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The world sheepdog trials - 240 border collies and their handlers come to County Down to compete to be crowned champion. Only 42 can make it to the semi-finals. Who鈥檒l make the cut?

Narrated by Clare Balding, this three-part series follows the action at the triannual world sheepdog trials.

Thousands of enthusiasts and supporters from across the world descend on a rural country estate outside Dromore, County Down, for the event. It's the first time that Northern Ireland has hosted the competition.

Over the course of four days, 240 of the world鈥檚 best sheepdog handlers and their trusted dogs are tasked with moving packs of unpredictable sheep around a course, against the clock and under the critical eye of the judges in a bid to be crowned world champion.

Episode one kicks off with the first day of the qualifying rounds. With just 42 places up for grabs in the semi-finals, everyone鈥檚 prepared to face stiff competition, no-one more so than French handler Cathy. Competing with her beloved dog Ash and watched by the small army of fans who鈥檝e travelled all the way from their village in France to support her, how will she fare when faced with a pack of unpredictable blackface sheep?

Also in the running is Swedish champion Johanna. Like many competitors, she鈥檚 spent thousands of pounds and travelled thousands of miles to be here. Can she and her dog ZStill showcase their skill when it counts?

For current Scottish champion Chris, originally from County Down, will competing with a breed of sheep he鈥檚 used to working with be an advantage for him and loyal canine companion Mace? And will 21-year-old Shannon from County Londonderry and her trusty dog Chip make the grade at their first ever world trials?

In a competition where the brains of humans, dogs and sheep must unite to succeed, anything can happen.

4 months left to watch

29 minutes

Last on

Sat 13 Apr 2024 16:45

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Credits

Role Contributor
Series Producer Jane Magowan
Executive Producer Tracie O'Neill

Broadcasts

  • Mon 8 Apr 2024 20:00
  • Sat 13 Apr 2024 16:45

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