Lydia Coleman Hutchinson: Of course, I was absolutely thrilled! It did not come as a total surprise because several members of Montgomery County had confidentially told me that they were going to put my name forward. They felt the invitation was long overdue.
Lydia Coleman Hutchinson: What it meant to me was that the members of that revered club trusted me to use my knowledge of Terriers acquired over many years to make excellent choices and demonstrate the respect I have for all Terrier breeds.
Lydia Coleman Hutchinson: Montgomery County represents the best aspects of tradition in the wonderful sport of dog shows. It is a true mecca for Terrier lovers throughout the world. It has shown flexibility in finding acceptable show sites over the years and adapting to them. I personally have participated at five different locations, either as a judge or exhibitor.
Lydia Coleman Hutchinson: I tried to remain calm. I was looking forward to seeing which dogs were sent into the BIS ring by the excellent panel of judges (the only breed I watched being judged was my own breed, Cairns). I did get a bit emotional when I was presented a special certificate by AKC recognizing my 60 years as a judge.
Lydia Coleman Hutchinson: Oh, YES! There was a definite electricity in the air, especially since the weather was so fantastic (the best I ever remember at Montgomery). The spectators were very responsive and added to the overall energy. Their support of the winning dogs was super.
Lydia Coleman Hutchinson: For starters, when I walked down the line of dogs that represented every breed, I realized that almost all of the dogs were ones I had never judged or even seen before. That intrigued me and built the excitement I was feeling. I made a large cut (14 dogs, I believe), and there were numerous dogs that were left out that I would happily reward with a win on another day. And for the record, this was the best Terrier Group I have ever seen; the depth of quality was truly amazing.
Lydia Coleman Hutchinson: First of all, I was happy that I had decided to make my placements in reverse order, which heightened the air of expectation. Best in Show went to the Skye, one of the very few dogs I had judged previously and always admired and rewarded. I had not seen him in several years and was so pleased at his beautiful condition and happy showmanship. He continues to hold a perfect topline standing and moving. I must admit that I have a soft spot for veteran dogs that continue to remain very competitive.
Best Brace in Show was a lovely pair of Kerry Blues that were very well matched and moved so well together. Their lovely silver-blue coats were practically identical and glistened in the sun.
Lydia Coleman Hutchinson: THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU for all you do to make your event unique. I appreciate how much work goes into making it special for all who attend.
Lydia Coleman Hutchinson: For people who know that they would like to own a Terrier, this is the perfect opportunity to be able to see all of the breeds and talk to breeders and owners about their dogs. It epitomizes why purebred dogs are their best option.
Lydia Coleman Hutchinson: We Terrier lovers are recognized as strong characters who prefer dogs with “attitude.” Maybe our number of registrations is falling, but I can’t imagine that Terriers will not be with us forever.
