DILL WINS THE BRIARD CLUB OF AMERICA
To win a National Specialty is a breeder's dream. To win a National Specialty is a handler's dream. To win a National Specialty is an owner's dream. Basically, the way I see it, Best of Breed at the National Specialty is the ultimate win. It is better than any win, anywhere, anytime. It is your dog as last dog standing against his/her peers.
I have won 11 National Specialties. I realize, a pretty hefty record. It is a record I am exceedingly proud of. Some of those wins were under judges from the Pantheon of judge greats-Mrs James Edward Clark, Jane Forsyth, John Connally, James Reynolds, Thomas Mayfield, Denny Kodner, Edeltraud Laurin, John Studebaker. People I would be proud to have any win under.
This National Specialty was in Denver Colorado. It was accompanied by two Regional Specialties sponsored by North Central Briard Club and The Briard Club of America.
The morning regional was judged by Mark Houstin McMillan. We had no idea what to expect. Do not know him, never met him, never saw him judge. Dominique did a gorgeous job showing Heloise, Deja Vu Popsakadoo Hints From Heloise. She was Winners Bitch, Best of Winners for a 5 point major. We were thrilled. Dill, Ch Deja Vu Mia Cool As A Cucumber was Best of Breed with Regina. We were wildly happy. Johnny, again, shown by Dominique to brilliance, Ch Deja Vu Pomme Despair Came Knocking was Best of Opposite to Best of Breed. We were pinching ourselves.
The National was judged by John Studebaker. I know John. He is a brilliant dog person. He learned judging and breeding dogs through his foundation of judging and breeding dairy cows. He is a real smart stand up guy. We were hoping he would like our dogs because his opinion actually matters.
Marge was Winners Bitch, sired by Hoot, Ch Touche In Cahoots with Deja Vu, visiting from Mexico, bred by our friend Paula. We were tickled that Tabby, Popsakadoo Deja Vu Here Kitty Kitty was Reserve Winners Bitch from the 9-12 puppy class for a major(new rules).