Episode #001 When I first ventured into the world of dog training and hunting, I was fortunate to meet an incredible mentor, Mark Hairfield. Together, we reminisce about our humble beginnings, Mark's 42-year career in field trials with dogs, and our shared love for gun dogs and the great outdoors. Join us as Mark imparts his wisdom on what it takes to make a dog a field champion in the AKC and his ultimate goal of qualifying dogs for national events. We also explore the role of luck in field trials and the appeal of training level-headed British Labs and Springers. Mark shares his journey with his Springer Spaniel, Badger, whose legacy set the bar high for future generations of hunting dogs. With over 250 Open All Age points and 60 Field Champions produced from his frozen semen, Badger's incredible intelligence and skill have left an indelible mark on the dog training world. As we celebrate the camaraderie among fellow enthusiasts and the inspiring world of gun dogs, listen in for Mark's insights on balancing competition with client support and the importance of fostering a strong sense of community. We hope you enjoy this episode and walk away with a greater appreciation for the dedication, passion, and expertise it takes to excel in the dog training and hunting world.  Visit https://www.cornerstonegundogacademy.com to learn how to train your retriever.