2003 Silkenfest
Held at a fairy tale location, the 2003 SilkenFest in Finland took place under a glorious sky, with a charming and knowledgeable judge and some of the most beautiful dogs in the world. There were 14 Silkens entered with representatives in nearly every category.
Best Junior was Starcastle Hounds Explorer (Kristull Northern Lights X Kristull The Surprise) owned by Gunilla Fager, a lovely brindle with cream and black stripes. He will probably reach near the top of our standard, but there is no hint of coarseness and the elegance that he displays at this age will no doubt hold. Best of Opposite Sex Junior was Starcastle Hounds Sunrise (Kristull Rowan X Kristull Omniscence) owned by Sussi Stjernborg and Monika Buckholt. This cream puppy with black supression seemed to be the favorite of the judge for sweetness. She really wanted to sleep through the entire display. She stood like a statue with her eyes closed, but woke up just long enough to show her elegance when moving as well. Final choice came down to the lighter pigment in the dog with no black.
Repeating her win from the year before for Best of Opposite Sex was Kristull Quetzel (Kristull Gringo X Kristull Silver) co-owned by Pekka Achren and Sussi. She is a soft brindle with flashing white trim who moves beautifully and stands with class.
Best of Breed went to the two-year old Kristull Rowan (Kristull Incognito X Kristull Z Mystery). This peach and blue brindle was a stand out with his superb movement, exquisite head and being well within standard size. The judge has bred both Borzoi and Whippets and is very aware of the appropriate size. Finding such a superb specimen that did not push the limits of the top of the standard was an obvious pleasure to her. To top it off, Rowan also won Best Head, Best Tail and Best Movement!
Best coat went to our favorite friend, Kristull Firesong (Kristull Chili X Windhaur Kristull Windsong) who is owned and loved by Eija's father, Pekka. She is obviously thriving in her environment of beautiful apple trees, calm lakes and endless skies.
For complete results visit this link at the Finnish Silken Windhound Club web site.