2009 AKC National Obedience Invitational

Judges – Michael "Mike" Piefer

Mike Piefer has been competing in the sport of obedience since 1971 and has been on the other side of the clipboard since 1994. His wife, Yvonne of Tanbark Golden Retrievers, keeps him competitive in the obedience ring with her Golden Retriever pups. Obedience has given them the opportunity to see many parts of the country and meet new friends and keep up with old ones. Mike feels that being able to intermingle competing and judging on a regular basis has given him the opportunity to achieve a better perspective as both a judge and exhibitor. At the present time, Mike is training two Golden Retrievers that will be ready for Utility sometime soon.

Mike states that it is an honor to be asked to judge, no matter how big or small the show may be, but being asked to judge the NOI is very special, and he feels extremely privileged to be asked again to observe some of the best dogs and handlers in the country. This is his second turn at this and he knows he will not be disappointed. Mike realizes all the efforts and hours that these trainers put in, and they should all be applauded for having their chance at this prestigious event.

When Mike is not showing or judging, he serves as president/owner of a manufacturing business that is part of the packaging industry. He truly enjoys the new challenges that this hobby of obedience has given him and looks forward to competing and judging for many years to come.