BASC is delighted to today (Friday 6th March 2020) continue its long-held custom of hosting the gamekeepers’ classes at Crufts 2020.
The classes, which are open to gamekeepers, owners of working gundogs, gundog teams and young handlers, are being held on Crufts’ Gundog Day at the NEC in Birmingham. (Entries for applications have now closed).
The gamekeepers’ classes are deeply rooted in the history of Crufts and BASC is proud to continue this strong tradition.
The top individual dogs owned by gamekeepers will go head-to-head in this world-famous competition in the main arena for the ‘Best in Gamekeeping Class’ title – and the chance to win the Northesk Memorial Trophy.
BASC gundog officer Toni Paull said: “Crufts is the biggest dog show on Earth and our rings at Crufts allow the promotion of working gundogs to the tens of thousands of visitors. This gives us an opportunity to celebrate the history of these gundogs while ensuring their future.
“The gamekeeper rings at Crufts have a long history and in the early days the event was recognised by gamekeepers throughout the country as one of the focal points of their year, signalling the end of another shooting season.
“Although Crufts has come a long way since these early days, the BASC gamekeeper rings still offer the perfect opportunity to showcase working gundogs in their prime.
“Competing at Crufts is a highly sought-after accolade and the BASC gamekeeping classes give us a chance to showcase working gundogs in their prime to an audience which may not be aware of the great work that they do.
“Entry to the classes is restricted to gundogs which have worked on shoots throughout the season on a regular basis. Every dog is judged to the breed standard, but major consideration is given to their appearance, looks and conformation as a working gundog.”
To read more about the history of Crufts and BASC’s collaboration with the competition, click here.
