David & Black Knight: The Work Behind a National Certificate of Merit
Black Knight-
The Work Behind a National Certificate of Merit
Some ribbons carry more than a result. They carry the hours spent training, the lessons that took time to understand, and the quiet progress that begins to hold when the conditions get difficult.
Congratulations to David and his cocker, Black Knight, on earning a Certificate of Merit at the 2026 National Amateur Cocker Championship in Roy, Montana. Finishing a National is an accomplishment in itself. Finishing in tough conditions and coming away with a Certificate of Merit gives David plenty to be proud of.
For those of us who have watched the work along the way, this moment means a great deal. We also want to add that David had his two other cockers Cheater, and Minks in the National as well. David added that he was really happy how they both did for him.
The hours behind the result
David has put many training hours into his cockers, and that commitment is beginning to show. Progress comes through spending time with the dogs, working through questions, and learning to recognise what each dog needs.
Todd has put training into David’s dogs, but an equally valuable part of their work together has been helping David understand the process: what the dog is learning, why a lesson matters, and how his own timing and handling influence the outcome.
A dog’s training needs to carry over to the person holding the lead. That takes work together, room for questions, and a willingness to keep learning.
Keeping the process moving
That guidance continues beyond their time in the field together. David and Todd still have those occasional phone conversations to talk through the dogs’ progress, answer questions, and help David stay on the right path.
Sometimes a conversation helps a handler see a lesson more clearly. Sometimes it helps him recognise where the dog needs more time. Those exchanges are part of the ongoing work of developing a dog and learning to handle it well.
David deserves credit for the hours he has put in and his willingness to follow the process. Todd can establish lessons and offer direction, but David has to carry that understanding into his own training and, ultimately, onto the trial grounds.
At this National, David and Black Knight - Blackie had something to show for that work.
A moment worth enjoying
Todd and I, along with the entire Craney Hill family, are proud and happy for you, David. We know how much goes into reaching this point, and it is a pleasure to see your commitment rewarded.
Take a moment to let it sink in, my friend. Enjoy that dog, that ribbon, and everything it took to get there.
Cheers to you and Black Knight.
Todd & Christina
