Conformation Results
Judge: Steve Levan
Lismore Irish Wolfhounds
Entries:
19 Class Dogs
35 Class Bitches
0 Veteran Dogs
3 Veteran Bitches
5 Special Dog
2 Special Bitches
The Judge's critiques are listed under each placement in italics.
His overall comments are at the bottom of the page.
Best of Breed / Best Type
GCH Shellane Pavarotti Sings for Slaine
DOB: 03/26/13
Breeder: Maria Lubera
By CH Shellane Braniff x GCh Berwyck Shellane Provocatore
Owner: Christine Krowzack Berstein
During the group’s first trip around the Best of Breed ring he caught my eye - no denying it. His masculine head is held proudly by a strong, well-arched neck. I appreciate a correct front where scapula and humerus are balanced in both length and angle. Plenty of bone and muscle as I ran my hand down his front leg. His front pasterns have just enough tilt back to give this large hound cushioning when he gallops. He has a purposeful stride with economy of effort except for a small glitch when coming at you, as he picks his front feet up with a little extra flick of the wrist - sometimes, not always. His action going away is powerful and true. His ribbing extends far back approaching his thigh with no extra loin stretching him out too far. Both top line and underline are soft curves with no abrupt transitions. Good muscling over the loin, a properly set croup and a tail softly curving help complete the picture of a magnificent hound.
*
Best of Opposite Sex
Nightwings Ontario
DOB: 01/06/15
Breeder: Joel & Wendy Mattson
By Ch. Nightwing’s Silencer x Lonnkyle Paranoia at Nightwing
Owner/Breeder
This young bitch was on a roll as the more asked of her the more she responded - obviously in outstanding physical condition. She had a tough battle for Winners Bitch and gave the Winners Dog a stiff challenge for Best of Winners. Her natural poise and depth of quality put her up over the champion bitches. (see Winners Bitch/Novice Bitch)
*
Best of Winners / Winner's Dog / Best Bred By
Lonnkyle Traveller
DOB: 10/11/14
Breeder: Lloyd J. Simmons
By Eng.CH Bokra Tudor x Lonnkyle Phidelity
Owner/Breeder
Maturity, excellent breed standard details and balanced structure easily put this dog in front of the Winners Dog class.
You have got to love an enthusiastic powerful big dog that enjoyed moving around the ring. He would have pushed the Best of Breed dog even harder with a touch more length of leg. Nothing extreme about this hound, just everything correct and in the right place - a pleasure to put my hands on. (see Winners Dog/Bred By Exhibitor Dog)
*
Select Dog
CH Taliesin's Rhionganedd
DOB: 05/13/13
Breeder: Donna Smith & David Smith
By GCH Riverlawn Exit of Aerie x Taliesin's Wylde Rum Runner
Owner/Breeder
A mature dog of great quality that must always be in the thick of the competition. Being picky, his top line and croup both showed a tad flat without a smooth transition. He moved around the ring with great confidence and precision - he knows exactly where to put his feet whether being stacked or at the trot.
*
Select Bitch
CH Glenfels No Worries A Breezin
DOB: 07/27/13
Breeder: Sarah Baker
By GCH Limerick Frost the Showman x Aus CH Glenfels Finoal
Owner: Susan Latunski
Strong yet feminine expression on this black bitch with plenty of leg under her. Though balanced, I would prefer more curve front and rear and more strength in her neck. She was a worthy competitor in the Best of Breed ring.
*
Award of Merit
I elected to award two Awards of Merit as allowed by the Premium List. The awards are not further specified as #1 and #2. For me to do so, they would need to be identified as such in the Premium List. Both are worthy of this special recognition in the Best of Breed ring.
CH Boondocks Atlas Shrugged
DOB: 01/12/15
Breeder: Jeanie Pitzenberger & Laurie Morris
By CH Nightwing's Silencer x CH Brimstone Boondocks Serenity
Owner: Jeanie Pitzenberger
Here is a strong, stylish dog champion. He has the correct front structure but needs a more well bent stifle to completely finish the picture.
*
Best Puppy
Taliesin's Sa'ile
DOB: 01.8/11/17
Breeder:Donna Smith & David Smith
By CH Taliesin's Llenlleawg CGC x Taliesin's Ruadhoigh
Owner/Breeder
The wonderful Best Puppy class made the decision difficult, but this 9 to 12 month bitch’s substance won out in the end. The younger male pushed very hard and both will be youngsters to watch. What a joy it was to see pups going around the ring moving with long flowing strides. (see 9-12 Month Puppy Bitch)
*
Best Veteran / Award of Merit
I elected to award two Awards of Merit as allowed by the Premium List. The awards are not further specified as #1 and #2. For me to do so, they would need to be identified as such in the Premium List. Both are worthy of this special recognition in the Best of Breed ring.
Brimstone Connemara Maibach
DOB: 12/18/10
Breeder: Laurie Morris & Debbie Sharpe
By Ch Connemara's Pagan Justice x Connemara's Scandal at Brimstone.
Owner/Breeder
The only veteran shown but what an outstanding veteran. This classy bitch has shape and substance that carried her through to a well deserved Award of Merit. (see Veteran Bitch)
*
Winner's Bitch
Nightwings Ontario
DOB: 04/07/15
Breeder: Joel & Wendy Mattson
By CH Nightwing’s Silencer x Lonnkyle Paranoia at Nightwing
Owner/Breeder
This bitch has what it takes to go the distance. Best left to set herself up. Her wonderful structure knows where to put her feet when she stops. Selecting Winners Bitch was tough with many beautiful and correct bitches in the ring all vying for attention - another day it could have gone differently - but today was her day. (see Bred By Exhibitor Bitch)
*
Reserve Winner's Dog
Nightwing's Preacher
DOB: 04/07/15
Breeder: Joel & Wendy Mattson
By CH Nightwing’s Silencer x Lonnkyle Paranoia at Nightwing
Owner/Breeder
This is a young dog just coming into his own. He will be one to follow in the next few years.
*
Reserve Winner's Bitch
Boondocks To Kill A Mockingbird
DOB: 12/24/15
Breeder: Jeanie Pitzenberger & Laurie Morris
By Nightwing’s Silencer x GCHB Brimstone Boondocks Serenity
Owner: Jeanie Pitzenberger
A different style to this attractive bitch, more depth and less breadth to her body than #1 in her class - even a different expression - perhaps she’d rather be running in an open field than standing in a show ring. She could not be denied a high placement thanks to her impeccable movement - long flowing strides with no extraneous action. (see Bred By Exhibitor Bitch #2 and Best Gait)
*
Veteran Dogs
No entries
*
Veteran Bitch
3 entered; 2 absent
1 - Brimstone Connemara Maibach
DOB: 12/18/10
Breeder: Laurie Morris & Debbie Sharpe
By Ch Connemara's Pagan Justice x Connemara's Scandal at Brimstone.
Owner/Breeder
This bitch shows us how they all should age. She is seven and a half and out-moving many younger bitches. She is a little curvier in the rear than the front, but it works for her. She has a wonderful expression with that distant look in her eyes like she has seen it all and she may very well have done just that. Very deserving of an Award of Merit. (see Award of Merit)
*
6-9 Month Puppy Dogs
5 entered
1 - C'lute Eagle of Elkhorn
DOB:10/14/17.
Breeder: Tamatha McNeelyAube
By Ch Dun Myrica Nolan Riley Of Eagle x Ch Mor Legal War Emblem Of Elkhorn
Owner/Breeder
A well proportioned puppy that has his act together at a very young age. Plenty of body length with ribs going way back leading to a nice tuck up. Most everything is long about this pup and in a good way. He held together on the move and had a good time.
2 - Prairie Creek Garnet
DOB: 10/23/2017.
Breeder: Constance C Smalley & Magie Wolfe.
By Prairie Creek Arthur x Calyddon Callie @ Prairie Creek
Owner: Wolfe James, & Magie Wolfe
Beautiful head, strong but not blocky. His top line settled when he moved but he could present too steep a croup. He wanted so much to play, not stand still.
2 - Tresmorn Brogan
DOB: 12/22/17
Breeder: Beth Renstrom
By Tresmorn The Abbott of Windmill x Rockhart Yesterday's Ravensara of Tresmorn
Owner/Breeder
A pleasing outline though a bit short in the body. His shoulders are set wide at the withers causing him to move wide coming at you. He was happy to do whatever his handler wished.
4 - Elkhorn's Cavan of Eagle
DOB:10/14/17.
Breeder: Tamatha McNeelyAube
By Ch Dun Myrica Nolan Riley Of Eagle x Ch Mor Legal War Emblem Of Elkhorn
Owner: Latton Nancy, & Tammy McNeely-Aube
This fellow was confident and cooperative enough. Good bone and front structure. At this stage, his hindquarters are insufficiently muscled with little bend at the stifle joint.
*
9-12 Month Puppy Dogs
1 entered
1 - IIconic Ivarr Caer Dalben
DOB: 8/30/17
Breeder:Veronika Vocetkova
By Flynn Rider Caer Dalben x Kraksangens My Fair Lady
Owner: Mary Arends
This pup has an attractive masculine head, size and substance. While his upper arm slants well underneath, his scapula is too steep. Maybe a growth phase, but his front pasterns are upright where some tilt back is preferred. He is an attractive dark clear brindle with no red.
*
12-18 Months Yearling Dogs
3 entered; 1 absent
Lonnkyle Midnight Prowler
DOB: 04/12/17
Breeder: Lloyd Simmons
By Ch Windseeker Broker x Lonnkyle Phly
Owner/Breeder
A strong dog with ideal shoulder and fore chest. Right now his front has matured and strengthened more than his hindquarters, but still a wonderful young dog.
2 - Howlins' Hi-Ho Lounge on St. Claude, CGC
DOB: 4/11/2017.
Breeder: David & Risha Berzins
By Eirian Padraic Brie Quick Draw Marco x CH Howlin's Praline, RA NAP MJP CGC
Owner/Breeder
His outline shows a good long body with ribbing all the way back to his substantial hindquarters. His upper arm could slant more underneath giving him more reach and smoothing the small dip in his top line.
*
Novice Dogs
3 entered
1 - Nightwing's Preacher
DOB: 04/07/15
Breeder: Joel & Wendy Mattson
By CH Nightwing’s Silencer x Lonnkyle Paranoia at Nightwing
Owner/Breeder
A three-year-old nearly black hound of strength and style. This man of the cloth has tidy details: pigment, ears and tail. Excellent structure, including a balanced front and rear, which he uses very well moving in a commanding fashion around the ring. His croup is a touch steep when he is set up but not on the move. (see Reserve Winners Dog)
2 - Hallowed Starman
DOB: 05/21/15
Breeder: Chris & Susan Sechler
By Nightwing’s Silencer x Nightwing’s Hallowed Carpathia
Owner/Breeder
Plenty of body and curve, front and rear. Extreme curves and abundant coat do not leave enough air beneath the hound. His head could be more masculine. He moves powerfully with particularly excellent mechanics coming at you.
3 - Walela’s Moonlight Revels
DOB: 11/12/16
Breeder: Angela Forrest-Burge
By GCH Lismore Stoneybrook Forbidden Broadway x Pitlochry’s Odette
Owner: Breeder, Jennifer Baye, Jacqueline Carswell
Here is the youngster in the class who has much going for him but is far less mature. He will need to muscle up and let down into some curve in the hindquarters that don’t yet match his good front structure.
*
Bred By Exhibitor Dogs
2 entered; 1 absent
1 - Lonnkyle Traveller
DOB: 10/11/14
Breeder: Lloyd J. Simmons
By Eng.CH Bokra Tudor x Lonnkyle Phidelity
Owner/Breeder
An exceptional dog, oozing type and quality. He carries a strong masculine head proudly and with a smile. He was energetic and happy to be shown. He has breadth, curves, big strong bones and muscles. His top line and under line both flow from the front to the rear with no flat spots or sharp transitions. Always exciting to see a wolf-killer with the movement of a wolf-catcher. (see Winners Dog and Best of Winners)
*
American Bred Dogs
2 entered
1 - Prairie Creek Charisma @ Nightwings
DOB: 3/21/16
Breeder: Constance C Smalley & Joel Mattson
By Prairie Creek Arthur x Nightwing's Sequester @ Prairie Creek
Owner:Mattson Joel,& Magie Wolfe & Constance C Smalley
Good head, expression and quality front structure. Plentiful curves though his top line falls away too quickly right now. He looks to be at that in between age where he’s maturing, but not mature.
2 - Shellane Dionysus
DOB: 12/6/16
Breeder:Maria Lubera & Carole Jeninga
By Cugein Baron of Cheniff x CH Shellane Gairbraid’s Vronyka
Owner: Maria Lubera
Another young hound that is not yet a finished product. Plenty of substance here but he is straight both front and rear which detracts from his profile and limits his stride.
*
Open Dogs
3 entered; 2 absent
1 - Hallowed UFO
DOB: 05/21/15
Breeder: Chris & Susan Sechler
By Nightwing’s Silencer x Nightwing’s Hallowed Carpathia
Owner/Breeder
I first saw a long neck that is powerfully muscled, but my hands found his scapula to be too steep. Head and lower jaw could be wider. The powerful body is correctly ribbed nearly to his loin with strong thighs and second thighs. His crouching detracts from a commanding appearance.
*
6-9 Month Puppy Bitches
11 entered
1 - Taliesin's Brice
DOB: 10/7/2017
Breeder: Donna Smith & David Smith
By CH Taliesin's Rhionganedd-Taliesin's Realta Scuaibe
Owner/Breeders
Muscular and exceptionally well balanced. Plenty of fill in the fore chest and never put a foot down wrong. I would like a little more curve both fore and aft.
2 - C'Loan Eagle of Elkhorn
DOB:10/14/17.
Breeder: Tamatha McNeelyAube
By Ch Dun Myrica Nolan Riley Of Eagle x Ch Mor Legal War Emblem Of Elkhorn
Owner/Breeder
Pushed #1 right up to the end as she is a little curvier, but she has less musculature flowing from her neck over her shoulders and across her loin than #1. Another beautiful mover.
3 - Walela Through The Looking Glass
DOB: 12/13/17
Breeder: Angela Forrest-Burge
By GCH Lismore Stoneybrook Forbidden Broadway x Pitlochry’s Odette
Owner: Mindy Ballinger, Angela Forrest, Jacqueline Carswell
This young bitch has a correct outline, balanced front and rear assemblies and a nice transition from head down her neck to her croup. She needs to develop more fill in between those front legs as she matures. Another good mover.
4 - Taliesin's Beoaodh of Findaway
DOB: 10/7/2017
Breeder: Donna Smith & David Smith
By CH Taliesin's Rhionganedd-Taliesin's Realta Scuaibe
Owner: Veronica Nienstedt & Donna Smith
Plenty of energy my notes say. She was uncertain of what was going on, but during those times
she felt comfortable, she showed strength and a nice houndy shape.
*
9-12 Month Bitches
1 entered
Taliesin's Sa'ile
DOB: 08/11/17
Breeder:Donna Smith & David Smith
By CH Taliesin's Llenlleawg CGC x Taliesin's Ruadhoigh
Owner/Breeder
A flashy red brindle with more than enough attitude for her handler. Breadth, curves and easy and
active movement are all there because of good bone structure and plenty of muscle. (see Best Puppy)
*
12-18 Month Yearling Bitches
3 entered
1 - Lonnkyle 20th Century Paux
DOB: 04/21/17
Breeder: Lloyd Simmons
By CH Windseeker Broker x Lonnkyle Phidelity
Owner/Breeder
This bitch is quite strong and almost extreme in conformation. Scapula layback and upper arm return are balanced and exceptional. A great front structure supports a long, strong and well-arched neck. Plenty of width across the pelvis and upper thigh. She needs to lose a few pounds and tighten her tuck up. She was not sure about showing me how well she could move.
2 - Howlins' MB Tipitina Rose, CGC
DOB: 4/11/2017.
Breeder: David & Risha Berzins
By Eirian Padraic Brie Quick Draw Marco x CH Howlin's Praline, RA NAP MJP CGC
Owner/Breeder
A harsh black coat can hide substance but there is enough to this
bitch. She is a little straight in the rear and soft in the top line but still a classic shape.
3 - Moonbreath Tauriel
DOB: 04/15/17
Breeder: Mary Arends
By Seamus x Alice
Owner: Susan Gergely
A bright white wheaten bitch just finding out about dog shows. She is straight in front and rear and could use more bone. The pigmentation on her face is quite light. She was comfortable and pleasant when being examined.
*
Novice Bitch
3 entered
1 - Lonnkyle Patent Pending
DOB: 03/25/16
Breeder: Lloyd Simmons
By Lonnkyle Traveller x Windseeker Damaske at Lonnkyle
Owner/Breeder
Great details and front and rear assemblies on this stunning bitch; but for whatever reason, she stands with her butt up in the air. The high rear end is less apparent when she moves. Still a quality hound.
2 - Tresmorn Aubrey (placement disqualified by the AKC)
Breeder: Beth Renstrom & Lynn Simon, MD
By Rockhart Xavier x Rockhart Quiry
Owner: Beth Renstrom
A typey young bitch that could move well around the ring. Quite straight front though and moderate angles in the rear. She could use more bone to complete the package.
3- Hallowed Bruja Gitana
DOB: 05/21/15
Breeder: Chris & Susan Sechler
By Nightwing’s Silencer x Nightwing’s Hallowed Carpathia
Owner/Breeder
I found structure I didn’t expect when I touched this curvy bitch. Return of upper arm put her front structure underneath her where it belongs, but her scapula was too vertical to match the humerus below. I did not see much movement as she was giving her handler fits both setting up and gaiting.
*
Bred By Exhibitor Bitches
5 entered
Nightwings Ontario
DOB: 04/07/15
Breeder: Joel & Wendy Mattson
By CH Nightwing’s Silencer x Lonnkyle Paranoia at Nightwing
Owner/Breeder
Her proper conformation gives this classy bitch all curves - no flat spots or abrupt transitions. She is exceptionally well muscled with strong bones and good breadth seen in the spring of her ribs and across her pelvis and upper thighs. She showed confidence and an interest in her environment as she checked things out. Her movement was true and flowing - no wasted motion. (see Winners Bitch and Best of Opposite Sex to Best of Breed)
2 - Boondocks To Kill A Mockingbird
DOB: 12/24/15
Breeder: Jeanie Pitzenberger & Laurie Morris
By Nightwing’s Silencer x GCHB Brimstone Boondocks Serenity
Owner: Jeanie Pitzenberger
This bitch fought hard for #1. She moves exceptionally well but did not have the substance of the class winner. I wish her ribs went further back on her body - too much loin between the end of the rib cage and her thigh. (see Reserve Winners Bitch)
3 - Lonnkyle Prima Donna
DOB: 04/02/14
Breeder: Lloyd Simmons
Ch. Nightwing's Silencer x Lonnkyle Pawnee
Owner/Breeder
This bitch’s fortune is her movement - nothing wasted, her toes never left the grass. She could use more curve front and rear but it doesn’t deter her ability to trot.
4 - Hallowed Witchcraft
DOB: 05/21/15
Breeder: Chris & Susan Sechler
By Nightwing’s Silencer x Nightwing’s Hallowed Carpathia
Owner/Breeder
A very curvy bitch who was beat because her scapula is too upright and she crouches in the ring. Still a fine specimen.
This class has four fine bitches.
*
American Bred Bitches
9 entered;1 excused
1 - Riversong Dineen Tweed
DOB: 11/17/15
Breeder: Cynthia & Dave Patterson
By Riversong Love to Burn x Riversong I’ll Have Another
Owner: Angela Hunter Knight & Cynthia Patterson
You must touch the hound to judge - good example, as I could not see how good her front structure was for the coat on her neck. My fingers found a great front structure. That front, effortless movement and an attractive feminine head earned her #1 in a competitive class.
2 - Brimstone Dream Weaver
DOB: 09/04/15
Breeder: Laurie Morris
Ch Brimstone Judgment Day x Windseeker Brimstone Desiree'
Owner/Breeder
Strength, bone and movement got her to #2. A touch too long in the loin and a flatter top line held her back.
3 - Calyddon Callie @ Prairie Creek
DOB: 12/30/14
Breeder: Donna S. Pitt & Joseph C. Pitt
By Lismore Stoneybrook Macheath x Calyddon Mazoe
Owner: Constance Smalley & Magie Wolfe
Loved the head and expression on this bitch. She has good breadth in her body and good structure front and rear. She is out of balance with too much front right now as her butt sticks up in the air. Her shape improves greatly when on the move.
4 - Prairie Creek Trinity Wren Graylyn
DOB: 03/21/16
Breeder: Constance Smalley & Joel Mattson
By Prairie Creek Arthur x Nightwings Sequester @ Prairie Creek
Owner: Linda Tucker, Tina Tucker, & Constance Smalley
A large curvy frame for this bitch. She was carrying a little too much weight. I expected more from her moving, but she wasn’t going to show us much and all her competition moved quite well.
*
Open Bitches
2 entered; 1 absent
1 - Brimstone Raven 'Bout Connemara
DOB: 09/05/13
Breeder: Laurie Morris & Debbie Sharpe
By Ch. Nighwings Conspiracy x Ch. Brimstone Connemara Portia
Owner/Breeder
What a gorgeous shape on this dark mature bitch. She has the flowing curves and balanced proper front and rear structure. She was in the battle for Winners Bitch but she did not have the sustained movement or substance of her toughest competitors.
*
Stud Dog
1 entered
No Photo Available; See Select Dog
1 - CH Taliesin's Rhionganedd
DOB: 05/13/13
Breeder: Donna Smith & David Smith
By GCH Riverlawn Exit of Aerie x Taliesin's Wylde Rum Runner
Owner/Breeder
Quality puppies who have the makings of their sire’s shape and beautiful stride.
*
Brood Bitch
2 entered
1 - Calyddon Callie @ Prairie Creek
DOB: 12/30/14
Breeder: Donna S. Pitt & Joseph C. Pitt
By Lismore Stoneybrook Macheath x Calyddon Mazoe
Owner: Constance Smalley & Magie Wolfe
The dam’s classic look was clearly passed on to her pleasing typical youngsters. All have
the same expression and body shape, though one youngster out moves the other.
2 - Rockhart Yesterday's Ravensara of Tresmorn
DOB: 07/17/15
Breeder: Lynn Simon, MD
By Rockhart Nikolai x Rockhart Raphaela Requiem
Owner: Beth Renstrom
*
Best Gait
3 entered
1 - Boondocks To Kill A Mockingbird
DOB: 12/24/15
Breeder: Jeanie Pitzenberger & Laurie Morris
By Nightwing’s Silencer x GCHB Brimstone Boondocks Serenity
Owner: Jeanie Pitzenberger
Her long flowing strides were efficient and powerful. The core of her body was stable as it moved around the ring with no bobbing up and down wasting energy and time. Balanced structure, flexibility and good musculature are united with perfect timing. Beautiful to watch. (see Reserve Winners Bitch)
*
Judge Steve Levan's Comments
Thank you Northstar Irish Wolfhound Club for the wonderful opportunity to judge your specialty. And heartfelt thanks to the exhibitors who brought their hounds - I appreciate your trust. Show chair Joel Mattson and his committee of hard working club members put on a great show. More exhibitors need to come and experience Minnesota hospitality. The show site, the weather and an atmosphere of competitive camaraderie made for a very enjoyable specialty. Joel and Wendy let me chill in the motorhome while Christina Hartenstein judged the sweepstakes. Good thing because it was sunny and quite warm the remainder of the day. Ring steward Lynn Simon and photographer Troy Pitzenberger graciously helped me keep things rolling - a sincere thank you to you both. Exhibitors and their hounds were also most cooperative. I didn’t want to spend everyone’s time waiting for armbands or late hounds entering a class and everyone responded contributing to an expeditious flow. I focused on time in the ring judging, not managing traffic. There is so much going on exceptionally well with the wolfhound population you brought to me, there is no need for a lecture on specific problems - these are exceptional hounds. Instead of recounting what is going well and not so well, I offer an observation and caution about conformation issues referred to in young hounds as going through a stage of development. Different bloodlines may develop differently, but on occasion I hear an explanation meant to mollify a pup’s shortcomings as the particular bloodline is slow to mature and that the fault will correct itself. Granted even individual hounds within a bloodline mature at very different rates. Even though that is the case, not every problem will fix itself. Many of the details, good and bad, you notice about a puppy and young hound never go away. That is not to say that you give up on puppies unless they are perfect, hardly; it is to say that you must take serious note of what you see, evaluate the pup’s potential and be keenly aware of the problem recurring both in the maturing pup and in the next generation if the puppy enters the gene pool. I hope exhibitors won’t think I have been harsh in my comments. Even my magnificent Best of Breed is not a perfect specimen. It is unfair to regale you with how wonderful your hound is and yet not place it at the top of its class. I feel you are better served to hear what strengths I found and the weakness I recognized. But, what was going on with the 6-9 month puppy bitch class? They came into the ring wired - all of them. I have 45 years in the breed and I have seen a lot of 6-9 month puppy bitches before, but this was an experience I won’t forget. We all got through it, including several exhibitors who got to do the down and back more than once. The 6-9 month puppy dogs had
their act together. Go figure! Exhibitors and other IW lovers, put the Northstar Irish Wolfhound Club Specialty on your To-Do
2018 Sweepstakes Results
Judge: Dr. Christiana Hartenstein
Samsara Sighthounds
Entries:
8 Puppy Dogs
15 Puppy Bitches
The Judge's critiques are listed under each placement in italics.
Her overall comments are at the bottom of the page.
Best in Sweeps
C'Loan Eagle of Elkhorn
DOB:10/14/17.
Breeder: Tamatha McNeelyAube
By Ch Dun Myrica Nolan Riley Of Eagle x Ch Mor Legal War Emblem Of Elkhorn
Owner/Breeder
This 8-months old dark brindle boy owned the ring the second he walked in and never looked back. Masculine, strong and
powerful, he sports the soft curves and length of leg of a true hound, is well balanced due to excellent, matching angulation
in front and rear, and has a classic head with a most gentle expression. Presented in fabulous condition, he moved
extremely well for one so young and carried himself with purpose. Light on his feet with plenty of reach and drive, he was also sound on the down and back. To top it off, he kept his beautiful shape on the move. A truly impressive puppy.
*
Best of Opposite Sex
C'lute Eagle of Elkhorn
DOB:10/14/17.
Breeder: Tamatha McNeelyAube
By Ch Dun Myrica Nolan Riley Of Eagle x Ch Mor Legal War Emblem Of Elkhorn
Owner/Breeder
This 8-months old dark brindle girl caught my eye early in this
large, competitive class. Litter sister to the Best of Opposite in
Sweepstakes, she displays similar characteristics: A powerful,
strong body, the soft curves and length of leg of a true hound,
the overall balance due to very good, matching angulation in
front and rear, and a classic head with a most gentle
expression. Presented in excellent condition, she moved
extremely well and carried herself with purpose. Light on her
feet with plenty of reach and drive, she was also sound on the
down and back plus she kept her shape on the move,
regardless of how often I asked her to go around. Today, she
never let down. In the end, she was just a tad more eager than
her brother to get that win, especially on the last two goarounds.
Otherwise, it would have been him. What an
accomplishment to have bred two of one kind!
*
6-9 Month Puppy Dogs
5 entered; 1 absent
1 - C'lute Eagle of Elkhorn
DOB:10/14/17.
Breeder: Tamatha McNeelyAube
By Ch Dun Myrica Nolan Riley Of Eagle x Ch Mor Legal War Emblem Of Elkhorn
Owner/Breeder
See Best In Sweeps
2 - Tresmorn Barley
DOB: 12/22/17
Breeder: Beth Renstrom
By Tresmorn The Abbott of Windmill x Rockhart Yesterday's Ravensara of Tresmorn
Owner/Breeder
Barely making the age minimum for the class at 6 months and 1 day, this silver brindle boy is just starting to really grow. He is overall balanced due to matching, albeit moderate angulation in front and rear; however, he currently lacks the length of leg of the 1st place boy. He has a lovely head with a gentle expression. Probably due to his age, at least partially, he fell somewhat apart on the move. While he kept his shape and displayed sufficient reach and drive, he was not clean on the down and back. It will be interesting to see how he looks when fully mature.
3 - Prairie Creek Garnet
DOB: 10/23/2017.
Breeder: Constance C Smalley & Magie Wolfe.
By Prairie Creek Arthur x Calyddon Callie @ Prairie Creek
Owner: Wolfe James, & Magie Wolfe
This 8-months brindle boy is a true hound and full of potential. He is all male and has a strong, powerful body. He would have
been second had he maintained his shape on the move. Overall well balanced, he has a lovely shape on the stack and stands over plenty of ground. He displays matching, albeit moderate angulation and has a lovely head with a gentle expression. On the move, he was light on his feet and made the most out of his angulation; however, he was not quite clean on the down and back. Once he is done growing, there are plenty of reasons to believe that this one will fulfill his early promise.
4 - Tresmorn Brogan
DOB: 12/22/17
Breeder: Beth Renstrom
By Tresmorn The Abbott of Windmill x Rockhart Yesterday's Ravensara of Tresmorn
Owner/Breeder
Being a litter brother to the second place boy, this dark brindle youngster was clearly not happy being in the ring, which made
him difficult to assess. In many aspects similar to his brother, he also lacks the length of leg I like to see at this age. Since he did not cooperate with his handler on the move, I unfortunately cannot comment on his movement.
*
9-12 Month Puppy Dogs
No entries
*
12-15 Month Yearling Dogs
3 entered; 1 absent
1 - Lonnkyle Midnight Prowler
DOB: 04/12/17
Breeder: Lloyd Simmons
By Ch Windseeker Broker x Lonnkyle Phly
Owner/Breeder
Being the clear winner of this class, this 14-months old red brindle boy has the typical outline of a powerful and efficient
hunter. Masculine and strong, he is well angulated in front and rear and has a lovely head with a rather serious, yet kind
expression. On the move, he maintained his shape and displayed excellent reach and drive. Unfortunately, he was not sound in the rear today. Once this improves, there is nothing that should hold him back.
2 - Howlins' Hi-Ho Lounge on St. Claude, CGC
DOB: 4/11/2017.
Breeder: David & Risha Berzins
By Eirian Padraic Brie Quick Draw Marco x CH Howlin's Praline, RA NAP MJP CGC
Owner/Breeder
This 14-months old silver brindle is strong and powerful and all male with a lovely head and a kind expression. Unfortunately, he is rather square and lacks the gentle curves of a true hound. To be critical, I also would like a tad more length in body. Moderately angulated, he was not able to reach and drive as desired. However, he was fairly sound on the down and back. Once his handler loosened the leash a bit, his movement improved due to being able to move a tad more freely.
*
12-18 Month Yearling Dogs
No entries
*
6-9 Month Puppy Bitches
11 entered
1 - C'Loan Eagle of Elkhorn
DOB:10/14/17.
Breeder: Tamatha McNeelyAube
By Ch Dun Myrica Nolan Riley Of Eagle x Ch Mor Legal War Emblem Of Elkhorn
Owner/Breeder
See Best of Opposite Sex
2 - Taliesin's Brice
DOB: 10/7/2017
Breeder: Donna Smith & David Smith
By CH Taliesin's Rhionganedd-Taliesin's Realta Scuaibe
Owner/Breeders
What a tough competitor this 8-months old red brindle, powerhouse of a girl was! Well-balanced due to matching
angulation in front and rear, she stands over plenty of ground and displays a typical and attractive outline. Her head is
beautiful with a curious, yet gentle expression. At times, she appeared weak in the topline, especially when she was stretched out a tad too far. On the move, she showed powerful and effortless side gait, resembling a lion cub with only one mission: learning how to stalk prey. The slight dip in the topline disappeared and she was sound on the down and back. She looked as if she could go on forever. A very exciting prospect, unfortunate to have met # 1 today.
3 - Prairie Creek Mary Poppins
DOB: 10/18/17
Breeder: Constance Smalley & Magie Wolfe
By Prairie Creek Better Be A Bear x Prairie Creek Rysheron Dr Watson
Owner/Breeder
This 8-months old dark brindle girl is again a true hound and full of potential. Strong bodied and overall well balanced, she
has a lovely shape and stands over plenty of ground. She displays matching, albeit moderate angulation, and has a lovely head with a gentle expression. She was light on her feet, with good reach and drive, and was also clean on the down and back. This is one to watch in the future as well.
4 - Taliesin's Beoaodh of Findaway
DOB: 10/7/2017
Breeder: Donna Smith & David Smith
By CH Taliesin's Rhionganedd-Taliesin's Realta Scuaibe
Owner: Veronica Nienstedt
Not necessarily happy with her unfamiliar handler, this 8-months old gray brindle girl settled enough to get a welldeserved placement. She is a balanced, leggy girl with a lovely shape and a strong body. While I wished for a bit more forechest, she was angulated enough in front and rear to move with sufficient reach and drive. She kept her shape on the move and was sound on the down and back. She has a lovely head and while she was somewhat anxious of not being able to see her owner, she never lost he typical expression of an Irish Wolfhound.
*
9-12 Month Puppy Bitches
1 entered
1 - Taliesin's Sa'ile
DOB: 08/11/17
Breeder:Donna Smith & David Smith
By CH Taliesin's Llenlleawg CGC x Taliesin's Ruadhoigh
Owner/Breeder
Being caught in a growth spurt, this red brindle girl is again a true hound and full of potential. She stands over plenty of ground and for the most part, shows a lovely outline. There were times when she appeared rather straight in front with more angulation in the rear when stacked, but when she moved, she came together nicely and was overall very balanced. To be critical, I would have preferred a bit more fore chest. However, once she is done growing, she should have no problem to fulfill her early promise, especially since she moves very well from all sides and has a most typical head with a gentle expression.
*
12-15 Month Yearling Bitches
3 entered
1 - Lonnkyle 20th Century Paux
DOB: 04/21/17
Breeder: Lloyd Simmons
By CH Windseeker Broker x Lonnkyle Phidelity
Owner/Breeder
Despite giving her handler a hard time in the ring, this 14- months old red brindle girl was the clear winner in this class and very similar to her half-brother in many ways. Powerful and strong, she has the outline of an efficient and skilled hunter. She is well angulated in front and rear but at times overextended herself on the stack. She has a lovely head with a kind expression. On the move, she maintained her shape and displayed excellent reach and drive. She was also sound on the down and back. To be critical, I would have preferred a more pronounced tuck-up.
2 - Howlins' MB Tipitina Rose, CGC
DOB: 4/11/2017.
Breeder: David & Risha Berzins
By Eirian Padraic Brie Quick Draw Marco x CH Howlin's Praline, RA NAP MJP CGC
Owner/Breeder
This 14-month old dark brindle girl is overall well balanced due to matching, albeit moderate angulation in front and rear and has a strong and powerful body. Her head is lovely with a very kind expression. She was light on her feet and moved around the ring effortlessly. She was also sound on the down and back. Unfortunately, similar to her brother, she appeared rather square today and did not have the outline I like to see.
3 - Moonbreath Tauriel
DOB: 04/15/17
Breeder: Mary Arends
By Seamus x Alice
Owner: Susan Gergely
This 14-months old, cream girl behaved beautifully for her novice owner. She stands over plenty of ground, is well
balanced due to matching, albeit rather straight angulation, and sports a lovely head with soulful eyes, which reflected her gentle demeanor. While she was sound on the down and back, she lacked reach and drive. Overall, I would have preferred a more typical outline, and more size and substance.
*
Judge Dr. Christiana Hartenstein's Comments
SPECIALTY
OF THE
NORTHSTAR IRISH WOLFHOUND CLUB
JUNE 23, 2018
Sweepstakes – General Comments
Dr. Christiana C. Hartenstein
Samsara Irish Wolfhound & Borzoi
I want to thank the Northstar Irish Wolfhound Club for inviting me to judge the youngsters at this lovely show in my favorite month of June. The weather was fabulous, the atmosphere inviting and supportive, and the quality of most puppies impressive. Especially the 6-9 months puppy bitch class with 11 entries was full of quality, and I wished I had had more
ribbons to hand out. I would also like to extent my sincere gratitude to my ring steward, Lynn Simon, MD for assuring an overall smooth
process and helping me mark the judging book properly; to photographer Troy Pitzenberger for taking the pictures with
great efficiency and a wonderful sense of humor; to my fellow judge, Maj. Steve LeVan, for not complaining about having to wait a bit before he could start judging the regular classes; and last, but not least, to the exhibitors for valuing my opinion
enough to enter sweepstakes despite the additional cost – not a given in these trying times.
When judging Irish Wolfhounds, I keep in mind the first two sentences of the Standard of Excellence of our breed. These
two sentences are my ultimate foundation. They are:
“Of great size and commanding appearance, the Irish Wolfhound
is remarkable in combining power and swiftness with keen sight.
The largest and tallest of the galloping hounds, in general type
he is a rough-coated, Greyhound-like breed; very muscular,
strong though gracefully built; movement easy and active; head
and neck carried high, the tail carried with an upward sweep
with a slight curve towards the extremity.”
When evaluating puppies, especially puppies of varying ages and growth stages, one has to remind oneself that there is no
“finished look” just yet, just potential. The particular look of a youngster on the day of judging is just “one snapshot in time” –
very much like a picture. I have owned youngsters myself that looked completely different from one minute to the next, especially after they were able to handle their emotions – a reminder that a great picture – and of course a successful show
career - is always a reflection of body and mind working together in harmony, especially in those moments when it
counts the most.
Looking at the puppies entered in sweepstakes in general, I am very pleased to say that all of them – without any doubt -
looked like Irish Wolfhounds. While there were certainly individual differences across the entries, most youngsters
shared straight and well-grown legs, good bone for their respective size, good feet and a wonderful harsh coat.
I did notice some curly tails and some minor irregularities either pertaining to the bite in general or the number of teeth
in particular. What stood out even more is that some exhibits either fell apart on the move and/or lost their shape; this is
something that impacted not only their overall quality, but also their functionality in a negative way. Again, these are
observations based on “one snapshot in time.”
Last, but not least, I want to mention three entries in the highly competitive 6-9 months class: Prairie Creek Emerald, Walela
Through The Looking Glass, and Taliesin’s Be’rin. These three youngsters, while not being placed, are nevertheless very promising and full of quality.