About Us
Competition Founder
Every successful trial—large or small—begins with one person who has a dream and the determination to make it happen. That person is Mark Petersen. Although the Event has transitioned to Soldier Hollow / UOLF and is now managed by Carol Clawson, Mark will continue to communicate with competitors and help ensure the high standard of competition established over the past 19 years. He will also be present at the event whenever possible—so don’t be surprised to see his ready smile!
Soldier Hollow Classic Announcer
Matthew Heimburger began announcing events at Soldier Hollow in 2003, when his first-grade sons strapped on cross-country skis to compete in the Soldier Hollow Charter School Winter Olympics. While his boys eventually moved on to surfing and rock climbing during college weekends, Matthew stayed on at Soldier Hollow, becoming the venue’s official announcer for a wide range of athletic events—from skiing and biathlon to trail running.
In 2019, he took over announcing duties for the Soldier Hollow Sheepdog Classic from the legendary Ray Crabtree and quickly developed a deep appreciation for these remarkable canine athletes (and their handlers!). With a background in journalism, academia, and stand-up comedy, Matthew blends insight, philosophy, and wry humor into his broadcasts, ensuring the audience has just as much fun as the competitors. Matthew lives in Midway with his wife Anna, daughter Lucy, and Bailey, a beloved non-herding dog. Email Matthew
Soldier Hollow Classic Owner & Managers
Carol Clawson (Event and Competition Manager and handler), now joined by Mia and Eric Larson (Co-Festival Managers), is no stranger to Soldier Hollow. Carol has volunteered at the event since its first year, taking on an increasing role as Trial Coordinator and now serving as its Manager of the event, operating it through her small company, SH Sheepdog LLC. The Larsons have also been involved with and participated in the event in various capacities almost since its beginning and will bring their organizational and creative talents to the Event. Email Carol Email Mia Email Eric
The Event
The Soldier Hollow International Sheepdog Championship & Festival was the inspiration of Mr. Mark Peterson of Park City, Utah. First held in 2003, the event attracted approximately 5,000 spectators and competitors from around the world. Since then, it has grown into one of the premier sheepdog trials internationally, drawing competitors from 19 countries and more than 10,000 spectators annually, and earning global recognition for its quality and rigor.
Set on the hillside of Soldier Hollow, a 2002 Olympic venue, the course offers stunning views for both handlers and spectators. Beyond the competition, the Festival features children’s activities—including games and a petting zoo—along with popular demonstrations such as herding, duck herding, and dog agility, all showcasing the extraordinary abilities of these remarkable dogs. Visitors can also enjoy an outstanding selection of food and merchandise vendors.
Olympic Hillside - A View from the Top
In 2002, Soldier Hollow hosted the world’s top Nordic skiers and biathletes during the Winter Olympic Games, and the facilities that welcomed the world then continue to serve the venue today. A professional sound system, scoreboard, and extensive infrastructure allow Soldier Hollow to host a sheepdog trial unlike any other.
The Olympic hillside offers unsurpassed sight lines and challenging, uneven terrain that truly tests the best dogs. Trees, shrubs, and even a historic pioneer cabin tempt wary sheep seeking refuge behind every obstacle. With no perimeter fencing, sheep have been known to escape into the dense foliage above the trial field—adding to the challenge and spectacle. In its first year, Bobby Henderson called Soldier Hollow one of the finest sites for a sheepdog trial in the world.