http://www.akc.org/events/tracking/2008_tracking_advisory_committee.cfm
This is the link with the proposed tracking changes:
http://www.akc.org/pdfs/events/tracking/2008_committee_recommendations.pdf
Some changes to the TD test that you may want to write to the TAC and comment on, specifically Chapter 3, Section 6. I excerpted for you below:
Chapter 3, Section 6 – Start – (first, second and third paragraph and addition of a new
paragraph) The start will have a flag at the beginning in an area that permits the direction of the
track to begin in a 180-degree arc. and a second flag 30 yards from the first flag indicating the
direction of the first leg.
The tracklayer will begin at least ten (10) yards from the starting flag, lining the start flag upup with the flag marking the first turn.
with the starting flag and the second flag. The tracklayer
will proceed along this line ensuring there is no turn at the starting flag. While walking this line,
the tracklayer will pause momentarily at the first flag, drop the start article, then continue
walking the track in the manner specified in Chapter 2, Section 10. The start article must beThe handler may pick up
made of cloth and must be the approximate size of a glove or wallet.
the article at the starting flag and use it to give scent to the dog while on the track. The test
begins when the dog leaves the start flag. No restart is permitted once the handler leaves the
start flag.
The judges at a distance of about 30 yards from the starting flag will instruct the handler as to the
location of the starting flag and the path of approach. The judges will direct the handler to the
starting flag but will not indicate the direction of the track. The angle between the handler and
tracklayer’s direction of approach will be less than 90 degrees.
The test begins when the dog leaves the first flag. The initial 30 yards between the flags is part of
the track; all requirements for the track apply. In this portion of the track, the handler may
restrain the dog, but any leading or guiding of the dog constitutes grounds for calling the handler
off the track and failing the dog. Provided the dog has not passed the second flag, the handler
may request permission from the judges for a restart. If approved by the judges, the handler may
restart the dog, either from their present location or after returning to the starting flag. Only one
restart is permitted.
