Joy in the Journey: Kate Moureaux and Prize
Team USA medalists share European adventure.
Dog agility trainer Kate Moureaux of Simi Valley, California, and her 7-year-old Border Collie, Prize, traveled to France this spring to compete with Team USA at the 2024 IFCS World Agility Championship. The duo brought home a silver medal in the Individual Standard division, and along the way, they created unforgettable memories during their nearly four-week European adventure.
The trip was Prize’s first to France and Kate’s fourth, but Kate said it was the first time she really got to explore and enjoy the country. “The countryside in France is just amazing,” she said. “I really enjoyed driving around and just taking in the natural beauty.”
While in France, Kate and Prize stayed with fellow Team USA members Roger Ly and Tracy Duncan. “It was fun to be able to hang out, cook dinner, and drink wine,” Kate said. “Plus sharing lots of cheese and weird chip flavors. We also had a fun sightseeing trip to Mont-Saint-Michel, a beautiful church located on a tidal island.”
One of Kate’s favorite memories from the trip was spending time with the members of Oolirage Sports Canins Club after the IFCS World Agility Championship. “During our week off near Paris, they invited us to come to their dog training facility to visit and enjoy a barbecue. Everyone was so friendly and welcoming,” she said.
With a week off in between IFCS and another dog agility competition in the Netherlands, Kate’s partner, Jason, was able to join her and Prize for a week near Paris. “We had a day that we took Prize into Paris and did a walking tour with her. She had a great time walking with us on the streets of Paris and visiting with people.”
Toward the end of their European trip, Kate and Prize took a day trip to Germany from the Netherlands. “Prize and I got to spend the day hiking some beautiful trails near a couple of very neat old churches.”
Have you had some interesting adventures on your way to or from a trial or event? Share photos of your experience and a brief description by emailing news@usdaa.com.