Darlington Dog Show Society Ltd

Darlington Dog Show Society

15th September 2019

GUNDOG GROUP

I would like to thank the Officers and Committee of Darlington for the invitation to judge my first Gundog Group at this very prestigious Championship show. The welcome and hospitality is second to none. The show itself is an object lesson on how things should be done and the hard working Secretary, David Guy, and his team are to be congratulated on yet another spectacular event. First Class Show!

Although many may associate me more with the Toy and Utility groups, it is in the Gundog Group that I cut my teeth and they will always hold a special place for me. In fact I will always consider myself to be a Gundog chap at heart. Because of this I was looking forward to this appointment greatly. It was a full group, all of which were in super condition. I had many good examples of their respective breeds come through and they looked super typy stood still but many today, sadly, let themselves down on the move. In my mind they should, without doubt, look like their breed, but they are a group of dogs that were bred to do a range of particular and demanding jobs. Therefore movement, soundness, condition and stamina should also be considered extremely highly. Therefore this always plays a very important part in my decision making process.

I shortlisted 8 which included the GWP, Gordon Setter, Pointer, Curly Coated Retriever, Golden Retriever, American Cocker Spaniel, English Springer Spaniel and Sussex Spaniel.

After a final out and back, then around the ring to check footfall, topline and carriage the decision was made.

Group 1 went to the English Springer Spaniel Sh Ch Peasblossom Jester. I gave this dog a CC a few years ago and now in his Veteran years I can honestly say he has never looked better. He owned the ring today and never once did he falter. His outline is breath-taking with the most beautiful head and expression. Strong neck, good front and perfect topline and tailset. Grand for bone and substance and in perfect body and muscle condition. Presented in full coat that sparkled, he presented a fully mature and typical picture. On the move he blew me away. He is just so sound, carries himself with that look at me attitude, as he has the most charming of characters, using his tail at all times. Precise on the out and back and in profile has the correct action so peculiar to the breed. He has most certainly proved that, like good wines, they just get better and better with age. A truly superb example of the breed and I was extremely proud of him in the BIS ring where he put up another superb performance after a long and tiring day.

Group 2 was the Sussex Spaniel Sh Ch Sovaroma Scrumptious Serendel. Gave her the RCC earlier in the year but today she looked even better and absolutely shone. Another exceptional example of the breed. Her head and expression are quite delightful. Strongly made yet retains a look of femininity. Perfect for size. Super seal like textured coat of a glorious shade of golden liver. In fabulous condition, she was moved at exactly the right pace for the breed, totally precise and there was no doubt in my mind that she could keep going all day. Beautiful bitch who on this form cannot be overlooked.

Group 3 was the Gordon Setter, Sh Ch Ludstar Frederick Frankenstein (Imp), well known dog who is also in his veteran years. He has the most imposing outline and was presented today beautifully in full coat. All male with a beautiful head, strong topline and balanced on angulation. Fantastic condition, he moves with a free and easy stride. He really is a super Gordon and very worthy of all he has achieved.

Making up the placings in Group 4 was the GWP Sh Ch Ger VDH Kimmax Kurious George Bs'17 Bs'18. Fit as a flea and in the most fantastic condition. His coat texture is superb. Presented a very typical outline stacked and he has quality stamped all over him. Another that simply cannot be overlooked on the move. Delightful head with intelligent expression. Deep chested, firm topline and totally balanced. Sound as a bell

Lee A S Cox

(Judge)