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Operating the Lure for a Field Trial
By Scott Hurlbert
By Scott Hurlbert
What follows are just some of my thoughts about what makes a lure operator, what makes a good lure operator and what makes a great lure operator.
The path to becoming a great lure operator is a long one. Let’s begin at the beginning – if you are interested in becoming a lure operator you should learn about the equipment you are using, the differences in the hound breeds and how to design a course plan. There are a lot of thoughts on course plan design.
The American Sighthound Field Association (ASFA) has a great publication on course plan design. You can also find several resources on the internet. I will not go into that subject however I will say a good course plan allows for the hound to show all the aspects that he is being judged by. If you have well experienced lure operators, you may be able to get by with a more challenging course plan and the opposite is true as well.
All lure operators need to work with the Field Trial Chairman to lay out the course plan per the premium. All lure operators should walk the course, even if they helped set up the course. A good opportunity is to walk with the Judges so questions can be answered or suggestions made. Most judges have seen numerous courses on varying terrain. They have been exposed to varying degrees of expertise of lure operation. The job in walking to the course is to make sure it has been laid out as to the publish plan as well to address potential safety concerns. They can offer good suggestions or opinions.
The safety of the hound is the concern of all the members of the field committee. However, only the lure operator has control of the most vital part of the trial that can injure a hound – the string or the lure. A lure operator must be able to see the entire course. They will stand on a ladder, truck or scaffolding to get a greater view of the field. The lure operator needs to be able to run the lure at a distance that gives the hounds a chance to adjust their body in anticipation of a turn or change in terrain. Often, if the lure operator can have some type of top level view of the field they will obtain a better perspective and provide safer operation of the lure.
ASFA recommends that the lure operator maintain the lure at least 10-30 yards ahead of the lead hound. This is where you separate a lure operator from a good lure operator and a great lure operator. This also leads to some debate as to which hound is the leading hound. The lead hound is not always the hound that is nearest to the lure. This is a common fallacy and leads to lure operators rewarding the cheating hound. This action, which appears to be a safe choice, can lead to a dangerous event later in the course.
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