This year's joint two day show was hosted by The GSD Club of Wales and held at Merthyr Tydfil on 11th and 12th August 2001.
This was our kennel's first time at the show - and what a weekend we had!
We arrived at 8.30pm on Friday evening to rain and a camping area at the top of a hill, this didn't seem too bad until Saturday night after we had crawled up it dozens of times.
Looking down to the show ground from our camping area
What a nightmare!! The poles to the big tent had been left at home - luckily enough we had a small tent as well, so we made do with that and the dogs had the big tent, held up by sets of wind breakers - Still raining!!!
Taxi please! I need to get out of this madhouse!!
Our first class of the day judged by Herr Rene Rudin was minor puppy bitch. Eva (Agacamp Emma at Marinita) was entered and handled by Dave Miller (Millaner GSDs) After the individuals, Eva was pulled out 5th, as the class progressed Eva moved up to 4th and then 1st!! I thought that I was going to have kittens, the class went on quite a while as there was some really quality puppies and Eva got a little bored out in front. She eventually finished 3rd and graded SG3, I was over the moon and really pleased.
Eva leading the class
My next class was limit bitch with Ellie (Ferncrest Gemma at Marinita), dave handled her in this also and did a really good job but Ellie was due in season and had started to blow her coat. She worked well and finished 12th and graded V12 out of a good strong class. I was having a brilliant weekend despite the rain.
I enjoyed the rest of the day admiring the fantastic dogs that were on show.
Saturday night was the "Disco", a party not to be missed! Everyone had a great time.
I didn't have any dogs entered on the second day but a few of my friends did so I watched and supported those. The day ended with my friends Lyn and Pete who own Shotaan's Danash (Bella) being awarded the bitch CC, this was Bella's third and crowning ticket - the whole corner of the ring went up with applause. This is what the world of dog showing is all about, the taking part, excitement and closeness of people with the love of this magnificent breed.
Bella and handler Steve Cox (Shotaan)
The run off for Best of Breed was brilliant to watch. Two outstanding shepherds gaiting at full speed around the ring.
Bella out in front
Bella with the Dog CC Winner
Shotaan's Danash and Uri vom Amulree (BOB)