First Place in Minor Puppy - Dog, Judge: Mrs Wendy Mooney (Chesterton)
I appreciate that at this time of year with both dark mornings and early sunsets travelling and showing your Borders might not seem like the most enjoyable way to spend your weekend. So a sincere thank you to all those exhibitors who attended my first Championship Show appointment. We were the only terrier breed to have CC’s on offer and I had a lovely entry of 122 dogs. The venue and ring allocated were both excellent. No draughts or noisy blow-heaters. It was actually very civilised. Thank you to my steward who was efficient and supportive throughout. It made my task so much easier.
I was surprised to find that many exhibits, whilst prima facie, moved soundly, lacked the drive that is so important if they are to do a real day’s work. I was also a little disappointed that many Borders had tight pelts, which sometimes were thick but lacked that looseness that could get them, quite literally, out of a tight hole!
I was delighted with my overall winners and, I thank all those who graciously accepted my decisions.
Lovely dark grizzle youngster of just 6½ months with dark eye and kind expression. Excellent head with large strong teeth. Has a narrow front and good length of rib, well carried back. In good coat. Moved and showed well particularly for one so young. I’m sure he has a great future ahead of him. Pushed hard for BP but just lost out at the final hurdle as I suspect he was a little tired after his long day.