Farmer wins gold award

Sep 25 2008 by Samantha Castle, North Wales Weekly News

A CONWY Valley farmer has scooped his second World Sheepdog Championship after a close finish to the contest.

Aled Owen, and his sheepdog Roy, from Corwen, were one point ahead of Netherlands rival Ron Snoeck.

He won his first world trophy the last time it was staged in Wales, six years ago in Bala, and triumphed this time after more than 240 dogs and handlers from 22 nations competed in Llandeilo, Carmarthenshire.

“It’s a fantastic end to the championship,” said Aled.

“It was very close, only one merit point between Ron and myself, too close for comfort.

“I’ve walked miles, couldn’t eat, couldn’t stand still.... waiting for the result.”

Mr Owen received £3,000, a solid gold shepherd’s whistle specially commissioned by the International Sheep Dog Society’s main sponsor, Gilbertson and Page, and a gold medal.

The event is staged every three years and attracted contestants from countries as varied as New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, Norway, and the United States.

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