2026 Mid-America Working Terrier Trials
The Mid-America Working Terrier Trials is a premier two-day event dedicated to showcasing the natural instincts, speed, and versatility of working terriers. Held each year on the fourth weekend in June, these trials are sanctioned by the Jack Russell Terrier Club of America (JRTCA) and feature an exciting lineup of events, including go-to-ground, racing, barn hunt, super-earth, lure course, Underland Tunnel, and conformation.
Hosted by the Mid-America Working Terrier Association, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the Trials draw competitors and spectators from across the country. It’s a celebration of friendly competition, the unique abilities of these remarkable dogs, and the vibrant community of terrier enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned handler or attending for the first time, you’ll find the Trials to be an unforgettable weekend of sport, camaraderie, and fun.
2026 Trial Information
June 27 and 28, 2026
Ta-Ha-Zouka Park
2001 S 13th St
Norfolk, NE 68701
Registration
Registration information coming soon.
JRTCA Annual General Meeting
** We are hosting the 2026 Jack Russell Terrier Club of America Annual General Meeting **
JRTCA members stay after the trial on Saturday to attend the JRTCA Annual General Meeting. We’ll have more details as we get closer to the date.
Accommodations
Trial Hotel
We have a block of rooms reserved for trial weekend. Please call the inn to book your reservation and let them know you are with the Mid-America Working Terrier Trials.
New Victorian Inn Norfolk
1001 W. Omaha Ave
Norfolk, NE 68701
Phone: (402) 379-3035
Camping
*** New for 2026 ***
MATWA did not reserve camping spaces for 2026. Please book yours through the City of Norfolk’s website.
Photo courtesy of Visit Nebraska.
What can you do at a trial?
Barn Hunt
Barn Hunt is a fun, scent-based sport where terriers use their natural hunting instincts to locate safely contained rats hidden in straw bales. It’s an exciting way to showcase a dog’s keen nose, problem-solving skills, and determination.
Conformation
Conformation welcomes Terriers of all ages, sizes, and abilities. From puppies to veterans and working dogs to companions, every dog can shine as judges evaluate structure, movement, and temperament against the breed standard.
Go-to-Ground
Go-to-Ground tests a terrier’s natural hunting instincts as it navigates a tunnel to locate quarry. This timed event showcases the dog’s determination, agility, and problem-solving skills in a safe, simulated environment.
Lure Course
Lure coursing is a fast-paced dog sport where dogs chase a mechanically operated lure, often a plastic bag, across a field, following unpredictable turns and sprints that mimic the movement of prey. It’s an exciting way for dogs to showcase their speed, agility, and natural chasing instincts.
Racing
Racing is a high-energy competition where dogs sprint down a straight, enclosed track to be the first to cross the finish line. In steeplechase, a variation with hurdles, dogs race over a series of jumps, adding an extra test of agility and coordination to their speed.
Super Earth
Super Earth is an expanded, above-ground tunnel course designed to challenge a terrier’s speed, agility, and working ability. With multiple turns, obstacles, and entrances, it’s a fast-paced test of instinct and athleticism.
Underland Tunnel
Underland Tunnel is an above-ground tunnel with a clear plexiglass side, allowing spectators to watch the terriers navigate the course. It tests a dog’s speed, focus, and working ability as they race through the enclosed pathway.
Good Dogs and Good Friends
Enjoy spirited competition with terrier friends from across the country. It’s the perfect chance to share stories, cheer each other on, and celebrate the dogs we love.