Special to The Post-Searchlight

On Saturday, Nov. 5, an open flushing dog trial was held at Southern Legends Plantation in Attapulgus, for people from around the “Big Bend” to compete and show off their dogs’ hunting abilities.

Ronnie Boyce and Gerry Goodson of Southern Legends Hunting Preserve put on the event. The weather turned out great, with a cool morning and a slight breeze, which was favorable for the gun dogs involved as they located the bobwhite quail they were hunting. Several hunters from south Georgia and north Florida were involved in the competition.

Horseshoe Plantation staff member Hartley Holton’s dog “Annie” finished with a perfect 100-percent score and was named the champion of the event. Horseshoe Plantation dog handler Ed Epp’s English cocker spaniel “Taz” also had a 100-percent score, but his time was about a minute slower and he finished second.

Third place went to Keith Lawson’s English cocker spaniel “Rocky,” who was worked by dog handler Wayne Benningfield of Bradfordville, Fla. Fourth place went to Ken Cook’s English cocker spaniel “Clyde” of Chipola Plantation in Bainbridge. Fifth place went to Wyatt Epp of Horseshoe Plantation, who was working his English cocker spaniel “Deuce.”

The sixth-place ribbon went to Lawson’s English cocker spaniel “Rusty,” who was handled by David Pate of Tallahassee, Fla.

Awards were given out at the Southern Legends Plantation’s Confederate Mess Hall, where all enjoyed lunch prepared by Debbie Goodson, Sheri Boyce, and Chef Ed Thompson and Assistant Chef Clayton Thompson.

The judges for the event were Chester Chandler and Beth Chandler of Tallahassee.

Another SLP trial event may be in the works for February 2012, organizers said. Visit www.southernlegendsplantation.com for upcoming event details.