First Place in Open - Dog, Judge: Debbie Lorraine (Raleniro)
I would like to thank the Club for the invitation to judge this show. It was originally planned for me to judge in April 2020, but this was rearranged due to the pandemic and other outstanding appointments. I would like to thank the Committee for the wonderful hospitality shown to me throughout the day, and thank you to my Steward who kept things running smoothly. I thoroughly enjoyed my day.
I have not judged for just over 4 years, so it was a pleasure to see so many new dogs and new faces around the ring. I was pleasantly surprised by the strength and quality throughout the classes, and pleased to see a return to a more narrow dog, as I was seeing a trend for wide fronts last time I judged.
All dogs were entire and temperaments throughout were good. Bites were correct, with just the odd broken, misplaced or dirty tooth. Coats were, as to be expected, at various stages. There were a few close decisions, and some classes where I wish I had more prize cards to give out. Thank you to all the exhibitors for the privilege of judging your dogs, and also for the sporting way in which they accepted my decisions.
Lastly, can I please apologise for the delay in submitting my critique, as I usually have them done within a day or two of the show. There has been an ongoing issue with the health of a close relative which has taken up a lot of my time, so again, apologies for the delay.
Almost 8 years old blue and tan that I have admired for some time. Excellent size and type with a strong, masculine head and the best of expressions. So straight in front with just the right amount of bone. Tight feet. Narrow throughout with good layback of shoulder. Lovely angulation, level topline, strong in loin. Spanned with ease. Best of coats, harsh with plenty ticking and a thick pelt. Presented such a balanced picture and owned the ring as he strode out with drive. Excellent, fit condition which belied his age. I could happily have taken him home with me. Delighted to award him BD, BV and BIS.