05-10-2009:
Stadskanaal: excellent for Pietro
Pietro
and Rommert Hazenberg have won the field trial in Stadskanaal,
last Saturday. In the open class judge Peter Eering rewarded them
with a first place Excellent, which is a very good achievement.
Our good friend Klaas Hindriks did also well. With his small Münsterlander
Bente he scored a qualification and was placed second. At the
field trial in Hoofdplaat, Jeroen Lohman and Flint redeemed themselves
for their performance of last week. They were given an honourable
mention by judge Cor Woets.
28-09-2009:
Westernieland: qualification but no win for bracco
The
beautiful late summer weather lasts even into autumn. The dogs
that competed in the field trial in Westernieland, showed their
stuff under a cloudless sky in a warm breeze. The early harvest
of sugar beets did make it difficult to find appropriate fields.
Despite this the competitors who had travelled all the way to
the North of the country had plenty to be happy about. The trials
(youth and open class) resulted in five qualifications: two in
the youth class and three in the open class. One bracco in the
open class scored a qualification. Rommert Hazenberg and his Pietro
were placed third with a qualification ZG (very good). The other
bracco's: Pralina with Wim van den Dam, Flint with Jeroen Lohman
and Hidalgo with Marieke, did not score a qualification.
21-09-2009:
youth field trial Retranchement: braccos again successful
For
the third time in three weeks a Bracco Italiano has managed to
win a field trial. The fact that the winners are three different
braccos makes this feat even more remarkable. This time, on Saturday
September 19, the field trial for juvenile dogs was held in Retranchement
in the south-western part of the Netherlands. The trial was organised
by the Dutch Bracco Italiano Club (BIC). Eleven dogs, among which
four braccos, competed against each other on the beautiful fields
of the hunting combination Dossche. Their fields are renowned
for their immense pheasant- and partridge populations. Piet van
Iwaarden en Jan-Arie Dekker, field supervisors and members of
Dossche, weren’t at all surprised that most dogs encountered birds
during their runs, even under the difficult circumstances on the
day of the trial. At the end of the day, four competitors were
mentioned by judge Henk Companjen. Rob van der Schaft, the chairman
of the BIC, and his Bracco Donna, received an honorable mention
for his first performance on a field trial. Wim van Rossum and
his Bracco Italiano Vito were rewarded with a qualification Good,
which earned them a second place. The first place went to ‘locals’
Jeroen Lohman and his Bracco Flint. They also received a qualification
Good.
05-09-2009:
Promessa wins in Eexterveen
Promessa
scored her first point in a field trial in the open class (VG).
During the first field trial, organised by the Dutch Bracco Italiano
Club and held in Eexterveen, Promessa showed some good work which
resulted in a steady point. Delizia who was also entered in the
trial, did also very well. Her very sound work didn't get her
any birds, but she did deserve a honourable mention and the praise
of the head judge Peter Eering. The third qualification of the
day went to Jetty Bruggeman and her small Münsterlander Biene.
She was also rewarded with an honourable mention. Half of all
competitors in this field trial were braccos. This gave this milestone
for the Bracco Italiano Club even more shine. The hunting combination
Eexterveen that gracefully offered the use of their fields to
the organizers, had a special prize for the winner of the day.
Marieke was rewarded with the 'Woeste Wal' trophy, a prize in
commemoration of Loa and Pieter Poppinga who passed away last
year and who have been members of the hunting combination for
many years.
25-08-2009:
Promessa and brothers and sisters turn three
Many
happy returns to Promessa and all her brothers and sisters and
their owners. We wish all a very happy birthday and many years
in good health. On the photo 'birthday boys' Pascal (above) and
Aiello
18-08-2009:
flying start duck season
Only
one day in the season, Promessa got the chance to go on her first
duck hunt. On a beautiful summer's evening on the fields of northern
Groningen, she retrieved her first freshly shot duck. During this
session hunter Klaas Hindriks also shot a crow, which was retrieved
by his small münsterlander Donna. After that Promessa got
a chance on retrieving the freshly killed crow. After some hesitation
she performed her chore admirably and brought the bird, which
is not a popular quarry for retrieving dogs, to Marieke.
13-07-2009:
Anthony and Ineke: reunion with Max
Only
seven months Anthony and Ineke had to make one of the toughest
decisions of their lives. They had to find a new home for their
companion Max. Fortunately Max did find a new place to live with
Wil and Adrie on the Dutch island Texel. Times have been difficult
for Ineke and Anthony, but finally they found the courage to go
and see how Max is doing. It was a wonderful reunion. The two
left Texel with the reassuring feeling that Max is doing very
well. Seeing that Max is very happy in his new home, was the perfect
way for Ineke and Anthony to close their period of grieve.
30-03-2009:
field trial spring season started
Promessa
had a slow start in the field trials, this spring. She clearly
had some difficulties adapting to her first trials in the open
class. The first two trials didn't produce any positive results
for Marieke and Promessa. Pietro, Promessa's brother, did better.
Together with Rommert Hazenberg he scored a qualification in the
novice class. The spring trials showed the continuation of a positive
trend. More and more braccos are finding the way the field trial
circuit.
30-03-2009:
first Australian litter: one orange dog
Diva,
the first Australian Bracco Italiano, owned by Chris and Yvette
Girling, has given birth to one orange dog. This puppy is the
first Bracco Italiano born on Australian soil. First scans of
Diva during her pregnancy, showed six puppies. Unfortunately all
but one were absorbed. The remaining puppy was delivered by caesarian.
Both mother and puppy are doing well. The puppy was conceived
by artificial insemination with the semen of Axel del Monte Alago,
which was imported into Australia.
02-03-2009:
Promessa BOB in Groningen
A
very good result for Promessa at the Martini dog show in Groningen.
In a somewhat limited lineup Promessa was rewarded with Best of
Breed. This qualification earned Promessa the much desired point
she needed to become a Dutch champion. Like previous shows Promessa
was professionally showed by our 'house handler' Jolien van der
Meer.
03-02-2009:
Relatives for Promessa in Australia
If
everything goes according to plan, Promessa will have Australian
relatives in two months time. Diva (Heinaaron Molto in Voga),
owned by Australian vets Chris and Yvette Girling, has been successfully
inseminated with semen from Axel del Monte Alago. For Chris and
Yvette, who visited Vicini in 2006, this is a very special event.
At the moment Diva is the only Bracco Italiano in Australia and
her litter will probably be the start of an Australian line of
braccos. Many congratulations to the lucky owners of Diva. We
keep our fingers crossed for a successful delivery and healthy
puppies.
08-12-2008:
Max moves to Texel
Max,
the bracco owned by Ineke, Anthony and daughter Pleun from Rosmalen,
has found a new place to live. Because Pleun has severe allergic
reactions to dogs, Ineke and Anthony were forced make a very tough
decision and find a new home for their companion. They found that
new home on the island Texel, where Max will live with Wil and
Adrie. This couple is familiar with taking in braccos that need
a new home. Earlier this year they took in old bracco Jupiter
and gave him a pleace where he truly enjoyed the last months of
his life. Last Sunday Ineke, Anthony and Marieke took Max to his
new home on Texel. Saying goodbye was incredibly difficult for
Ineke and Anthony. But they found some comfort in knowing that
Max is welcomed with love and attention and will be surrounded
by miles of space to run, play and explore. Next to Wil en Adrie,
Max is sharing his new home with great Dane Murphy and spinone
Figaro.
02-12-2008:
Winner 2008, lots of laughs with old acquaintances
The
Winner 2008 in Amsterdam was a perfect opportunity for Vicini
to get reacquainted with old friends. Lynne Bowley from Elgin
in Scotland stayed with us in Kleine Huisjes. She offered to show
Promessa and Pietro. Despite the somewhat disappointing results,
it was a great day with a lot of laughs. Lynne arrived in The
Netherlands on Friday. She was invited by the hunting group Eexterveen
to join them on a pheasant hunt.
21-10-2008:
Delizia ends season in style
Delizia
has ended her field trial season in style. In the champions match
in Zoutkamp her steady work was rewarded with a first place and
the qualification 'good'. The qualification was mainly the result
of an excellent run by Delizia. For the runner there are plenty
of points of improvement for next season. The result in Zoutkamp
is representative of the performance of Vicini dogs Delizia, Promessa,
Pietro, Gaeta and newcomer Pralina, have shown in the field this
year. In 2008 more braccos than ever attended the field trials.
This raises hope for the future and might be an added incentive
for the Bracco Italiano Club to organise their own field trial
in next year's season.
11-10-2008:
Germany 2008, again well received
The
training weekend in Germany has again been well received by the
participants from The Netherlands, Germany and Finland. On the
fields around Osbevern they were instructed in the work before
and after the shot. The search and point part of the weekend was
led by Czech trainer and fieldwork specialist Jan Korcián. With
a velvet glove he guided the participants and their dogs through
the field. The second part of the weekend was led by Paul de Vos,
a well known Dutch hunter and authority on dog behaviour. According
to some of the participants Paul earns to be called a guru in
his field. He helped the participants to have their dogs to mark
and retrieve. Paul also staged a hunt, assisted by 'gun' Hedze
de Hoop. On the evening before the weekend started Paul gave a
lecture on dog behaviour, which was very well received by everyone.
We thank our German bracco-friend Harald Koska and his family
for again a flawless organisation of the event. We also thank
Paul de Vos and Jan Korcián and his translator Iveta Pražáková.
Their inspiration and motivation made the weekend an unforgettable
event. Also many thanks to Hans de Jong who endured wind and rain
with his camera equipment. And last but not least thanks to Hedze
de Hoop who for providing the weekend with the feel of a real
hunt.
28-09-2008:
penny drops: Promessa 1st Exc. in Westernieland
In
more than one way it was a brilliant day, Saturday September 26.
At the fiel trial in Westernieland the weather was good and Promessa
was even better. She finshed the trial with a clear win and the
qualification excellent. Judge Peter Eering praised the work Promessa
showed in the beets, the carrots and the potatoes, effortless
adapting to the different types of vegetation. During her first
run Promessa showed her talent by systematically using the entire
field. The real score came during the final run where Promessa
showed a rock solid point in the side of a ditch. She fixated
the pheasant and only after the order was given by Marieke, the
bird was flushed. Promessa's success in Westernieland was preceded
by a 2nd place, VG at Friday's field trial in Gieten. It seems
like the penny has dropped for Promessa.
20-09-2008:
Wim and Pralina score at Field trial Dirksland
Relative
newcomers to the field trial circuit Wim van Dam and Pralina have
scored their first honourable mention. Wim and Pralina showed
some fine work at the trial in Dirksland. Their performance shows
a lot of promise for the future. The hours in field that Wim and
Pralina are putting in as a preparation for the first field trial
organised by the Bracco Italiano Club, are clearly paying off.
The trial was won by duo Rommert and Pietro who are on a definite
winning streak this season.
13-09-2008:
Field trial victories for Pietro and Delizia
Vicini
dogs Pietro and Delizia have been successful in different field
trials. Pietro and owner and runner Rommert Hazenberg earned in
Rilland their sixth qualification in nine field trials. With some
steady work they won the trial. Delizia and Marieke did well during
the closing field trial of the Bracco Italiano Festival in the
Czech Republic. The duo won the trial. Delizia received the title
CAC T.
On
the picture Pietro with his steady 'show girlfriend' Jolien van
der Meer. The photo was taken at the clubmatch of the Bracco Italiano
Club, where Pietro managed to win his show class. Isotta did also
well, she was declared best bitch.
30-07-2008:
Vicini on the Game Fair
Vicini
has visited the CLA Game Fair in the picturesque estate Blenheim
Palace in Lincolnshire. This annual event is a paradise for hunters,
fishermen and gundog enthusiasts. One year before the Bracco Italiano
is recognised in the UK, Delizia, Promessa en three British braccos
treated the visitors of the Game Fair to a little foretaste in
the gundog parade. Our visit to the England and the Game Fair
was extra special because of the company of our good friends Trish
and Terry Salisbury who gracefully invited us to stay at their
place. Trish and Terry are members of the beating staff of the
Rushmore Estate. This gave us the opportunity to work our dogs
on the neighbouring fields.
20-07-2008:
Pietro and Rommert score in Italy
Rommert
Hazenberg and his Pietro dei Vicini del Monastero have shown that
they are on the right track in field work. The duo came third
in the open class, in the field trial which was held this morning
and is part of the raduno in Orvieto. Pietro was one of three
dogs that found a bird a showed a solid point. He was rewarded
with the qualification MB. First place in the field trial went
to Tema di Cascina Croce with a CACIT. Xeres delle Terre Alliana
got second place with a reserve CACIT. The day before Pietro entered
the working dog class on the dog show. Judge Evangelisti showed
his admiration for Pietro and rewarded him with the qualification
excellent.
27-05-2008:
gundogshow Bennekom: Pietro and Promessa successful
Brother
and sister Promessa did very well at the gundogshow on the estate
Hoekelum in Bennekom. Promessa was voted best Bracco Italiano
Bitch. Pietro copied this result in the male dog group. Later
he went on to beat his sister to be voted best of breed by Italian
judge Paolo Dondina, out of the twelve participating braccos.
18-05-2008:
Brogan: a daughter for housemate
Little
Cully is Brogan's new housemate. And not only that. Cully is actualy
Brogan's daughter. Mother Nuala gave birth to Cully and four other
puppies on March the 3rd and 4th. While the other puppies have
gone to their new owners, Cully was chosen to stay with Kim, Nuala,
Brogan and Kim's other braccos and spinones. Kim did a great job
reporting on the birth and the first months of the puppies. Her
report can be read by clicking here.
30-04-2008:
First results hip- and elbow-scores
The
first results of the hip- and elbow-scores of Isotta's puppies
have arrived. The owners of Brogan, Pomona, Pimpa, Pietro and
Promessa know that their Bracco has very good elbows and hips
(the best result possible). Shortly we expect to get the results
of the x-rays of Pinto, Isa, Pralina and Pascal.
6-04-2008:
Pietro, four in six
The
spring field trials confirm the expectations for the achievements
of Pietro and Rommert Hazenberg. Out of six trials, the couple
earned four qualifications: one Very Good, two Good and an honourable
mention. During the field trial in Breegden, last Monday, Pietro
made a solid point on a couple of partridges. This earned him
a 'Good' and third place. Last Saturday in Diessen Pietro didn't
manage to get a qualification, despite two good runs. Like Pietro
Promessa ended the day empty handed. She did however earn the
praise of the judge who commended her and Marieke on their good
teamwork. Promessa has shown good progress this spring. If she
keeps on showing the same quality of work she will soon start
earning qualifications.
6-04-2008:
grouse pointing test in Lauder
Training
in Scotland, in more ways an unforgettable experience, said Marieke
after a week in the Scottish Borders. Together with friends Trish
and Terry Salisbury, she participated in the Grouse Pointing test
organised by the British Bracco Italiano Society. In the hills
around Lauder fifteen dogs searched for grouse that live on the
moors. Promessa and Delizia had a hard time adjusting to new surroundings
and growth and a new species of bird. Despite very hard work,
they didn't manage a proper point. Trish and Terry's Polcevera's
Zagara did better. She managed a solid point on a grouse. Lynne
Bowley and Pomona dei Vicini del Monastero were also present in
Lauder. A perfect opportunity for a renewed acquaintance with
Promessa's sister and her owner.
29-03-2008:
Pietro: more than just a pretty face
Pietro
dei Vicini del Monastero has had a busy week. At the Easter Dog
Show in Leeuwarden last Monday, Pietro entered the ring with sister
Promessa and another Bracco Italano. Pietro was selected BOB en
was voted fourth in the group 7 line-up. Today Pietro competed
in the field, a place he likes a lot more than the show ring.
At the field trial organised by the German Shorthair Club and
held in IJzendijke, Pietro did battle with pointing dogs from
class A, B and C. He and his master Rommert Hazenberg showed they
have really mastered the game. A perfect point earned them the
qualification 'Good' in the youth class.
29-03-2008:
Vicini's hip- and elbow-party
Seven
brothers and sisters, all descendants of Isotta, met last Wednesday
at Hopmans clinic for hip and elbow X-rays. Even though the photos
aren't officially judged, vet Egidius Wientjes was impressed about
the quality of the joints of all the dogs. After X-rays were taken
the group went to the woods in neighbouring Peize for a brisk
walk and soup and coffee in Kleine Huisjes. All the owners of
the Dutch descendants of Isotta agreed in having both hips and
elbows X-rayed. They now all meet the Vicini standard and the
breeding standard issued by the Dutch Bracco Italiano Club.
22-03-2008:
extra spring training in Savona
'The
more you know, the more there is to learn'. With this thought
in their minds Marieke and Rommert drove to Italy for spring training
camp. With an increasing level of experience in field work comes
a healthy dose of self-criticism. Especially in the details there
is a lot of room for improvement. The specific task this time,
was working on the position of the head of the competing dogs.
To achieve this, a secret weapon was deployed: Giuseppe Brugnone's
braga. Contrary to the ordinary bragas (trot harnesses) this Brugnone's
braga gives special support to the throat during the trot. The
dog who uses it will automatically keep its head high. The training
was especially successful for Promessa who is a little behind
in her development, compared to brother Pietro. It seems like
the coin has dropped for her. She completed a couple of faultless
points on birds hiding in the brushes. As usual on these trips,
there was ample opportunity to enjoy 'la dolce vita' with friends
Angela, Paolo and Vittoria and the staff of agriturismo La Vallata.
16-03-2008:
Tilburg trilogy the first runs of the season
With
three successive field trials around and near Tilburg, the spring
field season is well and truely opened. Last week Pietro didn't
manage to copy his previouw result he didn't find any birds and
left the field without a point. Promessa didn't do much better.
Last saturday Rommert and Marieke split up as Rommert and Pietro
had a junior trial in Hilvarenbeek while Marieke and Delizia entered
the open class in Tilburg. None of the competitors in the open
class found any birds in their first run. Delizia and a couple
of other dogs were allowed a second run, without much success.
Rommert and Pietro did better. They didn't manage a full point
but were rewarded with an honourable mention.
01-03-2008:
field Trial Tilburg: Pietro in shape
The
spring field trial season literally had a stormy start. Heavy
wind gusts gave the competitors an extra challenge on the fields
around Tilburg. Marieke and Promessa and Rommert Hazenberg and
Pietro had braved the weather to enter the first field trial of
the season. For Pietro and Rommert it turned out to be their first
win of the season. Pietro worked the field flawlessly, finding
a covey of partridges and fixating them. His work earned Pietro
a full point, which was enough to win the trial. Promessa also
did well, but she didn't manage to find any birds. Compared to
her brother she isn't quite there yet. But she is making progress
with every trial she enters. In between competition there was
time for a mini family reunion, when Wim van Dam and Pralina showed
up to cheer for her brother and sister.
29-02-2008:
Hunting book: Delizia covermodel and centrefold
Delizia's
picture is featured on the hunting book 'Wat een jachthond moet
weten' (what every huntingdog should know) written by well known
writer, Bracco Italiano owner and friend of Vicini, Paul de Vos.
The book teaches dog owners step by step to train their dog to
become an allround hunting companion. Delizia is also featured
on a two page spread at the start of the chapter about field training.
Until now the book has only been published in Dutch. Anyone who
understands the Dutch language or feels challenged by this can
order the book by clicking here.
10-02-2008:
events for 2008: Czech Republic and Germany
It
is early days yet, but keep a spot open in your calendar for the
Bracco Italiano-festival from 10 to 13 September in the Czech
Republic. The final program isn't ready yet. But it is certain
that participants can enter in several workshops and trainings
concerning hunting abilities. On the final day everyone can participate
in an official field trial. Organiser Iveta Pražáková has invited
a number of well known Bracco Italiano-authorities. All Bracco
Italiano-owners and -enthusiasts are welcome to join. Keep an
eye on this website for more news are send us an e-mail if you
are interested.
From
3 to 5 October we are organising another Bracco Italiano get together
in Germany. The event will be open for all Bracco Italiano owners.
We are inviting several well known hunting experts to give workshops
for every level. As last year we will work together with our German
connection Harald Koska.
26-01-2008:
short break in Sweden
Without
hesitation Marieke accepted the invitation to accompany her friend
Ilonne to her summer home in the Swedish town of Överlida. Together
with her two braccos Verdell and Roma, Ilonne 'commutes' between
her home in Zeewolde and Sweden. Even though Marieke had brought
Promessa and Isotta along on the trip, there was no hunting this
time. Together they enjoyed the scenery on long walks and did
some training in the neighbouring woods. Ilonne and Marieke did
visit Anki Skrucha, who runs the Bracco Italiano kennel Ensemble
not far from Överlida.
23-12-2007:
whistling against breast cancer
A
whistle should be part of every serious dog lover's outfit. So
why not support the battle against breast cancer while you buy
a new dog whistle? Well known whistle manufacturer Acme started
making a pink whistle with which you support the battle against
this dreadful desease and the research for new treatments. With
your pink whistle you also make a statement; that you are a supporter
of this very worthy cause. The wistle and more information (partly
in Dutch) can be obtained by clicking here.
02-12-2007:
Delizia on the news
A
week after the broadcast we received the message that Delizia
was the star of the youth journal, a news program for children,
on Sunday November 25. The program had an item about the Winner
show in Amsterdam. The production team had chosen Delizia to fill
the background as the item was announced. Click here
to view the item.
01-12-2007:
Brogan: excellent hip- and elbow-score
Great
news from England. Kim Parris called to tell us the news of the
hip- and elbow-score of Brogan. The score is splendid for hips
(3:3) and for elbows (0:0). Brogan is the first of the puppies
of Isotta who had his hips and elbows checked. In The Netherlands
Brogans brothers and sisters will have to wait until they are
18 months old before they are allowed to be x-rayed.
01-12-2007:
wine and olive oil with a Bracco Italiano-label
Na
nice idea to dress up the Christmas dining table of the Bracco
Italiano fan. Wine family Formichi of the Bonomonte estate in
the Chianti region in Tuscany, makes a lovely red win with on
the label an expression of the family's other passion: the Bracco
Italiano. The estate also has its own olive oil-press. The Formichi's
have a very nice olive oil in their assortment, that has also
been decorated with a Bracco Italiano on the label. To order the
wine of the olive oil from the Formichi family, contact the maker
directly by clicking here,
or by clicking on the link on our links-page.
27-11-2007:
Winner 2007: Promessa and Pietro make an impression
Vicini-youngsters
Promessa and Pietro were very successful on the Winner show in
Amsterdam. Brother and sister made a lasting impression on the
judge who declared Pietro, owned by Rommert Hazenberg, as winner
of the youth-class best male bracco. Promessa scored the same
result in the youth-class best bitch and she went on after that.
She was declared best bitch overall in a well represented line-up.
Pietro lost in the best male overall line-up to show veteran Nino,
owned by Sonja Weber. Marieke and Rommert were very happy with
the show results of Promessa and Pietro. As both dogs are still
very young, Marieke and Rommert expect that there is still a lot
of room for improvement. The success on the Winner was the crown
on a very good year for Promessa and Pietro. Both dogs had shown
some very good performances in the field trial circuit, earlier
this year. Pietro even managed to win a trial with a full qualification.
Young
handler Jolien van der Meer was partially responsible for the
success of the Vicini dogs on the Winner. She showed several braccos
among which Pietro. Delizia also made an appearance on the Winner.
She accompanied Jolien in the junior handler competition.
12-11-2007:
beating on the Rushmore estate
Delizia
and Promessa have been initiated in the traditional British bird
shoot. Marieke and her dogs were invited by gamekeeper Rob Taylor
to join him with the beating crew on a three day shoot on the
Rushmore estate in Dorset. Marieke joined Trish and Terry Salisbury
who are regular beaters on the Rushmore estate. They worked together
their dogs to drive pheasants and partridges into the game crop
and from there over the hunters in the valley. Rushmore estate
is one of the most prolific hunting estates in England. It is
very popular as a hunting resort for the 'rich and famous'.
While
in England, Marieke took the opportunity to also visit Kim and
Brogan and Jan and Izzy.
04-11-2007:
Mixed bag in Ostbevern
At
the recap of the bracco-gathering, host Harald Koska invited Marieke
and Paul for a day's hunting. Marieke and Delizia and Paul and
his flatcoated retriever Pride joined Harald and his friends last
Saturday to hunt the fields near Münster. It was a great day out
with a mixed bag of hare, pheasant, wood pigeon, a marten and
a woodcock. Experienced hunter Paul de Vos was happily surprised
by the variety of game they encountered. 'I think this is because
of the way the farmers work the land here. Agriculture is much
more small-scaled than in The Netherlands. This leaves room for
crops that aren't interesting for the farmers, but supply animals
with cover and food.' At the ceremonial end of the hunt Marieke
and Paul were invited for another hunt in December. Then Harald,
Paul and Marieke will maybe discuss the plans for a new bracco-gathering
in 2008.
23-10-2007:
Field trials: looking back on the autumn
The
field trial season has come to an end. We look back with an overall
feeling of satisfaction. The season, which lasted for one and
a half month, didn't produce a wealth of qualifications; even
though Promessa did earn a honourable mention and Pietro won the
youth class with a full point. But as a learning experience the
trials have been invaluable. Besides this, the performances of
Promessa, Pietro, Gaeta and Delizia really stood out. During all
evaluations they were mentioned and complimented on their good
course, their hunting passion and hunting intelligence. Spectators
told us that they thought it a joy to watch the Braccos work in
the field. Especially in the open class, scoring a qualification
is very difficult. Everything should be right and the slightest
disturbance can mess up a good run. The results of this season
are an extra motivation for us to put even more effort in training.
Steadyness on the shot, retrieving and the disregard of hares,
could all be better. The past couple of years we have met a lot
of experienced 'field-trial friends' in and outside The Netherlands,
who are willing to share their knowledge and experience with us.
But as for now we are already proud that our hard work is putting
the Bracco Italiano with its passion and great nose, back on the
map in the Dutch field trials.
01-10-2007:
Show Maastricht: Vicini family reunion
The
international dog show in Maastricht was the scene of a small
family reunion of the brothers and sisters of Promessa. Besides
Promessa, Aiello, Pralina and Pietro had entered the show. Valero,
Isotta's brother also entered the show ring in Maastricht. All
participants agreed that the show results were less important
than meeting up again and exchanging stories, in the conference-centre
in Maastricht. However, the expert opinion of judge Rutten about
Isotta's descendents, was much appreciated by all the 'contestants'.
29-09-1007:
Promessa Honourable mention in Gieten
The
field trials in Gieten (Friesland) have resulted in a honourable
mention for Promessa. She made good use of the field during her
runs. Promessa did get scent of a pheasant but didn't manage to
fixate the bird, so she wasn't rewarded with a full point. Rommert
Hazenberg entered the trial with Pietro and Gaeta. Both dogs showed
good work. Unfortunately the work didn't pay off in a qualification.
In spite of that both Rommert and Marieke were very satisfied
with their performance and that of the dogs. Pietro seems to come
closer and closer to becoming a full competitor for the open class.
Gaeta is a constant factor and Promessa is progressing with each
trial.
29-09-2007:
Trip to Germany in the local newspaper
Our
German host Harald Koska is ready to welcome the participants
of the training-weekend in Ostbevern. The preparations haven't
escaped the attention of the local media. Last week the regional
newspaper published an article with photos announcing the get
together in the fields around Ostbevern. Click here
to read the article. Next Friday the participants leave for Germany
for two days of practice and especially having fun with their
braccos. A full report and photos will follow.
26-09-2007:
Zagara: foster parents say goodbye
A
few tears were shed in Deurne when bracco Zagara left for her
new home in England. Last spring Zagara was collected at Maurizio
Sodini's kennel in Genoa. Because she wasn't allowed to enter
the UK and follow the owners Trish and Terry (photo: right, behind),
she was temporarily looked after by 'foster families' Marjan and
Leo (photo: next to Trish) and Carolien and Oscar. The past months
both families spent a lot of time with the upbringing and socialisation
of Zagara. And it shows, Zagara is a very friendly and healthy
dog. Although the 'foster parents' found saying goodbye very difficult,
they were happy for Trish and Terry who had been counting the
days.
24-09-2007:
Braccos 'special guest' at 60 years Small Münsterlander-club
Delizia
and Gaeta showed excellent work during the two day field trial
organised to celebrate the sixtieth anniversary of the Small Münsterlander-club.
The two braccos and runners Marieke and Rommert showed good form.
Unfortunately the confrontations with birds didn't result in a
point. Marieke did earn a honourable mention however. Both judges
complimented her with the good progression of Delizia and the
skillful work of Marieke as dog runner. Rommert and Gaeta showed
some very good work on the second day of the event. Judge Woets
-a Dutch authority on field work- complimented Gaeta on her aggressive
approach and her good sense for and use of wind direction. He
offered Rommert and Gaeta a private instruction session, later
this year. Among the seventeen participating dogs a total of four
points were presented. Two of which were given to the experienced
Henrik Andersen from Denmark. Andersen proposed that a special
trophy should be presented to the best dog runner. A prize that,
according to him, should go to Marieke. The braccos of Marieke
and Rommert are becoming welcome guests in the field trial circuit.
The continuous good work shown by Delizia and Gaeta received a
special mention in the closing speech of the event. The speaker
called them an example for working pointing dogs in The Netherlands.
18-09-2007:
Pietro comes first: win in field trials in Andelst
Pietro
dei Vicini del Monastero has won the field trials, held in Andelst.
Pietro and owner Rommert Hazenberg managed to exploit the already
well-trodden field. With a couple of swift turns Pietro found
and shortly fixated a partridge. Because the bird had been chased
out of its cover several times before, Pietro didn't manage a
very long 'point'. In spite of that Rommert was proud of his youngest
bracco. 'Pietro stood like a house', he said. 'He held his head
up and did his utmost to keep the bird in its place. It was a
short, but a real arręt.' Pietro and Rommert received a full point
and the qualification Good, which earned them a first place. For
Rommert this result was the proof that you can only succeed in
field work, if you are prepared to put in many hours of training.
Promessa and Marieke also competed in Andelst. Unfortunately Promessa
was less successful than her brother. She showed some good work,
but didn't find any birds. Marieke isn't worried however. The
season has just started and Promessa is progressing by the week.
Besides, it looks like Delizia an Gaeta have manage to maintain
the shape they were in last spring, which brought them a lot of
fine results.
04-09-2007:
Germany: all preparations are made
The
trip to Germany is fully booked. Last weekend we visited Harald
Koska in Germany to make the last arrangements and to check out
the fields and accommodation. Everything is ready for an unforgettable
couple of days of hunting-instruction. The initiative has aroused
the interest of the local media. A reporter of the local newspaper
came by to shoot some photos she will publish with an article
next October and the local TV-station promised to pay the group
a visit when they are busy training next October.
31-08-2007:
Lisa: new blood for Vicini
We
did already show a couple of pictures of our Lisa. And now it
is time for a proper introduction. Lisa swapped her birthplace
Genoa for our kitchen in Kleine Huisjes. She is a puppy from the
combination Pauso dei Bricchi (male) and Fiesta dell'Oltrepň.
We think that she is certainly an asset for the Dutch Bracco Italiano
population. As for now we are more involved in helping Lisa grow
up. She already feels at home at our place. And she is already
-sometimes even lovingly- accepted by the older ladies, who help
out with the upbringing.
25-08-2007:
happy birthday puppies!
It
is time to celebrate in eleven homes in The Netherlands, the UK
and Switzerland. Isotta's puppies had their first birthday today.
Many happy returns to all Promessa's brothers and sisters, and
many more years in good health!
25-08-2007:
computercrash fixed, e-mails gone
If
you have sent us an e-mail in the past couple of weeks and haven't
received a reply, please send us the e-mail again. A fault in
one of the computers has caused problems in our reception of e-mails,
the past couple of weeks. The problems nearly resulted in a crash
of our network, but luckily we were able to fix it in time. A
lot of e-mails however, have never reached us or were destroyed
with the recovery action.The system is now up and running again.
29-07-2007:
Website BIC online
The
website of the Dutch Bracco Italiano Club (BIC) is online. After
a change of board and president, the website went offline. Thanks
to the efforts of Bracco-fanatic and internet-specialist Hans
de Jong, the Club has a new site. Hans has spent many hours in
building and developing a new look for the website. Some of the
section are still under construction. But this will soon change.
To visit the BIC-website click here
for a direct link, or go to our 'links'
page.
15-07-2007:
Puppies ready for the UK
The
papers have been filled in and stamped and all the medical actions
have been taken: Pomona, Brogan and Izzy are ready to make the
crossing and meet their owners. Tomorrow Marieke and Carolien
Stokhof are taking the Eurotunnel-train to Folkestone to meet
up with Kim Parris (Brogan) and Lynne Bowley (Pomona). Izzy's
owner Jan Hayward is on holiday right now. But Izzy will find
a warm, temorary welcome at Kim's Place in Dorset. Carolien's
dogs Bruno and Pinto will stay over in Kleine Huisjes until Carolien
returns from the UK.
27-06-2007:
Update on Germany
The
organisation of our trainingsweekend in Germany has nearly reached
completion. We have an exact location. Both Harald Koska and we
are working hard on putting together a program.We can reveil that
we will be offering a complete package, including supervised training,
accommodation and meals. Just like our trip to Italy last year,
we are aiming to keep the cost to a minimum, to make it available
to as many as possible. Because every bracco owner is invited
to participate. There is no need for hunting- or field trial-experience.
The first announcement already resulted in a couple of applications.
With a maximum of fourteen participating dogs, this means that
everyone who wants to join us should apply as soon as possible.
Applications can be made by e-mail or telephone
19-06-2007:
Green light for point- and retrieve-training in Germany
The
earlier announced point- and retrieve-training near the German
town of Münster, goes ahead. Harald Koska, bracco-owner and hunter,
has concluded the final formalities. Next October a maximum of
fourteen braccos and their masters will get the opportunity to
be educated a variety of hunting-skills. The training-weekend
starts Friday evening October 5 and comes to an end with a traditional
ceremony, on Sunday evening October 7. Two prominent instructors
have promised to participate in this training. Keep an eye on
the website for more information and details.
19-06-2007:
Marieke
and Paolo on tour in England
Nice
weather, wonderful surroundings, good company and lots of beautiful
bracco’s, those were the ingredients for a very pleasant, short
stay in England. Marieke and Paolo Poggio visited Kim Parris,
chairwoman of the Bracco Italiano Society and owner of Brogan,
and bracco-fanatics Jan Hayward and Trish and Terry Salisbury.
The local gamekeeper was so kind to give the company a tour over
the hunting properties in the New Forest. They were also allowed
a peek at a pheasant breeder. The trip provided us with plenty
of inspiration for a return visit and probably a couple of training
sessions and maybe even a field trial, in the future. Many thanks
to all who made us feel very welcome!
19-06-2007:
Pietro most obedient
Pietro
and master Rommert Hazenberg held the name of the breed high.
At the obedience exams at Let Steven’s dog school in Zeist, Pietro
became the most obedient of the seven participating dogs
06-05-2007:
Dortmund: cracking debut for Ezzo
We
received a picture from the International dog-show in Dortmund
(Germany). Valero's son Ezzo (Alegro del Campo di Pini) had a
great show-debut. After his first appearance in the ring, Ezzo
and his master Harald Koska were rewarded with a reserve CABIB.
Promessa also put up an appearance in Dortmund. She entered in
the puppy-class and received compliments from the judge for her
build and looks.
30-04-2007:
Steenbergen: Delizia point and first place, Gaeta fourth
A
late report because the webmaster was staying with friends in
Scotland this week. Delizia is clearly getting the hang of working
the field. At a field trial in Steenbergen this payed off with
a point and a first place. Delizia's sister Gaeta (photo) did
also well. She placed fourth and collected her third horourable
mention in four field trials with four different judges.
23-04-2007:
Partridges ánd an honourable mention at the Ooijpolder
A
lot of hares and a lot of partridges, characterized the field
trial at the Ooijpolder near Nijmegen. Delizia did very well.
She fixated a partridge with a classic 'point'. Her performance
resulted in an honourable mention. Only one competitor did better
and scored a point. Rommert and Gaeta were also active in the
Ooijpolder. Gaeta had the bad luck to stumble upon a field filled
with hares. The diversion was too much for the talented sister
of Delizia, who lost her concentration. This only proved that
to score in a competition in the open class, you not only need
a skillful dog and master, but also the perfect circumstances.
23-04-2007:
Pigeon season open
At
the opening of the pigeon hunting season Delizia showed that she
is becoming a very allround hunting dog. Delizia and small Münsterlander
Donna took turns in retrieving the wood pigeons that were shot
by Klaas Hindriks. At home the puppies got the opportunity to
retrieve a pigeon. And during the plucking and cleaning of the
pigeons, they were hanging around the kitchen sink, fascinated
by the birds.
27-03-2007:
honourable mention for
Vicini-sisters
A beautiful result on a beautiful day. That must have been on
the minds of Marieke and Rommert when they made their way to Riel
to compete in a field trial. The many hours of training of Vicini-sisters
Delizia and Gaeta paid off. Apart from the lack of birds, they
both performed the perfect trial. The judges awarded both sisters
with an honorary mentioning. ‘It al went perfectly, but Gaeta
and I are ready for a point’, Rommert said after the trial. The
judges were impressed by the performance of the sisters. One of
them said that it was the best work he had ever seen by a Bracco
Italiano.
05-03-2007:
English visitors
It
was a long awaited reunion for Jan Hayward and Kim Parris, with
their darlings Isabella and Brogan. A delayed trip and a very
late arrival in Kleine Huisjes was more than made up for by the
main event of the weekend on Saturday. Jan, Kim, Sonja Weber and
Marieke took Isabella, Brogan, Nino di Ala d'Oro and Delizia to
Martiniplaza in Groningen, to attend the International Dog Show
of the North. Especially for Nino and Sonja there was success
with a BOB qualification for Nino. The others received good reports
and, just as important, had a great day. The next day after a
walk near the nature reserve of Lauwersoog, we said goodby. Jan
and Kim, we had a great weekend. Hope to see you again soon.
28-02-2007:
Pedigrees for the puppies
Today
the pedigrees of Isotta's puppies arrived in the mail. The pedigrees
will be in the mail to all the owners, later this week.We will
keep Brogan's pedigree with us until the weekend, as his future
owner Kim Parris is coming over this weekend to visit her puppy.
Kim will be travelling with Jan Hayward who is coming to visit
Isabella, the puppy from Italy that is staying with us.
07-02-2007:
Pandora put to sleep
Pandora
is no longer with us. After she had suffered repeated stomach-torsions
on Sunday February 5, we made the very difficult decision together
with our vet, to have her put to sleep. Pandora was seven years
old. Pandora was passionate, a clown, a chicken thief and she
was the best mother we have ever seen. We will miss her dearly,
but we know that she will live on with us through two generations:
her daughter Isotta and granddaughter Promessa. Rest in peace
Pandora and thank you for the wonderful moments we shared together.
23-01-2007:
PennHip for the puppies
Promessa,
Brogan, Pomona and ‘house guest’ Isabella have been PennHipped.
Egidius Wientjes of Hopmans veterinarian clinic used this method
to examine the hips of the puppies. He is a great believer in
PennHip, because this new, American method gives a more thorough
result than traditional X-rays. PennHip has the added advantage
that it can be used at a very young age. The hips of the examined
puppies are rated with an index-number which relates to the risk
of hip dysplasia. The definite index-numbers of the puppies are
not yet known, but egidius was very pleased with the condition
of the hips of the four puppies. Soon we will give more extensive
attention to the PennHip method.
14-12-2006:
Excellent hips and elbows for Max
Great
news from Rosmalen. Max (Verdichio dei Vicini del Monastero),
Delizia's brother and companion of Anthony, Ineke and Pleun (photo),
has very healthy hips and elbows. The x-ray photos confirm the
expectations. The exact score is: HD A and ED free.
10-12-2006:
Vicini-zusjes en Galina, hunt in Germany
Sisters
Gaeta en Delizia en their masters Rommert, Barbara and Marieke
jumped at the opportunity when Harald Koska invited them for a
Saterday hunt in Germany. The hunt went very well with a mixed
bag of pheasants, hare and wood pigeons. Both sisters and old
Galina got the opportunity to show what they are worth in the
field. A great day was finished with a very nice German meal.
Harald, many thanks for the hospitality.
06-12-2006:
hunting geese: opportunity for 'heavy' retrieving
Delizia
has been very busy. The past couple of weeks she has been in the
field besides Marieke and Klaas Hindriks, hunting for pheasant
hare and mallard. She really starts to get the hang of pointing
and retrieving. But mallards and even hare are easy to carry.
The real challenge came when Delizia followed Klaas and Marieke
hunting geese. But even this wasn't a big problem for the Vicini
field-star. She readily found the birds that were shot and carried
them over the canal to the hunters.
27-11-2006:
photos Italy online
The
photos of our trip to Italy are online. The web-photographer couldn't
come, but luckily we were offered the photos taken by some of
our fellow travellers. Many thanks for that. The trip was an unforgettable
experience. Not only for us and our travelling companions, but
also for the paricipating dogs. They had a great time on the fields
around Savona. Click
here or on extra, for the photo-report.
20-11-2006:
Italy 2006: a trip to remember
The
Italian study-trip of Vicini in corporation with the Dutch Bracco
Club has been a great success. After a very intensive four days
the group agreed that the trip had been very enjoyable and educational.
Dog owners who had entered their dog for the training and hunting
program were put to the test during several field training sessions
with life quails and a real pheasant and partridge hunt. The onlookers
could participate in the exitement through the explanation by
Gianpaolo Poggio, translated from Italian by Sylvia Brinkman.
Next to the program there was ample time to enjoy 'la dolce vita',
with great food and wine. More later
13-11-2006:
best in show: clean sweep for Axel
He
was cool, calm and collected as he entered the ring for best of
show on the world dog show in Poznan. And rightfully so, because
Axel del Monte Alago, father of Isotta's eleven puppies, was voted
Best in Show, which meant the best dog in a lineup of 21,000 dogs.
Bitte Ahrens was over the moon with the result. Hopefully Axel's
babies will follow in his footsteps.
12-11-2006:
Axel BOB on World dog show Poznan
Axel
del Monte Alago, the father of Isotta's puppies, was voted best
Bracco Italiano at the World dog Show in Poznan, Poland. Axel's
sister Asia del Monte Alago, owned by Gianpaolo Poggio, was voted
best bitch. There was also Dutch success with a victory in the
veteran class for Valentino, owned by Sonja Weber and Oscar Elbring.
04-10-2006:
'hangout' for Italy-travellers
With
little over a month left before we leave for Italy, many of the
participants are getting anxious. The president of the Dutch
Bracco Italiano Club thought it a good idea
to open a weblog on the club's website where the future travel
companions can meet and share the anticipation. The weblogs on
the site are usually strictly for members. But the president has
made an exeption for everyone who is joining us to Savona. If
you want to participate on the weblog and you aren't a member,
send an e-mail with your request to this address: braccoitaliano@een-goed-idee.nl
30-09-2006:
Westernieland: impressed by braccos
Delizia,
sister Gaeta and Marieke and Rommert impressed the judges at the
field trials in Westernieland. Even though neither of the sisters
was able to find birds in the fields of sugar beets, they searched
accurately and were constantly in contact with their master. Both
dogs got a three chances to show their stuff. In the review at
the end of the trials the judges said they were impressed by Gaeta's
and Delizia's work and with the serious and professional approach
of their owners. He told them that he had really enjoyed watching
the braccos work.
29-09-2006:
tiny Houses in Kleine Huisjes
Within
moments a village of Tiny Houses (which is the English translation
of Kleine Huisjes, the name of our village) appeared on the terrace
in our backyard. Bracco fanatic Ilonne came by for a visit and
to show us the bird houses she imports from Sweden. The houses
were nearly the right size for our puppies, who strolled through
the streets of the tiny village. The entire collection of the
bird houses is shown via this link.
14-09-2006:
g'day from Diva
A
special day for Vicini when Yvette, Chris and Blondie, one of
their Bordeaux Dogs, came over to show their Bracco Diva. Nine
months old Diva is going to be the first Bracco to live in Australia.
Yvette and Chris aren't strangers to keeping dogs. They are well
known breeders of the Bordeaux dog, having twenty dogs living
around their veterenary clinic near Adelaide in South Australia.
02-09-2006:
new date for trip to Italy
This
November Vicini meets up with a group of bracco-fanatics to make
a journey to the origin of our fantastic breed. Booking for the
trip has begun. The trip won't be starting the 16th of november
as previously advertised, but on wednesday the 15th. For more
information, click here.
01-09-2006:
Delizia: perfect hips and elbows
Hips
HDA and elbows ED-free, is the verdict of the Dutch Kennel Club:
after studying the hip- and elbowphotos which were taken of Delizia
by Egidius Wientjes. The verdict is a confirmation that Delizia
has very healthy joints. Marieke is very pleased with the results.
‘I already expected good results, but until you have a verdict
you never are 100% sure.
01-09-2006:
puppies are doing great
the
puppies and Isotta are still going strong. Isotta is regaining
her appetite and the puppies are growing fast and becoming very
active. Several times per day we keep track of the development
of the puppies and everything that is happening in and around
the whelping box. Stay up to date by clicking here,
or on the 'puppy-log'-button.
14-08-2006:
Reunion puppies Giulia
Right
in between two rainy and dreary days the sun shone and the temperature
rose. Beautiful weather on a beautiful day: the reunion of Guilia's
puppies. Five of the eight puppies went on a walk in Lauwersoog.
After that the puppies took a nap in the sun while the owners
of Max, Gaeta, Figlia and Tello enjoyed an Italian buffet. The
very best regards to the puppies who couldn't attend: Brego (on
holiday), Stella and Romeo (in the US). And many thanks to Hans
and Sylvia for displaying their culinary skills and for the wonderful
gifts Sylvia (who owns Giulia) had made for the puppies.
06-08-2006:
combination online
As
an addition to the information on Isotta's weblog we have now
placed the breeding combination of Isotta x Axel with pedigrees
online.
Isotta is doing well, she is growing steadily. Read more on her
weblog.
04-08-2006:
Duca moves house
It
started with a short period of staying over and ended up in a
new place to live for Duca. He now lives with Dick and Ineke Ferwerda
in Friesland. The Vicini-girls will miss him, as will we. Everyone
loved Duca. But regretfully the periods when our bitches came
into season always meant a problem for Duca. With Ineke and Dick,
Duca has found the perfect place to live. He gets all the attention
he wants and is on the trot for three hours or more, every day.
Duca has also found his sea legs as he joins his new house mates
for short and long vacations on their ship on the Dutch waterways.
An big bonus for us is that Duca's new home in Mantgum is only
a short drive away from Kleine Huisjes. So a visit is always easy
to arrange.
30-07-2006:
Isotta's weblog online
Isotta's
weblog is online. Yesterday we placed the first messages on the
log. During the weeks until the delivery we will place a message
on the log every couple of days, to keep you posted about how
Isotta and we are coping. Click here
for a direct connection to the log. Or use the circle on the top
right corner on the homepage.
29-07-2006:
Franco Costa: famous visitor at Vicini
This
afternoon the well known artist Franco Costa payed Vicini a visit
for some lunch and to see the dogs. Franco was accompanied by
his good friend Sylvia Brinkman, who owns Giulia Locatelli. Marieke,
who met Franco during her last trip to Italy, was very happy with
Franco's visit. 'It doesn't happen every day that you have lunch
with such a well known artist, in your own backyard. He came by
to deliver a painting that Sylvia gave me.' Franco is especially
famous in the nautical society. His name is connected to all of
the big sailing events, like the America's Cup and the Volvo Ocean
race. His graphic style makes his word very much suited for posters
and logos, as many examples testify. Franco was impressed by the
beauty of the Bracco Italiano. But he wouldn't say if there is
ever going to be a bracco featuring in one of his paintings. www.francocosta.it
23-07-2006:
Isotta pregnant
The
scan last week confirmed our hopes: Isotta is pregnant. The delivery
is expected around the end of August. As to be expected from Vicini,
we will start our weblog in a few days time to keep you informed
about the last weeks of pregnancy, the birth of the puppies and
their first weeks. Keep an eye on our news-page for more information.
21-07-2006:
Giulia moves in with her babysitter
Giulia
Locatelli has moved house. She went to live with Sylvia Brinkman
in Groningen, who during the past years has taken care of Giulia
during holidays. The departure of Giulia doesn't mean that we
won't be seeing her anymore. Giulia and Sylvia are regular guests
and the role of babysitter has been reversed. It is however questionable
if this will happen very often, as Sylvia and Giulia form an inseparable
couple.
18-07-2006:
Hipscore: Delizia goes first
The
puppies from Giulia's litter, last year January, are old enough
now to have their hips examined. This week Delizia had her photos
taken. She stayed very calm when vet Egidius Wientjes x-rayed
the hips and elbows. We don't have the final results yet, but
the first impressions are promising.
29-06-2006:
Princess Pleun, new friend for Max
'Our
little princess is born!' With a little paper crown as a birth
announcement card, Ineke, Anthony and Max announced the arrivel
of a new family member: Pleun, who was born on June 24. Mother
and Pleun are doing well. Many congratulations from Vicini to
the happy family.
15-06-2006:
Good show-results for descendants Rivana
The
descendants of Gianpaolo Poggio's Rivana are doing well in the
show circuit. Daughter Asia, who stayed in Kleine Huisjes with
owner Gianpaolo and Rivana, won the prize for best young dog and
best bitch at a SABI-show in Italy. Asia's brother Axel (photo)
did even better. At the European Championship show in Helsinki,
he won best of breed, best of group 7 and became runner-up best
in show.
25-05-2005:
puppies for Sadie and Ralph
Sadie
(Gabbana di Ala d'Oro x Burt), one of the braccos of Ralph
Minnitte in Nevada, has given birth to eight puppies: four
males, four females. Mother and puppies are doing well.
24-05-2006:
Grazie mille Paolo!
This
morning Paolo Poggio returned horme to Savona. During his visit
he has been mainly occupied with the celebration of the tenth
anniversary of the Dutch Bracco Italiano Club, on which we will
report later. Paolo's youngest bracco, Asia, won the title best
in show. To do this she had to beat her own mother. The once invincible
Rivana del Monte Alago. During the rest of his stay, Paolo visited
his Dutch friends and did some sightseeing. Marieke, Jeroen and
Rommert Hazenberg waved him goodbye when he left for Italy. Grazie
mille Paolo!
18-05-2006:
Poggio, Rivana en Asia on tour
After
a 800 mile drive Gianpaolo Poggio and his braccos Rivana and Asia,
arrived at Vicini del Monastero in Kleine Huisjes. Marieke was
very pleased with the visitors. 'I am honoured that Gianpaolo
took the effort of such a long trip just to pay us a visit.' Gianpaolo
and his braccos are special guests on the 10 year anniversary
of the Dutch Bracco Club, next sunday
25-04-2006:
Steenbergen: hares spoil Gaeta's run
A
little hill with resting Hares in the fields around Steenbergen,
broke the concentration of Gaeta during the field trials held
in the south of the country. Owner Rommert Hazenberg claimed that
the hares were the reason for Gaeta's not scoring. Delizia had
a slow start, but with a little guidance by the judge, she managed
to perform well. Like Gaeta, she didn't score a point, however.
07-04-2006:
No puppies for Isotta
'Isotta
is empty', was the conclusion veteranian Egidius Wientjes drew,
after a thourough examination. Further plans for a mating haven't
been yet.
The
cause of the delay in bringing the news were technical problems.
During a period of time we were not able to make any changes to
the website.
02-03-2006:
Back from Italy, mating successful
The
waiting has begun. Marieke, Rommert Hazenberg, Isotta, Pandora,
Gaeta and Delizia have returned from Italy, packed with bags full
of mimosa, carcioffi (baby-artichokes) and lots of other Italian
delicacies. The mating of Reno and Isotta was successful. Thanks
to Vittoria and Gianpaolo Poggia, the stay was also a success.
Besides the mating there was time for some training in the field.
Especially Gaeta and Delizia showed a lot of promise with multiple
points on birds.
25-02-2006:
Isotta declines invitation Dog of the Year
Dutch
champion Isotta dei Vicini del Monastero is not entering the arena
at the Dog of the Year show, held this year on February 26 in
Amersfoort. Competitors on this show are invited after having
been selected by comparing show-results during the past year.
Despite being invited Marieke and Isotta had to decline. 'All
due to bad timing', as Marieke explained. They had already planned
a trip to Gianpaolo Poggio in Savona, Italy, for a mating and
field trial-training.
10-02-2006:
Eleven puppies for Gemma and Valero
After
a successful mating with Valero,
Gemma Compratriota di Bonfini has given birth to eleven puppies.
Old news, because the puppies were born on the 21st of January,
in Germany. Recently, Dieter Brinkmann, who ownes Gemma, opened
a website with news and photos of the litter. Click here
for more information.
06-02-2006:
Eindhoven: Isotta B.O.B. and champion
The
International Dogshow in Eindhoven went very well for Isotta.
On friday the 3rd she was declared Best Of Breed. Besides the
trophy, this title also ment that she received the final point
she needed to become Dutch Champion.
30-01-2006:
Delizia strapped in
Delizia
has taken her first steps in her braga, a harness designed
to correct her pace. The braga was specially made for Delizia
by Gianpaolo Poggio.
Braccos ar trained to work in trot, in stead of gallop. After
a few hesitant steps Delizia soon got the hang of the braga. After
a few moments she happily trotted away, hardly noticing the straps
tied to her feet.
02-01-2006:
puppies Giulia and Valentino one year old
Giulia's
puppies are celebrating their first birthday today. The owners
of the birthday-dogs have been busy sending e-mails to each other,
with congratulations. Each of the young dogs celebrated in their
own way. Romeo treated himself and his master to a limit of six
chukars (photo below) and Figlia (above photo) received a very
weird birthday present. Romeo,
Tello, Stella, Max, Brego, Gaeta, Figlia and your masters: many
happy returns from sister Delizia and Vicini.
20-12-2005:
new link for bracco-tifosi
Vicini
has placed a link of the website ilbraccoitaliano.net.
Owners Massimiliano Di Lorenzo (photo) and Fabio Casseti have
much to offer for bracco-tifosi. It has a very informative historic
section and a forum where bracco-people meet.
01-12-2005:
hedgehog-terrorism in Kleine Huisjes
Over
the last few days Delizia has developed into a radical hedgehog-terrorist.
Twice this week she brought in a rolled-up hedgehog in the kitchen.
Where this strange fascination for prickly objects comes from,
is a mistery. But it does prove that the youngest of the Vicini-clan
is a talented and passionate retriever. The hedgehogs were unharmed
and went on their way after being released.
12-11-2005:
no puppies for Isotta
A
great disappointment and tears for Marieke, when she heard that
Isotta isn't pregnant. The litter would have been born in the
beginning of December. Next spring Isotta will be mated again.
29-10-2005:
Vicini returns from Nevada: a trip to remember
'It
was worth every minute in the plane', said Marieke when she returned
home after a two week visit to Ralph, Barrie, Romeo and the other
braccos in Gerlach, Nevada. 'Ralph and Barrie welcomed us with
open arms and did everything they could to make this a trip we
will never forget. Not only did we have a wonderful time, we had
also the opportunity to see Romeo in action during several chukar
hunts. Barrie and Ralph: many thanks for your hospitality.' Click
here for more photos.
11-10-2005:
clubmatch: dissapointing results Vicini-braccos
The
Vicini-braccos didn't do well at the anual clubmatch, held this
sunday. Despite the poor results, the day was a success and gave
ample opportunities to meet up with kindred spirits. Best in show
was Miuccia Prada di Ala D'Oro.
09-10-2005:
Romeo gets the hang of it
Less
than a week before Vicini is paying a visit to the Minnitte's
in Nevada, Romeo has retrieved his first chuckar. Ralph Minnitte
reports: 'Romeo was being Romeo, just hanging around. When I shot
the chukar, Romeo lucked out and the chukar landed right by him.
He retrieved it and was a very happy boy.'
05-10-2005:
Mating Isotta and Reno successful
Marieke
and Rommert received a warm welcome by Paolo and Victoria Poggio
in Savona, when they arrived for the mating of Isotta and Reno
di Monte Alago. In the end Marieke choose Isotta over Pandora
for the mating, which couldn't have taken place if it wasn't for
the help of Paolo. So Paolo: 'Grazie di aver diviso la tue
passione per i bracchi con noi.'
20-09-2005:
Isotta points and gets a point
Isotta
earned her first field trial-qualification at the field trials
in Andelst. She was accompanied by Klaas Hindriks who entered
the competition with his nine months old small Münsterlander-bitch
Bente. Barbara and Rommert, the owner of Gaeta, were there to
cheer Isotta while she pointed a pheasant and earned her long
awaited qualification.
18-09-2005:
Good results Children Pandora
Isotta
and Laura Biagiotto di Ala d’Oro were successful at the international
dog show in Maastricht. The daughters of Pandora came first and
second in the category best bitch. Laura went on to become best
of breed and runner up in group seven (pointing dogs). Isotta
gained gained another championshipspoint with her runner up-position,
because Laura is already a Dutch champion.
12-09-2005:
Delizia and Giulia visit Berlin
Delizia
and Giulia have just returned from visiting Tello in Berlin. They
were welcomed with open arms by the Engler family. After a walk
in the green surroundings of Berlin and dropping of the pedigree
of Tello, there was some time left for a visit of Berlin's city
centre.
06-09-2005:
Daughter Duca visits Kleine Huisjes
Dorabella,
Duca's daughter, visited Kleine Huisjes last sunday. The visit
was much appreciated by Vicini. Duca didn't really bother. It
was Dorabella's first encounter with a group of braccos. But after
some acclimitisation she did very well.
28-08-2005:
Results Isotta and Delizia in Rotterdam
Delizia
and Isotta have done well at the international Dog Show in Rotterdam.
Delizia had a walk-over in her first round, as she was the only
bracco-puppy in show. She did however, receive the best possible
qualification. Amidst the puppies of all the breeds in show, Delizia
did very well. She became first runner up. Isotta was first runner
up in the bitches division. She was beaten by Laura Biagiotti
di Ala d'Oro, like Isotta, a daughter of Pandora. Because Laura
is already Dutch champion, the championship point went to Isotta.
22-08-2005:
Re-placed Bruno visits Vicini
His
name used to be Droopy, he had to be re-placed, was lovingly welcomed
in the home of Carolien and Oscar, and was renamed Bruno. Last
weekend Carolien, Oscar and Bruno visited Kleine Huisjes. Despite
the presence three other male dogs: Duca and two obtrusive brothers
of Isotta, Bruno coped more than well. He wasn't nervous and he
was full of confidence in his new masters. Bruno, Carolien and
Oscar show that re-placing a grown bracco can be successful. About
six weeks ago a request for re-placing Bruno was received by the
Bracco Italiano Club. Through the combined efforts of two bracco-kennels
and the club, a new home was found.
herplaatste
Bruno bezoekt Vicini
Hij
heette Droopy, moest worden herplaatst, werd liefdevol opgevangen
door Carolien en Oscar, en heet nu Bruno. Afgelopen weekeinde
bezochten Carolien, Oscar en Bruno Kleine Huisjes. Ondanks de
opdringerige aanwezigheid van reu Duca en twee logerende jonge
reuen (Valero en Jutter), weerde Bruno zich kranig. Geen zenuwen,
geen overdreven verlatingsangst en vol vertrouwen in zijn nieuwe
baasjes. Bruno, Carolien en Oscar stralen in alles uit dat het
herplaatsen van een volwassen bracco soms een succesverhaal is.
Het verzoek tot herplaatsen van Bruno werd ruim anderhalve maand
geleden gedaan bij de Bracco Italiano Club. Via de contacten van
de verschillende fokkers werd er voor Bruno snel een nieuw onderdak
gevonden.
31-07-2005:
another mouth to feed for Vicini
The
dogs have some new company. They were already used to have a cate
sharing their beds. But now they have to be prepared for a second
cat. This time a male cat and slightly bigger than Tom Poes -eventually,
that is-. Ollie B is a Maine Coon, one of the biggest cat-breeds
around.
13-07-2005:
Romeo passes rattlesnake avoiding class
While
most owners of a Vicini-puppy take their dog to obedience class
to teach them some manners, Ralph and Barrie Minnitte take things
a bit further. Recently Romeo was tought how to avois rattlesnakes.
Not a bad thing if you live in the Nevada desert, where rattlers
are very common.
25-06-2005:
pedigrees puppies Giulia have arrived
The
Dutch kennelclub has issued and agreed to the pedigrees of the
puppies of Giulia and Valentino. The certificates have been sent
to the owners. The owners in Germany, and the US have also received
a foreign registration certificate.
09-06-2005:
very good first results hipscore
The
first results of the hipscore of Pandora's litter (Sept. 2003)
are very good. Isotta, Valero and Jutter all scored an A, the
best possible result. The result of the hipscore is added to the
individual pages of all of Pandora's descendants.
06-06-2005:
many thanks to Eukanuba ambassadors
The
weekend in Austria was very pleasant. Not only because of the
good results, but also because of the hospitality of the Eukanuba
ambassadors. Eukanuba had arranged a hotel were dogs were welcome
and had taken care of meals for the dogs and owners. There were
also nice and useful presents for the participants. The warm welcome
by the Eukanuba ambassadors made this weekend even more pleasant,
said Marieke who wants to thank the ambassadors for their efforts.
05-06-2005:
Tulln: good results Isotta and Delizia
Isotta
and Delizia did well on the European dog-show in Tulln, Austria.
Isotta became best bitch in the open class. Delizia had a walkover
in the puppy class, being the only contender. More importantly
was her qualification: very promising. Marieke looks back at the
show with a good feeling. 'Isotta did very well, but I am even
happier about Delizia. Not just because of the very good qualification,
but also because of the relaxed and happy way she moved through
the ring during her debut on a show.'
29-05-2005:
Isotta comes ninth in Berghem
On
the second day of the dog show in Berghem, Isotta was less successful
than earlier. In the line-up for Best in Show she finished ninth,
among other winners of gun-dog groups. Despite this final result,
Marieke looked back satisfied. 'Isotta is a very young dog -20
months- and has already won her group. That must show promise
for the future.'
28-05-2005:
Berghem: Isotta first in group 7
Isotta
has done well on the first day of the international dog show in
Berghem. It wasn't a big surprise that she won the bracco-group,
as she was the only Bracco Italiano on the show. Therefore she
had to wait until the Pointer-group line-up, to show her quality.
She won this group. Later this day Isotta will have to return
to the ring for the Best of Show-roundup. Marieke and Isotta were
cheered by the Hazenberg family, owners of Gaeta. They gracefully
offered Marieke a bed in Vianen, so she doesn't have to make the
five hour round trip from Kleine Huisjes to Berghem, twice in
two days.
24-05-2005:
Delizia officially
socialised
Last monday Delizia
finished her socialisation training for which she received an
official certificate. Not a world shocking achievement, but certainly
something that comes along only once in a lifetime, according
to Marieke. 'A dog is only a puppy once, isn't she?'
13-05-2005: 'X-ray
party' for Vicini-dogs
The hips of four of
the Vicini-dogs from the Pandora-litter were x-rayed at veteranary
clinic Hopmans, by Egidius Wientjes. An 'x-ray party', said the
owner of Saartje, one of the dogs that was checked. It is doubtful
if the dogs concidered the x-raying a party as there is a lot
of pulling and stretching going on in the process. According to
Egidius, the results were very positive. All the photos showed
beautiful hips.
27-04-2005: photos
Italy online
It has been a while
since the Dutch delegation returned from the SABI clubmatch in
Volta Mantovana, Italy. The photos we received recently are worth
having a look at, nontheless. The delegation consisted of Jaap
Muller and Tina Steffens of the Di Ala d'Oro-kennel, Marieke and
bracco-fanatic and photographer Dick Mientjes. Click here
to view the photos.
22-04-2005: bracco-head
above the door
From today the Witherenweg
26 has a bracco-head above the door as an unmistakable sign that
bracco's are kept and bred under this roof. The bronze head was
designed by Tina
Steffens. The background was made by Piet van der Merwe
who also attached the head to the house-front. Many thanks to
both.
15-04-2005: bracco-battery
in full swing
The puppies of Rivana
del Monte Alago and owner Gianpaolo Poggio, are doing well. They
have started to use the bracco-feeding battery that Gianpaolo
designed and constructed. How well the battery functions, Gianpaolo
doesn't tell us. But on other photos it becomes clear that the
puppies after a while become very interested in what's happening
in the neighbouring compartment.
12-04-2005: Dutch
do well in Italy
The Dutch competitors
in the yearly SABI-clubmatch or raduno, did well this year. As
mentioned earlier Duca and Isotta became third in their class.
Nebbia Gucci of the Di Ala d'Oro-kennel won the champions-class.
Her sister Gabbana was runner-up in the open class. Castellano
di Ala d'Oro, owned by Dick Mientjes, became first in the puppy-class.
The field trial on sunday went less well for the Dutch. Isotta
was too distracted by the Italian hares. Duca respected the hares
and showed some beautiful trotting. But despite the nice work,
he didn't manage to find any birds. Later on this site: a photo-impression
of the raduno.
10-04-2005: first
result SABI clubmatch
Both Isotta and Duca
have done well on the first day of the SABI clubmatch in Volta
Mantovana, Italy. During the show on saturday, Isotta and Duca
both became third in their class. More later.
06-04-2005: Steenbergen:
no point for Isotta
Isotta and Marieke
didn't manage to score a point during the field trial in Steenbergen.
She was too much occupied with the hares on the field where she
was working. Delizia had a little reunion with her sister Gaeta.
Owner Rommert Hazenberg had brought Gaeta to Steenbergen to find
out what field trials are all about.
26-03-2005: GianPaolo
tests first bracco-battery
GianPaolo Poggio from
Savona in Italy, regularly sends us updates on the developments
around his seven
puppies and mother Rivana del Monte Alago. He
sent us a photo of the first bracco feeding-battery he invented.
Every puppy gets his own compartment for feeding. The invention
hasn't been tested yet, because the puppies are stil suckling.
But GianPaolo promised us a report as soon as the puppies start
battery-feeding.
21-03-2005: puppy-pages
are online
The puppy-log is no
longer being updated. But it is possible to follow the development
of the puppies. Yesterday the puppy-pages went online. These pages
contain photos of the pups that were born in Kleine Huisjes. The
pages are filled with photos and reports by the owners and can
be reached by clicking the descendants-button.
20-03-2005: Bracco
Italiano in Italië Magazine
The spring edition
of Italië
Magazine, a Dutch magazine on Italy, brings an article
on Arie van Engelenhove and his braccos. The article is written
by Jeroen Schoondergang who also edits this website.
20-02-2002: puppy
introduction-page online
The introduction-page
is online. On this page there are photos of the eight puppies,
their names and a short description. Today the puppies will be
tested.The introduction-page can be reached by clicking here,
or by clicking the puppy info-button on the right.
08-02-2005: Giotto
deceased
This afternoon Giotto
died. He was nearly twelve years old. To commemorate Giotto we
made a special
web-page dedicated to his life.
15-01-2005: Puppies
open their eyes
The puppies that were
born on 2 January are starting to open their eyes. They are steadily
putting on weight; both puppies and mother Giulia are doing all.
On puppy-log
the first weeks in the life of the puppies is covered in detail.
09-01-2005: icecold
greetings from Nevada
Ralph
Minnitte sends his regards from an icecold Nevada.
The photos he sent show an ice- and snow-covered Gerlach. The
owner of Sadie who gave birth to puppies after being mated with
Duca,
is still hunting. Sadie and the remaining puppy Alena are preparing
themselves for the last three weeks of chukar-hunting.