I am first and foremost, highly grateful to the committee, for asking me to judge at this very well-known and respected Open show. It truly was an honour to be asked to judge this best of breeds, at this fab event. The welcome was excellent. Also, a huge thanks to Paddy, Jo-Anne, and Hannah for keeping me in check and keeping the ring run so well.

I was so very pleased to see the fab entry of 76/93 and therefore hope I can fill a lot of the exhibitors with Christmas cheer at this very special time of the year. My thanks go to all that have come under me with their lovely charges. It really is appreciated.

My general preface normally talks about construction and movement being top of my prerequisite. This did not waver for this show. Although the ring was not the largest, it still enabled the exhibits strut their stuff and show their material. Several classes gave me a nice headache and left me deep in thought. Many thanks to you all for this. 

Irish Setters

Class 1: Baby Puppy Dog (0)

Class 2: Minor Puppy Dog (2,1)

1. 57 – Richardson’s BARDONHILL TO BE OR NOT TO BE – 7-month young man with a lot to like, even at such a s young age. Long and lean in head with decent amount of workings below eye. Muzzle to skull length in balance, with clean finish, ending in large black nose. Gentle rise to stop, that was of good width. This was framed by eyes of dark down and of correct shape. Surrounding pigmentation was complementary to that of coat and mirrored that of the dark nose. This all built a lovely soft expression. Ears set on low and hung neatly. Roundness to the occipital protuberance was obvious. Excellent in reach to neck, of strength that was in keeping with rest of charge for age and flowed into, well angulated front construction. Forelegs straight and sinewy, having a good amount of bone. Lovely, neat feet. Width and depth to chest, whilst retaining that rather narrow characteristic. Thoracic cavity showing plenty of spring. Loin short coupled and strong for age, this allowing for the presentation of a gently sloping topline. Rear angulation in keeping with front, showing good angulation. Decent width to thigh for age, enabling balance to be seen throughout. Although at the start of his “gangly” phase, still showing short hocks. Correct in tail placement and carriage. On the move, showed typical puppy action. With good footfall on the around and good width in the up and back. Plenty of sway and happy around the ring, which is lovely to see. Long may it continue.

Class 3: Puppy Dog (3,1)

1. 45 – Hyslop’s GWENDARIFF LITTLE WHITE LIE (IKC) – although stood alone in the class, I thought this young man was instantly eye catching. Of some 9 months of age, this charge is a mature boy already, in terms of construction, presenting a pretty picture in the stack. Head construction showing leanness and balanced in proportion to muzzle length. Fairly square in finish to moderately deep muzzle, that ended in a super dark, large nose. Lovely workings to zygomatic arch, without being overdone. Prominence to stop. Fell in love with his expression straight away, which came from a super dark unshelled almond eye, and rimmed by the darkest of pigmentation. So soft and benevolent. Gentle prominence to brow trimmed and finished that lovely expression. Skull oval from ear to ear with a lovely prominence to occipital protuberance. Neatly hung ears of moderate length and of softest texture, that were set on low to eye, and well back. These were presented close to a masculine neck of reach and strength, showing that characteristic slight arch, but without being throaty. This flowed effortlessly and without break, into super fine at point shoulders. These too were of correct angulation and proportions to scapula and humerus, allowing the protrusion to the prosternum. Rather narrow was suitable wording for the width to his front also. Forelegs straight and showing good bone. Plenty of depth seen to brisket and therefore, thoracic region. Down at elbow and plenty of spring to ribs. Excellent strength to loin and width over croup. This too had gentle fall to point of buttocks. All presenting a good topline. Excellent width to upper and second thigh. Balance seen in angulation to rear, in comparison to front and showing well-proportioned bend at stifle. On the move still showing his playful, puppy nature which was lovely to see. However, he was still true on the up and back, with upright pasterns and good width. Good action was evident in the front, also. A proper, male, prospect in the making. BPD and BPIS.

Class 4: Junior Dog (2,0)

1. 22 – Foster’s IXIA BOYS DON’T CRY AT SHANOAH – this boy of a little over 12-months of age, had a very attractive, refined expression, that was most appealing. This started from a well-proportioned cranium to muzzle ratio. Lovely clean finish to muzzle. Some excellent workings under darkest shade of brown eye. These were of the correct, characteristic shape and super expressive. The workings continued into the supraorbital ridge, showing good prominence. Clean in finish to cranium and good length to ears that framed the head well, in part thanks to the ears being low set. These all came together to provide that lovely expressive head. Long and lean in neck. this transitioned well into well angulated shoulders. Straight in forelimbs, showing proportional bone and width to front. Chest down at elbow with appealing tuck up, with spring to ribs. Short in strong loin. Length to well angled croup. angulation to rear, matching well with fore. Upper and second thigh in proportion to rest of charge. An example that fitted the term racy. Although finding his coat, as to be expected at this age, he was presented in one that was rich and dark. On the move, went out best in class. Showed width to front and in the rear. Covered the around easily. Very happy to learn he achieved his final point for JW. Congratulations.

2. 59 – Richardson’s BLUESPRINGS LINDA’S LEGACY AT FORESTFIRE – a 15-month boy that was close to 1^st, but very different in type. Racy in appearance all over. Again, very positive in lean head type, showing a refined expression. Well set on, darkest of brown eye, that was super appealing in that classic shape. Tightly lid, that was surrounded again with dark pigmentation. These were set either side of a gentle stop and lead into a skull of leanness, in keeping with age. This was further conveyed in the lovely working seen under the eye. Neatly hung ears lay close to the head that framed it well. These folded close to a muscular neck that showed no throatiness what so ever, nicely arched and of moderate reach. This attached into the shoulders very well. the front quarters lead the way showing strength, angulation and muscularity. Straight in front, with good width to chest. Down at elbow once again, showing good depth to thorax. Short coupled, with strength to loin allowing for a very gently sloping topline. Goof width over crop, that had a gentle fall away. Personally, would have liked a little more rear angulation and width to thigh. This was also evident on the move where I would have liked a little more drive from the rear. However, he is only 15-months, and I am sure this will develop as he does. On the up and back showed good width and true footfall.

Class 5: Special Yearling Dog (2,1)

1. 31 – Harris’s FAIRHAVEN YOUNG SOUL FOR KONAKAKELA (IMP SWE) JW – For 18-months of age he has matured with purpose and well, showing an almost full coat and presenting a super masculine outline of much type. Strength seen to male head which was certainly pleasing to see. Very much a dog, showing plenty of width to skull for that all important brain space. Balanced in length of muzzle to skull proportions. Depth seen to muzzle with being overdone, also. The softest of male expression, filled with pathos. Darkly pigmented eye, that was well lidded and sited into a stop with prominence. These were topped by conspicuous supraorbital ridges. All lending themselves to aid that expression. Good length of leathers, with lovely texture. Excellent reach to neck in keeping with rest of body and posing with that arch. Ease of flowing transition into strong, male forequarters of good ratios of scapular to humerus. Straight in front with a width to chest that fitted the hand pleasingly. Super depth to chest, and spring of rib was there to see. Tight in short loin which transitioned into a proportionately angled and wide croup, effortlessly. all providing strength to topline, that didn’t waver on the move. Well bent at stifle with good width to upper and second thigh. On the move went well in all aspects. Drove out very well and purposefully. Had width on up and back. True in footfall on the around. Presented very well in deed.

Class 6: Novice Dog (2,0)

1. 22 – Foster’s IXIA BOYS DON’T CRY AT SHANOAH – please see critique for 1^st junior dog.

2. 42 – HOLMES’S GWENDARIFF MR BLUE SKY – This young man is one I have had the pleasure of going over previously, but as a puppy. However, today he gave his handler an almost impossible task, which to his credit, he tried so very hard to carry out. He is an absolutely beautiful boy in the making and being only 2 years of age, has plenty of time to fulfil his potential. However, his youthful exuberance certainly got the better of him, where standing still was not his forte. Therefore meaning, I could not place him higher. However, when he eventually settled, for a short period, his qualities were easily visible. He is a well-balanced young man with plenty of scope. A lovely expression that came from lovely workings under deep, dark eye, with strength to stop and raised brows. Good prominence to stop without being overdone and strength to head. Occipital protuberance is still apparent on a skull that had the correct shape and a width that fit the hand so very well. Parallel planes evident and balance in ratio of skull to muzzle length. All in all, giving rise to a solid male head that seems to be lacking sometimes in the breed. Reach to well arched, strong neck and flowing lines evident into shoulders that are fine at point. Correct in front angulation and proportions that was mirrored in the rear. All much in balance. Well sprung ribs and down at elbow. Not overly done tuck up and well coupled. Strength over loin and width over croup. Width to upper and second thigh was evident. Well off for bone throughout with plenty of substance. Very difficult to judge movement as he was loving life. However, my previous comments stated that this is one with a positive future and one to watch. I do not waver from those thoughts one bit! He just has to get his act together.

Class 7: Undergraduate Dog (1,0)

1. 42 – Holmes’s GWENDARIFF MR BLUE SKY – please see critique for 2^nd in Novice dog.

Class 8: Graduate Dog (4,0)

1. 39 – Holehan-Green’s LOGANRISH TIGER WARRIOR JW – Another I have had the pleasure of going over previously. In that critique, I wrote that I like to see a little more fullness to body as he develops. I think, at only 2.5 years, he is getting there already and a lot of what I have stated previously, only improving. Therefore, this slightly taller boy in appearance than some of the other exhibits on the day, gave him a little edge in terms of raciness. This enabled him to show a lovely profile in the stack. A well-constructed male head, showing equal length proportions from muzzle to cranium. Prominence to occipital protuberance. A lovely soft, but curious expression. This came from unshelled almond shaped eye of darkest brown. Excellent amount of working to foreface showing leanness without being snipy. Raise to brow, showing stop. Length seen to ears. These hung close to a neck of strength and moderate reach. Very much in balance with rest of make-up. Fine at point of shoulder, with correct front angulation, of good ratios. Depth to chest, that was down at elbow and of good width. Prominence to prosternum seen. Stereotypical topline, held well on the move thanks to a well-muscled, shortly coupled loin. Width seen across croup. Lovely rear-angulation, that was not overly done and showed width and strength across upper and second thigh. On the move, was true on the up and back, with good footfall. Plenty of width behind. Very pleasing in the free stand. Presented beautifully in a coat aligned with his age. Well balanced young man.

2. 15 – Davidson’s BARDONHILL LOVE ME TENDER – another male that has a lot to like. More robust that first, which is in keeping with my type. In the stack, very lovely. He painted a picture of a 70/30 dog and showed a super topline. In head construction, lovely parallel planes, and good proportions, that showed leanness to skull. Soft expression, from correctly coloured eye. Pigmentation surrounding a dark, but a touch lighter, well within standard, and keeping with coat/ eye. Moderate rise to stop, which is well received. Balance in depth of muzzle to cranial construction. Correct in ear placement and moderate length. Moderate in strong neck that had no sign of dewlap. This entered into the front assembly well, without seam, adding to the attraction of the overall image. Stood on good bone throughout with balance seen to front and rear angulation. Straight in forelimbs. Rather narrow to front and depth of brisket admirable. Decent in spring to ribs with good strength to well made loin. Width over croup where you could balance a cup easily. Short in hock, which was lovely to see. Personal preference would be to have a touch more width to thigh that would allow him to have a little greater drive on the around. However, on the up and back showed graceful action, with nice upright pasterns. On the day, a little lighter in coat, that will definitely come in over time, but meant nothing could be hidden, but with this boy he doesn’t need to.

3. 19 – Dow’s FORFARIAN FANCY SOME FUN – very honourable mention here as unlucky to come up against 1^st and 2^nd.

Class 9: Post Graduate Dog (3,0)

A very favourable class.

1. 58 ­­– Richardson’s BARDONHILL MCINTOSH RED AT MONTGREENAN JW –This is not the first time I have had the pleasure of judging this boy and I am very happy to see his progress. I stated that he was a prospect at some 10 months of age, now at 2 months short of his 3^rd birthday, to me, he is fulfilling that prediction. I believe he is flying a little under the radar at the moment, but if he keeps developing as well as he has, I would not be surprised to see him challenge for top honours at a champ show in the near future. He is already imposing in the stack, showing a prominent dog profile, with a 70:30 split. Balance to proportions of muzzle to skull and showing parallel planes. Wide in dark nostrils. Lovely finish to end of muzzle, squareness to a moderately deep mandibular construction. All showing male strength, without being coarse or too lean. Excellent in raise to stop, good amount of chiselling under shapely, dark eye giving that pained expression. Lovely shape to back skull, with defined prominence to occipital protuberance and oval from ear to ear. All taken into consideration, making a well-balanced head. Ears set on low, close to head and of good length. Moderate length to neck, with arch, but showed strength in keeping with the need to balance that lovely head. This eased into well laid-back shoulder and providing good front construction. Deep in chest, with correct width to fit hand. Well sprung ribs. Gentle slope to topline, stemming from short coupling and strong loin. Excellent slope to croup with tail placement. Good rear angulation and matching that of front. Width seen to upper thigh and developing second. On the move, showed good drive and reach, in keeping with the overall construction. Also had width behind and in front on the up and back. Lovely temperament and disposition as his tail did not stop wagging throughout the entire time he was in the ring. Presented in rich coat, that if you stripped away, would give a balanced young man. A little more maturing will see him come into himself and I think, finish off this picture.

2. 16 – Davidson’s BARDONHILL MILLION REASONS – 4-year-old male, that I have liked from a far for a little while. Beautiful head that shows strength and masculinity. Well off for head planes, moderate depth to muzzle which was in keeping with rest of skull. Lovely workings under eye. these were of the darkest brown and trimmed well. Gentle rise to stop and moderately prominent brow. Excellent shape to skull with occipital projection. Low ear set and well back. All coming together to provide that very appealing head. Excellent reach to neck, show strength and slight arch. absolutely seamless transition into well laid shoulders. Rather narrow in front with good depth to chest. Ribs sprung in line with rest of construction, with strength to loin. Nicely short coupled, providing excellent topline. Strong, moderate hindquarters with decent angulation. Tail set on well, just below the level of the back. On the up showed good width, but not quite what I was after on the rest. I do not think the ring was conducive with his movement today, as I have seen him do well in the past. On another day I’m sure he will move up the placings.

3. 23 – Gilks’s SUTERSETT MR MISTOFFELEES AT GOCHMAWR.

Class 10: Limit Dog (3,0)

1. 10 – Cohen’s LYNWOOD MERRY MAY KING WITH SHUSHANA – this 6-year-old has a lot to like. Having judged this lovely boy once before, I looked through the pedigree and saw that the sire was a brother to a Kerryfair I own. I could see some similarities. Not much has changed from my previous comments. Stereotypical of Lynwood dogs, this boy has a really lovely, expressive head. Level in head, with balanced to muzzle proportions. Full in dark nose, good finish to foreface. Prominence to stop and lovely raised brows showing classic dark unshelled almond eye, with lovely complementary pigment. Workings to zygomatic arch. Ample prominence to occiput. Framing the head beautifully wear ears of moderate length and lovely texture. Good reach to neck that led in to shoulders that were fine at point, good angulation, and proportions. Lovely width to front. Good bone seen throughout and strong, straight in forelegs. Excellent in depth to chest, and spring to ribs. Strong over shortly coupled loin. Good angulation and length to croup, making tail set easy to see which was correct. Would personally prefer a little more width to thigh to finish the package off. Nice, short, hocks. Moved well on the up and back. True footfall on the around and reach from front. Stood firmly and true in the free stack.

2. 63 – Robinson Slater’s KERRYFAIR LUCKY SEVEN – for me, this 6-year-old boy was definitely in the Kerryfair mould, as soon as I saw him. Slightly taller in appearance than that of first. In the racy mould, showing lovely leanness throughout. This was none the more so in his fab head. Long and lean, showing excellent length to muzzle and cranial construction. Very refined in finish to foreface and back skull. Not too deep in muzzle proportion, with correct finish to muzzle. Lovely width to nasal aperture, showing lovely pigmentation in keeping with coat and rims to eye. These were super sorrowful and full of pathos, with beautiful workings to zygomatic arch and to supraorbital ridge giving him a glorious expression. Ear placement correct and of moderate length, that folded neatly next to a lean neck of moderate reach. Transitioned well into shoulders that were fine at point. Balanced in front and rear angulation, showing lovely topline. Down at elbow and showing rather narrow in chest. This was down at elbow and exhibited spring to ribs. Good strength to loin that was held well on the move. Good length, width, and angulation to croup, that led into well placed tail. Loin and tail carriage held well on the move. Well boned throughout. Another I think could have benefited from being in a larger ring to show off movement, as this didn’t match his lovely athletic appearance today. Still good width to front on the return. I must take my hat off to the exhibitor for presentation, as I believe this boy has the same coat as my Kerryfair, which takes a lot of taming. They achieved this well showing a beautiful dark coat.

3. 72 – Webb’s ALOFRANA AZZARO BESIDE REDESHKA.

Class 11: Open Dog (4,1)

The hottest contested class of the day and over the moon to have 3 Champions. This I struggled with, as so many positives with each charge. Many thanks for the difficult decision.

1. 20 – Edwards’s SH CH COPPERS GET OFF MY CLOUD BY BONHOMIE (IMP SWE) ­– this boy of some 2.5-years was super eye catching straight from the off. Very mature for age, shown in a super, developed coat, of the richest colour and texture, of which I would expect nothing less from this exhibitor. In profile he had a lovely appearance of balance throughout. Loved his parallel head planes and proportions to head construction. Moderate in depth to mandibles, with squareness to finish. Lovely positioning of eyes in skull showing width to stop without being excessive nor narrow. Rise of stop very appealing, as was curious brows. Darkest of brown eyes very soulful and wanting you to look further. Dark, mascara like, rims helped accentuate this, as did his workings, below eye. Oval from ear to ear, with plenty of width. Prominence to occipital protuberance. Super reach of neck that also showed strength to carry that male head, not showing any sign of dewlap. Seamless transition into super lay back of scapular, that was fine at point. Straightest of forelimbs, which were well off for bone and seen throughout. Neat in feet. Down at elbow with lovely spring to rib. Ribs carried well back and short coupling. Strong over loin with good width to croup. Full in width to upper and second thigh for age. Angulation of rear construction in balance with that of aft, allowing for that anatomical balance. Nicely short in hocks. Handler got the best out of him in the stack and moved to his advantage. Another I would like to see in a bigger ring to allow him to be expressed to his fullest. A very balanced young man. BD and

2. 13 – Danks-Kemish’s SH CH ALOLFRANA ALL I ASK OF EVEANDABEC JW – this really was a hard decision between 1^st and 2^nd. This young man was only just pushed into 2^nd. Really lovely boy that was very similar in age to that of 1^st. I thought he had a beautiful head and expression, but also looked imposing in the stack. Lovely strength to head that showed plenty of quality. Well off for muzzle to head ratio, that had the correct and appealing amount of depth to muzzle. Lovely, nearly squared finish to end of jaw, with excellent wide nose, of darkest colour. This colour was mirrored in the pigmentation to base of flews and tightly rimmed lids, bordering the handsome, dark eye of unshelled almond shape. Super low set ears, that had the moderate length. These hung close to a strong, moderately long neck. Very much in keeping with the masculine look. This flowed, without effort, into excellent front construction. Fine at shoulders, and balance in length to scapular and upper arm. Correct in front angulation also. Straight in fore legs. Good width to chest, without being overdone. Well sprung ribs, allowing for plenty of lung room to enable him to go all day. Gentle tuck up, that showed convergence with topline, indicating gently sloping topline. This engaged with a croup of good width, proportional length, and width. This also showed a well-placed tail set. Lovely rear angulation, in keeping with front, with good bend at stifle. Short in hocks. Very good in upper thigh. Personally, would like a little more width to second thigh, that would finish off the overall appearance beautifully. Width in front and behind on the up and back, on the move. On the around showed good reach and true footfall. Really pushed for 1^st and top honour, but only just missing out. Presented in full, rich coat.

3. 4 – Beresford’s SH CH JETSETTER WIND OF DREAM (IMP RUS) – really lovely boy that was difficult to put in this position. Many positives, that obviously enabled him to get his title.

Class 12: Veteran Dog (4,1)

Another class I was spoilt for choice and had to split hairs on my choice.

1. 25 – Greenan’s ANLORY AIDAN JW – I was shocked to learn that I judged this lovely boy some 6 years ago at an open show in the South East of England, and even more shocked to learn that he was now some 10 years of age. The owner has clearly done a great job in keeping his condition as he looked brilliant, especially for his age. Although his sugar dusting starting to show, his beautiful strong dog head was very much apparent, showing parallel planes, clean finish to muzzle of length and balance to cranial construction. Depth to muzzle without being overly done, nor having pendulous flews. Super soft expression consisting of rich, deep, unshelled almond eyes like pools of ink. Good rise in stop, again, without being overly done. Lovely inquisitive brow. Skull having plenty of breadth. Ears of good length that were well placed back and hanging neatly next to a well-structured, strong neck. This led into well laid-back shoulders. These also showed good ratios, allowing for prominence to prosternum. Well off for bone throughout. Depth to chest and well sprung ribs. Strength to loin. Excellent with to thigh both upper and second. Short in hock that ended the lovely rear angulation. Still showing an excellent rich, dark coat, in its fullest. On the move, still went very well in all aspects, having reach and drive. For 10-years of age, particularly well-muscled. BVD and BVIS.

2. 17 – Davidson’s BARDONHILL YOU DON’T FOOL ME – this owner seems to have some lovely dogs, with another that I found particularly nice on the day and one I have admired for quite some time, again. Moderate is a word used several times in the Irish Setter breed standard, which he does fulfil these criteria well. Handsome in head, which seems to be synonymous with this breeding. More refined than that of first. Showed a lot of leanness, providing great definition to foreface and to cranium. Well off for planes and fairly square finish to muzzle. Correct in ear placement and of good length. Reach of neck well in proportion with rest of assembly, showing off that light arch. Seamless transition into thoracic region, with lovely front assembly, having good length to scapular and humerus. Fine at shoulders. Rather narrow in front with excellent depth to chest and a complete thoracic cavity. Spring of ribs well carried back. Lovely strength to shortly coupled loin. Admirable in length and slope of croup, that had good width. Width to hindquarters, showing good angulation and similarly at stifle. Loved his short hocks. All showing excellent profile. Again, as he got up to speed, he had to stop, so a little difficult to judge his movement, however, he did use his tail well showing his lovely disposition. Not showing his 7.5 years. A very close call indeed. Many congratulations on being made up in the championship show today, from veteran.

3. 26 – Hadfield’s STARATLANTA GET A WIGGLE ON TO MARZANNE.

BD – 20 – Edwards’s SH CH COPPERS GET OFF MY CLOUD BY BONHOMIE (IMP SWE) from class 11 – open dog.

RBD – 13 – Danks-Kemish’s SH CH ALOLFRANA ALL I ASK OF EVEANBEC JW from class 11 – open dog.

VD – 25 – Greenan’s ANLORY AIDAN JW from class 25 – veteran dog.

PD – 45 – Hyslop’s GWENDARIFF LITTLE WHITE LIE (IKC) from class 3 – puppy dog.

Class 13: Baby Puppy Bitch (1,0)

1. 56 – Prangle’s HEATHCLARE FABERGE – at just 5 months of age, this little one was so sweet. She is just finding her feet and her handler did everything to ensure she had a good time in the ring, but already starting to show her schooling. Highly inquisitive of everything, as to be expected of this breed. Although a lot to do, already showing balance to head and muzzle ratios. Parallel in head planes. Prominent in stop, that parted the dearest of eye. These were dark in appearance with correct unshelled almond shape. Moderate in length of neck that flowed into well angled front construction. Strong over loin and already showing that stereotypical topline, into a croup of good angulation and length. well placed tail set. Rear angulation in keeping with that of front. Good bone for age. lovely to see her go so well on the move, where she could show some others how to go. Although very raw, and a lot could change, quite a few points showing promise. Good luck with her future.

Class 14: Minor Puppy Bitch (3,1)

1. 5 – Bott’s BARDONHILL AS YOU LIKE IT – super young prospect in the making. A raw near 8-month bitch. As to be expected, her coat is coming in, providing an honest picture. Racier in the stack, yet still showing good strength throughout. Beautiful expression and refined, lean head. Correct in planes and proportions. Lovely shape to back of skull that showed an oval shape, with gentle extension to occiput. Gentle rise to stop that enabled appealing placement of darkest of unshelled almond eye, and workings to orbital margins. Correct in ear placement of moderate length. Strong in neck, showing proportional length. lovely lay back of shoulders that showed good proportions. Rather narrow in front, with lovely depth to chest already. Well off for oval bone. Lovely flowing lines already to be seen, with gently sloping topline visible. Short coupled and lovely length and width to croup. tail placement just off level with back, that was appealing. Rear angulation showing correct proportions with the start of width to thigh coming in very well indeed. Very neat in feet. On the move, although showing typical puppy movement, she still had good width to front on the back, plenty of reach on the around and some lovely drive. Topline showing puppy rock and roll, but anatomically held from that strong loin. Super rich dark coat already. Still has plenty to grow into and develop. An elegant girl in the making and looks like another lovely addition to this great kennel. All the best with her future trajectory.

2. 74 – White’s PADUAN TRUE LIGHT –this young, 7-month girl, is a slighter exhibit that showed a great deal of leanness and raciness. Certainly the case in the head, where she was super refined in bitch appearance. However, this was pretty and in keeping with rest of the body. Well-proportioned in head. lovely finish to back of head, with prominence to occipital protuberance. Clean in finish to muzzle, with a lovely amount of workings beneath eye. All around orbital margins this was also seen, that trimmed a lovely dark eye of unshelled almond shape. This was aided amply by the moderate raise to stop and gentle brow. With these facial furnishings being boarded by correctly placed ears, of good length, a lovely expression was produced. Moderate in well arched neck kept the appeal. Good transition into well angled shoulder. Depth to chest and lovely topline. Nice and strong in loin. Angulation of rear similarly to that of front. Personally, I would like a bit more muscle to improve the picture. Movement around the ring was ok. Return better than the out run. Seemed to have enjoyed herself in the ring and was doted to her handler.

Class 15: Puppy Bitch (3,2)

1. 74 – White’s PADUAN TRUE LIGHT – please see critique for 2^nd minor puppy.

Class 16: Junior Bitch (7,1)

Lovely class and I am a fan of several exhibits on show, making positioning quite tricky. I am sure there will be changes of positions several times over the career of these lovely girls.

1. 43 – Hopewell & Greenan’s RIVERWOOD X WRITTEN IN THE STARS (IMP BEL) JW – this young girl of some 13-months, was chosen as a touch more in keeping with my type of Irish girl. A bit more robust in profile, with a super straight coat of richest chestnut. Well built in head construction showing decent planes with fairly square muzzle. Moderate depth to muzzle and an oval appearance to cranial construction. Good prominence to stop and lovely raised eye brows, giving a feminine, but stronger head. Super doleful eye of dark brown, with excellent pigmentation to borders. Slight prominence to occiput. Another exhibit showing excellent ear placement and length. Moderate reach of strong neck, that was in keeping with construction. Excelled in front angulation, whilst showing good length proportions to shoulder and upper arm. Very well boned giving her plenty of substance. Straight in forelegs. Prominence to prosternum and good width to chest. Depth to chest and excellent spring to ribs. Lovely short coupling. Width over croup, with decent tail set. Even for her age, excellent width to rear, with upper and thigh matching well. Lovely short hocks also. A girl that is maturing well. Personally, would like a little lighter in weight to really finish her off well. On the move, she went very well with her handler. Very much in unison. Very good in drive and reach for one still developing. Went well with some width behind on the up.

2. 60 – Roberts’s POLMENNOR PANDORA JW – I am very fond of the breeding of this 14-month girl, where I have been very happy to have gone over a few of her linage. Although a little different to my type of girl, you cannot deny the qualities they possess. Every girl from this kennel seems to have the most beautiful heads and expression, with this one being no exception. Clean in lean head, showing no sign of thickness or heavy setting. Absolutely beautiful workings to foreface, and to complete head matrix. Super black nose, that showed the same colour pigmentation to the mascara lined eye lids. Eyes a slightly lighter shade of dark brown, but still very much in keeping with breed standard. Gentle, feminine rise to stop, not showing coarseness. Eye brows did not stop moving the entire time I went over her showing her inquisitive nature. Kindest of expression. Excellent ear placement that hung close to long and lean neck, showing good reach. Ease of transition in well laid shoulders. Although racy, well off for bone on straight forelegs and throughout. Lovely width to front without being too much so. Down at elbow, with gentle tuck-up. Strong in sloping topline, coming from super loin. tail coming off, slightly below topline. lovely width to upper thigh, that wasn’t over the top for the shapeliness of this girl. Well bent at stifle and short hocks. Super racy throughout, with lean clean lines and elegance. Another that could benefit from a larger ring to allow her to express herself to her fullest. Good reach seen with width to rear. Still showing a prospect in the making for this kennel.

3. 6 – Bott’s BARDONHILL COTTON TREE.

Class 17: Special Yearling Bitch (7, 3, 1 W/D)

1. 27 – Hadfield’s MARZANNES HAPPY RETURNS – this girl of nearly 2 years was such a poser and lovable character. Quite refined in head, without being snipey. In profile, showed appealing, moderate depth to jaw, without being flewy. Head to muzzle length good, with proportionate, gentle rise to stop. Again, lovely workings undereye and to brow, that framed the most appealing dark eye. Retention of unshelled-almond shaped eye was easily visible, all coming together to give a lovely soft expression. Loved the shape to back skull, that fitted into the shape of hand really well. Still showing prominence to occiput. Well covered ears, sat well, on low. Elegant reach to neck that entered into well laid shoulders. Rather narrow to front, but with plenty of heart-room, showing spring of ribs that are in keeping with overall slighter in frame construction and balance, but still fine. Slight arch to well-constructed loin. Excellent topline that was held well on the move. Very well off for rear angulation and width to upper thigh. Personally, would like a little more to second thigh, which would enhance her appearance. She also moved out well and best in class. She certainly showed her demonstratively affectionate disposition through kisses and her endless tail wagging, which was so welcomed and lovely to see.

2. 65 – Rutherford’s CLONAGEERA SUMMER MOMENTS JW – this girl, who has still not reached her second year, was presented in a wonderful dark, rich chestnut colour with a white flash only on chest. For me a touch strong in stop, but had a lovely dark eye and workings to zygomatic arch and supraorbital ridge. Lovely brown pigmentation around eye that matched with large nose. She was well off for shape to back head, being oval from ear to ear, which were well positioned on low, back and of good length. These also hung close and neatly next to a neck showing good reach and arch. Shoulders fine at point, with angulation of front in keeping with rear. Super straight in forelimbs. Excellent width to chest, that was also nice and deep at elbow. Strong over loin that led into an excellent width and length to croup. This ended in a lovely tail placement. In rear quarters, excellent width, to both upper and 2^nd Neatly short hocks. On the move showed width to front and handled well on the around.

3. 71 – Walters’s KAIMILTOFT RUBY TUESDAY FOR DENEIL.

Class 18: Novice Bitch (2,1)

1. 43 – Hopewell & Greenan’s RIVERWOOD X WRITTEN IN THE STARS (IMP BEL) JW – please see critique for 1^st in junior bitch.

Class 19: Undergraduate Bitch (3,1 W/D)

1. 61 – Roberts’s POLMENNOR SPICE OF LIFE JW – litter sister of my 2^nd in junior. A great deal of the superlatives that were used for her litter sister can be applied for this exhibit. Super lean in head, showing no signs of coarseness nor snipey. Parallel planes so obvious to head of long, equal proportions. The epitome of long and lean, in relation to breed standard. just like her litter mate, beautiful workings under eye and around orbital margins. These workings only encircled and helped emphasise dark, dark eyes. These too were of correct shape and allowed for the kindest of expression. Lovely dark pigmentation throughout, in keeping with eye and coat colour. Ears set well back. Prominence to occipital protuberance being apparent and allowing for ease into neck. This lever showed strength, although being moderately long and lean. No sign of throatiness at all. Flowing lines from neck into torso, showing excellent lay of shoulders and quality throughout. Scapular of good length. Straight in legs with rather narrow front, and decent prominence to prosternum. Down at elbow, showing gentle sloping topline. lovely slope to croup and correct tail set. Angulation of rear fetching with front and both not overdone. Width of upper and second thigh in keeping with rest of frame. Short hocks again. An elegant girl, that, just like her sister, could benefit from a larger ring. She still produced a lovely action on the around showing good drive and reach. Width behind on the away. Impatiently can’t wait to see her mature fully. Can see why the breeder kept both.

2. 27 – Hadfield’s MARZANNES HAPPY RETURN – please see critique for 1^st in special yearling bitch.

Class 20: Graduate Bitch (6,0)

Another class I liked quite a bit. Some lovely girls on show, with some nice shocks for me.

1. 14 – Danks-Kemish’s ALOLFRANA ELECTRA – Raciness and elegance was the name of the game here. Another that I wouldn’t say is exactly my type of Irish girl, but you cannot deny quality when it presented so well in front of you. Slightly stronger in head than some of a similar construction, which was not out of place and well received. Still very lean and feminine. Another showing excellent balance to muzzle and cranial construction. Parallel planes were easy to see. Moderate in depth to jaws showing no signs of pendulous flews. Excellent finish, with a lovely large, wet, dark pigmented nose. Sculpturing to under eye was clearly visible. Large dark eye was visible, but still showing that characteristic look. Good width across muzzle, which was in keeping with breath of skull, not allowing snipiness. This ran through a well risen stop, that peaked with brows of prominence. Oval from ear to ear was easy to see. Excellent in ear length, that had lovely soft texture to the leathers. These hung neatly folded next to a moderately long neck, showing plenty of reach. This flowed seamlessly into lovely front construction, showing balance in length of shoulders to upper arm and correct angulation. This provided the grounds for prominence to prosternum. Well-muscled throughout. Super straight in forelimbs, that ended in the neatest of feet. Appealing in width to front, showing rather narrow requirement. Down at elbow, with proportionate spring to ribs. Larger spring for her stage of development would mean lack of balance and not allowing for her to retain balance. Lovely topline showing that gentle slope to which I am accustom, for the breed. Ribs well carried back showing short coupling and lovely strength to loin. Seamless transition into the croup, with slight prominence to pin bones, without being overly done, and showed a lovely continuation of that topline. Rear angulation again correct, and in balance with fore. Not overly done with rear width, but to beat the same drum, in keeping with rest of body. This girl is only 2 years old and so this will come with maturity, I am sure. Short in hocks. On the move, showed a lot of purpose. Very well off for reach and drive. Topline did not waver on the around, with true footfall. Positive in width behind on the return. Certainly, she owned the ring. Will watch how she develops over the years. Happy to award

2. 49 – Mitchell’s KERRYFAIR MISTY LOVE FOR AMBLIN – I mentioned similarities that were seen in some of the male exhibits to a Kerryfair I own, but this one really had so many, that made my heart skip a beat. After looking at her pedigree, it is obvious to see, as the maternal grandmother of this girl is the litter sister to my girl. As a bitch line is strong, I couldn’t help but like this girl of some 3-years of age. Absolutely beautiful in head, showing leanness, and refinement. Parallel in long planes, with lovely finish at tip of nose. Muzzle nice and lean and in balance with length to skull. Lovely amount of working under eye, with continuation through rest of ocular construction. Super refinement through with gentle rise to stop but excellent brows. Beautiful expression from unshelled almond dark eye. Another with lovely prominence to occipital protrusion, that helped the flow into elegant, slightly arched neck. This showed excellent reach. This eased into a body showing much raciness. Shoulders were fine at point. Angulation was very much in keeping with aft showing balance. Fine bone but strong. lovely, neat feet. Good width to chest, that allowed for a good hand width without being overly done. Down at elbow, with average spring to ribs, very much in keeping with the rest of the picture. Gentlest of sloping topline, loin strong and width to croup. correct in tail placement and carriage. Racy rear end construction, again in keeping with rest of proportions. Personally, I would like a little more angulation, but very balanced. As to have been expected from this girl, the movement is one in which I am accustomed. Good width behind, free and clean action to front, went well around the ring, but needed extra room. This girl would be one that needs range to show off to the max and be appreciated. Could excel in the field. Although not a profusity of coat, the rest was beautifully presented. This has time to still come. Very lovely girl.

3. 73 – Webb’s ALOLFRANA WHOLE LOTTA LOVE WITH REDESHKA.

Class 21: Post Graduate Bitch (6,0)

I looked quite closely at first and second in this class and split them on a few minor details. Only having gone through the catalogue, I found out they were both out of the same sire. No wonder there was a headache.

1. 53 – Peters’s CORRANROO VIENNESE WALTZ TO SHIRLILAH – not quote yet 4-years of age, provided quite a pretty picture in profile. Head construction was instantly noticeable as an asset, showing a lovely lean, clean and long appearance. Balance was seen between cranial depth and that of muzzle, making her appealing. Parallel in head planes making a quite refined in head, without being overdone. Workings around eye not profuse, but this only helped her, drawing your eye to hers. These were of lovely shape, with an intelligent/ assessing look, that were trimmed with darkest of pigmentation. Very appealing. Another that had a gentle rise to stop, that was assisted with prominence to brow. Lovely breath to skull that had plenty of brain room. Correct in ear placement that hung next to a neck of moderate length, but had good strength. Clean lines into excellent front quarter angulation, that had decent prominence to prosternum. Width seen to chest also. Good depth to chest and well sprung ribs again. Beautiful slope to topline and showing converging lines with tuck up, down to pin bones. Spring to ribs seen and short coupling. Width over croup, of good length, with correct tail placement. Width to upper thigh very appealing, with rear angulation in keeping with front. Nicely short hocks, being parallel. Neat feet. Best mover in the class, showing balance and grace. Quite dignified in her carriage and poise, with true footfall in the around. Upright in pasterns on the away, with width behind.      

2. 69 – Tuite’s PORSCHET KISS FOR A ROSE – quite a lot to like from this more robust girl. A presence in the stack at not quite 5 years of age. Super strength throughout and very typie. Lovely depth to jaws, with excellent finish. Lovely workings below eye and to entire ocular region. Parallel in planes with appealing rise to stop, showing good width. Gentle workings to soft brow, that all trimmed unshelled almond eyes. This provided the gentlest of expressions. This head was bordered and framed by ears set on low and of super length. Another lovely finish to back of cranium that eased into a strong, moderate neck, that was still clean. This again entered the strong front construction very well. This had super front angulation and good proportions. Lovely upright forelegs on good, oval bone. Neat feet were also obvious. Super depth to chest, that was accentuated by a coat that you really had to get your hands into to appreciate her qualities. Short in coupling and excellent spring to ribs. She also showed that correct gently sloping topline, that continued into and through her croup. This had a width that was in keeping with the rest of her appearance. Lovely rear angulation that showed lovely bend at stifle and short hocks. Lovely width to upper and second thigh. She was very well off for scope. Personally, I would just like a pound or two off, to allow her a little more elegance that I think would also provide a little better, overall balance. On the move went ok. Still showing plenty of width behind. Motored around the ring well, showing plenty of drive and reach.

3. 11 ­– Coleman’s CAMALING ROSE ROYALE.

Class 22: Limit Bitch (8, 1, 3w/d)

1. 1 – Bayne’s CORRANROO RAINBOW SHIMMER – this girl was instantly eye catching in the stack. Presented beautifully in full rich chestnut coat, that had a little movement. She had lovely head that showed femininity without being too fine. This came from a muzzle that showed moderate depth, without being narrow or flewy. Neatly finish to front of muzzle, that had a wide black nose, obviously capable of carrying out her job. Appealing with amount of workings to zygomatic arch without being overdone. Such a soft and appealing expression, that made you want to keep looking back for more. This stemmed from dark brown eyes of unshelled almond shape, bordered by a lovely black pigmentation, to tight lids. These sat straddling a stop with strength, again without being too much so. Workings above eye also assisted with the appeal. Absolutely lovely shape to back skull, showing width and oval shape from ear to ear. She also had strength to moderate occipital protuberance. Moderately sized ears, of softest texture, set well back and on low, hung neatly and close next to a strong next of excellent reach. This transitioned so well into excellent front construction. Scapulae were fine at point, showing lovely balance in length compared to humerus. Straight in forelegs. Prominence to forechest was obvious when going over, which did not fall away. Excellent width to chest, also. Brisket down at elbow, with gentle rise in tuck up, showing ribs carried well back. Super strong over loin giving rise to a lovely gently sloping topline. Short coupling also assisted in this appeal. So too was the width across croup, with the length and gentle angulation being assets. Obviously tail placement was correct. Very appealing in rear construction. Angulation in keeping with correct front, showing excellent width to both upper and second thigh. Short in hock. On the move, not a lot to fault at all. Showed good width to both front and behind on the up and back. Good reach and drive on the around, with true footfall. To me, this bitch was balanced throughout, in keeping with my type and showed real quality. BB &

2. 12 – Dales’s TREFAINE AURORA OF AUBANJON – Another bitch I liked for type. Only missing out to my BB and RBIS. Presented in a lovely coat, not quite as full as first, but still certainly appealing, for this 4-year-old. In the stack showed a lovely, elegant outline with gently sloping topline, short coupling and balance. Relatively fine head, showing much of the type carried through her lines, from good selective breeding. Clean in finish to muzzle. Lovely width to nasal protrusion, with dark, rich colour to pigmentation, that matched the coat so very well. Lovely sculpting to zygomatic arch that reached through the entirety of the supraorbital ridge with ease. Moderate rise to stop and expressive brows, from those previously mentioned workings, along with brown eye and even darker lid trim, assisted with a shapely expression. good finish to rear of skull, with moderately sized ears hanging closely to a strong, neck of medium reach. This adjoined well angulated front construction, showing good length to scapular. Well off for bone throughout, that was ever present in straight front legs. Noticeably, neat feet. Width to front was apparent, as too was depth to chest. Super spring to ribs that was very appealing, as was their lay back. Short in strong loin, that helped carry a lovely gently sloping topline. Rear angulation correct, and in keeping with front. Muscling strength and width to rear, very obvious and nice to get your hands on. Bend at stifle and short in hock. Well off for balance. As she was a slightly more compact girl, she was able to show off well on the move. Good width in both up and back, upright hocks and free action to front. On the around showed good drive. A nicely balanced girl.

3. 48 – McDonald’s QUENSHA GALWAY GIRL.

Class 23: Open Bitch (4,1)

1. 30 – Hall’s HARREDS LILLIE – A 4-year-old bitch that is more compact in stature that some of exhibits around her, but really refined and certainly not make her any less appealing. Super pretty in head and expression. She shows good head planes and balance to proportions and lengths. Moderate in depth to muzzle, with a lovely fairly square finish. Beautiful amount of workings to zygomatic arch, that was also visible to the entirety of the supraorbital ridge and into the frontal region of the skull. These prominences, combined with dark, tight rims, drew your eye to her dark brown, correctly shaped eye. These bordering a stop of moderate rise, all allowed a beautiful expression and refinement. Again, lovely finish to back skull, with proportionate prominence to occiput. All in all, a lean, feminine head, that flowed into a neck of moderate reach, with excellent strength. This transitioned into the torso impeccably. Super fine at withers, that showed the start of well angulated front construction. Although compact, she showed substance, that was ever evident from the super bone that was seen throughout. Showing a correct width to front, with depth to chest. Lovely spring to ribs in keeping with type that assisted with a super topline that arose from ribs well back, short coupling and solid loin. This did not finish at the pin bones that continued this line well, enabled from the croup length and angulation. Tail placement coming almost straight off the back, which lashed so well on the move. Lovely balance to rear angulation with that of front, with lovely width to upper and second thigh. Although a slighter bitch, very honest and looking well made. On the move she did not disappoint. Showing good action on the around, and width on the out. Strongly considered for top honours.

2. 54 – Peters’s CORRANROO HOT SENSATION AT SHIRLILAH – this not yet 5-year-old girl is daughter to my BVB, and niece to my BB/RBIS. She showed many familial tendences with both, especially in head construction. Long and lean in muzzle depth, with clean finish to front and to flews. Wide in nose of darker colour. Lovely workings again to under eye, that flowed up, drawing the eye to a stop of gentle rise. Dark brown eyes of correct shape, allowed for an almost pained expression, that was hard to look away from. Balanced in proportions of muzzle to skull length, with a lovely shape over her, correctly shaped skull from ear to ear. These were set on low and of length that was in balance with rest of proportions. Elegant in neck that showed moderately long reach, with slight arch. Sleek lines into well laid-back shoulders, and angulation to forequarters. Depth seen to chest, with excellent spring to ribs. Spot-on in her topline that provided a neat finish to profile. Spring to ribs in keeping with rest of torso. Super strength to loin and short coupled. Gentle fall of wide croup was very appealing to continue that topline. Loved the rear quarter angulation, that showed bend at stifle and super short hocks. Excellent width to upper and second thigh. Would prefer a little more substance to bone to give her a little more strength in appearance to leg, to balance up the good muscle that was seen throughout. Excellent in feet. On the move, she went very well indeed, with plenty of width on the up and back. Good head and tail carriage and true footfall on the around. Rear did drive very well also. Sympathetically handled to match her needs.

3. 28 – Hadfield’s COVARNEY TIME AFTER TIME FOR MARZANE.

Class 24: Veteran Bitch (6, 2, 1 w/d)

1. 2 – Bayne’s CORRANROO ONE MORE KISS – another lovely charge from this exhibitor and one I could not believe her age. Although showing a little distinguishing colour to her face, to learn she was 10 years of age, was unbelievable. Outstanding full coat made this slightly taller girl in appearance, very prominent in the stack. An older sibling of the same repeat mating of my winner of limit, BB and RBIS, with many of the same qualities. Another lovely head that was slightly stronger than that of her sister, but still very attractive indeed and to my liking. Balance in muzzle to cranial length. Obviously fairly square finish. Fuller in depth to moderate mandibular construction. Lovely workings under eye, that was only accentuated by that dusting. Lovely breadth to stop, likewise the rise. Separating the darkest of brown eyes of unshelled almond shape, that were lined by tight lids of dark brown- black. Excellent in ridges to provide a lovely, raised brow. All in all, for me, a gorgeous expression. lovely slight indentation to the front of the temporal region of the skull that accentuated the overall expression and appeal of the head. Cranium oval from ear to ear also, with correct shape and placement to ears. Super strong in lean neck that led into shoulders of balanced proportions. Straight in well boned front. lovely width to chest, that also showed depth. Beautiful spring to ribs, with gentlest of sloping topline. Showing strength to loin and length to well angulated, wide croup. This enabled a correctly placed tail set. Supper width again to upper and second thigh, that for 10 years of age was fantastic to see. On the move showed excellent rear drive on the around. Plenty of width behind on the away with lovely upright pasterns. Presented and moved to perfection. A little surprised not to see a few letters before and/or after her name. Slightly longer in cast meaning she only just missed out on BVIS but still a more than worthy winner of BVB.

2. 29 – Hadfield’s COVARNEY ESTEE AVEC MARZANNE JW – I had the pleasure of going over this girl some three years ago. Now at 7, she has matured well over the years. Still showing a rather racy outline, with lovely head planes and proportions. Balanced in length of muzzle to cranium. Good in finish to muzzle that was slightly off square. Moderate in depth to muzzle, but in keeping with size of skull. Workings under eye not overly done, but still appealing as it blended well, with rest of the construction of the ocular area. Eyes of correct shape and lovely rich, dark colour, that were separated by a well-defined stop. Again, not overly done, allowing for the rise of a really lovely expression. this was further accentuated by a defined brow, that did not stop moving when I went over her. She still showed that lovely back skull shape, and prominent occipital protuberance that reminds me so much of old lines such as seen in Janice Roberts’s Cornevon breeding, that the breed seems to be losing a little. This allowed the move into a lovely arched, strong neck that ran into well laid-back shoulders that were fine at point. She showed good width to front and depth to chest. Length seen to body, with ribs that were well sprung. Strength to loin. Width and muscle to upper thigh, with proportional angulation to front. well bent at stifle and short in hocks. She is still quite a balanced girl. She moved quite well on the up and back showing decent width and clean pads. Didn’t quite have the presence of first today.

3. 35 – Heather’s SIXOAKS LEADING LADY.

BB –­­ 1 – Bayne’s CORRANROO RAINBOW SHIMMER – from class 22 – limit bitch.

RBB – 14 – Danks-Kemish’s ALOLFRANA ELECTRA from class 20 – graduate bitch.

BVB – 2 – Bayne’s CORRANROO ONE MORE KISS from class 24 – veteran bitch.

BPB – 5 – Bott’s BARDONHILL AS YOU LIKE IT from class 14 – minor puppy bitch.

Class 25: Special Beginners Dog or Bitch (4, 3)

1. 19 – Dow’s FORFARIAN FANCY SOME FUN – very pleased to see this boy come back into the ring for special beginners as I thought he was unlucky to come up against two very nice examples in the graduate dog class. He is certainly deserving of being placed. This 2-year-old male is lovely in head, showing excellent parallel planes, very well off for strong male head, with an aspect of oval shape from ear to ear. Plenty of breadth to skull, with balance in muzzle to head ratios. Depth to muzzle was well received. Good in eye placement into head with rise to stop. Lovely dark eye, of correct unshelled almond shape. Very expressive. Reach to proportional neck. Well laid-back shoulders, and well boned straight forelimbs. Lovely depth to chest and spring to ribs. Lovely gently sloping topline, arising from strong loin. Length to wide croup and showing good slope. Loved his rear construction showing good width to upper and second thigh. Nicely short hocks. In this class, went around the ring very well with the handler, neither showing their special beginner status.

Class 26: Brace: Dog or Bitch (2,1)

1. Heather’s Brace – this mother and daughter combo were very much two peas in a pod. Very little to separate these, in looks, height and movement. Both girls with lovely soft expressions. Both in rich full coats with a little movement. So similar in coat that it wasn’t easy to see where one started and the other finished. Racier frames, but both sound. Moved both girls very well and in tandem, showing synchronisation, with both showing good width to rear on the away. A great deal braver than me to do so.

BIS – 20 – Edwards’s SH CH COPPERS GET OFF MY CLOUD BY BONHOMIE (IMP SWE) from class 11 – open dog.

RBIS – 1 – Bayne’s CORRANROO RAINBOW SHIMMER – from class 22 – limit bitch.

BPIS – 45 – Hyslop’s GWENDARIFF LITTLE WHITE LIE (IKC) from class 3 – puppy dog.

BVIS – 25 – Greenan’s ANLORY AIDAN JW from class 25 – veteran dog.

BBPIS – 56 – Prangle’s HEATHCLARE FABERGE from class 13 – baby puppy bitch.

Dr. Hefin Jones (Pencastan)