The curtain closed on The Game Fair 2025 with a spectacular final day in the Hertford Arena, for the Minority Gundog Breed Challenge -a celebration of heritage breeds, expert handling, and true sporting spirit.
Taking centre stage were the Spanish Water Dogs, who delivered a powerful and polished performance to take first place in the Spaniel competition under the leadership of Rachel Capille. The Clumber Spaniels (Captain: Heather Mayes) followed in second, with the Lagotto Romagnolo claiming third. Rounding out the top five were the Sussex and Field Team, and the Welsh Springer Spaniels.
A special nod goes to Rachel Capille with Ossi, who earned the title of Highest Scoring Spaniel with 81/100.
Over in the Retriever competition, the Irish Water Spaniels, captained by Judy Hempstead, reigned supreme with a commanding 235 points. The Chesapeake Bay Retrievers (Captain: Debbie Herring) took second with 219 points, followed by the Nova Scotia Duck Tollers and Curly Coated Retrievers.
Callum Green and his dog Cuvana Quill’s Precious Gift topped the individual scoreboard, taking home the Highest Individual Score of the day.
As the final cheers echoed across the showground, this year’s Gundog events proved once again why they’re a firm favourite with crowds — an unforgettable end to an incredible weekend.
Here are the full results:
| 🏅Position | Breed | Captain | Total Score | Hunting Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | Spanish Water Dogs | Rachel Capille | 231 | — |
| 2nd | Clumber Spaniels | Heather Mayes | 172 | 95 |
| 3rd | Lagotto Romagnolo | Louise Ferguson | — | 94 |
| 4th | Sussex & Field Team | Sarah Harvey | 116 | — |
| 5th | Welsh Springer Spaniels | Tina Smith | 87 | — |
⭐ Highest Scoring Spaniel: Rachel Capille with Ossi – 81/100
