Show Placings
Kent County CA Open Show
22nd Aug 2021
Judge: Mrs Mandy Kenna (Cynetkoy)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG3, Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Best Puppy
Name at show: RBPIS, TPG1, Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down
The East Anglia Border Terrier Club Championship Show
29th Aug 2021
Judge: Mrs Janet Lee (Tythrop)
My thanks to the Officers & Committee for inviting me to judge their show , & for the excellent ring stewards Mr Brewster & Mrs Armstrong who made the day run smoothly & kept me going with refreshments ! I enjoyed being with fellow BT fanciers & their dogs , as I always do .
I had a very good entry come forward & after such a long time away from the ring , a few were ring rusty & some youngsters were a little overawed , which I considered quite acceptable given so many had missed out on their early education & socialisation & tried to give them opportunity to shine , though a few very nice dogs could have been higher placed but the occasion was too much for them .
I found very good examples , but also had some whose construction fell a little short of the standard …….deep unspannable bodies or brisket below elbow standing or on the move on much shorter than their depth legs , forward placed & too little angulation in their fronts due to upright shoulders & short steep upper arms which shorten their strides or make them goosestep , & flat croups with extra high set tails carried like hound sterns ,or conversely short steep croups with low tailsets , often thin & long tails too & some poor downhill or lumpy/hinged toplines became apparent in profile movement , however the most common thing that struck me was how many have too little bone in pasterns & east-west feet when our standard calls for straight legs & good tight feet . As I lift every dog to see how their fronts ‘’drop’’ into place I found lack of bone through pasterns into feet was a common fault today & so some had feet not facing forward naturally . Most came in good condition , but a few were too thin & their pelvic bones were sticking up & they felt shelly with no depth of loin so their rears lacked muscle accordingly , conversely a handful had indulged during lockdown a little too much ! Coats were as ever , mixed , but the top winners all came in very good order with double coats .
Minor Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Placing Critique
grizzle & tan of just 6 months , good bite , neat well placed ears , dark eye & nice expression . A confident puppy who is very well balanced with lovely bodylines , narrow front & easy span rib , firm backline with good underline & nicely set & carried tail , long ground covering stride, in good harsh double coat with loose pelt , he just needs time to grow on & mature , very promising .
Richmond Championship Show
11th Sep 2021
Judge: Mr Colin Girling (Benattivo)
Thank you to the committee of the Richmond show for granting my first appointment to award CC’s, I was well looked after on the day and had great support from my stewards which was very much appreciated. It was a real privilege to judge some wonderful examples of the breed and the future looks bright as there were so many wonderful puppies and juniors. I really appreciated all my entries and rewarded those in the best condition on the day, I also acknowledge that many had good breed type and quality even amongst those not in the challenge and some that were not placed in the stronger classes.
Best Puppy
Name at show: TPG4, Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Best Puppy - Dog
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Minor Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Placing Critique
A great start to my day to see this young dog shown in super jacket with thick pelt beneath and ticking so many boxes in terms of his body lines and reach of neck plus well placed carrot tail. No exaggerations and moved true both ways, so pleased to award him best puppy later and watch him achieve a well-deserved 4th place in the group.
Thame & Oxfordshire County CS Open Show
15th Sep 2021
Judge: Mr Rob Jones
Puppy /
Second Place
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down
The Southern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
18th Sep 2021
Judge: Miss Sally Leslie (Risdene)
Congratulations to the committee on finding a splendid new venue. It is so nice to be able to evaluate exhibits in natural surrounding and this was ideal. I understand some did not care completely for the ground but while some exhibits did not excel on the terrain those that did displayed good conformation and moved accordingly.
Generally: there were some mouth faults present today which affected some results in the context of the classes they were in and the degree of the fault. Fronts came in many shapes and sizes not all straight and narrow unfortunately and I was surprised at the number of large and rather thin, spreading feet. Finally I just want to get off my chest that for me the term racy hindquarters does not carry with it a high tuck up.
The unexpected heat, especially in the earlier classes, was a little overwhelming and I thought both exhibits and exhibitors coped admirably. I loved my line ups and very much appreciated my entry, thank you.
Thanks also to my stewards who in these strange times were really kept at it all day.
Minor Puppy - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Placing Critique
a little less mature but smart and of reasonable proportions, easily spanned and lots to like
The Midland Border Terrier Club 2020 Championship Show
24th Sep 2021
Judge: (Dogs) Anne Gregory (Remony) (Bitches) Liz Wright (Totherend)
DOGS:
A most enjoyable day judging dogs at this show and I would like to thank the Club for inviting me to do so. Thanks also to my two stewards, John and John, who kept things moving along in a professional and efficient manner. Thanks also to the exhibitors for their support and allowing me the privilege of going over their dogs.
Mouths, on the whole, were good and I found only one suspect mouth. There were plenty of typical otter heads but evidence also of stops that were too deep and muzzles that were too short, which is not typical of an otter head.
Movement in some dogs was less than desirable with a few crossing in front, toeing in or flicking wrists. Rear movement was somewhat better but side movement showed some dogs short stepping. I also found some flat, slack feet and loose pasterns, which could well have been improved with proper exercise, and some feet could have been tidied up to better effect.
Generally coats and pelts were harsh and thick but, in some classes, lack of coat was the deciding factor in final placements.
My main concern today was size and weight. Some dogs were very difficult to span, were too heavy and did not come to hand well. This must be addressed to ensure Borders remain fit for the purpose they were intended.
I was pleased with my final line-up and my co judge and I whole heartedly agreed when it came to the final awards.
BITCHES:
My thanks to the Midland Border Terrier Club for offering this my first judging appointment at championship level. I had a really enjoyable day and must thank exhibitors for their wonderful entry and allowing me the opportunity to go over their dogs. Huge thanks also to my two stewards, John & John, who kept everything running smoothly.
I was really pleased with the quality of exhibits, unfortunately this meant some good dogs went unplaced.
Coats were at various stages, all acceptable, but I personally prefer more than less. Some of the exhibits would have benefitted from a tidy up, especially feet. Front movement could have been better, a few upright shoulders and over-angulated rear ends. Overall size was OK, but a few were over weight which made them unspannable.
Really pleased with my final line up and final awards.
Minor Puppy - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down
National Dog Show
24th Sep 2021
Judge: Mrs Wendy Mooney (Chesterton)
Thank you to the committee of Birmingham Dog Show Society for inviting me to judge Border Terriers at their show. Many thanks to all the exhibitors who entered and gave me the honour and pleasure of judging their dogs. I had a fabulous entry and was truly spoilt for choice in many of the classes. One general observation is that there were quite a number of dogs that were, in my opinion, simply too big to do the job that they are bred to do.
Minor Puppy - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Placing Critique
Dark grizzle and tan, also 7 months old, but smaller and finer boned than the winner. Also in excellent coat with acceptable thickness of pelt just not as good as the winner. Good mouth and correct bite. Found him “petite” for his age, may fill out as he matures. He was pretty in head with a sweet expression.
The Scottish Kennel Club (May) Championship Show
1st Oct 2021
Judge: Mrs Trudi Baird (Dowgri)
I was delighted to accept the invitation to judge at the May show postponed to October.
Under Scottish government rules it meant those of us inside had to wear masks & I thank the majority of exhibitors for complying with this legislation.
Thank you to my lone steward who was able to keep the classes coming in and ready for me, it wasn't an easy task with our neighbouring ring hosting the breeds October show but thankfully we didn't get too many clashes.
I always feel immensely privileged to be able to judge your dogs and I hope exhibitors felt that I gave each of you ample time to set up your dogs on the table to show them at their best.
The entry was varied and I felt my top winners were outstanding. As always coats were presented at various stages and bites were generally very good. A number with long flat & untidy feet and a few dogs I just couldn't span even with my large hands!
Best Puppy
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Minor Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Placing Critique
A lovely start to the day with this delightful 7 month well schooled puppy. Attractive head and expression. Narrow front with small neat feet, very good through neck and shoulder Narrow long rib, well carried back. Firm topline and correct tail set. Presented in tight harsh dark grizzle jacket. Spot on size for age & easy to span, Moved well. A picture of total balance, Loved him BPD & BPIB.
The Scottish Kennel Club (October) Championship Show
1st Oct 2021
Judge: Miss Anita Harrison (Iacheslei)
My thanks to SKC for holding the show after two changes of date and merging the May and October shows. It can’t have been easy. My grateful thanks to Bob Potts, my sole ring steward for the day, who cheerfully and calmly kept the ring running smoothly with the greatest efficiency.
Whilst my main winners fitted the breed standard I was disappointed with some of the other exhibits. The front movement on some left an awful lot to be desired. (Try videoing your dogs moving) Many were light of bone, on the leg and short coupled giving a square outline. Several had short round ribs. Having said that the majority were spannable. Dentition was generally good. All dogs were entire. Coats were at various stages but those with no coat had to be penalised in several classes. Presentation of some exhibits could have been better. Temperaments on the whole appeared to be okay, with just the odd exhibit displaying a tendency to be over excited in the presence of others.
Minor Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Placing Critique
Grizzle dog with good head and neck, well laid rib, level topline with correct tailset, good turn of stifle and lovely tight feet. Super coat and pelt, Front movement was a little loose.
The Northern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
9th Oct 2021
Judge: Mr Jimmy Gilpin (Otterbobs)
I feel honoured to have been elected by the members to have judged their clubs 75 year show, and can I thank Alan and Graham for keeping things running so smoothly for me, and can I especially thank the committee for lunch that they provided and also Mr J Whalton for looking after me and my wife, I am not going to rant on about this and that but where have all the heads and tail sets gone ?
Best Puppy - Dog
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Reserve Best Puppy
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Best Opposite Sex Puppy
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Minor Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Placing Critique
Nice sized pup for his age, typical head and big teeth with well placed ear set. Lovely body, narrow and of good length, tail set on high, coat in excellent condition.
The London & Home Counties Terrier Club Open Show
10th Oct 2021
Judge: Mr R Wright (Borderexpress)
A big thank you the committee for the invite to judge the Border Terriers today, 2nd biggest entry of the day so a big thank you also for the exhibitors on the quality of the dogs for me to go over today. Also a big thank you to the East Anglia Border Terrier Club for the sponsorship of the classes on the day.
A lovely well run show with a great atmosphere and a great ending to the show when you get to see your Best of Breed/Best Puppy go on and get Best Puppy In show. Also a big thank you to my steward Mandy Holmes for keeping the dogs coming and going in correct order.
Best Of Breed
Name at show: 4th BIS, Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Best Puppy
Name at show: BPIS, Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Best Dog
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Placing Critique
8 month old Dark Grizzle dog, a real showman throughout the day and looks the part on the move. Nice head that is maturing with age, dark eye and lovely big teeth. Narrow throughout from lovely shoulders through into a nice length of loin and tail set. Set down in a lovely condition with jacket/pelt the best on the day. My Best Of Breed today and lovely to see him go on and gat placed 4th in the Best in Show line up and then secure Best Puppy In Show. One to keep an eye on over the next 12 months as he develops and matures. (Best Dog & Best Of Breed)
Crystal Palace Canine Association Dog Show
16th Oct 2021
Judge: Mr Jack Wood (Nasabe)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Best Puppy
Name at show: TPG3, Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Puppy /
First Place
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Gravesend and Medway Towns Canine Society Open Show
17th Oct 2021
Judge: Derek Pearmain (Delandmar)
Reserve Best Of Breed
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Best Puppy
Name at show: TPG2, Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Championship Show
13th Nov 2021
Judge: Mr M Ord
Massive Thank You to The Officers & Committee for inviting me to judge your Championship Show today. This club I was a member of in the formative years and have fond memories of the very first Championship Show where I was an exhibitor. It is good to see a club go from strength to strength and the committee worked very hard to put on this event in what has been difficult times to plan ahead. Thank you everyone who entered today and I was honoured with an entry of 150 Dogs, 192 Entries & 0 NFCs. Like every show absentees were inevitable but I hope those present today took my decisions sportingly.
A few general observations on todays entry which are my thoughts and because I care so much for this lovely breed. Driving to the venue today was a perfect way to view the countryside where this breed was developed and all could see the rough terrain they would need to work in. It is essential you judge a breed with the work they were bred to do foremost in your mind and learn why they are built the way they were and why the breed standard exists. It is a dog show and we now want to see them clean, healthy and well presented but I was sad to see today several exhibits with very clear evidence of scissor work on the coats and not just on tidying feet etc. Please stop this trend NOW. Several were scissored from hip to hock, no need to do this & does nothing to enhance the dog. Good otter heads were not in abundance today and I witnessed a lot of fly away ears. We have always witnessed the odd one but today quite a number could be seen when the dog was in action & not always on youngsters either.
Coats as always were in various stages today but you must judge the dog on the day and find evidence of the correct texture and undercoat which is vital to stop the working dog getting wet through to the skin. Mouths were very good today as where tails which have thankfully improved greatly. Some exhibits in my opinion had lovely conformation however where far too big and long in leg. I though ribs were good with only a few that would be unable to be spanned with the average size hands. I did find today the bitches were more uniform for size so just need to work on the males not becoming big, leggy & heavy.
Best Puppy - Dog
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Reserve Best Puppy
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Best Opposite Sex Puppy
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Minor Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Placing Critique
scores very highly with size, correct in head shape & well set V shaped ears, well set neck leading into good shoulder & upper arm proportions, body is excellent for young age, neat cat like feet & thick pads, super top line & tail well set on, in excellent coat, presented & handled to perfection. Owner & handler very much in harmony together to get best result, very promising young male who has what is required at this age
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Woolwich, Bexley DCS Open show
5th Dec 2021
Judge: Mr A Bicknell (Shimano)
Best Puppy
Name at show: TPG1, Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Puppy /
First Place
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Ladies Kennel Association
11th Dec 2021
Judge: Mrs Beverley Barber (Alcumlow)
Thank you to everyone who entered their dogs for me to judge. I was pleased with my entry and very pleased that LKA took place in light of the current Covid19 situation. I must admit it was very challenging to judge properly whilst wearing a facemask all day in this indoor venue! I was very pleased with my principle winners. Some of the younger classes were not so good maybe with maturity the exhibits will probably change places many times. My principle of judging is always good sound movement, capable of following a horse, this requires good conformation. A well laid shoulder and a properly angulated rear allows a good free stride . Some dogs were too narrow and so swinging their fronts from side to side, and some were great standing but fell apart on the move, running downhill or rear out of line with front were common faults. Heads were very varied, some very exaggerated or with untypical expression. Bites were mostly okay although I did find misaligned jaws and some had small or uneven sized teeth. Coats were hit and miss but pelts were mostly good and all were spannable, although some were round in rib. But remember you always take the best dog home.
Puppy - Dog /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Boston & District Canine Society Championship Show
9th Jan 2022
Judge: Professor A S Milton (Baillieswells)
Best Puppy
Name at show: RBPIS, TPG1, Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Manchester Championship Show
20th Jan 2022
Judge: Mr Stuart Plane
What a weekend it proved to be for Border Terriers
Best Puppy
Name at show: RBPIS, TPG1, Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Placing Critique
This youngster must be a star in the making , so well schooled and not over handled to get the best out of him, great for type , balanced head with good expression, spans well and has the correct topline well set tail, so sound on the move, BP and Terrier Puppy group 1
East Kent Canine Society Open Show
6th Feb 2022
Judge: Alexandra Witmond (Tiltser)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: RBIS, TG1, Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Best Puppy
Name at show: BPIS, TPG1, Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Puppy /
First Place
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down
West Midlands Terrier Society Open Show
12th Feb 2022
Judge: Dog Judge:-Dave Lee Bitch Judge:-Ken Francis
May I take this opportunity to thank the Officers and Committee of the West Midlands Terrier Society for the invitation to judge at their Premier Terrier Show, venue the KC Building at Stoneleigh Saturday 12thFebruary. I also convey my thanks to Mandy Secretary for the Lovely Lunch in addition to the hard-working Ladies in the Kitchen. I also thank my two Stewards Jo and Graham Dowdy for keeping things running efficiently and smoothly. Finally, I thank the exhibitors as without you there’s no show. The atmosphere around all rings were fantastic as it always is at this Premier Terrier Club. Dave Lee
The dog judge and myself selected both BOB and BP from the dog classes. Was pleased to see the puppy win BPIS. Ken Francis
Best Puppy
Name at show: BPIS, Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down
Placing Critique
grizzle & tan youngster at just under twelve months of age and what an overall picture of balance , superb to the eye head of good size well set ears dark eyes with keen expression, correct dentition, forelegs straight feet small with thick pads, narrow and easily spanned, strong loins ,good tail set, sound movement put down in a superb condition. Best Puppy in Breed and extremely pleased to see him go Best Puppy in Show, against a strong quality puppy group, Well done.
The Southern Border Terrier Club Limited Show
6th Mar 2022
Judge: Mandy Holmes (Bimandi)
Firstly I would like to thank The Southern Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge and for their hospitality on the day. Also many thanks to everyone that gave me the privilege of going over their dogs and congratulation to all my winners.
All males were entire. All tails straight. One or two untidy mouths but nothing to be classed as a fault.
Reserve Best Dog
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Placing Critique
12 months, Really nice to put your hands on this youngster, he is so balanced when standing. Easy to span, thick loose pelt with the most harsh coat. Pleasing head with alert expression. Good reach of neck into Level topline with well set tail carried correctly on the move. Great width of thigh and good angles front and rear. Moves with ease and could go all day but I would just like to see a slightly closer back movement, I am sure this will come as he matures. One to watch in the future, pleased to award him RBD
Crufts
11th Mar 2022
Judge: Mrs. Margaret Curtis (Matamba)
Crufts has always been a memorable experience for me, from sitting ringside to winning top honours in this breed, and to retire from judging with my last appointment being Crufts was a special occasion. Many thanks to all the exhibitors for the entry of 233 dogs making 257 entries with 28 absentees.
It was a long day and with only one steward for almost all of the classes my sincere thanks must go to Robyn Burnett. Plus a special thanks to Judy Carr for stepping in to help Robyn in those last big classes to help us finish just in time to get the BOB to the Group. Also to Joyce Martin the photographer who worked hard throughout the day to get those special pictures, thank you. I enjoyed my day judging but found some of the classes quite challenging.
I was pleased with the lineup and my principal winners, but a little disappointed with what I was finding when the dogs came to the table. The standard reads “Head like that of an otter moderately broad in skull and small ears dropping close to cheek” but some were so untypical of our breed with narrow skulls, weak jaws and small teeth, with ears that were too big and standing away from the cheek.
In every class there were some that just could not be spanned - being too deep in the chest and strong in the rib. Movement was better behind than in front. Finding dogs with a short upper arm, this not only restricts the movement but when standing almost gives a Fox Terrier type front which I was seeing, to start accepting these deviations as acceptable would be a sad day for our breed as we know it.
General condition of the dogs was good, jackets came in all stages mostly acceptable with some good thick pelts. One problem I found today was the baiting of dogs on the table. In some cases it made it hard going for dogs and judge - no need to top and tail and bait all at the same time - personally I just needed the dogs to stand still.
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Placing Critique
Not a big dog overall, but very nice youngster well balanced, good reach of neck nice topline, right amount of bone, nice neat feet, easy span, good tail set. Strong enough in head with a good expression would like to see a little shorter foreface, in full jacket, moved around the ring well.
National Terrier
2nd Apr 2022
Judge: Miss J Singh (Vandamere)
I would like to thank the Secretary of the National Terrier Club and committee members for their warm welcome and superb hospitality. I had a nice entry of 113. Inevitably there were some absentees. It was encouraging to see young handlers in the ring and I hope they continue to enjoy the show scene.
I found three wry mouths and one exhibit with a kink tail. A couple of exhibits were in need of muscle tone and condition. This is achievable by good feeding and exercise and not starvation. My thanks go to my very capable stewards who kept the proceedings running smoothly.
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Placing Critique
eyecatching dog, pleasing in head, correct bite, strong jaw. Ideal in size, he was spannable and well muscled. Very good outline and tail carriage. He has correct bone and neat feet. Rear movement was purposeful and with drive. Front movement has improved with age. New coat coming through but enough to win him his class with ease. Showed well.
Crystal Palace Canine Association Dog Show
10th Apr 2022
Judge: Janet Robertson (Renevis)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG1, RBIS, Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
The East Anglia Border Terrier Club Championship Show
18th Apr 2022
Judge: Mr M. Hollingsbee (Otterwood)
I would like to thank the Committee of the Club for entrusting me to judge this
show. Due to my age I have decided that this will be my last appointment at this
level. I would like to thank my able stewards Sarah Pateman and Kay Tuffin for
keeping me in order and ensuring a smooth running of the show. All of the
Committee worked very hard and I thank them.
Having said that, what a lovely standard of dogs were placed before me. Overall
coats were excellent and I did not detect one bad mouth. The only criticism I have is
that a few exhibits did not have the feet and nails trimmed.
RDCC
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Placing Critique
Stood out as soon as he entered the ring, ideal size and very good outline, moved dead straight front and rear, showed very well, an excellent grizzle coat.
WELKS
25th Apr 2022
Judge: Mr S A Mcpherson (Brumberhill))
Thank you to the WELKS committee for the invitation to judge their show and to my stewards, who did a sterling job, keeping everything moving, to get through the entry.
Wasn’t sure what to expect, being on a Monday, in the current financial climate, so was delighted to receive an entry of 126 dogs, making 181 entries, topping the Terrier Group, by quite a margin. Thank you to those exhibitors, for bringing their dogs, and wanting my opinion. There were very few I’d actually judged before, having last judged at Blackpool ’19.
We were blessed with a lovely sunny day, and a huge double sized ring, giving everyone full chance to show their dogs to full advantage.
I felt it was a high quality entry, especially the bitches, where, I felt, my final bitch challenge line up was one of the best I’ve judged. There were a number of bitches, both there, and in the placings, I have no doubt will gain their crowns, given a fair chance.
Main points of concern, as last time I judged, at Blackpool ’19, are still deep stops, with a rounder eye, giving an untypical expression. A few, with this problem, also had tighter, untidy bites, as they were very short in muzzle.
A few knobbly tails, some too long, carried high, but most were ok and well carried.
On the whole, I thought movement had improved, although still a few high steppers, due to incorrect shoulder and upper arm. Toplines were good, on most. Presentation, on the whole, was good, as most were in good coat, or evidence of texture.
RDCC
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Placing Critique
Grizzle and tan. 14 months. Excellent head and expression. Super neck, shoulder, front and feet. Handy size, so easily spanned. Excellent topline and tailset. Super hindquarters. Good coat and pelt. Sound, free mover, keeping his outline, as he went round the ring. Beautifully handled, by his young owner, he can’t stand wrong. In the challenge, he showed his heart out, to win the Res CC, in good company.
Bath CS Championship Show
27th May 2022
Judge: Mrs Jean Willetts (Hanway)
I would like to thank Bath Canine Society Committee for my invitation to judge Border Terriers at their show. I would also like to thank my steward as she was on her own, and did an excellent job of running the ring and dogs smoothly. I’d also like to thank all the exhibitors who entered, I had a very enjoyable day going over each of the dogs.
On the whole most of the dogs were in good condition. Most dogs presented had good pelts and coats, however there were a few with thin pelts. There were a few long tails and some large ears. The movement on the whole was sound.
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
DCC
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Placing Critique
Stood alone in class, but he never stopped showing. Excellent head and expression. Good neck going into well laid shoulders and length of rib. In good condition, with correct harsh coat and thick pelt. Moved round the ring with drive, keeping his outline and tail set on the move. For the challenge he came in the ring like he owned it. DCC and BOB.
Reading & District Kennel Association Open Show
1st Jun 2022
Judge: Mr R Wright (Borderexpress)
A big thank you to the committee/officers of Reading & District Kennel Association for asking me to judge the Border Terriers at today’s Premier Open Show. A lovely entry of 20 dogs so a big thank you to the exhibitors for supporting my entry today and presenting some quality dogs. Also a big thank you to my steward for the day Mr Graham Smith who kept the classes moving along not just for the Borders but a number of the Terrier breed classes. It is always nice to have the day to see the Terrier Classes develop and see the quality that comes through into the group and it did not disappoint but always nice to see your Best Of Breed go Terrier Group 1 and to top it off be awarded Best In Show from an entry of well over 1,000 dogs
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG1, Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Best In Show
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Placing Critique
15 month old Grizzle that has matured into a really smart dog, my puppy critique on him back in October 2021 said that he was “one to keep an eye on” and he certainly is – you can’t actually take your eyes off him !!! His head has matured nicely and has a keen expression/dark eye, his front construction/movement is super and he just flows into a really well developed hind quarters and bend of stifle. He moves with ease and really commands the ring, set down in perfect condition and handled to perfection. Pleased to award him BOB on the day and see him go Terrier Group 1 and Best In Show from over 1,000 dogs entered – very well done.
Southern Counties Canine Association
3rd Jun 2022
Judge: Mrs Elizabeth Barrett (Howthwaite)
Thank you to the committee for inviting me to award my first set of CCs. Although my appointment was originally for 2020, it was worth the wait. Thank you to my stewards Doug and Sue for keeping me in line and the ring running smoothly. And most of all, thank you to all of the exhibitors for your entries and for allowing me to go over your dogs. I also want to thank anyone who made unsporting comments, for doing so out of my earshot.
As I would expect, the entry was on the whole very pleasing. Thankfully, I didn’t have many exaggerations, such as ultra short muzzles or over-angulated hindquarters. Unfortunately though, good fronts, and in particular clean, well laid, shoulders and good front angulation, were few and far between. Movement, with both good reach and drive and accuracy was hard to find, so I did find myself forgiving the odd wayward front legs on dogs that otherwise had good construction and an easy ground covering stride. I would rather see a dog a little loose and covering the ground than one very accurate that can only take a three inch stride. All dogs were entire. There were only a couple of less than perfect bites and an ever so slightly kinked tail. Only a select few had a good short carroty tail, and some were very long, something we need to look out for. A few, including some bitches, were big in the rib and far too heavy to pick up and quite a number had very little undercoat and thin pelts. I looked for good construction and movement, balance and no exaggeration. I found several dogs that I would happily award CCs to on another day and had the privilege of having to really nitpick, especially in the dog challenge.
RDCC
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Best Junior
Name at show: JTG2, Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Placing Critique
Dark grizzle and tan who owned the ring as soon as he arrived. Good bite and strong muzzle, lovely eye and keen expression. Very good neck and well laid shoulders. Good bone which ran right through his pasterns to his thickly padded feet. Easily spanned and well ribbed back. He has an excellent topline and underline. Shown in a fabulous top coat with dense undercoat and he possesses a thick pelt. Moved like a dream from all directions and expertly handled. Put out in tip top condition to gain the RCC. It was a pleasure to see him gaining his 2nd CC a day later, I’m sure the third won’t be far away.
The Southern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
4th Jun 2022
Judge: Mr David Hunt (Ottaswell)
My sincere thanks to the officers and committee of the Southern Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge at this show on such a special occasion as the Queens Platinum Jubilee Celebration day, I am sure the celebration cakes were enjoyed by all. Thanks also to the various stewards who organised the entries on the day and kept the classes running smoothly. Having been show manager of this show for the past 12 years I appreciate the effort that was made by the committee members present on the day. A final thank you to all the exhibitors for giving me the opportunity to assess your dogs.
With showers forecast and cool blustery weather outside it was decided to judge inside using a good sized ring that had good lighting with exhibitors/visitors able to view from 3 sides. I thought the entry was of a high quality, with several entries of both dogs and bitches deserving higher honours. In general the entries were in good condition. All males were entire and I found no kinked tails. Bites were of a good standard with just a few misplaced teeth, although teeth size varied considerably. Several exhibits would benefit from attention to feet to produce the small feet as required. Movement in general was better at the rear than in front. As usual coats were at various stages, with some exceptionally thick pelts to examine.
DCC
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Reserve Best In Show
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Best Opposite Sex
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Placing Critique
What a cracking dog who just calls out for attention and was turned out to perfection. Of an ideal size he spans well and looks balanced from all angles. Super head with an excellent bite of large teeth and flat skull giving a keen expression. Lovely neck flows into a well laid shoulder, good length of rib with nice depth and strong loin. Tight harsh double coat and thick pelt. Moves out well both ways using his muscular rear end, carrying his tail well. Handled with style to get the best out of him. DOG CC
Windsor Championship Dog Show
1st Jul 2022
Judge: Mr David G Winsley (Davmar)
I last judged the breed in 2017 so most of the dogs were new to me. I felt that the breed is losing that ‘ otter head’ appearance, fore-faces appearing to be too long. Poor front construction in many was a deciding factor in my placing, our ring didn’t help, but the conditions were the same for everyone.
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
DCC
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Placing Critique
Lovely clean & balanced outline. Nice for size with a lovely head, dark eye with well placed ears & alert expression. Good reach of neck, well made shoulders & front. Good depth of body with correct ribbing. Well made muscular hindquarters & nice turn of stifle. Correct tailset & carriage. Spans easily, in good coat with a good pelt. Moves with a fluent driving action, shows all the time. Well deserved the CC & BOB.
Bournemouth Championship Show
13th Aug 2022
Judge: Mr. David Matthews (Tojamatt)
Many thanks to Bournemouth Canine Association for asking me to judge, and also thanks to my two more than able stewards. It was a really hot day topping 35 degrees C, if I had entered I wouldnt have attened so I understand perfectly why we had quite a few absentees, and a outbreak of covid from a previous show, added to this ,many thanks to everyone who entered. I had some really nice examples of the breed to go over, and some hard decisions. The tent provided us with some much needed shade, and the dogs behaved very well and coped with the heat admirably. I had a couple of dogs not move as well as I know they can so gave them another opportunity to move again, and they put in a much better performance .The dogs were all presented in good order, clean teeth, short nails and tidy coats. A few coats were outstanding, harsh and dense, among the best I’ve come across.
DCC
Name at show: CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Placing Critique
Handy sized dog, lovely in outline and on the move, nothing overdone. Head of correct proportion with strong muzzle, good bite, dark eye, and neat ears giving a keen expression. He is narrow throughout, with straight front, standing on neat feet. Lovely length of neck, correct shoulder placement, good in rib, well angulated rear assembly that provides a positive movement that really drives. Coat was of a harsh texture with a good depth of undercoat and thick pelt, tail well set, He moved well both ways, a really well balanced dog that comes to hand well, Hard not to notice him when in the ring especially on the move, well presented and handled beautifully DCC
City of Birmingham Championship Show
3rd Sep 2022
Judge: Mrs K Newsome (Kighills)
I would like to thank the City of Birmingham committee for inviting me to judge the Border terriers today. It was a most enjoyable day and to top it off I had some quality dogs and bitches to go over. I would also like to thank the exhibitors for their entries and excepting my decisions.
The quality of borders were good and adhered to the breed standard. All mouths were good and all the dogs were entire. Heads on the whole were very good but some lacked a strong broad muzzle. The movement was good and many moved with drive. Many coats were harsh and thick and pelts were nice and loose. I would like to see some exhibitors pay a little attention to trimming the feet and nails.
It would also benefit a few exhibitors to take their young dogs to ring-craft more to socialise them. This would get them use to unfamiliar situations i.e. hands on the dog etc.
To my surprise my main winners Best Puppy Dog, 2nd Grad Bitch, Bitch CC & Bitch RCC were all related to the Glebeheath Kennels so well done to you.
Open - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
London and Home Counties Terrier Club Open Show
4th Sep 2022
Judge: Mr Thomas West (Tomlyndon)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: BIS, CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Open - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Richmond Championship Dog Show
11th Sep 2022
Judge: Mr J A Barney (Romaunt)
Many thanks to Richmond in giving me the opportunity to judge a breed that still has some depth in quality to it. Generally, I felt movement needs to be attended to. It's a breed I've always associated with true movement both ways and a number did tend to pin in front. Coat texture was pretty good throughout but some would benefit from slightly neater presentation. I was able to span nearly all exhibits and pelts good. At the moment I would say that bitches are far stronger than the males.
Yearling - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Placing Critique
A well made youngster who needs a little more time to mature. One of the better movers of the day, being true both ways. With confidence and purpose. Tail needs to settle on the move. Clean forehand into a correct spring of rib and good strong loin. Correct wiry harsh coat in great condition. Well presented. Clean outline in profile.
Yorkshire, Lancashire and Cheshire Border Terrier Club Championship Show
24th Sep 2022
Judge: Mrs. Margaret Bailey (Grindelvald)
I would like to thank the officers and committee for asking me to judge the show, also making me feel so welcomed. A big thank you to my 2 stewards Tracey and Kathleen who kept me on track, also to all the exhibits and exhibitors, who gave me a lots of quality Borders to go over. I wish I had more CC’s especially in the dog classes. My concern with in the breed, is their fronts, straight shoulders, with very little angulation, which effects the front movement. All dogs had a good bite, a couple with level bite, but not a problem. All males were entire. Grooming needs to be addressed, tidying their underneath, also the feet need to be neatly trimmed and the nails cut correctly, it makes such a difference when presenting them to the Judge. 1or 2 needed ring craft classes. However, overall what a great representation of the breed. I was very pleased with my main winners.
Yearling - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Placing Critique
Another excellent dog, good head strong jaw and muzzle, keen eye, good bite, lovely size, well muscled & narrow throughout, Well set tail with level topline, he moved around the ring with ease. I concided him in the challenge but up against 2 stronger dogs on the day.
South Wales Kennel Association
6th Oct 2022
Judge: Mr Stewart Golding (Beaconpike)
Thank you to the committee for inviting me to judge, this was my first time awarding CC’s. Thank you to my stewards for keeping the ring running smoothly. A big thank you must go to the exhibitors for a good entry especially on a Thursday in the middle of Wales in the current climate we live in. I only have a couple of concerns. Movement is paramount in our breed and these dogs should be able to cover ground easily I found due to poor shoulder angulation a few had restrained front movement. I did forgive coat in class placings where evidence of a new coat was present, however I did find a lot of single coated dogs possibly down to over grooming, my main winners all had correct double coat of depth. I had a very enjoyable day, thank you to everyone for accepting my decisions gracefully.
Open - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Class Critique
What a super class to judge with 4 worthy champions!
The Southern Border Terrier Open Show
5th Mar 2023
Judge: Mr Matt Smith (Alncroft)
Many thanks to the club for the invitation to judge at their show and for their hospitality. Thank you to my stewards, and the exhibitors for entering under me. I thoroughly enjoyed my day and was pleased with the quality present. Many of the classes were close decisions and coats played a big part in final standings. Whilst I didn’t find any dogs that I couldn’t span, having spent a lifetime around working terriers some of the bitches in particular were on the larger end of the scale for preference.
Best Dog
Name at show: CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Best In Show
Name at show: CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Open - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Placing Critique
Quality young dog, who was presented and handled very well. Excellent size and balance. Moves well all ways. Good in skull, enough muzzle, good mouth and teeth. Pleasing neck flowing in to well laid shoulder, really easily spanned. Good bone and neat feet. Correct length and topline. Didn’t stop showing, very happy to award him BD and BIS.
Crufts
11th Mar 2023
Judge: Mr David Shields (Wilholme)
To judge Border Terriers at Crufts was both a privilege and a honour and I must thank the Crufts Committee for the appointment to judge the breed at what is the greatest dog show in the world. A big thanks go to the exhibitors from both home and abroad for such a super entry which made for a great days judging with quality in depth in many of the classes. Finally I must thank my two stewards who kept things moving in the ring to allow me to finish judging in good time.
On the day I was looking for a workmanlike dog as the standard asks for but one also must remember that in the show ring you also need that attitude and showmanship to complete the picture. I felt my BOB put up a great show in the Group and was so pleased to see him take Group 2 in a quality line up.
Open - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Placing Critique
Excellent Border who completed a line up of top class dogs all of whom were a pleasure to judge. Presents the best of outlines both stood and on the move. Pleasing head with a lovely dark eye and the best of expressions. Good reach of neck set in well placed shoulders. Firm topline that he holds on the move and good width of hindquarters. Presented on the day in the best of coats. Sound positive mover. Still relatively young and I feel there is still more to come as he matures.
National Terrier Club
1st Apr 2023
Judge: Miss Sarah Dandy (Dandale)
There was a good depth of quality overall across both sexes which proved for good competition and some very close decisions especially in the larger classes. Thank you to all those who accepted my decisions so sportingly. Temperaments were excellent especially the youngsters with the added challenge of the tannoy right overhead. There were some very promising youngsters which is always pleasing and positive to see, and I was delighted with my winning line up in both sexes, with top honours closely contested. I was disappointed that some exhibits who looked so good standing fell apart on the move, there were quite a few upright shoulders and I felt that efficient ground covering movement so essential for the breeds ability to follow a horse was somewhat lacking. It is encouraging to see quite a few younger handlers taking an interest in our breed today, so positive for the future. Thank you to both my excellent stewards who most competently kept the ring moving all day.
Open - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
East Anglia Border Terrier Club Championship Show
16th Apr 2023
Judge: Miss Tracey James (Blackmine)
A bit thank to the committee of EABTC for inviting me to judge their championship show. I really enjoyed my day and when I later looked at the catalogue to see my winners I found it interesting reading, as all my major winners were of similar lines.
Best In Show
Name at show: CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
DCC
Name at show: CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Open - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Placing Critique
a lovely class of quality males but today this dog stood out for me. An upstanding balanced male with lovely flowing lines from the top of his head down a nice reach of neck over well placed shoulders onto a lovely level topline. Straight front with neat feet, Ribs carried well back giving a lovely underline. Strong quarters. Really on his toes and showed well and at one with his handler. Mover true and with drive around the ring. CC & BIS
West of England Ladies Kennel Society
27th Apr 2023
Judge: Mr Mark Walshaw (Janmark)
Many thanks to the officers and committee for the invitation to judge at WELKS, it was quite a few years ago now, as I was due to judge them at the beginning of lockdown. Due to the heavy rain that had fallen over the preceding days, all judging was inside. It was slightly draughty, but we were allocated a double ring, so plenty of space, to see the exhibits stride out. I must thank the two stewards Lynn Jones and Celia Vines who kept the ring flowing beautifully and the exhibitors for making prompt appearances, we did well for time, starting approx. 0930 and finishing around 14:45. I thank all exhibitors for a wonderful entry (123 dogs making 172 entries} for a Thursday in Malvern and appreciate their time and expense for entering under me. There was plenty of quality to choose from and I was happy with my final decisions. Dentition was very good and a pleasure to judge dogs with clean teeth. I did find muscle tone to be poor/average in a lot of the exhibits, which must be one of the key areas for any working terrier. Jackets were mixed as was movement.
RDCC
Name at show: CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Open - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Placing Critique
RDCC This young man was presented on the day in the best of jackets. He had a clean outline both stood and on the move. Clean through typical head with a lovely dark eye, tidy ears and correct expression. A good reach of neck, which leads into well set and placed shoulders. Straight front, good ribbing, firm topline that he holds on the move. Liked his rear assembly, racey hindquarters, with good angles and decent muscletone. Sound positive mover, clean and true all ways. Handled to perfection by his handler, who gets the most from him. Delighted to award him RCC
Joint Border Terrier Clubs' Championship Show
30th Apr 2023
Judge: Mrs Hilary Gilpin (Otterbobs)
A very big thank you to the SBTC for inviting me to judge this very well run show, to Marina for stewarding and to the exhibitors for entering under me.
Open - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
The Midland Border Terrier Club Championship Show
6th Aug 2023
Judge: Mr. Bob Wright (Totherend)
It was a real honour to judge my home club’s show and my thanks go to a great committee for the opportunity and the way they run the club with all hands to the wheel. Richard Wright and Sharon Pickering had my back and have my appreciation for a great day’s stewarding.
I was disappointed in the early dog classes where what initially looked like an impressive line-up failed to materialise once on the table or on the move. Movement was a weak spot for a surprisingly large number of exhibits, especially front movement. There were three poor mouths and one exhibit that couldn’t be spanned but lots of good pelts, coats and neat feet. However long tails are becoming more common and a true carrot tail is about as rare as hen’s teeth. I was fascinated by some handlers interpretation of a triangle, suffice to say it’s a good job it wasn’t a maths exam.
Once again there were only two CCs available which is a great shame when there are so many who warrant them. I can only sympathise with those who went home empty handed. It was most likely a reflection of the strength of the classes rather than their standing. The bitch classes were especially strong with at least six exhibits worthy of much more than I had available to offer. When it came to the line ups I was clearly torn and had to be really picky to get to a decision but in the end I was pleased with all the winners.
Whilst there is still much that can be done to improve some aspects of the breed there is a lot to be proud of with some really stunning exhibits out there.
RDCC
Name at show: CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Open - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Placing Critique
well presented and handled, another good all round exhibit, a strong challenge but just preferred the lines and the strong hind quarter on (1) RDCC
Bournemouth Championship Show
13th Aug 2023
Judge: Ms Tina Jones (Otterholme)
My thanks go to the committee of Bournemouth Championship Show for inviting me to award tickets for the first time, it was a very special day.
Special thanks to my stewards Gentle Lowe and Brian Aubrey for doing such a sterling job, allowing me to focus on the task in hand.
I was delighted with the entry that awaited me, a huge thank you to the exhibitors for giving me the privilege to go over their dogs, this was a real honour and the sporting way they accepted my decisions, on the whole by most exhibitors.
I was told many years ago, by someone well respected in the breed to judge with the hands, not with the eyes, never did this ring true as today. Some dogs I have admired from the ringside, didn’t live up to expectations, whilst others that hadn’t previously caught my eye, surprised me and did.
Being the daughter of a hunt terrier man I could get no better grounding in the requirements of an earth dog, these were the days long before quad bikes, terriers would be expected to be on their feet from the moment hounds drew off until close of the hunting day, working in landscapes not dissimilar to that of that hunt the breed first originated from.
l tried to look subjectively at the exhibit before me to see if they had the confirmation and condition to undertake such duties. I was surprised how quite a number were difficult to span and far too deep in chest and too wide in front and came up heavy, lacking the narrowness to go to ground, a distinct disadvantage in the working arena, legs bend, chests don’t.
I was finding rear movement was better than front, but more than a few lacked the drive that I looked for with elevated front action that indicates an upper arm that is shorter than ideal.
I look to see feet that are tight with a good thick pad so vital in an earth dog, many were lacking in this important trait.
I found temperaments superb throughout the day, dentition was questionable on several exhibits and all dogs entire.
A plea to exhibitors if you bait them on the table, that is fine if they look hypnotically at the treat, but on several occasions, owners were wrestling with their dogs trying to get at the treat, making it difficult to assess them.
I am always mindful to judge fit for function, and I was happy that my winners fitted that bill and all sporting decent jackets and pelts and meeting my interpretation of the breed standard.
I was delighted to see my BOB going on to third in the terrier group and my BP winning the terrier puppy group.
Open - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
The Welsh Kennel Club Championship Show
19th Aug 2023
Judge: Jane Morton Shaw (Fehmarn)
I would like to thank the WKC committee for inviting me to judge at this lovely show. It was very well organised with a super friendly atmosphere.
Thank you to all the exhibitors for your entry & accepting my decisions so graciously.
I thoroughly enjoyed my day, but I have to apologise for the late start! I’m always super early for everything, and had arrived on the showground by 8am. Unfortunately my watch battery ran out at 8.20 and I was mortified when I realised it had stopped and to find out that the time was 9.35!!!
I was very pleased to see my BOB, BPIB & BVIB shortlisted in their groups, with Veteran going on to Group 3.
Best Of Breed
Name at show: CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
DCC
Name at show: CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Open - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Placing Critique
I have loved this dog since a puppy and he didn’t disappoint today. Perfect size & type. In excellent coat, with good pelt. Wonderful head & expression. Good angulation front and rear and lovely bend of stifle. Well laid back ribs. Well balanced throughout. Neat cat feet. Good bite. Lovely top line, underline & tail set. Moved very well with drive. BOB
City of Birmingham Championship Show
2nd Sep 2023
Judge: Mrs K Wilkinson (Otterkin)
Thank you to City of Birmingham for the invitation to judge this show, for the very large ring provided to the breed and to all the exhibitors who entered under me – I was very pleased with the overall quality of the entry of 122 dogs making 144 entries in these days of falling entries, with very few absentees (16 from “new dogs” by my count).
The ring stewards did an excellent job of keeping everything running smoothly – so thank you to John Gardner and Ken Francis.
I would like to send my best wishes to Anna Duxbury (Ridgebow) who had initially been under contract to judge this as her very first Championship Show. Having seen Anna judge at the Border Terrier Club’s Open show in February 2022, I know she is a very experienced and knowledgeable judge as well as an excellent breeder and hope in time that she is able to take on another Championship Show appointment in the future. I had originally been invited to judge this show in 2024 and had sent my acceptance letter, but when the Secretary contacted me, I agreed to bring forward the appointment to 2023.
I have taken the name/s of the owner/s and the dogs’ names direct from the catalogue. Some may have other owners or Kennel Names added, or awards such as Ch or JW added now, but I must use the details from the catalogue.
*Handlers* – please do not stuff food/tubes of treats into your dogs’ mouths just before the judge needs to look at their dentition. Those who stood behind their dogs and held the lead, I had no problem examining their dogs’ mouths, but a small number of others who were stuffing food into their dog’s mouth as I approached, once they moved away, some dogs were up on their hind legs trying to get more food/treats from you. I had to examine the rest of the dog then come back and look in the mouth again when the dogs were not fidgeting about looking for food. If you are doing it to avoid the dentition being checked, it won’t work as a judge will just come back to it!
It was quite hot in the hall. Kudos to all the dogs as they were not put off by the noise made when judge and/or handler stood on whatever was under the carpet making a “clunk” noise. I found when spanning dogs, almost all of them were hot underneath. Never felt that before, even when judging in 90 degree heat outside in America, so just be aware that your dog may be getting overheated.
DCC
Name at show: CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG2, CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Placing Critique
Pleased to see he then went on to win Terrier Group 2 from judge Richard Allen. Congratulations.
Open - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Placing Critique
Grizzle and tan dog of good size. Has a wonderful otterlike head, with dark eye and strong jaw. He was put down to perfection. He moved very well, straight and true. Not overdone in any way, he has all the component parts in the right order. Excellent thick, tight jacket. While being a smart show dog, he looks the part but also has good breed type – a worthy Champion. Pleased to award him the Dog CC and BOB.
Richmond Championship Show
8th Sep 2023
Judge: Mr Tim Ball (Kaitak)
RDCC
Name at show: CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Open - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Placing Critique
2 yr old grizzle who gave the winner a run for his money and although quite different, this lad is full of quality and another who was so good to get hands on. I thought his outline was something special with neck of correct length to balance, super topline, good length to ribcage, muscular loin and tail just right for both set and carriage. First class headpiece with skull of moderate breadth, the very best of eyes and ears, short strong muzzle, scissor bite and lovely furnishings. Good angles front and rear and standing on good feet but just a touch more width in front than the winner. Quite something on the go around and as one with his handler. Another with such a good jacket and nice thick pelt. RCC.
Manchester Championship Show
20th Jan 2024
Judge: Mr Richard Allen (Penparc)
RDCC
Name at show: CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Open - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Placing Critique
Very close to 1, he is a classy dog who has a lovely outline and showed really well, lovely bone, legs and feet, easily spanned, strong quarters and it showed on the move, his coat was a bit short on the day but was a good texture, RDCC.
East Kent Canine Society Open Show
4th Feb 2024
Judge: Jen Bowden (Chellowside)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: RBIS, TG1, CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Open /
First Place
Name at show: CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW
Guildford & District Canine Society Open Show
18th Feb 2024
Judge: Jacqui Ward (Mianja)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG1, Sui CH, CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW WW23
Best In Show
Name at show: Sui CH, CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW WW23
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Sui CH, CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW WW23
Placing Critique
3 year old masculine male, I just loved everything about him, to me he typified the breed. Excellent head, dark eye with keen expression, neat ears, and perfect scissor bite. He is lovely to go over as he is in fit hard condition, strong neck, good forequarters, narrow throughout and spans easily. His coat was perfect for texture and thick skin. He is so sound on the move and has perfect footfall and is totally at one with his handler. BOB, G1 and was pleased to see him win BIS
Cheltenham & District CS Open Show
25th Feb 2024
Judge: Guy Jeavons (Grandgables)
Best In Show
Name at show: Sui CH, CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW WW23
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG1, Sui CH, CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW WW23
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Sui CH, CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW WW23
Crufts
10th Mar 2024
Judge: Mrs Lesley Gosling (Akinside)
A tremendous entry of 275 Borders ( 25 absentees on the day)to enjoy handling, judging and placing. I must extend my appreciation to my two valiant stewards for their patience and skill in keeping classes moving. Thank you all.
I do believe our breed is changing, but in subtle ways. The lack of opportunities for true terrier work below ground for some Borders has been replaced by agility and other energetic pursuits, but lack of hard muscle tone has produced a ‘softer’ body on some exhibits. Some feet are slacker, pads are more spread and thinner and some fronts are wide. Movement is not always positive and a ‘driving’ action is lacking. Size is fluctuating too. We have a ‘working’ breed - let’s ensure that features defining the breed are not lost, i.e. ‘spannability’; a hard, harsh top coat and soft protective undercoat (not enough of those today); a dark, expressive eye, a broad skull and strong quarters – ‘the engine is at the back!’. Heads generally were good, but some bitch heads veered towards coarseness.
One thing not lost is the Border’s kind temperament – curious, interested and ready for anything.
Open - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Sui CH, CH Awbrooksky Never Back Down JW WW23
