I competed on Friday with Jackson, a Golden Retriever.
We did not place, but considering it was my first time grooming a Golden for competition, I was quite pleased. The judges commented that it was a beautiful job. I look forward to many more successful competitions with this handsome man.
On Saturday morning, Rusty, an adorable mixed breed, and I took the ring. Again, we did not place, but were awarded the Taxi Memorial Award. This award is given to the groomer who has captured the best expression on their mixed breed dog. I have to say this award was in the bag as soon as I walked in, how could ANYONE resist Mr. Rusty's face?!? He has a magnetic presence about him. As I was walking him around the show grounds, every single person had to stop and smile or say how cute he was and how much he resembled a stuffed animal. This little dog stole my heart and I hope we can compete together again someday.
Saturday afternoon it was Jake's turn. He is an Irish Terrier, full of life as most terriers are. Since I am now in the highest division, competing against groomers who are current members of
Groom Team USA, I have to look at my rookie year as a year of learning and improving my grooming. I am doing better than I've done before, but am up against serious groomers. Therefore, I did not place with Jake, but he is improving as well in leaps and bounds.
Lastly, Sunday I competed with my Standard Poodle, ZZ. Again, we are paying our dues and climbing up the ranks.
Overall it was a success and a wonderful opportunity to grow. I look forward to having a brief competition respite until March of next year, but will be excited to get back in the ring and start moving towards being a real competitor. Check our
competition section in the Gallery for more pictures of these 4 handsome boys.
