About David Latham
Watch David's introduction of his 2024 FENDAWOOD STUD DOGS
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Being introduced to gun dogs at a young age by my father, a rough shoot and rabbiting enthusiast; in 1978 I was given my first Labrador, Gunstock Sally - a black bitch, with whom I forged a close bond.
Becoming increasingly serious about my new hobby; a growing interest in handling led me to attend the gallery at Checkley Wood Field Trial in 1986. This made such an impression that I telephoned Sandra Halstead that night to reserve a black Labrador - Drakeshead Matt. First success came in 1989 during my very first novice trial with the Three Ridings Labrador Retriever Club. The elation of bringing that Winning Trophy home meant I was hooked!
As my handling developed, I set myself three goals: To make a dog up to Field Trial Champion-(now achieved nine times). To win an IGL Retriever Championship-(there have been 4 since 2003). Be selected for the England Team - (first achieved at the Game Fair 2006). |
Those early years were invaluable in moulding me into a handler who has now qualified for 21 I.G.L. Retriever Championships, (running 2 dogs at the 2018 and 2022 IGL and 3 at the 2023 IGL) winning it on four occasions; as well as making up Nine Field Trial Champions. Those ambitions have taken me far and in 2010 I made the decision to give up a full-time career as a coach builder with Bentley Motors and turn professional with my dogs.
I am sponsored by GUNDOG GEAR whose excellent range of quality products for gun dog equipment and clothing is in constant use by me and my dogs.
In 2015 I was pleased to be sponsored SNEY'DS WONDERFOODS. Sneyd’s is a family owned and operated company incorporating three generations of the same family and over 30 years of experience in manufacturing quality pet food products for the working mans' pocket. I have fed Wonderdog for a couple of years now and am very happy with the condition of my dogs.
My thanks go to Animal Transit Boxes Ltd (www.animaltransitboxes.com) - for providing such a perfect concept, high quality solution; giving my dogs maxium space and comfort.
FTCH & Int Ch. Beileys Aguzannis Of Fendawood agrees! HIGH FIVE BEILEY!
In 2015 I was pleased to be sponsored SNEY'DS WONDERFOODS. Sneyd’s is a family owned and operated company incorporating three generations of the same family and over 30 years of experience in manufacturing quality pet food products for the working mans' pocket. I have fed Wonderdog for a couple of years now and am very happy with the condition of my dogs.
My thanks go to Animal Transit Boxes Ltd (www.animaltransitboxes.com) - for providing such a perfect concept, high quality solution; giving my dogs maxium space and comfort.
FTCH & Int Ch. Beileys Aguzannis Of Fendawood agrees! HIGH FIVE BEILEY!
My thanks also to Skinners Dog Foods for providing their assistance in sponsoring the International Skinners World Cup and many other events from club level, to help promote our sport.
When John Halstead retired after the 2014 C.L.A. Game Fair; I was chosen to embark upon a new challenge - that of England Retriever Team Captain.
Whilst John was a hard act to follow; I had some experience of the role from being in caretaker charge during 2011; when I was doubly proud as the England Team won the World Cup and Game Fair that year. Having the continued support and friendship of John and Sandra Halstead, is invaluable and greatly appreciated.
The role brought with it, new pressures and challenges, not least the knowledge that the other teams are coming up fast.
The England Team have won many awards during my captaincy, from which I retired after the 2025 Game Fair - which saw a worthwhile ENGLAND WIN! I wish the next England Captain the best of luck for the future.
When John Halstead retired after the 2014 C.L.A. Game Fair; I was chosen to embark upon a new challenge - that of England Retriever Team Captain.
Whilst John was a hard act to follow; I had some experience of the role from being in caretaker charge during 2011; when I was doubly proud as the England Team won the World Cup and Game Fair that year. Having the continued support and friendship of John and Sandra Halstead, is invaluable and greatly appreciated.
The role brought with it, new pressures and challenges, not least the knowledge that the other teams are coming up fast.
The England Team have won many awards during my captaincy, from which I retired after the 2025 Game Fair - which saw a worthwhile ENGLAND WIN! I wish the next England Captain the best of luck for the future.
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Sponsors of David Latham
