German Shorthaired Pointer from Norfolk wins Kennel Club Hunt, Point & Retrieve Championship 2022

FTCh Sutchest Braun Gino, a four-year-old German Shorthaired Pointer from Harleston, Norfolk has won The Kennel Club’s Hunt, Point and Retrieve (HPR) Championship. Sponsored by Skinner's Field & Trial Pet Foods, the event was held 15-16 November 2022 on the North Yorkshire Moors.

FTCh Sutchest Braun Gino, known at home as Gino and owned and handled by Jim Bird, was awarded first place at the competition which saw 24 talented working gundogs from HPR breeds tested on their natural working ability. The judges were Maureen Nixon and Rob Gould.

Jim said: “I am absolutely delighted to win the HPR Championship with Gino. He has been a fantastic dog for me from day one and he came out and won with style.”

Kate Broers, Kennel Club Field Trial Secretary, said: “The Championship was a great success, despite the weather conditions, and thanks must go to all who were involved in the planning, preparation and running of the event. To hold the event on such an outstanding Estate is a real privilege, and The Kennel Club is extremely grateful to the Host and Keepers for hosting the Championship for the second consecutive year. Headkeeper Jimmy Brough, his keepering team and the keeper gun team ensured a successful and enjoyable two days.

“We would like to thank the judges Maureen and Rob for their time and expertise when judging the dogs. They handled the two days with understanding and skill.

“We would also like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors, Skinner’s Field & Trial, who give an awful lot to the world of working dogs and their representatives are passionate about providing the best nutrition for our gundog needs. They are greatly appreciated, and we would not be able to run these events without their generous support.

“Huge congratulations to all the dogs and handlers in the awards and especially to the winners Jim and Gino.”

The results of the HPR Championship are as follows:

1st - FTCh Sutchest Braun Gino - Owned & handled by Mr J Bird (GSP)

2nd - Beechwolf Tonka - Owned & handled by Mr S R C Major (GWP)

3rd - FTCh Morsebeck Patch - Owned & handled by Mr L Loveridge (GWP)

4th - FTCh Jaguar Du Domaine Saint Hubert at Bryantscroft - Owned & handled by Mr S R C Major (HWV)

Gun’s Choice - FTCh Bruno von Schwarcenberg - Owned by Mr R Akopov & handled by Mr S R C Major (GWP)

Find out more about working gundogs and field trials.