Salukispesialen 04. september og Norsk Myndeklubb 05. september 2010
Our flight into Oslo was both smooth and on time and we were both looking forward to visiting Norway and full of anticipation to be judging the forthcoming shows. Upon arrival we caught the train to Drammen, a one hour trip, and the time flew by. Upon arrival we were met and taken to a very comfortable hotel sited on the riverside. In the evening, after dinner, we took a stroll along the riverside into the centre; the architecture was impressive and the views picturesque.
We both feel very privileged and honoured to judge our noble breed, a task neither of us take lightly. Overall we found that all of the Salukis were presented in good condition and surprisingly most were in good muscle condition; all too often we find muscle tone lacking, especially in the rear quarters. Generally toplines were good, a few fell away and equally some handlers over-stretched their dogs which made the Salukii lose its topline and look unbalanced. Again a few handlers strung up their Salukis which straightened the shoulder which gives the impression of being straight in upper arm. The quality of entries was very good and in some classes we were spoilt for choice. Movement was varied, after all a Saluki was never created to trot in the showring, it was bred to conserve energy at the slower gaits before galloping after its quarry.
Judging requires knowledge of the breed, the breed standard and integrity. Obviously, judges differ in personal preferences and both of us usually vary in our selections at back to back shows. However, in most cases we end up with similar placements but rarely end up with the same top winners.—and so it was the case this weekend.
SALUKISPESIALEN 2010
“It was a delightful sunny day, an excellent entry and so many Salukis waiting to be presented—what could be better. The whole atmosphere was friendly and all my decisions were taken with grace and dignity. I was delighted with my final line-up and on another day several could exchange places. My Best in Show and Best Dog was N S UCh Khalils Tarab, a grizzle dog who took my eye the moment he entered the ring, he had a balanced head, good pigmentation, long well muscled neck, correct topline, shoulder set back with a good return of upper arm although the markings could make it appear as slightly straight, moved effortlessly with sufficient power from the rear. Reserve Best in Show was Int Nord Fin UCh KBHV-03 SV-3 FinV-04 NV-07 Qirmizi Famenne, a stylish black and tan lady of excellent quality, beautifully balanced throughout, lovely head and expression, balanced head, good front angulation, balanced by complimentary rear quarters, deep brisket and neat tuck-up, a close decision between the male which could have easily been swapped places on another day. I was delighted with my top placements in both sexes who all contributed to my day. I would also like all the exhibitors for giving me the honour to see their Salukis and accepted my decisions with grace. Many thanks for a great day. Ken Allan”.
NORSK MYNDEKLUBB 2010
“I was very happy with my final line-up in both sexes and I took my time making my final placements, which was an indication of the quality I was faced with. I was particularly impressed with the veteran bitches—how proud their owner and breeders must be. My final dog line-up was so strong—when placing a dog I look for strength, elegance and a regal bearing which says ‘look at me, I am special’. I found that in NUCh Al Wathba Bahram Al Nadir. My bitch line-up was equally impressive, I had four in mind for the top honour and finally the gentle quiet , feminine demeanour of Djelal Passion Ruby tipped the balance for BOB and later it was such a thrill to see her go BIS-3. My Veteran winner, Int Nord Fin UCh KBHV-03 SV-3 FinV-04 NV-07 Qirmizi Famenne who went on to win Veteran BIS and my Best Puppy Aziz Ihsan win Puppy BIS. In closing, I would like to thank all the exhibitors for being so kind, friendly and accepting my decisions with grace and dignity. Diana Allan”.