First Place in Open - Dog, Judge: Marjorie Staveley (Dykeside)
It was indeed an honour to be invited to judge this show. My thanks to the offficers and committee for their warm welcome and to my ring stewards Glenise Hyslop and Marylynne Winder for all their hard work and efficiency. Special thanks must go the exhibitors for an excellent entry of 301 from 237 dogs (6 NFC) that I very much enjoyed judging. I thought the depth of quality varied although I was pleased with my final line-up of both dogs and bitches. Heads in general were good although I noticed there were a few exhibits rather heavy in ear. Coats and pelts varied considerably. A number of quality exhibits were devoid of coat and were penalised accordingly. I found a few exhibits, in my opinion, too heavy and unspannable; feet and nails would also benefit from more attention. Temperaments were good.
A good class of quality dogs.
I have admired this young dog from the ringside and he did not disappoint, a nicely balanced exhibit, typical of the breed, excellent head with alert expression, neat ears, good teeth, strong jaw, good reach of neck, pleasing legs and small tight feet, correct depth of body with ribs carried well back, racy hindquarters, very good topline he maintained on the move, presented in excellent coat and condition, a pleasure to go over him. BIS & DCC. Best Otter Head Award