Click here to watch the full interview with Jan and Oliver
Dog agility events are thrilling to watch and participate in, blending speed, skill, and the unique bond between a handler and their dog. This year, we’re thrilled to welcome one of the top judges in the field, Jan Egil Eide, to the 1-TDC Invitational in Chicago. With more than three decades of experience, Jan's insights and expertise are invaluable to the agility community.
The Scenic Home of an Agility Enthusiast
Jan resides just outside of Oslo, Norway, in a picturesque countryside setting. Surrounded by nature, with a home amongst the forests, Jan spends a lot of time with his two dogs, nurturing his passion for agility. This serene environment seems to complement his deep understanding and connection with his dogs, which has only grown over his 30-year journey in the sport.
From Dog Lover to Agility Expert
It all began over 30 years ago with a family Labrador Retriever. Encouraged by a friend's invitation, Jan joined a local agility training session. Almost immediately, he felt an intense connection to the sport due to his competitive spirit and lifelong love of dogs. This perfect synergy has fueled his passion ever since, making him an influential figure in the world of agility.
The Judge's Path: Perspectives from Jan
Jan’s journey as a judge began somewhat serendipitously. Influenced by a friend, he embarked on judge education, initially viewing it as a secondary interest to competing. However, his experiences as a competitor enriched his perspective, helping him craft courses that are both challenging and enjoyable.
Having judged since 2001, Jan brings a wealth of knowledge to his course designs. His primary goal is to create courses that are fun, safe, and challenging. He draws from his experiences when courses were less sophisticated, ensuring that his layouts provide enough space and flow for all types of dogs, especially those with longer strides.
The Art of Course Design
Creating a memorable course requires a careful blend of speed, safety, and skill. Jan is renowned for designing open and fluid courses that allow dogs to run at their best while also testing the handlers' agility skills. His courses are crafted with the competitors' perspective in mind, pushing teams to demonstrate their practiced skills in handling, speed and technique.
The Evolution and Future of Dog Agility
The sport has evolved greatly since Jan first started. With advancements in equipment safety and training techniques, today's agility scene is vastly more sophisticated. While it’s hard to forecast exactly where the sport will go next, Jan believes that there will be a continued emphasis on safety, skills, and fair competition. Jan looks forward to following the trends and personally contribute to taking the sport in a positive direction.
Anticipation Builds for the 1-TDC Invitational
Set against the vibrant backdrop of Chicago, the upcoming 1-TDC Invitational promises to be an exciting event for competitors and spectators alike. Jan, alongside his fellow judge and colleague, Kina, will bring a touch of European style to the competition. Participants are encouraged to familiarize themselves with Jan's previous courses to best prepare for the challenges ahead.
Parting Insights from Jan
As Jan himself notes, the key to success lies in preparation—understanding his course style and honing the necessary agility skills will be crucial. More than anything, he looks forward to the camaraderie and the collective love for the sport. Jan offers his best wishes to all competitors, promising an event full of excitement and, above all, fun!
