From Home to Sweden
My Journey to the International Poodle Championships in Solvesborg and the Agility World Championships in Kalmar - Sweden.
Travelling to Sweden
This past month has been one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life: traveling to Sweden with a dog is no easy thing to do, but we did it! This was all to compete at the International Poodle Championships and proudly stepping into my role as reserve for Team GB at the Agility World Championships.
When I first began preparing for this trip, it felt daunting and a huge task. Hours of planning, training, and fine-tuning every detail led up to this moment. I couldn’t have done it without Florent by my side every step of the way. We travelled to Harwich and got the Stenna Line Ferry to Hook of Holland. From here it was a 8 hour drive to Puttgarden in Germany where we caught a ferry across to Denmark! A late night arrival and a full sleep ahead was needed. The next day we did the 3 hour drive to our incredible campsite where we stayed in traditional Swedish cabin for the next 4 nights. We would highly recommend Hälleviks Camping - https://camping.se/en/camping/2775/Halleviks-Camping for dog friendly accomodation in the most beautiful location!
Competing at the International Poodle Agility Championships
Arriving in Sweden was magical. The crisp Scandinavian air, the stunning scenery, and the buzz of knowing we were surrounded by the world’s best poodle competitors was exciting. The venue itself was breathtaking, filled with team spirit, anticipation, and the unmistakable energy of people who share the same passion. The D.O.G Arena (https://www.dogarena.se/ipac/) had everything you could wish for! Stunning location, peaceful and remote. There was ample parking, a brilliant competition surface perfectly looked after with the best equipment from Galican Softline. The competition itself was ran so smoothly and everyone was so helpful and friendly. What more can you ask for!
Onwards to Kalmar for AWC 2025!
Driving to Kalmar was easy and just up the road really from where we were competing. We had a truly magical 4 days surrounded by poodles, I was sad to leave! When we arrived in Kalmar we had welcome drinks with the rest of Team GB, and then into the Opening Ceremony on the Tuesday.
The competition at AWC was fierce, and the standard of performance truly inspiring. As reserve for Team GB, my role came with its own responsibilities — being ready at any moment to step in, supporting my teammates, and representing my country with pride. Wearing the Team GB colors and standing alongside such talented handlers is always a moment I’m proud of and it will always feel a true privilage.
Beyond the competition, it was the little moments that made the trip so special: watching Florent work his magic on the green carpet with his Photography business Flotography (https://flotography.zenfoliosite.com) , swapping stories with handlers from across the world, and soaking up the Swedish culture. From unexpected local finds to unforgettable meals, every day brought a memory I’ll carry with me forever.
Looking back, I feel so proud — not just of the results from the Poodle Champs and being reserve for Team GB, but of the journey itself. This experience has taught me resilience, teamwork, and the importance of celebrating every step along the way. My poodle Casino, as always, was the star of the show in my heart, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the bond we share.
