Posted 1:00 P.M. GMT; updated 3:00 p.m, 5:00 p.m., final results 5:45 p.m.

The first day of qualifying trials commenced under threatening skies at Kimmel Park in Abergele, Wales with solid runs from some of the early competitors. Through lunch, top scores have been posted by Glyn Jones and Ben from Llangollen, with 392, and Jock Welsh and Tanhill Nap from Dalrymple with 388. Ged Watson and Eryri Rock from Yelverton (384) and David Wood and Moe from Bamford (382) also posted high scores. Most of the spectators agree that the sheep have been good and the course fair, with excellent sightlines. The preferred direction on the outrun has been to the left, and few points have been lost on the lift, fetch and pen.

During lunch the first four competitions in the brace championship trials were run. Going into Friday, Jim Cropper from Baccup, with Fleet and Dan, leads with 470 points, followed by Sammy Long of County Donegal, with Daisy and Craig (429).

The singles competition resumed after lunch under a mix of weather that alternated sunshine with bands of rain. However, the trial field continues to hold up. On the second run of the afternoon, Michael Shearer and Cap, from Thurso, scored 388 points out of 440. Later in the afternoon, Keith Preston and Rodger, from Newcastle Upon Tyne, scored 366. Shortly afterward, Seamus Gormley and Mali, from County Derry notched 392, tying Glyn Jones and Ben for the top run so far, and Wyn Edwards and Cap, from Ruthin, followed this with 372. Only seven qualifying runs remain in Day 1.

With the weather improving somewhat, Thursday concluded with notable runs from James McGee and Becca, from County Donegal, and Gareth Davies and Moss, from Tregaron. McGee and Becca posted the best score of the day with a 396. Davies and Moss followed immediately with a 388. Kieran Doherty and Bob, from County Mayo, was the last competitor on the trial filed today, but could not post a qualifying score.

Lunchtime Brace Runs

Singles continued....

Singles continued...

Singles continued...