The Kennel Club is delighted to announce the first recipient of the Rally Veteran Warrant (Bronze) award: Stillmoor Tartan Banner of Delphinia RW RVW(B), known at home as Delta, and owned and handled by Sue Brown.
This award marks a significant milestone for both the rally community and for Delta, a Border Collie who began her rally career in 2018 and has since gone on to compete successfully at all levels. In June, Delta entered her first Veteran Rally class at the age of 7 and achieved both a score of 210 and 1st place. Three months later, and having achieved a total of nine qualifying awards, Delta has gone on to secure her Rally Veteran Warrant (Bronze).
Delta has also achieved her Rally Warrant and represented the Northern Rally Crufts Team in 2020 and 2024. She also takes part in agility and obedience and has gained The Kennel Club Good Citizen Dog Training scheme’s Gold Award.
Delta’s owner, Sue Brown, said: "I am proud and honoured to have Delta as my first Border Collie, and from the moment she came home at 8 weeks old, I knew she was something special. We've enjoyed every moment of our rally journey, and I’m incredibly proud of her achievement in becoming the first dog in the UK to be awarded the Rally Veteran Warrant (Bronze)."
The Rally Veteran Warrant (RVW) was introduced earlier this year by The Kennel Club as part of its commitment to recognising lifelong participation in the discipline. The warrant is available to dogs aged 7 and over and is awarded at three levels – Bronze, Silver and Gold – based on qualifying scores achieved in Rally Veteran classes. Points can be backdated to 1 January 2024.
Helen Kerfoot, Chief Canine Officer at The Kennel Club said: "The Rally Veteran Warrant was introduced to celebrate the commitment and strong partnerships seen in rally and Delta is a fantastic example of what this award is all about. The ability, enthusiasm and wonderful bond between Delta and Sue has been clear to see. We are thrilled to see the first RVW awarded and hope it inspires others to continue enjoying rally well into their dogs’ veteran years."
For more information about rally, the Rally Veteran Warrant and how to take part, visit: www.thekennelclub.org.uk/rally