A DOG lover from Middleton-in-Teesdale is celebrating after winning a title on his debut appearance at the world’s greatest dog show, Crufts.
When ten-year-old Ryan Raine stepped into the arena at Birmingham’s NEC earlier this month to compete with his nine-year-old cocker spaniel Gibble Sooty Gripper, affectionately known as Gunner, he was understandably nervous.
He said: “I was really excited but I almost started crying I was so nervous. But once Gunner was over the first jump, I knew we had it and I relaxed.”
The Cotherstone Primary School pupil took time off to take part in the four-day international event after qualifying for both the agility and jumping classes at regional shows in June last year.
Mum Louise, who competed at Crufts when she was a teenager, added: “It was the first time Ryan has run Gunner at Crufts.
“For him to qualify and to win in his first outing is amazing.
“We were training over half term and were able to do it outside because of the good weather. Ryan has been running Gunner for two years and has done well to get there in his first attempt.”
Ryan and Gunner picked up their first rosette on Thursday, March 7, in the jumping cup semi-final, six to 11 years group, coming third.
Then two days later they picked up a first place in ABC agility in the six to 11 years age group.
Dog trainer Mrs Raine, who goes all over the North East and Scotland competing, added: “I was really impressed at how focused he was.
“When he was in the ring on Thursday it wasn’t so busy, but on Saturday it was heaving and you just couldn’t get to the ring there were so many people.”
The youngster is looking forward to continuing dog training and has his work cut out looking after four-month-old cocker spaniel Spider, along with Gunner and a another collie cross.
His success in the show ring has already reaped benefits with a sponsor keen to support him in his future endeavours.
He said: “It was really good fun and I really enjoyed it.
“I would like to be a part time dog trainer and a part time farmer.”
