Irsk Ulvehundklubb Norge

Firstly, I would like to thank the Officers and Committee for the invitation to judge your Speciality show in Gol in June 2018.

As I approached the Showground on the Friday evening I went back in time to my previous visit in 2004 when Peter (husband, red. mrk) judged the show.

That year it rained heavily and so I came armed with a coat, mackintosh, umbrella and Wellingtons which thankfully were not needed as the «Weather Gods» were kind to us. The barbecue on the Friday evening was very enjoyable but I felt very conscious of my forthcoming judging appointment and was sad I could not sit and chat with everyone. I was concerned to learn I only had one puppy to judge on the Saturday as several promising puppies had recently become 12 months of age but I was not disappointed as although he was reluctant to always show off his attributes (especially for the photographs) he was a promising youngster who had a lovely head with the sweetest expression and a lovely temperament. I was pleased to award him Best Puppy In Show.

That morning I had decided to visit the town of Gol. I had been told by an eminent Norwegian «it is only 10 minutes away.» On my return I realised never trust a man from Norway when he tells you the distance from somewhere or I am an extremely slow walker! The Dinner in the evening was a very enjoyable affair. The people who had been assigned to look after me were excellent hosts. The food was lovely and the singing was such fun, especially the rendition of «Land of Hope and Glory» with the addition of balloons, poppers and whistles as supplied by Anne Mette Mikkelsen.

Sunday dawned bright and clear and the anticipation of what was before me was exciting. I had a wonderful day judging and my overall impression was how you have all progressed the breed over the last 14 years. I was looking for what is in essence a longcoated greyhound, and I was very pleased to see most of the exhibits were balanced with good length to their legs, something I may say which is disappointing in the UK at the moment.

Mouths were good and I only found one narrow underjaw which I severely penalised. All my winners were quality exhibits who demonstrated type. Temperaments were exceptional and I did not hear one growl throughout the weekend. I was particularly pleased with my Best In Show winner Cormacs Tariq. For me he exhibits all that is needed for a hound who has to hunt alone and be powerful enough to capture and kill a wolf. Nothing was over exaggerated and his movement was excellent. He was handled sympathetically and responded so well to his handler. Another I have to mention is the overall of Undergraduate Winner Umbrielle Amber Kamelia O’Marksbay. She was a beautiful bitch who lost out on top honours because of maturity. I will watch her with interest as I think she has a fantastic future.

Finally I wish to express my grateful thanks to my two stewards who were a great help throughout the day and to all the exhibitors who came for my opinion. I am extremely humbled by this and honoured you invited me. I left Norway with lots of happy memories of a lovely weekend and was only sorry I could not have stayed longer.

Thank you everyone.