Boston & District Canine Society

It was a great honour to be invited by Boston & District Canine Society to judge my first Championship Hound Group. The overall quality was strong throughout and I thank my fellow judges for sending through such quality exhibits. I was delighted with my final shortlist, which consisted of the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, Basset Hound, Long-Haired Dachshund, Pharaoh Hound, Otterhound, Saluki, Rhodesian Ridgeback and Whippet. Any could have been placed on another day, but I could only award four.

Group 1 went to the Whippet Ch Crème Anglaise's Entourage with Silkridge JW, A beautiful brindle and white bitch of outstanding quality and breed type. Correct for size and proportions, with nothing exaggerated. She has a flowing outline and is a pleasure to go over. On the move she is simply captivating, covering the ground with a long, effortless stride, driving well from the rear whilst maintaining her correct shape throughout. Delighted to see her return on Sunday to take BIS.

Group 2 was the Rhodesian Ridgeback Ch Priorpark Proof in Pudding JW, a bitch I was interested to discover after judging that I had previously awarded BPIS to as a youngster. Looking back at that critique, I noted that I felt she had a bright future ahead of her, and she has certainly fulfilled that promise. Feminine and balanced throughout, with a lovely head, correct proportions and moderate, balanced angulation fore and aft. Well-defined ridge and true, active movement, covering the ground with ease.

Group 3 was the Pharaoh Hound Am Ch Hallam Desert Phoenix Bakhu's Max One in A Million (Imp USA), An impressive male who immediately catches the eye. Correct medium size with a beautifully chiselled head, alert expression and correctly set ears. Long, slightly arched neck flowing into well-laid shoulders, balanced angulation throughout and clean cut lines. He moved freely and effortlessly, covering the ground with ease.

Finishing up the line up in Group 4 was the Long-Haired Dachshund Ch Swansford Gabrieldor, a tremendous showman who certainly belies his years and demanded attention in this company. Correctly proportioned with sufficient ground clearance and no exaggeration. Pleasing head and expression, excellent front assembly, prominent breastbone and moderately long in body. Moved true with good drive from the hindquarters and gave his all throughout.