The Final Competition

TO BOOK YOUR TICKETS, CLICK HERE
This is the big one. It’s the last ENGLISH GROOMERS CHALLENGE and we are closing this chapter on a high note.
Please note that the cost of entry into the competition also includes entry to ALL seminars BUT if you are busy in the ring and can’t get to watch them live, you will get to watch them online afterwards for a limited period so you don’t miss out … you are saving £85 by being a competitor! To see more about our seminars, click here.
Class Categories
It is possible to be in two different categories depending on your placing with each breed.
Newcomer – Judged by Klaudia Szonyi
- Under 18 months experience including training.
- May have been placed before but not 1st in an equivalent class (does not include the Rookie challenge or online grooming competitions).
- No breed/exhibitor specialists
Intermediate – Judged by Becki Ensell
- Under 3 years experience including training.
- May have been placed before but not 1st in an equivalent class (does not include the Rookie challenge or online grooming competitions).
- No breed/exhibitor specialists
Experienced – Judged by Peter Ensell
- Over 3 years experience including training.
- May have been placed before but not 1st in an equivalent class (does not include the Rookie challenge or online grooming competitions).
- No breed/exhibitor specialists
Advanced – Joanne Angus
- Over 3 years experience including training unless won out of previous class.
- May have been placed 1st in an equivalent class
- Breed/exhibitor specialists allowed
Asian Class – Georgia Aston-Fuller
Special Recognition Awards – Kelly Davis
Carving Class – Kelly Davis
NO PREVIOUS BEST IN SHOW WINNERS ARE ELIGIBLE FOR ENTRY TO THE CHALLENGE INCLUDING YKC
Class Descriptions
Poodle/Bichon
For Poodles and Bichons regardless of trim (other than Asian style)
- Scissors, clippers and comb attachments may be used.
- Poodle’s face, feet and tail are to be clipped before entering the ring. Ear clipping must be done in the ring.
- Any trim/style will be accepted.
- All sizes of Poodle are accepted: Under 15” have 2 hours; Over 15” have 2.5 hours
- Poodles with spray up topknots have an extra 15 minutes.
Real Life Mixed Breed
For all mixed breeds not in Asian style
- Scissors, clippers and comb attachments may be used
- Dogs under 18″ have 2 hours; Over 15″ have 2.5 hours
Real Life Pure Breed
For all pure breeds that are not covered in other classes and not in Asian style
- Scissors, clippers and comb attachments may be used
- Dogs under 18″ have 2 hours; Over 15″ have 2.5 hours
Terrier/Schnauzer
For all terriers including Bedlington, Kerry Blue, Westie etc. including Schnauzer regardless of trim except Asian style
- Handstripping, scissors, clippers and comb attachments may be used
- Dogs under 18″ have 2 hours; Over 15″ have 2.5 hours
Gundogs
For all gundog breeds regardless of trim except Asian style
- Handstripping, scissors, clippers and comb attachments may be used
- Dogs under 18″ have 2 hours; Over 15″ have 2.5 hours
Asian
For any breed or cross breed trimmed in an Asian style. This means any interpretation of this style so it is up to the individual’s flair, skill and the judge’s preference.
- Exaggerated features are usually required
- NO COLOUR PERMITTED due to KC rules
- Coat dressings and accessories are allowed but must be supplied during the class
- Dogs under 18″ have 2 hours; Over 15″ have 2.5 hours
Carving Class
This class is designed for any breed in any style to show the beauty of a simple, abstract design scissored, clipped or handstripped into the coat and devoid of colour props, costumes etc. open to all groomers eligible for the show. All dogs 2 hours.
Winner will not be eligible for Best in Show
TO BOOK YOUR TICKETS, CLICK HERE
RULES OF ENTRY
- Please let the judges know of any problems/issues with your dog before the start of the class
- Please treat your dogs with respect. If a judge considers that a dog is being mishandled, a warning will be given. A second warning will result in disqualification.
- Competitors should not trim their dogs after the class is finished unless you have permission from he judges.
- All classes will start promptly. Any late arrivals may still compete but will not be allowed any extra time. Please report to the competitor stewards before entering the competition area.
- THE JUDGE’S DECISION IS FINAL
What do I need to do?
- You will need at least 6 week’s coat growth to showcase your skills. Judging is based on degree of difficulty as well as the standard of the work.
- You will need to bring your dog bathed and prepared with ears, nails, groin and pads already attended to.
- You need to bring your own equipment and table.
- No electric provision is provided by the show organisers so please bring cordless clippers if required.
- Products may be used but only if deemed suitable for animal use.
- Please bring holding crates for your competition dogs.
- Please do not bring dogs not entered into the competition.
- All competitors are ultimately responsible for their own dogs so please ensure that your dogs are watered, exercised and cleaned up after during the day. We recommend bringing a helper to assist you in their care.
- Remember … competitions stewards are there to help so don’t be afraid to ask for assistance if needed.