Most of us would be delighted if just one of our dogs gained a place in the top twelve of a Superstars League; but to have secured 1st, 2nd, 3rd & 11th is truly something special. WCRCh Diamonds Sapphire Star has gone one better than last year; to take 1st place, with her sister WCRCh Diamonds Ruby Willow in 3rd place. New kid on the block, the diminutive WCRCh Crystal Star, stormed through the lightweight division to land the runner-up spot and so create a unique 1,2,3 for the Sunlay’s stable, with Coral Camellia 11th. What an achievement Angela, congratulations!! For the rest of us mere mortals, Daphne Kitchen’s Flyaway has proved that it’s not just the youngsters who bring home the spoils–she has become a half-coat and claimed 4th place as a more mature competitor. Her litter sister, WCRCh Woodleigh Gold, took 6th place & was made up to Racing Champion; which must have been a great day for Phyl Rogers. Little sister combinations have been a theme this season; Gingeroo and Georgie Girl, 6th & 10th respectively, plus WCRCh Brown Eyed Girl & Dancing Queen, 12th & 14th, as well as my own Guye’s Gwynder (5th) and Bob & Jane Ward’s Delter Queen of Hearts (19th). This year has proved no easier than the last for bitches weighing between 20-24lb and every point has been hard won – so well done to all those who finished in the top 12.
The Superstars Consolation League was definitely a nail-biter until the end with some whippeteers even hoping for a tough draw in the first round! I’m not sure if owners were cheering on their charges or the opposition. All Is Not Lost held on to her early lead and, and although Flyaway made a late play, she wasn’t able to catch Bob Hill’s bitch. Close behind in joint 3rd place came Split Lips (owned by Ray Pond) and Fremont Street (owned by Sue Hoddinott); which is a feat in itself as Sue’s charge turned six on 13th October. What is of special note is the camaraderie and the friendly spirit that was evident throughout – long may it continue.
The top twenty of the Dog League this year is littered with titled animals– 8 Racing Champions and 3 half coats. So, every dog has had to run at its best just to make an Open or Championship final. WCRCh Starstruck and Devil In Me both made an impression early on and this battle has continued throughout, with each vying for first place. Eventually, it was the machine-like consistency that decided the winner–WCRCh Starstruck (owned by Steve & Frances Bale); what a year they’ve had.! Viv Thurman has been very stoical about Devil In Me’s bad luck...which has certainly dogged his assault on the title (pardon the pun) & he finished runner up. But both dogs are young enough to come back next year – so watch out. Worthy of a mention is Ray & Lyn Brion’s, WCRCh Fine ‘n’ Dandy who finished 3rd in what could be called his ‘swan song’ year – this dog has been the Dog League winner for the past 2 years & I would like to congratulate the Brion’s for keeping their dog in top form. John & Barbara Broderick’s Elgar made a significant impact, finishing 4th by just one point – proving that there is life after injury...with TLC and patience. WCRCh Fuller Spirit has had his best year, with an average of 6.6 points per open for 5th spot– the Peddars must be very pleased with his performance in such a competitive group.
It’s the only dog I know that, after finishing a race, and before the owners can pick up their charges, this dog attempts to bonk the nearest bitch! Yes, you may already have guessed that Evening Star is owned by John Bishop & his wife Monica. Congratulations on their dog’s consistency and for finishing in the top spot for the Veteran Consolation League. My own bitch, Guye’s Guerlain (bred by June Kennard’s show champion Walkabout Woodpecker of Rivedo) held onto runner up position with Jeff & Ann Allan’s heavyweight Glass Nugget in 3rd. The Gajny’s coupled up for 4th & 5th spot – Vimy Ridge and The Red Baron proving their longevity. It’s so good to see some many veterans sprint up the track; with the same enthusiasm as in their youth.
It all came down to the last Open at South Cotswolds; and it didn’t disappoint. Three veterans were in a position to secure the title, they were all within 1 point of each other, which made each round vital. The lightweight veteran final clinched it for WCRCh VC Elovado and his delighted ownJune, Alan & Harry Foster. Joint 2nd are VC Whiphaven Bubble & Squeak (owned by Steve & June Jonigk) and Bullet Bunny (owned by Sonja Moore); but it’s truly a testimony of their fitness and durability for these whippets to have competed all season. It’s worth a mention that this league was also a bit of a family affair: Elovado’s big brother VC Kangado finished 6th. Minnie Mouse (4th) and WCRCh VC Bunny Girl (9th) gave the Sweet’s a lot to be happy about and the two sisters have proved they’re not a easy double act to beat. The Jonigks should be proud of their other little dynamo; Whiphaven Dangermouse as he nabbed the 5th spot.
Report written by: Kim Saxby, WCRA Superstars Officer, November 04