The First Sporting Whippet Club NI Dog Show and Race Day 2018.

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The First Sporting Whippet Club NI Dog Show and Race Day 2018.

 

Ballee playing fields, situated in the shadow of the famous City of the Seven Towers' , is  centered on the outskirts  of Ballymena.  A thriving up market town, Ballymena has evolved over the years to a centre  of excellence for shopping commerce.  This brilliant setting was the new venue for The Sporting Whippet Club NI Dog Shows and Race days of 2018.

 

As we drove down the motorway towards the playing fields, this being my first time there, my mind was filled with anticipation of what lay before me. On turning the corner I certainly was not disappointed. There before my eyes was ample space of tar and cement for ringside parking, and loads of green pastures to set up our showing rings on.

 

Although for much of the day it was wet and windy, this did not dampen the spirits of the good Canine people of the Whippet world. There was a good turnout of whippets for such enclement weather on the day. It was nice to meet up with some old friend, and also made some new ones.

 

The raffle always generates a lot of excitement, with plenty of craic and good banter. As always, the usual suspects moaning and groaning when their numbers are not called out. Having said that the usual suspects went home with an armful of winnings. All happy bunnies at the end of the day. Many thanks to everybody who donated items for the raffle.  All very much appreciated.

Time flies by very quickly, and very soon it was Race and show time.

 

**A Big congratulations to Rea Wilson on winning Overall Show Champion of Champions with his beautiful whippet ODIS, and Reserve Champion went to Janet Duke with her winning whippet Oscar. Well done and well deserved to both people.**

 

Finally, may I take this opportunity to thank our judge of the day, Colin Tucker for carrying out his duties with impeccable judgment, fairness and good taste.

I cannot forget our chairman Kirsty Fyffe, Racing manager Chontelle Mc Meekan and their hard working committee for the running of a very successful first show of 2018.

Paul Morrison took some lovely photograph full of skill and happy memories. Many thanks for that Paul.

A very enjoyable day was had by all.

 

***The 2nd Sporting Whippet Club NI show of the year will be on Sunday 20th May 2018 at Ballee Park, Ballymena.   See you all then***

 

 Margaret Mc Stay

 

 

Edited April 17, 2018 by appleblossom