The Glory, the Glamour, the Garden

Terriers have traditionally been lucky at Westminster, capturing 43 BIS wins over the years. Both Sealyhams and Airedales have picked up the big prize on four occasions. This year, the Sealyham Terrier Ch. Stonebroke Right On The Money, and Airedale Terrier Ch. Oldiron Margaret River, are each ranked in the top 10. AKC judge and terrier expert Richard Chashoudian feels that they are both superb dogs with the potential to pull off a big win. Terriers have always done well at both Westminster and Crufts. Terrier breeders take their job very seriously, and it shows. He speaks from experience, having won BIS at Westminster in 1976 with the Lakeland Terrier, Ch. Jo Nis Red Baron of Crofton.

Professional handler Kim Pastella has attended every Westminster since she was 4 years old. Her most memorable experience in all those years was watching her client faint on a New York Times reporter, as she won BOB with his Miniature Pinscher.

Her current contender, Derek, Ch. Hi-Techs Basic Edition, represents the fifth generation of BIS Boxers she has presented at Westminster for breeders Dr. and Mrs. William Truesdale. The Truesdales have devoted more than 20 years to crafting their outstanding Boxer bloodline. Five-year-old Derek currently ranks among the top-10 dogs for 2005, and Westminster will be his final show. Derek's sire was a three-time Westminster breed winner, and two-time Group placer, and his grandsire earned a Group First and Group Second at the Garden. Pastella personally handled all of them, and she is equally enthusiastic about Derek's chances.

Winning Westminster is every handler's ultimate dream. Derek exemplifies Boxer type. He is a contender for one of the top spots this year. Win or lose, I know he is the best and that's what counts. Just like the rest of us, she will be back next year to present her very best dogs at the world's most prestigious dog show.

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