Locally-owned dog wins prize at Crufts

Athlone Community College student Sarah Malone’s devotion to her canine companion was rewarded at the world's largest international dog show last weekend when her pet, Daisy, enjoyed success at Crufts.

This was Sarah's first time participating at Crufts, following her Welsh Terrier’s qualification for the renowned dog show in December, and she described the experience as "overwhelming".

Her dog, Daisy, claimed second price in the 'Young Female' category in which there were 38 entries.

"I was the sole Irish entrant with a Welsh Terrier, so I was pleasantly surprised to win second prize in my category. It was a great achievement and the best way to end the weekend," Sarah said.

Crufts takes place over a four-day period and Sarah's rare breed Welsh Terrier, aged nine months, caught the eye of the judges during her time in competition.

"The category in which Daisy was competing was focused on her structure and movement, how she stands and best presents herself, so it was great that the judges deemed Daisy worthy of a prize," Sarah added. The daughter of Linda Moran and Kenneth Harte, from Coosan, Sarah has had Daisy for six months and it is her intention to present her in competition at forthcoming dog shows nationally.

"Due to the second place finish, I have an automatic entry for Crufts next year," Sarah said.

Sarah had further cause for celebration as the Crufts weekend reached its conclusion, when her mother's dog, an Irish Terrier named Floyd, was successful in her 'Limit' class.