Hunt country harvest
The last week of September, we headed to northern Virginia to attend the Potomac Valley Borzoi Club Specialty and several associated shows held at the historic Long Branch Farm. No rain for the five days outdoors, but temperatures ranged from the '90s on Wednesday, to a low of 36 degrees on Sunday morning, so there was something for everyone.
Three year old Orion started from scratch, but by the end of the week, had earned four majors and 14 points, including two Bests of Breed and Winners Dog at the supported entry and the Specialty.
Orion was raised at our farm, but as a young adult, moved a few miles away to join his litter sister in the home of Andy and Jan Hamilton. He's turned into a sane and handsome fellow in their care.
We expect him to earn a finishing point before long.
Pico was not about to be overshadowed by his upstart half-brother. Bad enough he had to share the hotel bed with the big goon, he says...
On the weekend, Pico was selected for Best of Breed at both the supported entry and the Specialty and topped off a great day with second in a strong Hound Group.
Conformation shows will now take a backseat in Pico's schedule as he readies for the Open obedience ring and his CDX title.
We have not taken any formal photos of Pico since he finished at this same site two years ago, so with the scenic setting, we couldn't resist the opportunity. The corn was almost as high as an elephant's eye and was a fitting frame for the country dog that he is.
This was the first time that the Amazing Pixie was shown outdoors where she could cover ground the way she does at home. Pixie was BOS in Sweeps on Saturday and Best of Winners for 5 points on Sunday. She is pictured here, last in the line, in a Sweeps class.
Completing the Sylvan family ticket was Ch. Sylvan Miranda, now owned by Christiana Hartenstein and Nina Spadte from Ohio. Miranda was Select both days for big majors on the start toward the grand championship.
We enjoyed both the competition and the camaraderie of our fellow fanciers. The Sprinter barely touched the ground on the long drive home!!
