Westbury duo to compete in World Agility Championships

A Westbury resident and her dog have qualified to represent Great Britain in the World Agility Championships in Switzerland. 

Claire Barton and her three-year-old cocker spaniel Woody will travel to Switzerland next June to compete against teams from around the world. The competition features dogs categorised by height, competing in a variety of obstacles, including jumps, tunnels and weave poles. 

Claire said, “This is the chance of a lifetime. If I don’t do it now, I might not have the opportunity to do it again.” 

Claire has been involved in dog agility for nearly ten years with her three dogs. “I got the bug for it, so I started doing competitions,” she said. “It’s all grown from there.”

Claire and Woody completed several shows throughout the summer to qualify for the championships. Woody has now achieved the highest grade, Grade 7. 

Claire said, “I set myself a challenge to have a go at it. It was such an achievement to get an invitation to attend try-outs. I didn’t think I would get through!” 

The competition is completely self-funded, which prompted Claire to set up a GoFundMe page. She aims to raise money for the cost of travel, accommodation, kit and essential dog vaccines for the trip. 

“It’s exciting, but there is a lot to sort out and organise,” Claire said. “Ensuring my dog and me are healthy is the most important thing.” 

Claire aims to raise £1,000 towards the expenses associated with the competition. To support her journey, donations can be made at her GoFundMe page: https://www.gofundme.com/f/clairewoody-team-gb.