A Border Collie named Tsu’tey and his owner Shirley Clowes from Stone, Staffordshire took home one of the top obedience prizes at Crufts after winning the Obedience Championship for Dogs. The judge was Michelle Newman and this win gave Tsu’tey his Obedience Champion crown.
Five-year-old Tsu’tey, whose official Kennel Club name is Sarkam Soul Searcher, came first in the final held at the world’s greatest dog show, Crufts, after competing against some of Britain’s best dogs for the coveted title.
All competitors at the championships had made it through to the final from one of the 46 championship shows that hosted qualifying classes for the Crufts Obedience Championships.
Proud owner Shirley said: “The last three dogs I had run at Crufts failed to complete the round, so my aim this year was just to get to the end with Tsu’tey. Winning the ticket and making him into an Obedience Champion was definitely a bonus. Most people who compete in obedience have two aims – to get to Crufts and to make up a champion – so this was a very happy show for me indeed.”
Vanessa McAlpine, Crufts Show Manager said: “Huge congratulations to Tsu’tey and Shirley for their impressive Crufts win. Their strong bond was showcased in their excellent teamwork and it was great to see how obedient Tsu’tey was.
“Obedience competitors come from far and wide in the UK to showcase their skills at the show and the standard of dogs and their handlers who enter are always very impressive.”
Crufts took place from 5th - 8th March at the NEC, Birmingham. For more information, please visit www.crufts.org.uk.