11/01/2025
Wow, what an Armbruster! We’re excited to get out in the field now that it’s over! The 23rd International Armbruster took place in Sparta, IL from October 22nd-25th. Mike ran two dogs: Xenia III and Wynona III. Xenia ended the Armbruster with 8th place (188 pts HZP and 8/7 form and hair), and Wynona III placed 14th (184 pts HZP and 9/8 in form and hair).
We had three other handlers run dogs from our kennel: Andy Burris, Alan Steffen, and Justin May. They all finished with Armbruster scores, ZR numbers, and breed certified dogs. Huge thanks to them for taking the time, effort, and money to enter and complete an Armbruster. It’s always an adventure!
We have so much gratitude for the organizers (Jim Halleran and Jason Abbas and crew) and judges (Mike Fortner, all the breed and performance judges) who take time out of their busy schedules and travel thousands of miles from across the county and the world to give their opinions of the dogs. It’s a privilege to be a member of a club with high standards and so many hard working volunteers. This was an exceptionally well executed Armbruster.
We were able to spend quality time with Tom and Molly and Sam Hinderer. They’re wonderful friends and great people, and we’re grateful for their dedication to the breed and our kennel.
On a side note, as a daughter, I’m proud of my dad. It’s not every 67 year old who is willing and able to engage in physically, mentally, and emotionally difficult activities. Breeding, training, and running dogs is hard, and Dad always meets the challenge while still helping our handlers and managing his responsibilities around home.
Many thanks to Johnathan and Mom (Jeanne Schell) who are always there to help in any way needed to keep all of our plates spinning. From holding down the fort to judging dogs and contributing to the club, they’re our rockstars.
Our whole crew (Me (Elizabeth), Dad, Mom, Johnathan, Elsie, and Lane) was able to make it down, and it was great to spend time with our awesome handlers.
Now on to the hunting season 🐾🦆🪶🦌
