Alvie, embarked on a pivotal chapter of her show career at just over nine months old. Her entry into the competitive world of Adult classes at the Scotia Cat Fanciers Show. Yet, before the gleam of the show hall lights and the rustle of judging slips, we all had to conquer a journey as memorable as the show itself. No matter which road we take to this venue, it is an absolutely, horrendous journey!
Alvie
Alvie, having already garnered a reputation as a charming kitten in previous shows, was now stepping into an environment where the standards would be higher, the competition fiercer, and the judges more exacting in their evaluations – but she did not disappoint. Alvie won her first (of three hopefully) and the Ruiseanach Prefix their first ever Challenge Certificate, thanks to judge Mrs Rosemary Fisher. It was an emotional and proud moment for us all.
First Ruiseanach Challenge CertificateAlvie nonplussed at all the fuss
As per usual, I was working on the results table all day and totally forgot to take any photos. Elisabeth Stark came to the rescue though with three photos of Alvie taken at the show.
Today, we celebrate the second birthday of our beloved foundation queen, Cara – Champion Melkelter Lady of the Loch.
Cara is more than a shining example of grace and beauty; she is the heart and pride of our Ruiseanach family. In just two years, she has brought immeasurable joy to our lives.
Cara
When Cara welcomed her first litter of kittens in September 2024, she proved to be a natural mother. Her nurturing instincts shone through as she cared for her kittens with tenderness and confidence, ensuring they thrived under her watchful eye – mother nature is amazing!
Let us also take a moment to wish Cara’s delightful litter mates, Leo, Rosa, and Luka, a very happy birthday also! May their lives be filled with love, mischief, and countless joyful memories for their owners.
The Nor’east of Scotland Cat Club show on Saturday in Dundee turned out to be quite an eventful day for Cara and Alvie. Being our local show, just 20 minutes away, it was an exciting outing for us. Among the many participants, there was a remarkable total of 15 Russian Blues in attendance, adding to the lively and competitive atmosphere of the show. There were six adults, of whom Cara was one and five neuters. Alvie was one of four kittens.
Cara, with her beautiful Grand rosette & CertificateGrand Challenge Certificate
We were delighted when Cara was awarded her first Grand Challenge Certificate. Soon though, we were overjoyed when Alvie was awarded first place in her breed class and then went on to be honoured with Best of Breed. It was a proud moment for us to see her recognised among such a strong showing of Russian Blues. Adding to the excitement of the day, Alvie also achieved one of the newly introduced GCCF Kitten Challenge certificates.
Cara with her rosettes and certificatesThe new GCCF Kitten Certificate
Alvie didn’t stop there. She was subsequently awarded Best Section 4 Kitten, a testament to her outstanding qualities and charm. This accolade led her to the prestigious Best in Show kitten pens, where she was judged against the other six kitten section winners. The atmosphere was electric as expectations soared, each kitten vying for the ultimate recognition. Alvie displayed poise and elegance. She ultimately was runner up to a gorgeous 14 week old British Short Hair kitten from Section 3.
At the end of the show, we realised Alvie had, in fact, achieved a Red Card Day by winning every single class she was entered in. This remarkable feat left us beaming with pride as we packed up to head home. It wasn’t just a day of accolades; it was a day filled with joy, camaraderie, and a shared celebration of the beauty and grace these cats bring into our lives.
Arkaig, now affectionately called Laddie, holds the special title of being the first kitten we ever sold. He has since embarked on a grand adventure, settling furthest away from us in the charming countryside of Staffordshire, where he enjoys spending time with his older “brother” Saul, a black moggie, they are now the best of friends.
Laddie & Saul
Laddie can often be found napping in sun-dappled spots, or chilling in front of the fire during colder days, quite often together, forming such a special bond.
Laddie has also taken quickly to walking in a harness, exploring his expansive gardens with curiosity and confidence.
In addition to his adventures at home, Laddie has also stepped into the spotlight as a show cat. He has attended a couple of shows down south, where his elegance and charm have caught the eye of many admirers – even being awarded Best Section 4 Kitten at his first show! Much to his owners’ and breeders’ delight.
Arkaig sleeping through all the fuss!Rosette haulBest Section 4 Kitten
Judge critique shared with Mrs Janet William’s kind permission.
