Desert Southwest Cup-March 7th & 8th 2026-Sonoita, Arizona

a UKC Field Trial & Hunt Test Hosted By:

Epagneul Bretons of the Southwest (UKC Club AZ-51)

Korthals Griffon Desert Southwest (UKC Club AZ-53)

Join us for an unforgettable weekend celebrating the art of bird dogs in the beautiful Southwest desert. Hosted by Epagneul Bretons of the Southwest and Korthals Griffon Desert Southwest, this event is a testament to the passion and dedication of two clubs united by their love for pointing breeds.

The first annual Desert Southwest Cup invites you to showcase your dog’s talent, connect with like-minded enthusiasts, and compete for top honors. Together, we are bringing the best of both clubs to create an event that uplifts handlers, dogs, and the rich traditions of the sport.

This exciting event is open to all UKC Pointing Breeds and features a variety of walking field trials and hunt tests to challenge handlers and dogs alike. Don’t miss your chance to participate in the run for The Cup, where the winners of each GUN & OPEN class go head-to-head in a thrilling Sunday runoff.

Event Details

When: Saturday, March 7, 2026 & Sunday, March 8, 2026

Where: Maternity Wells at Empire Ranch near Sonoita, AZ (GPS Coordinates: 31.76247, -110.66599)

What’s Happening: Liberated Field Trials & Tests featuring:

  • OPEN Braces: $80/dog
  • OPEN Solo: $80/dog
  • GUN Solo: $80/dog
  • GUN w/ TAN: $95/dog
  • TAN: $55/dog
  • WRT: $55/dog

Chukars will be used for trials (bobwhite quail may substitute as backup). Note: Unless otherwise noted, no GPS/Locator collars will be allowed.

Compete for The Cup: Dogs entered in the Open and Gun classes are eligible to compete for The Cup in a thrilling Sunday afternoon runoff. Winners will earn bragging rights and recognition, though The Cup holds no official UKC affiliation.

Entry Deadline: February 25, 2026. [Late entries may be accepted at the discretion of the Trial Chairman.]

Event Highlights:

  • Judges: To Be Announced
  • Saturday Awards Ceremony: Following all events
  • Sunday Awards: Immediately after trial activities

Accommodations:

  • Dry Camping/RV Parking: Available at Maternity Wells (self-contained only).
  • Sleeping Dog Ranch (5 miles away)/RV Parking with Hookups
  • Nearby Lodging: Sonoita (10–15 minutes away), or Tucson/Vail (30–45 minutes away).

Getting There: From Tucson/I-10: Take I-10 East and exit AZ-83 South. Follow AZ-83 South for 18.6 miles, passing the US Border Patrol Checkpoint. Turn left onto E Empire Ranch Road and follow signs to Maternity Wells. From Sonoita: Take AZ-83 North for 6.5 miles. Turn right onto E Empire Ranch Road and follow signs to Maternity Wells.

 

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