The Rainier Hunting Retriever Club (RHRC) is located in the Puget Sound region of Washington State. Club members enjoy training and competing with their dogs. Many retriever breeds and skill levels are represented but one thing we hold in common is the love of a well-trained working dog.

                                                                   Rainier Hunting Retriever Club celebrates its 40th ANNIVERSARY

Our August Hunting Retriever Test was held August 10th and 11th, 2024 on the Snoqualmie Valley Retriever Grounds.  This year, we are celebrating our 40th Anniversary.   To celebrate. every entry to our August test received a free raffle ticket for one free entry to many field events in 2025 (both AKC and UKC).  We are grateful to the many clubs that honored RHRC.  A heartfelt “Thank You” for free entries to their tests:

           American Kennel Clubs (AKC):   

                                                Rainier Hunting Retriever Club

                                                Puget Sound Labrador Retriever Club

                                                Sand & Sage Hunting Retriever Club

                                                North Idaho Retriever Club

                                                Oregon Hunting Retriever Club

                                                Oregon Retriever Trial Club

                                                Greater Pacific Northwest Retriever Club

                                                Evergreen Golden Retriever Club

            And from the United Kennel Club (UKC):

                                                  Cascade Hunting Retriever Club

                                                  Whistling Wings Hunting Retriever Club

                                                  Newaukum Hunting Retriever Club

Participants were able to purchase additional raffle tickets for these drawings, as well as a chance to win a Pheasant Hunt in Eastern Washington, Purina dog food, Avery hats, and other specialty items. 

On Saturday, RHRC provided a Picnic-Style Celebration Lunch to judges, workers and contestants.  There were lots of smiles by the end of the weekend.

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A recap of RHRC’s 2024 events include holding our annual Awards Banquet in January.  Members and their dogs were recognized for the hard work they put in during the 2023 testing season.  Member of the Year was awarded to Misalyn Armstrong and the President’s Award went to Jean Fowler.  Our special guest speaker, Dr. Adam Black DVM, shared information about the Avian Flu as well as the recent respiratory illness being seen in dogs across the country. 

In February, RHRC held a training day at Cascade Retrievers in Monroe, WA.  Many members and non-members had fun getting ready for the summer event season.

March brought a 2-day AKC Advanced Retriever Hunting Test Seminar for Judges and Handlers hosted by RHRC.  We are grateful to the Master National Retriever Club for their $1,000 grant to assist with the costs of the event.

In May, RHRC hosted 3-day AKC Sanctioned Hunting Retriever Test at the Snoqualmie Valley Retriever Grounds.  Thanks to the  members, friends, professionals and judges who helped make this a reality for those who wished to compete. 

In June, many RHRC members participated in the 2024 Master Amateur Invitational Event held on the Snoqualmie Vallely Retriever Grounds.  Retrievers and their Amateur Handlers from all over the country participated in this premier retriever event. 

2024 RHRC Board Members

Four officers and at least Five Members at Large are elected for one year terms. 2024 Members at Large are: Jim Olson (Past President), Susan Bell, Chris Braswell, Doug Gallucci, Kevin Medved, Sue Meyring and Bill Woll.

Betsy Reali

President

Betsy got her first hunting dog in 2003, and in 2007 participated in her first hunt test. She has been "hooked" ever since. She has owned both retrieving and pointing dogs and enjoys upland bird hunting. In 2016 she completed her AKC Hunt Test Judge requirements for retrievers.

Liz Gibson

Liz Gibson

Vice President

Liz participated in her first hunt test with her chocolate Labrador "Hudson" in 2005. She has been a part of the community ever since, active in hunt tests and judging at all levels. A long time member of RHRC, she has held positions on the Board, chaired and volunteered for annual events and hunt tests. She currently runs "Vincent" and "Oliver" at Master level and "McCormick" is her upcoming star!

Misalyn Armstrong

Secretary

Misalyn has been captivated with Hunt Tests since 1996. She enjoys training, competing and judging dogs. She appreciates the camaraderie amongst other competitors in the sport. She trains, competes and loves her two girls (dogs) Harlee and Ellee.

Lee Redd

Lee Redd

Treasurer

Lee has been hooked on the hunt test game since 2005. Currently he has two dogs that he competes with, Zen and Otto. Lee has learned that no matter what happens during the day, there is always room to sprinkle in some fun. He is a certified CPA.