We were a little surprised that the number of dogs entered was rather low, many of the well-known Scandinavian Basenji breeders did not attend this show, which is normally considered as one of the highlights in the north of Europe. And almost no dogs from other countries did attend. Almost 14 years ago we participated in  this show with Damara Bolte judging - it was a truly international attraction with dogs from all over Europe taking part.

Unfortunately, we had to figure out soon, that one of the reasons might have been the way, the Basenjis throughout all classes had been judged. Although in the Basenji scene for almost 20 years, we could not find out, what the American judge, Jon Curby, was really looking for. Surprised faces everywhere, since it was impossible to figure out a certain line.

The only dog in the whole class with a lovely high ear set was considered as "too low", the secretary proposed how the judge could describe things in the most unpleasant way possible, and the ring stuart gave her comments as well - loud, so that everybody could hear it. Grumpy faces did not really encourage people to bring their dogs into the ring.

Our very personal impression was, that certain breeders and handlers had to be avoided by all means, and their dogs being put as far behind as only possible.

Divo and Sami, our two young boys were both placed. They were also part of the winning Faraoland Breeders Group.  

She can be more than pleased: so many of her lovely dogs were there, and everybody around the ring could see what Helena Strömbert has done for the breed in 20 years of dedication towards the Basenji.

Our Swedish is rather poor, but we would like to thank Helena in her own language for our lovely boy:

T a c k  !  Ni  gav mig min prins .........  ;o))