2021 Inductee – “Patch”
Owner/Handler: Gary Busboom
1024 Champion Points
Legendary Status Champion
52x Champion
2 Super Major Championships
7 Major Championships
Small in stature large in ability the Busboom family never could have anticipated the gem they would find in Clown’s Rusty Patch. Spring 2009, Holly was sent with the mission of bringing back an 8-month-old puppy in search of his new forever home, after running loose from the gas station about half of Texas was searched until finally getting this scared new dog home. Most of Patch’s beginning was about trust and social interaction. Taking over a month of being hand fed and beginning to warm up, it was obvious he was only going to let a few in his circle of trust, after he did what a special feeling that he chose you.
From the start Patch was a force to be reckoned with. Every tournament he was a top contender as his passion was always focused on birds. During the 11 years blessed in his life he would always hunt to perfection with anyone that picked up a gun if you did not try to pet him. His nose for birds was astonishing as his ability to perform in any condition made him amazing. After his first big win at the Wild West Shootout, fall 2011; winning a $10,000 grand prize, Boomer knew this dog was the one. After years of competing and many top 5 finishes there was still two ultimate claims in the BDC to achieve, a black jacket and Dog of the Year.
Finally, at the 2014 Nationals with 53 dogs in the competition Patch finally shined winning his owner that black jacket. After years of competing the moment came wearing the jacket of the dog that truly deserved it. The Busboom family was just starting to begin the journey of life achievement’s that Patch would give. The next year, he had it again when it mattered most leading Boomer and Holly to a Dog of the Year victory. It was a stressful day knowing Boomer had a great top gun run with him, but the other competitors did as well so it was going to come down to doubles. After a long wait the truck door got locked and Sweeney had to hanger the door open to get Patch out to even do his doubles run. Veteran competitor Boomer took a chance with his daughter a newer player, in confidence Patch would lead the win. After the clock started it was silence, Boomer nor Holly commanded as Patch did his job. He moved as graceful as an angel side to side finding every bird flawlessly leading the team to victory. A Win that will always be his gift to us.
Patch was not known as an outgoing or social dog, he was a bit neurotic, would never sleep in a hotel room with a sea theme bed spread, walk on hard wood floor, could not be in a kennel and would shake like a leaf on a tree. He was quirky and shy, but loyal and tough as nails. Every imperfection made him perfect. The most honest dog in the field as you could leave him on point for hours and he would still be there, just do not leave chocolate donuts with him, that was his guilty pleasure in life.
We will always remember Patch thru the memories we have and the stories Boomer shares, what happens in Alabama should stay in Alabama. Thinking of Patch brings joy and watching his pups grow gives a shimmer of him back. He will never be replaced as we look into his continued blood line with pride and joy.
Today March 11, 2021; Patch enters the BDC Hall of Fame as a Legendary Status Dog with 52 Championships, 1024 career Champion Points, 2 Super Major Wins and 7 Major Wins. A legendary status dog that will forever be remembered, greatly missed, and never replaced in the fields or our hearts.