Page 46 - K9 News - Issue 15 - March2021

Gareth’s idea initially was to bring together a group of
people representing societies who held their events in
Wales. The whole purpose was to discuss expectations,
generate ideas and see if there could be something to
be done to help support societies within Wales to have
the phased and safe return of our hobby. Let’s face it,
the world of canine activities felt bleak and many of us
felt useless, it is our hobby, our love and passion, a way
to socialise, catch up with friends, to be at one with our
beloved dog! It isn’t just a dog show, it can be a lifeline
for so many and we missed it and still do!

Graham Hill joint Secretary of the Welsh KC, KC Board
member, Kennel Club Charitable Trust Trustee and KC
Show Executive Committee member was asked to join
the group right from the start. Again, you all would have
heard of Mr Hill he is a multi CC, group and BIS show
judge and if that doesn’t jog your memory, you would
all have heard his melodious, silky, dulcet tones as the
commentator at Crufts. Gareth asked if Graham would
chair the meeting and of course he was more than
happy to help. Graham knew that this was a great idea
from the start and with the support of those within the
Dragon’s Ci group things could look a lot better for our
hobby in the future.

The first meeting was arranged by Sarah White, you
may know her as the Breeder Channel Manager for
Agria pet insurance or as a second generation dog
breeder and exhibitor, co-owner of the Mischran
Brorzoi kennels , Gareth felt that her knowledge as a
trade stand holder as well as an exhibitor, steward and
Committee member would be useful and give another
insight into things that others may not have thought of,
but what Gareth knew is that Sarah is super-efficient
and great at keeping communication and momentum
going and a huge lover of dog shows.

The very first meeting was held via Microsoft Teams
on 3rd September 2020, this was new to many of the
members, but the fear of technology didn’t dampen
their spirits from the glimmer of hope that the meeting
represented.

After the first successful meeting it became very clear
that this is not just something that should be looked
at in Wales alone but throughout the Country. Gareth
Gareth Lawlor, Graham Hill contacted other formidable players within the Dog
& Sarah White world to create a fully represented team, containing

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K9 NEWS DIGITAL / MARCH 2021