I have been active in dog sports since 2005, driven by a strong passion for rescue work. Over the years, I have trained and competed with several dogs in different disciplines, gaining broad international experience both as a competitor and as a trainer.

Since 2016, I have also served as a rescue dog judge, officiating at World Championships as well as qualification events in various countries.

Today, I am active in five of the six SAR disciplines – area search, tracking, rubble, water, and avalanche – as I believe that versatility helps both

the handler and the dog to grow.

I consider it important, alongside my judging, to continue competing myself and training new trainees, as this provides the right perspective and  practical knowledge for my work as a judge. As a judge, I value precise, positive, and harmonious teamwork between dog and handler.

I have been active in rescue dog sport for 25 years and have handled various dog breeds. During this time, I have gained experience in international and national trials, tournaments, and World Championship competitions. I have been deployed in the rubble division through the

Austrian military and the IRO (MRT), and in 2008, I was deployed abroad with the IRO.

I currently have a 2-year-old Malinois bitch whom I am training in rescue dog sport and obedience. I am very pleased to have been invited to the Trofeo Valli Bergamasche. Judging at such a large tournament entails a great deal of responsibility.

It's not just about a correct ranking, but also about qualifying for the World Championship. When judging, I place great emphasis on understanding the tactical guidelines and good barking. When it comes to obedience, I place great emphasis on technically sound exercises and open behavior from the dog.

I wish all participants a pleasant and successful time!

Dear friends, colleagues, and competitors,

Welcome to the 2025 Valli Bergamasche Trophy, now in its sixth edition!

It is with great joy and honor that I stand here today, not as a competitor, but as a judge.

After many years of active participation, having the opportunity to evaluate the numerous dog-handler teams arriving from several European countries is truly a privilege.

I am especially proud to share this role with two highly experienced international colleagues: Monica Rusing and Gerald Odlozilik. Their professionalism and expertise raise the standard of our judging panel, and their presence will surely be a learning experience for all of us.

I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to the organizing team. The work you are doing is remarkable — your commitment to providing the best locations and conditions, not only for us judges but above all for the competitors, is truly admirable.

Every detail reflects care and dedication, every choice is made to ensure the success of this event. And to all of you who have chosen to be here today — thank you for your trust, your determination, and the sporting spirit that unites all those who love this discipline.

I hope you will fully enjoy this competition, challenge yourselves, face new experiences, and measure your progress — always with mutual respect and the pleasure of being together.

Have a wonderful 2025 Valli Bergamasche Trophy!

It is always a great emotion to serve as a judge at the Trofeo Valli Bergamasche, but this year it feels even more special. This important competition is no longer just a key event in the Italian calendar of search and rescue dog trials — it has become a true international gathering, attracting many handlers from all over Europe who will challenge themselves in the breathtaking setting of our mountains. First and foremost, I would like to thank the Gruppo Cinofilo Bergamasco for their commitment in organizing this edition and for their continued trust and support of the Trophy throughout the years. My heartfelt thanks also go to the Municipality of Clusone, which welcomes and hosts us with great enthusiasm.

A special thank you goes to all the handlers who, through their participation, renew their trust in this event and in those who work with dedication to make it possible. It is thanks to their passion, commitment, and professionalism that the Trofeo Valli Bergamasche continues to grow and to stand as a benchmark in the international field of search and rescue dog trials.

My priority, as well as that of the entire judging panel, will be to give the utmost attention to every competitor and to honour their efforts with evaluations worthy of a competition of such high standard.

I wish everyone to fully enjoy this extraordinary experience, in the true spirit of sportsmanship, fairness, and friendship, surrounded by the magnificent landscape of our mountains.