The start of the semi-final qualifying trial on Saturday was delayed by fog. Trialing finally began shortly before 11:00 AM with Ron Snoeck (NET) and Nell at the post. By noon, the fog had given way to clear skies and bright sunshine, perfect trialing conditions. Karin Mattsson (NOR) and Sammie set an early standard on the sixth run of the day with a score of 382, with fine outwork and points off primarily in the drive and shed. Mattsson’s score would hold until Aled Owen (WAL) and Roy posted a score of 395 in mid-afternoon on a run that featured a superb drive and no points off on the pen. Meirion Jones (WAL) and Joe matched Aled and Roy’s score shortly afterward on a run marred only by two ewes being pulled back through the drive panels. Through 29 competitors, Nigel Watkins (WAL) and Floss posted the best score (406) from a superb run throughout the course.

Because of the late start, competitors trialed to a standard. As a result, more and more competitors retired as the afternoon turned into evening. Both American semi-finalists were eliminated late in the day. Alasdair MacCrae, with Nap, was particularly unlucky with his packet of sheep that showed no inclination to flock. With only five runs to go, Nigel Watkins held both the high and low qualifying scores for the final. Welshmen Aled Owen, with Roy, and Meirion Owen, with Joe, were second with scores of 395; Irishman James McGee and Becca held fourth place with 392; and Norwegian Karin Mattsson’s score of 382 held fifth place.

As daylight started turning to dusk, Aiden Gallagher (IRE) with Bill recorded a superb run, scoring the high for the day of 410. Aiden and Bill lost no points on the outrun and lift and no points on the shed and single, setting a high standard for the day. On the second last run of the day, Kevin Evans and Spot scored 388, highlighted by no points lost in the shed, pen and single. Tony Ottesen (DEN) and Bob was the last competitor to qualify for the final on the last run of the day with a score of 349.