First Place in Open - 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.
I was spoilt for choice in this, the strongest class of the day. Lots of lovely bitches in fine form for me to choose from. Difficult choice but the winner was this beautiful blue and tan bitch superbly shown and presented. She never put a foot wrong from the moment she entered the ring. Narrow front and excellent topline. Moved with drive round the ring and as though she owned it. In excellent coat with a loose pelt. She had a beautiful head accompanied by very dark eyes. In top condition today. Couldn’t be beaten for style and overall quality. Delighted to award her her third CC and BOB.