From BCDS

Mr Darcy in the axle exercise in 2009

Mr Darcy working at speed at the 2006 national trials with Maggie driving and husband Ron as groom

Mr Darcy is a rescue dog. At the age of three, when he met his new owners, he was unfocussed and aggressive to other dogs. After three months attendance at dog training, he was awarded the Club’s shield for the most improved dog. Mr Darcy has since earned a silver award for obedience and is now going for gold. To simulate what would be expected of him as a carriage dog, Mr Darcy was trained to run with a bicycle using a ‘springer’ which attaches his harness to the bike while allowing him to run safely by the side. He gained a bronze award at the British Carriage Dog Society’s National Trials in July 2006, qualifying with second highest points. He achieved over 90% in all sections of the competition (the pass mark is 50%). This was the highest score for a rescue dog and he was presented with a silver cup.

In 2007 he qualified as a Silver Carriage Dog and has competed again since then.