I flew in last night from Milwaukee, and boy, are my arms tired.
I was invited to judge the show there last weekend,and was amazed at the
quality of dogs entered.
That show is an event. From their own private grounds to the work of the club
members it was an experience. I joined in a fantastic breakfast and an even
greater dinner after the show was over.
The high point for me was the top quality in the classes, and even though there
was just Mike Sherman to break an all female handler situation, the Specials
class with an entry of eight was the best I have seen in a long time.
I missed seeing Jane Kerner and Dave and Martha Rinke, but I know Jane is
battling health concerns, and Dave and Martha had other commitments.
Judging is an interesting experience. The travel is a real pain. We who judge
do whatever it takes to get a low air fare, and this time I changed planes in
Denver going in and again in Houston going home. I got to Milwaukee and checked
in about midnight on Saturday, then got home on Sunday at midnight. Never mind
the time changes. It is usually the same for all shows, and often I question
why we do it? The answer for me is that I owe it to the sport.
For over 50 years I have had the honor of being involved in German shepherds.
The least I can do is offer my services now and then.
On top of that, I get to see my friends again, and that may be the real reason
I do it. I could have put up three others to Best of Breed, and been pleased.
I wish I could have awarded six Selects, three Winner's Bitch, and four
Winner's Dog.
But, I have to follow the rules, and I did what I could.
Now, if I am not in trial, I hope to make it to the National. Please come by
if they allow me to announce and blog again. I was again told by some folks
they enjoy the Blog. I don't understand that, but I never have figured out why
people like it. I guess I will be doing it again.
I have ordered the Junior medals, (with the help of Daphane), and will put
together any donations I might get. So far, nothing. Please, let's show those
kids that we do appreciate them.
Evan L. Ginsburg
http://gsdnational.blogspot.com/
German Shepherd Youth Recognition Fund
http://asgardgermanshepherd.com
