First Place in Yearling - Dog, 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.
Handsome grizzle with excellent jacket and pelt, presented in toned condition and fit to do a day’s work, he stood out on the move in profile and tracked the best in the class. Very pleasing in outline, make and shape. An appealing masculine head of good proportions and expression with a reach of neck into a cleanly defined wither, firm topline with a nice length of body, with a good underline with strong loin. Nicely angulated forehand balanced with well-developed muscular hindquarters and lovely carroty tail to finish the picture.