Two judges were selected for this event, an all rounder myself, and breed specialist Lisa Ebnet, a Canadian, now living in the UK, writes Bob Gregory.

Everything was a secret and only the organiser Helen Davenport-Willis was aware of who the judges were. At 10am. we entered the grand arena and were presented to the exhibitors, who sadly were a little depleted by the atrocious weather of the three days previous, which was sad really as all the dogs had had to qualify over 2009 for this event. The competition is done in three parts. Veterans 7 years and above, Youngsters up to 12 months, and youths at 13 months and over.

The judging is done on the match basis, with the numbers being drawn from a hat in the ring immediately before the start, and then the judges alternate judging the pairings, until only two are left when it is judged jointly for the best of section.

The first section to be judged were the veterans, ranging in age from 7 years to 10 and a half years. 4 of the 5 dogs qualified were present, and at conclusion the best veteran went to Gurneys Ch. Monalou Nelly Pledge J.W. with the reserve best veteran going to Hasting’s Halesbern Jack Flash At Laightcarn. We were both surprised at how fit the dogs were for their respective ages and beautifully presented in good condition.Before we started the Youngster section every one celebrated the occasion with Champagne and cake and a good time was had by all present. Of the Youngsters only 9 out of the 25 qualified were present which was quite sad really, but they all gave of their best. From the four pairings the winner was Ms. K. Birds with Shirdees Love Me Do, and the reserve Mrs. Edge’s Monalou Dutch Affair.

Match

On our return from a splendid lunch we set about the Youths, of which 18 of the 28 qualified were in attendance. Nine pairs started the match and at the conclusion the winner was the dog of Miss Miles’ Jaybiem Innu Endo, with the reserve going to his litter sister Jaybiem Inka Hootz With Potterspride. There were indeed some excellent dogs in this section and competition was of a high standard, which made the judging very enjoyable for us both. Overall this was a splendid event with for their kind invitation, and the afternoon was concluded with photographs, presentations and prizes.

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