Gundog Society Of Wales

Group Results: Gundog Veteran Group

My thanks to the Gundog Society of Wales for the privilege of judging the Veteran Group for the first time at this level. It was a special day, to be in the company of such a happy and enthusiastic committee, clearly committed to the exhibits and exhibitors was a joy. I was looking forward to the appointment but had underestimated the breadth and depth of quality. Full credit to the exhibitors for having such happy, healthy charges in such superb condition, it’s a testament to our wonderful group, to the longevity of our beloved breeds. A special mention to the Golden Retriever and Welsh Springer Spaniel, both well upwards of 10 years in and outstanding condition. I shortlisted 7; the Cocker Spaniel, Sussex Spaniel Irish Setter, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Field Spaniel, Nova Scotia and the GSP. I have no doubt that any of these exhibits can still win at the highest of levels.

BVIS Sh Ch Coedcernyw Calendar Girl JW, Breed: Spaniel (Cocker) (Mr I & Mrs S Hillier).

One I have admired from the ringside for so long and she didn’t disappoint, not remotely showing her age, she was immaculately presented and in superb condition. So merry in action and her profile whilst moving is a joy; she is both sound and typical. Lovely size, moderate neck, super well development chest, with well sprung ribs and a level topline, excellent coat, and so wonderful to handle, though she doesn’t need to be handed to be appreciated. She headed a very strong veteran group.

RBIS Sh Ch Eald Dances with Wolves among Nyliram JW ShCEx OSW, Breed: Spaniel (Sussex) (Mr T Graham)

I have judged this chap before and his relaxed cheeky charm captivated me yet again, lovely outline and so very sound on the move. Skull is wide and moderately curved, his frowning brows which were unexaggerated only added to his character, chest is deep and wide, and his thighs were strong in bone and muscle, a lovely straight coat of distinctive rich golden liver. He fought hard and was undeniable. Another who showed no signs of age, I suspect he continues to trouble the very best.

G3 Gwendariff Its Numero Uno at Bonhomie JW, Breed: Irish Setter (Mrs S E Edwards)

A credit to her owner she was in fabulous condition, so very sound and lovely to handle, she got better as the class and challenge went on, a testament to her character, she stepped up when others flagged. I was taken with her balance throughout, lovely correct appealing eye shape and colour, neck of moderate length and typically slightly arched, chest is deep but well sprung, movement was easy, and she made light work of the large ring with her coordinated stride.

G4 Sh Ch Arnac Bay Huron at Bergelle JW, Breed: Retriever (Chesapeake Bay) (Mrs M V & Mr J & Mr J Mahon-Hunns & Hunns & Newton)

A new one to me but caught my eye immediately and could not be denied, so typical in outline, such harsh jacket of correct texture and oily to the touch, handled to full advantage. Broad skull, medium stop, jaws strong with correct dentition, his body was of correct length, and a lovely level topline, his strong gait, he gave an impression of strength capable of stamina without being overly done and unappealing, another who never seemed to tire and gave his all.

Judge: Jennifer Millard