Michael Hegarty
ACKCSC National Specialty

April 14-16, 2026 – Kingsport, Tennessee
4-6 Puppies, Dogs, Bitches, Intersex, Non-Regulars

It was a tremendous honour and privilege to judge the American Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club National Specialty. With an entry of over 320 Cavaliers, including an exceptional lineup of Specials, it was undoubtedly one of the highlights of my judging career.

I would like to thank the American Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club for the invitation and their warm hospitality, the magnificent display of very talented Irish dancers on my arrival to the and ring and the Award Banquet, the exhibitors for presenting their dogs in such excellent condition, and my outstanding ring steward, Mia Lawson, whose efficiency, professionalism and good humour ensured everything ran seamlessly throughout three very busy days.

Judging an entry of this size brought with it a great responsibility, particularly at one of the world’s premier Cavalier events, and I was deeply conscious of the trust placed in me.

The overall quality and depth of the entry were outstanding. I was particularly impressed by the strength across both sexes and all four colours, the depth of quality in the younger classes, and the consistency of breed type throughout the entry. Time and again I found the beautiful heads, large dark eyes and soft, gentle expression and soft silky coats that are the hallmarks of the breed.

While selecting my principal winners was never easy, I kept the AKC Breed standard close in all my deliberations. I left the ring confident that the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has a bright future in the hands of such dedicated breeders, whose commitment to preserving breed type, soundness and temperament bode well for the future of this wonderful breed.

BOS: CH ALMEARA LOVE HER MADLY

A beautifully marked Blenheim bitch who immediately caught the eye and presented an outstanding example of the breed. Perfect for size and displaying exceptional balance throughout, she was difficult to overlook.
Her headpiece is exemplary, with high-set ears, a correct muzzle, and excellent fill under the eye, creating the soft, melting expression so typical of the breed. Everything is in perfect proportion, with just the right amount of refinement and substance.

She is presented in a well-broken coat of correct silky texture, enhancing her overall quality and presentation. Her construction is first class, with an excellent neck and shoulder assembly flowing into a firm, level topline and a well-carried tail, producing a balanced and harmonious outline.

She never put a foot wrong on the move, covering the ground soundly and confidently in all directions while always maintaining her outline. Her delightful temperament and happy attitude only added to her appeal.
A beautiful Blenheim bitch of outstanding breed type, combining ideal size, superb balance, exceptional head qualities, and faultless movement. A thoroughly captivating exhibit and one that was impossible to ignore.

Select Dog: GCHB CH NORTHPOINTE LETS START A REVOLUTION

A masculine Blenheim dog of immense appeal who impressed from the moment he entered the ring. Presented in the best of soft, silky coat of rich chestnut colour, he combined quality, balance, and excellent breed type throughout.

His head is complemented by large, dark, round eyes, creating the warm, gentle expression so characteristic of the breed. He presents a pleasing profile, with every part flowing harmoniously into the next.

On the move, he truly came into his own, covering the ground with drive and purpose while maintaining his excellent outline. He never put a foot wrong, demonstrating soundness and precision in all directions.
He possesses lovely bone and correct angulation, giving him both substance and balance without sacrificing elegance. Presented in perfect condition, he was a delight to examine on the table, displaying total harmony throughout his construction and excellent breed proportions.

Throughout the class he gave everything to his handler, showing with enthusiasm, confidence, and unwavering attention.

A thoroughly impressive Blenheim dog combining masculinity, superb breed type, sound construction, and excellent movement. Presented and handled to perfection, he proved himself a complete and memorable exhibit. So very close to the top spot.

Select Bitch: GCH FIELDS EDGE OFF TO SEE THE WIZARD

My eye was continually drawn to this exhibit from the moment she entered the ring. Spot on for breed type, with no hint of exaggeration, she presented a picture of quality, balance and true cavalier elegance. Her head is a particular strength, moderate in every respect, with high-set ears framing large, round, dark eyes and the sweetest, melting expression. Well cushioned beneath the eyes with a gently tapering muzzle, completing the classic Cavalier look. Lovely neck flowing into well-laid shoulders, a firm, level topline and a correctly set and beautifully carried tail. Moderate bone and substance, never coarse, with excellent proportions throughout. Presented in a soft, silky coat of excellent texture with rich, well-broken markings. On the move she was free, effortless and sound from every angle, with good reach and drive, maintaining her beautiful outline at all times. Her gentle, happy temperament completed the picture and made her an absolute delight to watch. She continually drew my eye and, in such outstanding company, proved herself a thoroughly deserving Select Bitch.

A bitch of exceptional breed type and quality, combining moderation, elegance and soundness with the soft, melting expression that defines the breed. One I admired immensely and a worthy winner in the very best of company.

AOM 1: GCH CH SHEEBA SIRIUS BLACK

A very impressive Tri-colour dog who demonstrates excellent breed type, balance, and correctness throughout. He presents a very complete picture with a beautiful head, strong construction, and excellent overall harmony.
His head is a particular feature, with large dark eyes and excellent head properties creating a classic Cavalier expression. His tan markings are beautifully placed, enhancing his appeal and contributing to a very attractive overall appearance.

He has a good neck and shoulder assembly, good straight front legs, a strong topline, and a correct tail set. His good bone and overall body balance give him a well-put-together outline, with his parts combining very harmoniously.

He showed well, presenting himself with confidence and quality in the ring. A very correct and well-constructed Tri-colour dog with excellent breed type and a beautiful head.

A thoroughly deserving Award of Merit exhibit, demonstrating the combination of expression, structure, and ring presence expected at a high level

AOM 2: GCHB CH CROWNHEIR DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER

A smart, very well-broken Blenheim dog presenting a classic and highly desirable Cavalier picture. He combines excellent breed type, strong construction, and beautiful presentation.

His head is a particular strength, with a very classic head shape, correct muzzle, high-set ears, and good eyes with dark rims, creating a lovely, expressive Cavalier expression. His markings are exceptionally clear, with no ticking, adding greatly to his overall appeal.

He is shown in good coat with rich Blenheim colouring and has a pleasing depth of chest, contributing to a strong and balanced outline. His short back, good tail set, and short hocks enhance his overall proportions and give him a compact, well-made appearance.

A very smart and extremely nice boy with excellent temperament, breed type, sound construction, and a most beautiful head.

AOM 3: GCHP CH FORESTCREEK JUST RIGHT

A very glamorous Blenheim dog presented in excellent coat and condition, combining beautiful breed type, sound construction, and outstanding ring presence.

His head is a particular highlight, with the best of eyes, a good stop, excellent lip finish, and high-set ears that frame the face beautifully to enhance his expressive Cavalier character. His overall head quality contributes greatly to his glamorous appearance.

He has excellent coat and presentation, with good straight bone, a strong neck and shoulder assembly leading into a good topline, and a good broad pelvis providing balance and strength. His overall construction is very pleasing and supports sound, efficient movement.

He moved well in both directions and was a very showy, confident dog in the ring, using his qualities to great effect.

A beautiful Blenheim dog with excellent expression, great structure, and superb presentation. A very worthy exhibit with great presence and quality.

AOM 4: GCHPCH SHEEBA LADIES MAN

An outstanding Blenheim dog who represents a very classic example of the breed, displaying excellent qualities throughout. He presents a highly desirable combination of head type, balance, construction, and maturity.
His head is exceptional, with the very best of qualities; high-set ears, large dark eyes, a correct stop, and a lovely muzzle. His ears frame the face beautifully, enhancing his expression and contributing to a very attractive and quintessential cavalier headpiece.

He has an excellent shape overall, with a lovely short back and a perfectly balanced outline. His coat is appropriate for his age, with only a little evidence of maturity, and he remains beautifully presented.
At five and a half years old, he demonstrates excellent soundness, moving well both in front and behind, showing the quality and structure expected of a mature exhibit.

An outstanding Blenheim dog with exceptional breed type, a beautiful head, excellent balance, and precise soundness on the move. A very harmonious exhibit who filled my eye.

AOM 5: GCHS CH PROMONTORY HERE COMES HUDSON

An upstanding Blenheim dog with many excellent qualities and a very pleasing overall presence. He presents strong breed type, substance, and a desirable headpiece.

His head is a particular feature, with large dark eyes and a lovely broad skull, giving him a very attractive and masculine Cavalier expression. His rich markings add to his overall appeal and enhance his presentation.
He demonstrates good construction front and rear, with the balance and soundness expected of a quality exhibit. His overall make and shape suggest a well-put-together dog with good breed character.

A very attractive Blenheim dog with excellent head qualities, strong type, and sound construction.

AOM 6: GCHB MASTERPIECE YOU GUYS MADE ME INK

A beautiful Black and Tan bitch presenting an excellent example of breed type, balance, and sound construction. She impressed with her ideal shape and overall harmony.

She has a pleasing head with good eyes, a good muzzle, and well-carried ears contributing to an attractive Cavalier expression. Her proportions are particularly strong, with an ideal outline and a short back creating the desired balance.

Her neck and shoulders are a notable strength, providing excellent front assembly and head carriage. Combined with her good short back, she presents a compact and well-made silhouette. She moved well in both directions, demonstrating soundness and correct construction.

A lovely Black and Tan bitch with excellent balance, strong structure, and a very appealing overall picture.

AOM 7: GCHB CH BROOKHAVEN I BELIEVE IN ANGELS

An upstanding Blenheim dog who presents a very well-put-together and balanced picture. He has excellent substance and construction, with many qualities to admire.

He has a good neck and shoulder assembly leading into a short, level back and a short-coupled body. His broad pelvis, good tail carriage, and correct angles front, and rear contribute to a strong, balanced outline and sound movement in every direction.

His front construction is a particular strength, with a lovely straight bone and a well-made forehand. He has good head properties, including a good stop and good muzzle, although for me he is slightly stronger in head than ideal for complete refinement in expression.

Overall, he is a very nice exhibit with excellent balance, strong body construction, and good breed type. His combination of substance, soundness, and ring presence makes him a deserving Award of Merit recipient.

AOM 8: CH YOKO SALIKA SOUL

An ultra smart Ruby bitch of super breed type. Feminine throughout, with a well-balanced outline, just slightly longer than tall as called for in the standard. Her head is particularly pleasing, with large, dark, round eyes of the richest colour, creating the soft, gentle expression so essential to the breed. Well cushioned beneath the eyes with a gently tapering muzzle and high-set ears framing her face beautifully. Lovely neck flowing into a level topline and finished with a well-set, correctly carried tail. Moderate bone and good substance without coarseness. Presented in a soft, silky coat with rich chestnut colouring.
She showed happily for her handler and moved freely and soundly in both directions, maintaining her balanced outline throughout. A quality Ruby bitch with beautiful head properties, excellent expression and true breed type, presented in lovely condition and a worthy winner.

AOM 9: GCHS CH IVYLINE HONOLULU LULU

A very impressive Blenheim bitch who was difficult to overlook, combining exceptional breed type, beautiful expression, sound construction, and excellent ring presence.

Her head is a standout feature, with beautiful eyes, high-set ears, a correct muzzle, and a correct stop. Her ears frame the face beautifully, enhancing her gentle and endearing expression. The overall balance and finish of her headpiece are highly appealing.

She has a good neck and shoulder assembly, with straight front bone leading into a short, level back and a short-coupled body. Her good broad pelvis, correct angles front and rear, and sound bone contribute to a strong and balanced outline.

Presented in a lovely textured coat of rich chestnut colour, she was a beautifully finished exhibit. She showed as a happy, attentive show girl, remaining focused on her handler throughout and displaying excellent ring attitude.
A very worthy Award of Merit exhibit with outstanding expression, excellent breed type, sound construction, and the temperament and presence to make a strong impression in the ring.

AOM 10/Winners Bitch: NORTHPOINTE LEMON DROP

A beautiful Blenheim bitch of ideal size who presents a very complete and highly desirable cavalier picture. She combines excellent breed type, sound construction, beautiful expression, and a happy, confident temperament.

Her head is a particular strength, with a lovely facial expression, the best of eyes, correct stop, correct muzzle, and excellent lip finish. Her ears are beautifully set and frame the face perfectly, enhancing the soft, gentle expression so characteristic of the breed.

She has a good neck and shoulder assembly flowing into a level back, with a short-coupled body and good broad pelvis providing excellent balance and strength. Her front construction is very pleasing, with lovely angles and straight bone through the legs. Good ribbing completes a well-made and functional frame.

Presented in a lovely coat and excellent condition, she moved well and showed with confidence and enthusiasm. Her happy temperament added greatly to her overall ring presence.

A beautiful, very complete Blenheim bitch with excellent breed type, outstanding expression, and sound construction. She was a thoroughly deserving winner of the class and an excellent example of the breed. 0ne we will hear a lot more of no doubt and an asset to any kennel. WB , AOM

BEST BEGINNER PUPPY  SARANADE MAKE IT RAIN

 

A smart, very stylish Blenheim boy who made a tremendous impression for one so young. He is exceptionally well put together for his age and presents a balanced, confident, and thoroughly appealing picture.

He was shown in a well-marked coat and has an excellent topline with a lovely tail set, giving him a harmonious outline. His balance and proportions are spot on, and he possesses lovely bone, adding substance without sacrificing elegance.

On the move he was extremely sound, moving confidently and positively in both directions while maintaining his excellent outline. His confidence and self-assurance in the ring were particularly impressive for a beginner puppy.

His head is very attractive, with the darkest of eyes and a beautifully sculpted face, creating a sweet yet masculine Cavalier expression. Coupled with his very outgoing temperament, he proved himself a natural showman.

A beautifully balanced young Blenheim with excellent breed type, sound construction, and a confident, happy disposition. His combination of quality, movement, and ring presence made him a thoroughly deserving

BEST OPPOSITE SEX BEGINNER PUPPY CROWNROSE GIRL FRIDAY

A beautifully balanced young bitch who presents a most appealing picture for her age. Everything about her is in proportion, giving the impression of a youngster with a very promising future.

She has lovely angles throughout, a short-coupled body, and a correct tail set, all contributing to an excellent outline. She carries ample bone for her age, with lovely straight forelegs and balanced construction front and rear.

Her head is very feminine, with lovely dark eyes, good ear set, and a very sweet expression that immediately catches the eye.

She moved and showed very well, displaying confidence, soundness, and an excellent attitude throughout her time in the ring.

A delightful young bitch with excellent breed type, balance, and sound construction. Together with the Best Baby Puppy, they were two exceptionally eye-catching youngsters, both showing promise for the future.