entrants who requested Wednesday and Thursday, therefore the date entries were received played a key role is assigning of the running days   If you were not assigned one of your preferred running days and would like to be placed on a wait list, please contact Mike Neiduski directly via email at 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 inform 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 or full day of testing, a “make-up” test will be held Monday, September 18th.  Although this is unlikely, it would be prudent to keep this in mind when making return travel plans.

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 promptly 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.  If you are running on Sunday and have a dog in heat, we ask that you do not bring her to the opening ceremonies so as to not interfere with other dogs running that day.

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 contact 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 Tuesday, September 12th 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.  Please visit the NAVHDA International website https://www.navhda.org for photographs and directions to the sites which will be posted as the information becomes available.

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; more information on the banquet, including a link to purchase tickets will be posted on the Invitational webpage soon.

There will be a designated field training area available on the grounds; signs will be posted with directions.  If you have questions on availability and ordering of training birds, contact Steve Smith at .  More information will be posted soon on the NAVHDA Invitational webpage and Buckeye Chapter website.

PLEASE NOTE:  The speed limit is 10MPH on the main entrance to Mingo.  Please always be cognizant of your speed while traveling on this entrance and allow yourself plenty of time to travel to each field and water site.

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 could be a shorter test day, scores may 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 directed to the Invitational Program Manager Deb Stott via email or phone 920-265-5334.

I wish you the best of luck with your training and safe travels to Ohio this fall!

Deb Stott
2023 Invitational Program Manager

For a closer look – Click on the images below!

2023 Invitational – Site Map

2023 Invitational – Blind Retrieve Map

Blind Retrieve Site

Double Mark Retrieve – Send

Double Mark Retrieve – Start of Heel

Field

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.

OTHER HOTELS IN THE AREA
Sleep Inn & Suites by Choice Hotels
875 University Blvd.
Steubenville, OH  43952
Booking Link
Hotel Phone: (740) 282-1800
Group Name: NAVHDA 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

CLICK HERE for the 2023 Invitational Test Entry Form

The deadline for submitting your entry is March 1, 2023.

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

Click on the dates below to view the daily test scores.

Thursday 9/15/22

Friday 9/16/22

Saturday 9/17/22

Sunday 9/18/22

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.

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)

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)

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.

• 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

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

Derek Baune

Charles Coulter

Denise Heath

Michele Tantala

Waylon Lunn

Moishe Rageime

Nancy Anisfield

Terry Ann Fernando

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.

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

The current revision posted is dated 9/7/21.

in a NAVHDA’s expectation is that all dogs are well mannered and under control throughout the event.

NAVHDA’s expectation is that all dogs are well mannered and under control throughout the event.

NAVHDA’S expectation is that all dogs are well mannered and under control throughout the event.