12 October 2018

So, Glenn and I took a little boat trip across to Belfast for the Championship Show. Our Papillons have been shown at limited shows this year, so we saw it as a weekend away and very enjoyable the whole experience was. We went on the overnight boat from Liverpool arriving at 6.30am into Belfast. Judging started at 9am and the journey from the boat to the venue was just 20 minutes so just perfect. Given also the Paps were second in the ring after the Cavs it was a nice chilled morning. Previous years we have gone the day before stayed in a hotel, but this route is so much more relaxed and easier. The facilities on the Stena boats are excellent and the cabins are both comfortable and roomy with full en suite facilities. The dogs were all cosy in their show trolley and were quite happy to sleep away quite peacefully, so it was also less stressful for them not having to be changed from boat, to hotel, to show.

Good parking on hard standing for the venue at Eikon Exhibition Centre in Lisburn. The only downside was that the venue was so cold but as long as you shivered at the appropriate moment all was good. However the venue was clean and tidy and the rings were of a spacious size. We had taken just one Papillon (Dustin) and Imogen the Pom.

There was a good array of trade stands for folk to browse and a mobile refreshments van outside, unfortunately no inside catering.

Well respected all rounder Miss Dianna Spavin was judging the Papillons and went over the dogs in a matter of fact kindly way, which is always the best approach. People that go over the dogs in an airy fairy way always make the dogs unsettled; you can always see it in the dogs’ eyes, saying for goodness sake just get on with it. Miss Spavin gave the dogs and the exhibitors every chance for them to perform at their very best.

The principal winners for Belfast were as follows. Two dogs made up their Champion titles, so champagne corks popping. BCC and BOB Tom Isherwood and Jenny Scovell’s Stagedoor Barbie, I believe a magical third, so celebrations all round. DCC a third cc and Champion crown for Irene and Glenn Robb’s Gleniren Stardustmaker Sunshoo. We texted his sire Travis and he was delighted. Best puppy Sean Carroll and James Newman’s Denemore Princess Gaia, the RBCC also went to this kennel with Denemore The Story Of Ragge. RDCC Susan Lanson’s Cantoverde Captain Casper, congratulations Susan I know you were thrilled. The day was finished off with Imogen taking BOB and shortlisted in the group so we went home very happy bunnies.

Next week I will cover SWKA and South Wales Papillon Club and also the open show results.

Please send me in your successes then they can be included. Wrap up warm, winter is fast approaching.

IRENE ROBB