EC sheep herding starts in Hoogwoud: “Special to stand here again”

Not only because the organizer gave away his place to organize the World Cup five years ago, his return feels special. Also because his dog Kev has only recently recovered from a serious accident. “During a workout, he broke his jaw in several places,” explains Groot. “It looked bad and I thought he wouldn’t make it like that, but thanks to a vet, Kev managed to recover.”

For the organizer it is the first major competition in a long time. “We have become a team again. I am a bit nervous, but it feels really special to be here again.”

Commands

The event kicked off on Wednesday and will run through Sunday. The competition circuit – on the plots on the Koningspade – consists of twenty hectares. For example, a grandstand has been built that offers space for 300 spectators. “I think it’s a wonderful event,” says an enthusiastic visitor. “It’s great that a dog like that understands all those commands.”

In addition to sheep and shepherds, there is also a fair, with about fifteen to twenty stalls, an oliebollen stall, hamburger joint and herring cart. “Spectators can even taste sheep ice cream,” laughs the organizer. “Everything has been thought of.”

What about the sheep, also called ‘athletes’? This year they come from Zwolle. The herd consists of 300 pieces and is, according to Groot, in top condition. “The jury is from Ireland.”

Final

The performance is a true spectacle. Every day 45 shepherds compete for qualification, 15 of them go through. The grand final is on Sunday. During the week, admission is free. During the weekend, an entrance ticket costs five euros. “A small amount, intended to support the agricultural sector”, the organizer underlines.