ireland Man O War Dog Show And Raceday Sunday 6Th July 14

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Man O War Dog Show and Race Day Saturday 21st July 18

 

With the jingling of the alarm clock loud and clear in our ears, and the Dog chorus howling from the dog pens, our canine companions had issued a  reminder that the day had arrived for the Man O War Dog Show and Race day, at Castleblaney Road, Keady.

As we drove  through Keady,  on our left han side, beautiful Clea Lake came into view. A tributary of the river Callan, Clea lake ripples radiantly, and runs parallel with winding country roads through South Armagh. Onward bound, our scenic drive guided us through this stunning part of Northern Ireland, and to the venue for a superb Dog Show and family day out.

There was a very large crowd in attendance at this now very popular show. The show rings were well situated, with a brilliant mix of Lurcher,Terriers ,Whippets and Pups on the day . The racecourse was in mint condition, and what an up hill  gallop that was. A great challenge for any good racing dog, and no doubt we were not disappointed.

 

As usual the whole show from start to finish was run with impeccable organisation, commencing with the racing first.

 

It was nice to see so many children in the childrens handling class. As I have said before, these young people are our show organisers of tomorrow, so it is heart warming to see them starting early in Country Sports, and following in our footsteps. Some tired little people on Sunday night.

 

No matter how many times I go to these dog shows, I always meet some new friends. I probably speak to them on Face book or Hunting life several times, but never meet them face to face. It was a treat to shake the hand of some of these people on Sunday, Lurchers Meath, Brian Welsh (senior) and Lisa Beggs. What lovely people to have a conversation with. I really enjoyed meeting you all. The craic, the banter and above all, your friendship

 

The weather was good for most of the day with the exception of a few heavy showers in the evening. A Chip Van and Ice Cream van was on site. The racing commenced at approximately 1.00 pm, followed by the showing immediately afterwards. ( Full set of Results will be up shortly )

In between the raffle took place and it generated some great excitement as usual. Some lovely prizes, and some great laughs into the bargain.

 

And Finally may I take this opportunity to thank the Judges Seamie Donnelly /Terriers, and Brian Welsh (Junior) /Lurchers and Whippets. A very difficult job, but well done by both men. A big thank you to Plunkett Rafferty and his wife for the show venue. Without you the show could not of taken place. Too lovely people. Billy Harpur was there with his camera clicking away all day. Hopefully we will see these photographs up on the forums shortly.

 

Finally, Finally, do you know I felt a sense of pride for these too young women on Sunday. Together with their brilliant band of helpers, Charlene and Michelle Rafferty, you produced a very enjoyable show and race day to be proud of. Your show was well organised, and evident a lot of hard work was carried out behind the scenes to make this day possible, and so successful.

 

One young lad Shane Cartmill was Charlenes little helper on Sunday. Shane you are a credit to your parents, and with your helping hands, you made life a little easier for theses too young women.

 

Lets not forget, this show was run for the Charity Suicide Awareness, a charity very close to all our hearts, and always standing in the wings to reach out to everyone in their hour of need. What a gift and what a contribution to society. Nobody knows when tragedy will knock on our doors.

 

But remember, you the good Canine folk and sponsors, it was your generosity and kindness that made all of this happen and the day so successful.

 

Charlene and Michelle, you run a top class show on Sunday, and many thanks for a really enjoyable day out, amongst all our lovely Canine friends. Look forward to more of the same next year.

 

Margaret Mc Stay

Edited July 20, 2018 by appleblossom