First Place in Open - Dog, Judge: Miss Anita Harrison (Iacheslei)
Many thanks to the society for inviting me to judge and to the exhibitors for a lovely entry of 117 making 151. My very efficient stewards did a marvelous job and kept the ring running well throughout the day. I thoroughly enjoyed my day and was pleased that exhibitors accepted my decisions in a sporting manner. There was a good atmosphere around the ring and all exhibits displayed good temperaments. I was disappointed to see so many large oversized dogs (and bitches) which were not able to be spanned. Movement was also a concern, I was forgiving of loose front movement in some of the youngsters, but both front and rear movement in some of the adult exhibits was poor. Many exhibits had large ears, low tail sets or short round ribs which had to be penalized. I was pleased with my main winners and delighted to see my Best of Breed shortlisted in the group and the Best Special Beginner placed 2nd in the SB group.
stunning 21 months old grizzle dog of lovely size with super head and expression, dark eyes, strong muzzle, small neat well set ears, straight front, good bone, clean shoulders flowing into flat ribs and level topline, with excellent tail and tailset and racy hindquarters. Well balanced throughout, he flowed around the ring on small neat feet moving with reach and drive. Beautifully presented and well handled to win DCC, BOB and be short listed in the group.