Crufts 2008 once again brought a good slice of success for the Irish exhibitors who had made the trip to the most exciting event in the canine calendar.
A strong contingent had made their way to the hotels and inns in the vicinity of the NEC in Birmingham to challenge for the coveted awards on offer on the green carpeted rings which are the focus for any serious enthusiast of the sport.
All four days saw the NEC packed with visitors, followers and exhibitors there to take in what has become the mecca for all dog people. Irish exhibitors again did the country proud by taking numerous Best of Breeds, CC wins, class wins and good class placings throughout the groups.
Without doubt the major glory for Ireland must go to Monica and Margaret Boardman’s red and white parti-colour American Cocker Spaniel SH CH & AM CH SAN JO’S BORN TO PARTY who had a stunning win for the Dublin based Portsann Kennels when Gundog Group judge Patsy Hollings, of the famous Gunalt Weimaraners, chose ‘Riley’ to go forward to compete in what must be the ultimate competition for any exhibitor, on Sunday evening in the Crufts Best in Show ring of dreams. Patsy chose ‘Riley’, handled as always by Monica from a hugely competitive Gundog Group which contained numerous top winners from the UK and abroad.
Show Dogs Ireland congratulates Monica, Margaret, Billy and all the Portsann team on this magnificent and historical achievement.
We also congratulate all of those Irish exhibitors who had a successful Crufts 2008.
Click here to view a list of the major Irish Winners at Crufts 2008
A full list with class winners will appear during this week.