The opening banquet for the 2002 Canadian National Retriever Championship was held at the Strathmore Civic Centre located immediately adjacent to the Headquarters camp site. After a lively cocktail hour the ceremonies began with the “piping in” of the head table including judges Pierre Benoit - Eastern Zone, Glen Cumpson – Southern Ontario and Al Petkau – Central Zone; master of ceremonies Glenn Norton; NRCC President Bob James and Arline: Field Trial Chairman Ron Bischke; Field Trial Marshall Gord Pettit; NRCC Field Trial Secretary Marg Murray: and Alberta Field Trial Club President Dan Danforth. Master of Ceremonies Glen Norton did an excellent job of providing the audience with his version of the lighter side of field trials. After a wonderful meal, several speakers including the Mayor of Strathmore Keith Schneider welcomed the contestants and spectators to the Town of Strathmore. Other activities in the area included a Tractor Pull in the exhibition grounds located immediately behind the Headquarters campground. The marshalls instructions were provided by Gord Pettit and a Calcutta followed. The first and second test on Monday was announced as a combination land triple and land blind located approximately 3.5 miles northwest of Strathmore. Another day of fine tuning and the NRCC meetings was to follow before the main event.
