Nationals 2022 – Futurity-Maturity

This picture represents my feelings at this moment.  I am honored, excited and proud to have been selected by my peers to judge the 2022 Futurity and Maturity Stakes.

Greg and I purchased our first basset in February 1998.  Though Bess was not a show dog, she hooked us on the breed and pushed into the show world.  I was the first to wander into the conformation show ring with our second basset, Flash in 1999.  Though neither of these pets came from a “show” breeder, they did have decent conformation qualities and a little success in Ohio.  By now, I am also becoming excited to go to the next show.  My friend Kim called a lady in Michigan after reading the “Bugler.”   Shortly after, Barb Santino (Robarb Bassets) became my first mentor in 2003 and I joined BHCA.  Though she passed away in 2005, we became very close and I learned a lot.  Most importantly, ask questions, listen to other breeders, watch the ring and HAVE FUN!!!

Over the next couple of years, I buddied up with a couple other exhibitors and finished a couple of dogs.  Finally, in 2007 after the Pittsburgh Nationals, Diane and Hayes Ingram took me under their wings.  During this time, Greg began showing and finally got the show-bug.  The 2011 Nationals in Fort Mitchell, Kentucky was our first Futurity entry, and we did quite well.  Placing in anything at Nationals is great; however, this is a new exhibitor’s chance to learn and learn a lot.

A couple of highlights:  Ingrams Fivecell Madeline going Reserve Winners Bitch at the 2012 Nationals and GCH Ingrams Fivecell Madeline’s Best of Opposite win at the 2014 Nationals.  At 6 weeks old Diane wanted this bitch and at 10 weeks she went to Ingram’s and ruled the roost.

I’ll close by thanking my peers for electing me to judge the 2022 Futurity and Maturity Stakes.  Good luck to all and safe travels.