Vannah Updates
Vannah (Elance Velvet Ribbons) has had a productive 2023 so far. She started by going to the Battle River shows in Camrose, AB for two days in March, and took Best of Breed over specials competition both days. She next returned to the show ring in early June, going to the Northern Alberta Canine Association shows. She prepared for these events by blowing her coat, choosing to have gobs of it come out by the handful in the bathtub the night before, heading to the shows in her summer best. LOL! Regardless, she took two Best of Breeds from the classes, and a Best of Winners, to finish her Championship. The icing on the cake was her taking Best in Specialty under sighthound breeder/judge Jocelyn Gagne at the Alberta Lure Coursing Association sighthound specialty.
This is the same show her dam, Vera, took Best Bred By in Show at last year.
This is the same show her dam, Vera, took Best Bred By in Show at last year.
Vera Best Bred By in Show
At the Northern Alberta Canine Association shows in early June 2022, Vera earned more points towards her Canadian Championship, but even more fun was when she was awarded Best By Exhibitor in Show. Thank you to NACA for offering this award - it was fun to take part in it and an honour to have Vera chosen.
Shimmer gave us babies
In the Spring of 2022 Shimmer produced 5 bouncing baby Borzoi, sired by Zoom.
Boys on the Town
Summer of 2021 saw a few shows actually happen, and two of the Zoom X Sparrow boys each got out to learn what a show is all about.
First was "True" (Elance Firecrown), and he took it all in stride. He also came home with a Best Puppy in Group award.
Next it was a turn for "Vapour"(Elance Falling Fire). He too took to the new experience, and came home with a Winners Dog award for his first points, as well as a Best Puppy in Sighthound Specialty. Both boys are handsome and happy.
First was "True" (Elance Firecrown), and he took it all in stride. He also came home with a Best Puppy in Group award.
Next it was a turn for "Vapour"(Elance Falling Fire). He too took to the new experience, and came home with a Winners Dog award for his first points, as well as a Best Puppy in Sighthound Specialty. Both boys are handsome and happy.
True (Elance Firecrown) eight months old.
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Vapour (Elance Falling Fire) eight months old.
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Sparrow is a Mamma
Sparrow had her first litter, sired by Ch. Glacier's Zoom Zoom at Elance, January 2, 2021. Eleven puppies arrived safely, and all are growing as they should. Sparrow settled in to being a good mother, and we look forward to the futures of these little ones. You can see their pedigree here.
Sparrow's First Best in Specialty Show
Sparrow had her first weekend out to a Lure Coursing Trial, as well as her first weekend out as a Special since finishing with multiple Best Puppy in Groups/Specialty wins last summer.
At her first trial, she tied for second place with two other fine hounds. Through discussion and draws, she ended up with the 4th place ribbon. She then walked into the Field Trial Conformation Specialty ring, or "ShowNGo". This is a conformation specialty that is eligible only for hounds that have earned the minimum of a qualifying score at the Lure Trial that day. In the Specialty ring she not only took Best of Breed but went on to Best in Specialty against some excellent competition. A great honour, as we admired many of the hounds. So Sparrow is now BISS Ch. Elance Sylvan Sparrow.
At her first trial, she tied for second place with two other fine hounds. Through discussion and draws, she ended up with the 4th place ribbon. She then walked into the Field Trial Conformation Specialty ring, or "ShowNGo". This is a conformation specialty that is eligible only for hounds that have earned the minimum of a qualifying score at the Lure Trial that day. In the Specialty ring she not only took Best of Breed but went on to Best in Specialty against some excellent competition. A great honour, as we admired many of the hounds. So Sparrow is now BISS Ch. Elance Sylvan Sparrow.
Sparrow at her first lure trial, September 2020.
Sparrow taking her first Best in Specialty win. Sept 2020. From the field and into the Specialty ring.
American Champion Harper!
The first time Harper stepped into the show ring she walked out as Best in Futurity at the 2018 BCOA National. The following year, it got even sweeter - she walked out of the 2019 BCOA National as Winners Bitch and Best Bred By. Harper has now completed her American Championship, taking another Specialty Major along the way (Lone Start Borzoi Club). We're proud of silly Harper, and look forward to her future. Harper is AmCh. Elance Ruffles and Truffles, and lives with co-owner Kay McMillin.
Shimmer now an American AND Canadian Champion!
We attended the 2019 Puget Sound Borzoi Club specialty in WA state, hoping to get that final point on Shimmer to complete her AKC Championship. She took Reserve Winners Bitch on the Friday specialty, and then moved on to Winners Bitch and Award of Merit at the Saturday specialty, under Judge Jane Bishop. Shimmer is now American/Canadian Champion Elance Moonshimmer.
Shimmer's sire Ben came along to support the Specialty weekend, and he was awarded Best in Specialty at both the Friday and the Saturday PSBC specialties.
Sister Echo (Ch. Elance Malificent) also joined the fun, looking to start on her American Championship. She was awarded a 4th and a 2nd in the competitive Open Bitch classes over the weekend.
Shimmer's sire Ben came along to support the Specialty weekend, and he was awarded Best in Specialty at both the Friday and the Saturday PSBC specialties.
Sister Echo (Ch. Elance Malificent) also joined the fun, looking to start on her American Championship. She was awarded a 4th and a 2nd in the competitive Open Bitch classes over the weekend.
AmCanCh. Elance Moonshimmer
Big Day in Dallas
Breeder Judge Amy Sorbie awarded two majors to our dogs at the first day of the Dallas shows. Cypress took WD/BOW to finish his American Championship, while Twila was awarded her first US major with the WB award. What an honour.
Cypress was shown four weekends in the US, garnering four majors, a Best in Sweepstakes and two RWD. He is now AmCanCh. Elance Master And Commander.
Twila (GCanCh. Elance Truth Or Dare) is just getting started, and we hope to share news of her future successes as they come.
Cypress and Twila are the sire and dam of Harper, the BCOA 2018 Best in Futurity/2019 WB and Best Bred By.
Cypress was shown four weekends in the US, garnering four majors, a Best in Sweepstakes and two RWD. He is now AmCanCh. Elance Master And Commander.
Twila (GCanCh. Elance Truth Or Dare) is just getting started, and we hope to share news of her future successes as they come.
Cypress and Twila are the sire and dam of Harper, the BCOA 2018 Best in Futurity/2019 WB and Best Bred By.
BCOA 2019
May 2019 found us in Gettysburg, PA for the Borzoi Club of America National Specialty. Elance Borzoi were well represented again.
For the second year in a row, an Elance bitch had the honour of being awarded Winners Bitch. The 2018 Best in Futurity winner, Harper (Elance Ruffles and Truffles) took home Winners Bitch AND Best Bred By Exhibitor.
Tula (Ch. Elance Moonlight Becomes You) took 2nd Award of Merit this year. Her litter sister, Shimmer (Ch. Elance Moonshimmer) took Winners Bitch and Best of Winners last year.
Though Ben stayed home, another of his get, Kyrov's Sword Dance, was Winners Dog and Best of Winners. Many of his other get won or placed in their classes.
We also had the honour of showing beautiful Maiden in Veterans class. She won her large competitive class in both Sweeps and the Regular show, taking Best Veteran and Award of Merit along with her daughter. Winners Bitch is her granddaughter!
For the second year in a row, an Elance bitch had the honour of being awarded Winners Bitch. The 2018 Best in Futurity winner, Harper (Elance Ruffles and Truffles) took home Winners Bitch AND Best Bred By Exhibitor.
Tula (Ch. Elance Moonlight Becomes You) took 2nd Award of Merit this year. Her litter sister, Shimmer (Ch. Elance Moonshimmer) took Winners Bitch and Best of Winners last year.
Though Ben stayed home, another of his get, Kyrov's Sword Dance, was Winners Dog and Best of Winners. Many of his other get won or placed in their classes.
We also had the honour of showing beautiful Maiden in Veterans class. She won her large competitive class in both Sweeps and the Regular show, taking Best Veteran and Award of Merit along with her daughter. Winners Bitch is her granddaughter!
Harper - Elance Ruffles and Truffles -
2019 WINNERS BITCH, BEST BRED BY EXHIBITOR - 2018 BEST IN FUTURITY.
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Tula - Ch. Elance Moonlight Becomes You - 2019 AWARD OF MERIT
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"The Kingsman"
Our sweet Zelda produced a single gorgeous baby boy, sired from the last of our frozen semen from Int.Ch. Borzowski's Phenomenon. He is a stunning self sabled brindle, and growing in leaps and bounds. We have high hopes for little "Solomon". He is Elance Summerlane The Kingsman.
Solomon's Pedigree
Solomon's Pedigree
Sparrow and Stormcat
Elance Sylvan Sparrow ("Sparrow") and Elance Sylvan Stormcat ("Tuck") are the two Pico X Fanta babies that are in residence at Elance. They dived into Canadian winter weather without hesitation and are growing beautifully. We look forward to their futures.
15 Babies!
Pico and Fanta decided to knock it out of the park - early August 2018 saw Fanta give birth to 15 live babies. Yes, 15. Mother and children are all doing well. This co-bred litter was whelped at Sylvan Borzoi in Florida, and puppies will be going to their new homes from there.
Ben goes BEST IN SHOW
Ben has taken numerous Group Firsts, and more than one Reserve Best in Show, but on June 3rd, 2018, he finally was awarded his first All Breed Best in Show. A huge win for an owner/breeder handled dog. We are very proud.
BCOA National 2018
Despite one broken ankle only 2 days before having to leave for the 2018 BCOA National in Richland,WA, we still managed to get there with several of our dogs.
We started off with a bang, arriving the day of the Futurity. Our Cypress X Twila daughters - Harper and Gossip - stepped into the show ring for the first time in their lives and not only came out with a First and Second place in their large class, but Harper went on to BEST PUPPY IN FUTURITY under judge Kalen Dumke of Nonsuch Borzoi.
The next day under judge Tami Marshall of Chihawk Borzoi, Gossip took 3rd place and Harper took 4th in the Puppy Sweepstakes.
In the regular classes, Gossip took First place, while Harper took third, again both in the ribbons in their large class, under judge Shirley McFadden of Svora Borzoi. Thus Gossip advanced to the Winners Bitch ring.
Elance Malificent ("Echo"), owned by Megan Thompson won her Novice class, so she too advanced to the Winners Bitch ring.
Elance Moonshimmer ("Shimmer"), sister to Echo, took first in her Open Bitch class, while a third sister, Elance Mosaic At Elista ("Bree"), owned by Judy Carelton, took second place right behind Shimmer. This made for three Elance bitches in the Winners Bitch ring, along with another Ben daughter, Horse And Hound Full of Hope, owned by Pam Buffington. Shimmer then went on to WINNERS BITCH. This meant that Bree was called in to compete for Reserve Winners Bitch. The RWB award was given to Prudence Hlatkey's lovely Soyara's Devilish Delilah, but it was an honour to have Bree in to compete.
Shimmer went on to win BEST OF WINNERS over approximately 125 class exhibits, so we are thrilled.
In addition, AmCh. Elance Summerlane Tigerwing "Logan", owned by Anne Quinn, took BEST OF OPPOSITE SEX, while his aunt, GCH. Sylvan Silver Springbok, owned by Chris and Patti Neale, took BEST OF BREED from the Veteran Classes. It was a lovely recognition for family and friends.
We started off with a bang, arriving the day of the Futurity. Our Cypress X Twila daughters - Harper and Gossip - stepped into the show ring for the first time in their lives and not only came out with a First and Second place in their large class, but Harper went on to BEST PUPPY IN FUTURITY under judge Kalen Dumke of Nonsuch Borzoi.
The next day under judge Tami Marshall of Chihawk Borzoi, Gossip took 3rd place and Harper took 4th in the Puppy Sweepstakes.
In the regular classes, Gossip took First place, while Harper took third, again both in the ribbons in their large class, under judge Shirley McFadden of Svora Borzoi. Thus Gossip advanced to the Winners Bitch ring.
Elance Malificent ("Echo"), owned by Megan Thompson won her Novice class, so she too advanced to the Winners Bitch ring.
Elance Moonshimmer ("Shimmer"), sister to Echo, took first in her Open Bitch class, while a third sister, Elance Mosaic At Elista ("Bree"), owned by Judy Carelton, took second place right behind Shimmer. This made for three Elance bitches in the Winners Bitch ring, along with another Ben daughter, Horse And Hound Full of Hope, owned by Pam Buffington. Shimmer then went on to WINNERS BITCH. This meant that Bree was called in to compete for Reserve Winners Bitch. The RWB award was given to Prudence Hlatkey's lovely Soyara's Devilish Delilah, but it was an honour to have Bree in to compete.
Shimmer went on to win BEST OF WINNERS over approximately 125 class exhibits, so we are thrilled.
In addition, AmCh. Elance Summerlane Tigerwing "Logan", owned by Anne Quinn, took BEST OF OPPOSITE SEX, while his aunt, GCH. Sylvan Silver Springbok, owned by Chris and Patti Neale, took BEST OF BREED from the Veteran Classes. It was a lovely recognition for family and friends.
Elance Ruffles and Truffles, taking Best in Futurity from the 6-9mth Puppy Bitch class, at the BCOA 2018 Futurity.
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Shimmer is chosen as the 2018 BCOA National Specialty Best of Winners. Thank you to Kay Cassella for handling her while I coped with a broken ankle.
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Ravi Settles In
Ravi traveled to Sue Carter of Rothseby Borzoi the UK in Fall 2017 and has spent the last few months settling in. Sue sent a recent photo of her.
Ravi (Elance Sojourn Sequinned Tutu) settling in with Sue Carter of Rothesby Borzoi.
Twila Babies
Twila finally had babies in September 2017. Sired by Cypress (Elance Master And Commander), we raised 8 bouncing baby Borzoi. Three still remain here at home, growing up. We look forward to how they all will mature.
Elance Resolute's Raiya ("Raiya") at home with owner Leslie Walenta.
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Elance Running Thunder ("Rohan") starts the day with his owner Hannah Hix.
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Ravi's Show Debut
It was finally Ravi's turn to hit the show ring. She's been waiting in the wings while other dogs were working on their Championships. She was a cheerful newbie, but learns quickly. By the end of the AKC Spruce Meadows weekend in August 2017 she was a rock star, not only gaining two Winners Bitch awards (one at the Borzoi Canada Regional Specialty), but also taking a young Junior Handler to Best Junior Overall in the FGC Juniors Competition. Ravi has now headed to Europe to be shown and bring joy and tail wags to Sue Carter of Rothesby Borzoi.
Ravi moving around the ring at her first shows, 22 mths old.
FANTA Finishes
Our beautiful Monne X Gazelle daughter has finished her American Championship, with four majors no less! Here's to her bright future.
BCOA National 2017
We had a GREAT National, with Ben taking BEST OF OPPOSITE SEX, and his daughter Tula taking BEST OF OPPOSITE IN SWEEPSTAKES! Thank you to the Sweeps Judge Chris Danker for her choice of Tula, and Regular Class Judge Helen Lee for choosing Ben.
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Reserve Best in Show
Ben took two more Group 1sts and his first RESERVE BEST IN SHOW in Grand Island, Nebraska. Ben was shown by his breeder/co-owner, Kay McMillin.
Westminster 2017
Ben went to New York with his breeder/co-owner Kay McMillan, and amongst strong competition came away with Best of Opposite Sex! Congratulations to the Best of Breed winner (for the second year in a row) "Lucy."
Since the beginning of the year Ben has been out with Kay, winning Breeds and Group placements. He's also put his first US litter on the ground with Amy Sorbie of Kyrov Borzoi. Congrats to Kyrov!
Since the beginning of the year Ben has been out with Kay, winning Breeds and Group placements. He's also put his first US litter on the ground with Amy Sorbie of Kyrov Borzoi. Congrats to Kyrov!
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Kamloops, September 2016
We made the trip out to Kamloops, BC on the September long weekend, in support of the 2016 Borzoi Canada Dogwood Regional Specialty. This was the first official shows for the Ben X Maiden puppies, as they were 6mths and 1 day old.
We entered three shows in two days - the Borzoi Canada regional specialty, and two all breeds.
We entered three shows in two days - the Borzoi Canada regional specialty, and two all breeds.
- Ben was Best of Breed in all three events, with a Group 2nd, and a Best Owner Handled in Group
- Shimmer swept the bitch points in all events, taking WB/BOW/BOS/BP at the Specialty - the only dog she didn't defeat was her BISS father. She now only lacks 2 points to complete her Championship after two days of showing!
- Cypress took his first points by taking WD one day.
Ben taking BISS at the Borzoi Canada 2016 Dogwood Regional Specialty. We're all wet from the the rain!
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Shimmer's first official show - WB, BOW, BOS, BP at the Borzoi Canada 2016 Dogwood Regional!
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August 2016
The August long weekend sees us back at the AKC show weekend, at Spruce Meadows in Calgary, Alberta. We participated in the many events with Ben, Twila, Shimmer and Tula.
- Ben came home with several Best of Breeds, and an Award of Merit from the Borzoi Canada 2016 National Specialty.
- Twila did well at the National, taking Best of Opposite Sex, Best Bred By and Best Head
- Tula was Best Baby Puppy in the National
- Shimmer took Best Baby Puppy Female in the AKC Breeder Sweepstakes and Best Baby Puppy in Group.
Lena Arkell's wonderful photo of Ben in the ring in Calgary.
Tula winning Best Baby Puppy in National Specialty
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Twila smiling up at National Specialty judge Steven Evans
Shimmer in the Best Baby Puppy in Show ring at AKC.
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Ben X Maiden - sharing the excitement
As the babies have grown, it is exciting to see them develop into youngsters with some promising potential.
"Bree"- Elance Mosaic at Elista. This little beauty is co-owned with Judy Carleton of Elista Borzoi.
"Ocean"- Elance Moonlit Sea, is co-owned with Rey and Yvonne McGehee of Valeska Borzoi.
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"Echo"- Elance Malificent. A gorgeous girl, co-owned with Megan Thompson.
"Chann"- Elance Marylis, owned by Elisabeth Lemire.
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Spring 2016
Ben and Honour have been out to the Spring shows. So far, Honour has a WB and a RWB in some quality competition.
Ben has won BOB every day, and added a Group 4th and a Group 1st to his tally. This makes three Group 1sts in the last year, for a young fellow that is not quite three years old. We're very proud.
We're also proud of two more Zion sons, born at Wolfwoods Borzoi. At only 8 months old, Ch. Wolfwoods Greyhaven is already finished his Canadian Championship and has 4 Best Puppy in Group wins and a Best Puppy in Show! He is owned and loved by Merla Thomson and Irina Girchenko.
His litter brother, Wolfwoods White Raven, owned by breeders Robert and Susan Shaw, has points towards his Championship as well, and on the same day that big brother Ben took Group 1st, Raven joined in and took Best Puppy in Group. Well done, boys!
Ben has won BOB every day, and added a Group 4th and a Group 1st to his tally. This makes three Group 1sts in the last year, for a young fellow that is not quite three years old. We're very proud.
We're also proud of two more Zion sons, born at Wolfwoods Borzoi. At only 8 months old, Ch. Wolfwoods Greyhaven is already finished his Canadian Championship and has 4 Best Puppy in Group wins and a Best Puppy in Show! He is owned and loved by Merla Thomson and Irina Girchenko.
His litter brother, Wolfwoods White Raven, owned by breeders Robert and Susan Shaw, has points towards his Championship as well, and on the same day that big brother Ben took Group 1st, Raven joined in and took Best Puppy in Group. Well done, boys!
Ben - AmCh/GCanCh. Konza-Plum Creek Bugatti at Elance. March 2016. Ben will be three in June 2016.
Puppies Arrived!
Ben and Maiden are the proud parents of 10 bouncing baby borzoi! March 3rd we welcomed 6 girls and 4 boys into the world, in a rainbow of colours. Maiden is a wonderful mother, and Ben is handing out cigars. Stay tuned as they grow.
2015 Wrap Up
We wrapped up our show season with the Red Deer shows in November. In our corner of the world, driving conditions get unpredictable after this time of year, and our kids get busy with basketball, so we time out on dog activities until spring.
Maiden added points towards her Canadian Championship title. Ben also earned another Group Third.
Ben's 2015 tally looks like this:
Shown at 7 events in 2015, Ben....
Maiden added points towards her Canadian Championship title. Ben also earned another Group Third.
Ben's 2015 tally looks like this:
Shown at 7 events in 2015, Ben....
- Earned his Canadian Championship AND his Canadian GRAND Championship
- Earned seven Group Placements, including two Group 1st
- Took two Best in Specialty awards (Greater Twin Cities Borzoi Club and Foothills Gazehound Club)
- Awarded Best in Futurity at the 2015 BCOA National Specialty
- Was Canada's Number One Borzoi for 2015!
AKC 2015
August 2015 - The Alberta Kennel Club hosts Canada's largest outdoor show at the gorgeous Spruce Meadows Equestrian Park. The AKC was host to the Alberta Sporting Hound Specialty (a Group Two specialty), the Borzoi Canada Wild Rose Regional Specialty, and the Foothills Gazehound Specialty. In addition, Sunday's judging was the 2015 Purina National event, with the group judging a black tie affair held on red carpet with spotlights, announcers and handsome cash prizes.
In three days of showing, Maiden came home with 8 points, requiring only two more to complete her Canadian Championship.
Ben came home with:
In three days of showing, Maiden came home with 8 points, requiring only two more to complete her Canadian Championship.
Ben came home with:
- Friday - a Group Third
- Sunday - Best in Specialty at the FGC Specialty, AND Group 1st in the Purina National!
Judy Carleton's photo of Ben and Cherie at the 2015 AKC weekend in Calgary.
2015 BCOA
May 2015 - Borzoi enthusiasts from the world over gathered in Huron, Ohio for the 2015 Borzoi Club of America National Specialty. Elance Borzoi were there, along with many youngsters sired by Zion. And they did well. VERY well. From winning on the coursing field, and the obedience ring, to sweeping the Futurity, winning classes, being pulled for Winners Bitch, to winning Best Puppy in Specialty.... Zion's get had a huge influence on the BCOA results. Highlights include:
- Zion son (out of GCh. Sylvan Topanga Canyon) Sylvan Pimlico earned the 3rd highest score in the coursing Open Stake, and a perfect score in Rally.
- The final line up for Best in Futurity had three of the four division winners all sired by Zion, out of Finessa, with Best in Futurity going to Ben, and Best of Opposite in Futurity going to his sister Bonnie.
- Sweepstakes 15 - 18mth Female was won by Zion daughter Sylvan Miranda - she was also pulled for Winners Bitch.
- 1st place in the 6-9 mth puppy class AND Best Puppy In Specialty went to Karanoff Balios, sired by Zion, out of Ch. Karnoff Pikovaya Dama.
Welcome, Maiden!
Windnsatin Dragon's Maiden has joined us here at Elance. She will visit us as she works towards her Canadian Championship title, and a litter for us as well. She is sweet and cuddly, and within 30 seconds of meeting her, we were in love. She will add much to our breeding program. Thank you to her owner Pat Shaw for allowing us to love her for you for a little while!
Windnsatin Dragons Maiden.
Ben Takes Canada
When Zion returned home, his son Ben came with him. Ben is our stud fee puppy from the breeding of Zion to the gorgeous Finessa (BISS GCh. Katz Fashion Finesse at Konza.) Ben stayed with his breeder Kay McMillin until he finished his American Championship - which he did in grand style (Group placements from the puppy classes over adult specials). Once home here in Canada, he had a few months to settle in until the spring shows got underway. Entered in two weekends (5 days), Ben finished his Championship by day four, with his first Best of Breed win over specials having him walking into the Best in Show ring with his first Group One win! Before all was said and done he had two more group placements - a Group Two and a Group Three. A fantastic debut for a young man. We look forward to his future.
Ben's first weekend out in Canada - 5 days, one Canadian Championship, three Group placements (1st, 2nd, and 3rd.)
Return of the King
Yes, Zion is HOME. After his journey to "there and back again," the Man has returned. He has matured in his absence from us, under the wonderful care of our friends at Sylvan Borzoi, and Konza Borzoi. Thank you for their loving care, and their appreciation of this magnificent dog. As hard as it was to let him go, we felt that an animal of this caliber should have the opportunity to be seen by more people than just here at home. We are grateful he was able to impact the breed, and yet now to have him home.
Zion while in residence at Sylvan Borzoi.
Ryder and Brenna puppies are growing fast!
Our 2014 puppies are coming along very nicely, all very uniform and healthy, just as one would expect from this linebred pedigree. At three weeks of age, there are only a couple puppies left unspoken for. If you would like to add a quality borzoi puppy to your family, don't hesitate to contact us while there are still some left.
One of the Ryder and Brenna boys, at three weeks of age!
Elance 2014 PUPPIES!
Ryder and Brenna presented us with a lovely litter of six thriving puppies. Four boys and two girls, they are as healthy and strong as can be! Brenna is loving being a mom. We may still have a couple of puppies yet to be spoken for, so don't hesitate to contact us if you have been thinking of adding an Elance Borzoi to your life.
Brenna settling in with her babies - she is so happy! And why not? They are a beautiful, healthy brood. The boys are all the self tris like Dad Ryder, and the girls are all spotted tris like Mom.
Lief Goes Select Dog
Young Ch. Elance Tell Tale Heart took Select Dog at the Foothills Gazehound Specialty this August, in very stiff, mature competition.
Lief at 23 months.
Another New Champion
"Riven" aka Ch. Elance True Blue, finished his Canadian Championship in style, being in the ribbons four days in a row at the 2014 Alberta Kennel Club summer shows at Spruce Meadows, Calgary, AB.
Riven is the third Champion from this litter of five.
Riven is the third Champion from this litter of five.
Riven with his ribbons from a very winning weekend, August 2014. Congratulations, new Champion, and his owner Kim Wells.
New Champion
Ryder finishes his American Championship title with the WD major at Lompoc, 2014.
Ryder finishing his American Championship title at Lompoc 2014.
Twila debuts with a Group Second
At 21 months, Twila steps into the ring as a Special, and takes Best of Breed and Group Two over 62 other hounds.
Honour arrives
In early May 2014 we welcomed Honour, the Zion X Diva baby, home. "Sylvan Elance Sylphide" is charming us all with her beauty and elegance.
The 2014 BCOA National - Albuquerque, New Mexico
Not only did Elance breeder Cherie Hunchak enjoy the honor of judging the 2014 BCOA Sweepstakes, but puppies sired by the Elance sires Zion (GChCanCh. Elance Beyond the Blue) and Ryder (Elance Black Swan) did very well at this event. Of the 16 ribbons available in the regular puppy classes, 8 of those ribbons went to youngsters sired by Zion or Ryder. These same puppies also did very well in their futurity classes. Congratulations to their breeders and owners!
The Year of Zion
By February 2014, three different borzoi sired by Zion had taken group placements from the classes. Not only that, two of them were in the Top Twenty Borzoi for 2014!
1) Konza-Plum Creek Bugatti at Elance. Sired by Zion, out of BISS Ch. Katz Fashion Finesse at Konza. Takes a Group 4th from the Puppy Classes. Ranked at #5 Borzoi in the USA. Owned by Kay Cassella and Robert Bateman.
2) Elance Temple of Time. Sired by Zion, out of Ch. Seabury Sylvan Spitfire. Takes a Group 4th from the classes. Ranked at #14 Borzoi in the USA. Owned by Shain Miller.
3) Ch. Scimitar First Sign of Trouble. Sired by Zion, out of Ch. Kishniga's Arctic Queen. Takes two Group Seconds from the classes to finish her Championship. The first homebred Champion for Scimitar Kennels. Owned by Tarja Kleemola.
Congratulations to these Zion progeny and their owners. May the rest of their year be just as successful.
1) Konza-Plum Creek Bugatti at Elance. Sired by Zion, out of BISS Ch. Katz Fashion Finesse at Konza. Takes a Group 4th from the Puppy Classes. Ranked at #5 Borzoi in the USA. Owned by Kay Cassella and Robert Bateman.
2) Elance Temple of Time. Sired by Zion, out of Ch. Seabury Sylvan Spitfire. Takes a Group 4th from the classes. Ranked at #14 Borzoi in the USA. Owned by Shain Miller.
3) Ch. Scimitar First Sign of Trouble. Sired by Zion, out of Ch. Kishniga's Arctic Queen. Takes two Group Seconds from the classes to finish her Championship. The first homebred Champion for Scimitar Kennels. Owned by Tarja Kleemola.
Congratulations to these Zion progeny and their owners. May the rest of their year be just as successful.
The Newest Zion Puppies have arrived!
The Lady Diva, shown 7 weeks in whelp with her puppies sired by
GChCanCh. Elance Beyond the Blue (Zion.)
January 2014, Zion and "Diva" (Ch. Po Dusham Sylvan Risque) became the proud parents of 11 bouncing baby borzoi. Diva is a wonderful mother, and everyone is thriving. All inquiries should be directed to Chris and Pattie Neale at Sylvan Borzoi.
Baby Ben is the bomb...
Konza-Plum Creek Bugatti at Elance went to his very first dog show in mid January 2014. This little man wowed judge Dana Cline to the point of going Best of Breed over adult Specials competition, and THEN was awarded Group Fourth! This is exciting news for any Borzoi, but for a wee baby at this first show, it's spectacular. Well, "wee baby" is a bit of a misnomer, actually, since breeder/owner Kay McMillan notes that Baby Ben is 90lbs at 7 months old. A very auspicious start for this Zion X Finessa son. Better photos when they come, but for now we couldn't wait to share.
Puppy Party!
A whirlwind weekend took place in mid October 2013 as we descended upon the Ryder and Gazelle litter at 11 weeks of age. We gathered to evaluate the puppies and make decisions on who should go where. Such a lovely group of babies - the decisions were difficult.
(Photo of "Summerlane Elance Glasswing", aka "Zelda". Owned by Shain Miller and Cherie Hunchak. Gordon Walter photo.)
(Photo of "Summerlane Elance Glasswing", aka "Zelda". Owned by Shain Miller and Cherie Hunchak. Gordon Walter photo.)
Ryder and Gazelle babies arrive safely.
Happy momma Gazelle with her beautiful batch of ten puppies.
Ryder (Elance Black Swan) and Gazelle (Ch. Sylvan Pewter Gazelle) welcomed ten puppies into the world on August 1st, 2013.
The newest Zion babies...
This gorgeous little lady is "Finessa" - Best in Specialty Show Champion Katz Fashion Finesse at Konza. She is shown here winning Best of Breed at the 2011 Borzoi Club of America National Specialty over hundreds of other borzoi. Yes, she's that beautiful.
We are thrilled to announce that Finessa whelped two healthy babies in early June, sired by Zion - a boy and a girl. We look forward to watching them grow! Congratulations to Finessa's owners, Kay McMillan and Mr. and Mrs. Robert Bateman.
We are thrilled to announce that Finessa whelped two healthy babies in early June, sired by Zion - a boy and a girl. We look forward to watching them grow! Congratulations to Finessa's owners, Kay McMillan and Mr. and Mrs. Robert Bateman.
Borzoi Club of America 2013 - Lancaster, PA
Zion and Chris Neale in the Best of Breed line up, BCOA 2013 National. Photo by Marge Milne.
Zion at the 2013 Nationals in Lancaster, PA
Shown impeccably by his best buddy Chris Neale, Zion made it to the final cut before being excused from further consideration for the day. He congratulates his current kennel mates "Spring" and "Rafaella", on winning Best in Specialty and Best Puppy in Specialty respectively. A GREAT day for Sylvan Borzoi. Zion also recently attained his AKC Grand Championship status.
Shown impeccably by his best buddy Chris Neale, Zion made it to the final cut before being excused from further consideration for the day. He congratulates his current kennel mates "Spring" and "Rafaella", on winning Best in Specialty and Best Puppy in Specialty respectively. A GREAT day for Sylvan Borzoi. Zion also recently attained his AKC Grand Championship status.
Zion and Chris Neale, BCOA 2013. Kristina Terra Photo.
Zion moving for Chris, BCOA 2013. Gliding above the ground. Kristina Terra photo.
Zion finishes his American Championship
Zion the day he finished his American Championship in Florida, January 2013. Three years old. Sire of two litters.
Three weeks over the border, and Zion's American Championship is fait accompli. Thank you Chris and Patti Neale for piloting Zion to this title!
Zion's Grand Adventure
Zion enjoying a romp in the field at Katz Borzoi - a rest stop on the way back to Florida. Photo by Patti Neale.
January 2013 is the beginning of some exciting times for ourselves and Sylvan Borzoi. Chris and Patti Neale of Sylvan have offered Zion a "scholarship" and we couldn't refuse. He met up with Patti in CA, where he took two 5 point BOW majors, and a RWD (to his brother, Ryder!) They then headed back to Florida, where Zion will complete his American Championship title, and hopefully sire a litter or two. Stay tuned for the latest updates on our handsome hound.
Welcome Gazelle!
Gazelle's lovely headpiece.
In a quid pro quo, Chris and Patti Neale offerred to share their lovely Gazelle - Ch. Sylvan Pewter Gazelle. This lovely young Champion is a daughter of one of the the most beautiful Borzoi bitches we have ever seen - the incomparable "Fiona". Gazelle is so much like her mother, with the lovely movement, and beautiful head and outline. What a tremendous offer on the part of Chris and Patti. We are honored.
Gazelle is currently settling in with Anne Quinn at Summerlane Borzoi, where she will be bred to Ryder later this year. She is wonderful.
Gazelle is currently settling in with Anne Quinn at Summerlane Borzoi, where she will be bred to Ryder later this year. She is wonderful.
"Link" goes to Alaska!
Link (Elance Temple of Time) at 3.5 months old.
In December 2012 Shain Miller from Alaska flew in to pick up his baby boy out of Zion and Sadie's litter. It was SO hard to let this pup go! But we have every confidence that he and Shain will make some big waves. Not only that. if Link matures as we all hope, he will feature prominently in our breeding program. Congratulations Shain and Link (Elance Temple of Time.)
Latest Health Testing
Zion's Thyroid results from the University of Michigan came back as NORMAL.
SADIE has BABIES!
September 11, 2012, Sadie had 5 beautiful borzoi babies. Three boys, and two girls, in shades of gold and chinchilla, some spotted like Dad Zion, some irish marked self like Sadie.
See more details on our "Puppies!" page as they grow.
See more details on our "Puppies!" page as they grow.
CHAMPION from the JUNIOR PUPPY CLASS!
New Champion Prima winning from the Junior Puppy class, August 2012. Robert Shaw photo.
Ch. Horse and Hound Pisa Radost: "Prima's" first Canadian shows were the Spruce Meadows AKC/Hound Specialty event the first weekend of August 2012. In six shows, entered in the Junior Puppy class, here are her results:
With her first show on Friday, she was finished her Championship by Sunday, with points on Monday to spare.
Prima is bred by Pam Buffington, and is owned by Cherie Hunchak and Lynda Cattoni-Shafer. We are very proud of her!
The same weekend, Zion (Ch. Elance Beyond the Blue) was entered in only the three Specialties. He was pulled out for consideration in each event, and awarded BOS by Judge Allen Pepper at the Gazehound Specialty. He showed beautifully.
- ASHA Group Two Specialty, Judge Patti Neale - Best of Winners/Best Puppy
- Borzoi Canada National Specialty, Judge Pat Trotter - Best of Winners/Best Puppy
- Foothills Gazehound Specialty, Judge Allan Pepper - Best of Winners/Best Puppy
- AKC All breed shows: two Best of Winners/Best Puppy, one Reserve Winners.
With her first show on Friday, she was finished her Championship by Sunday, with points on Monday to spare.
Prima is bred by Pam Buffington, and is owned by Cherie Hunchak and Lynda Cattoni-Shafer. We are very proud of her!
The same weekend, Zion (Ch. Elance Beyond the Blue) was entered in only the three Specialties. He was pulled out for consideration in each event, and awarded BOS by Judge Allen Pepper at the Gazehound Specialty. He showed beautifully.
BCOA 2012 - Canadians Rock
Zion is RWD and Best Bred Exhibitor!
Elance Borzoi did SO well at this year's BCOA National! Zion is pictured here taking RWD (congrats to fellow Canadian Ch. Taugo's Ulric for taking WD!). Zion went on to go Best Bred by Exhibitor as well!
Ryder is Second in Open!
Ryder took 2nd in the competitive Open Dog class, with 1st place and WD/BOW going to our fellow Canadian Ch. Taugo's Ulric.
The girls did us proud as well - Brenna took 2nd in the very competitive Bred By Class, and Sonja made the cut in the tough Open Bitch class.
The girls did us proud as well - Brenna took 2nd in the very competitive Bred By Class, and Sonja made the cut in the tough Open Bitch class.
Prima BELLA!
Pictured here with her co-owner, Linda Cattoni-Shafer, Prima is "Horse and Hound Pisa Radost." Out of the lovely producing "Val", and sired by Linda's handsome Ch. Radost White Rock, Prima is linebred on "Fargo" - Ch. Osdow Av Fjascho. With Zion being a Fargo grandson, we look forward to this future blend.
November 2011
Zion (Ch. Elance Beyond the Blue) broke his shoulder blade! While we just heard the screaming and ran out to find him in trouble, it appears he may have jumped down from the top of his dog house (he loves to hang out there, like his mom), and landed wrong (it was pitch dark out). We won't ever know for sure, but in any event, he's had a surgery to wire his shoulder blade together, and we are hoping for a complete recovery. He's chilling out on his comfy bed in his expen, and only getting out (on leash) for his regular potty breaks. That's pretty much his life for awhile, until he's deemed fit to resume more activity. He's not minding it so far. How he feels in another 4 weeks may be a different matter!
On a positive note, Zion's OFA certificate for his DM clear test came in the mail.
On a positive note, Zion's OFA certificate for his DM clear test came in the mail.
AUGUST 2011
Spruce Meadows - Calgary
Zion (Ch. Elance Beyond The Blue) went to the AKC shows at Spruce Meadows, as a 19 month old out-of-coat young gun. Much to our delight, both Michael Hill and Eugene Blake found him in a large entry of mature/coated specials. They awarded him BOB at the AKC all breed, and BOS in the Foothills Gazehound Specialty.
APRIL 2011
BCOA 2011 NATIONAL - Kansas!
Ryder (Elance Black Swan) takes third in the Sweeps, and 3rd in the regular classes! He also tests CLEAR for eyes, and CLEAR for heart.
Brenna (Elance Smooth As Silk) makes the cut the Bred By Bitch Class! This creme de la creme class produced the WB - congratulations to Shirley McFadden on her win.
AmCanCh. Windnsatin Ty Slezi of Veter (aka "Blue), sire to Ryder and Zion, is shown by Cherie, and they take one of only ten Award of Merits!
Brenna (Elance Smooth As Silk) makes the cut the Bred By Bitch Class! This creme de la creme class produced the WB - congratulations to Shirley McFadden on her win.
AmCanCh. Windnsatin Ty Slezi of Veter (aka "Blue), sire to Ryder and Zion, is shown by Cherie, and they take one of only ten Award of Merits!
Brenna waiting to be examined in the Bred By Bitch class, Kansas 2011. Anne Quinn photo.
AmCanCh. Windnsatin Ty Slezi of Veter, taking one of the coveted Award of Merits at the 2011 Nationals in Kansas, at 7.5 years of age. Blue is the sire of our Zion and Ryder.
MARCH 2011
Latest HEALTH TESTING RESULTS: Both Zion (CH. Elance Beyond the Blue) and Hallie (Ch. Elance Mystic Cequilla) are CLEAR for DM (Degenerative Myelopathy). In addition, Zion's eyes were tested CLEAR.
CAMROSE SHOWS:
CAMROSE SHOWS:
- Zion (new Champion Elance Beyond the Blue) takes a 3 point BOW on Saturday.
- Zion takes BOW/BOB (over a special) and a Group FOURTH, for 5 points, finishing his Championship in three weekends of shows.
- On the same day, Ryder (Elance Black Swan) takes his first US point in California.
OCTOBER 2010
Ryder (Elance Black Swan) takes Best of Opposite in Sweepstakes at the Borzoi Club of California Specialty under breeder judge Cindi Gredys (Jubilee Borzoi) Thank you!
The same day, in Canada, his brother Zion (Elance Beyond the Blue) takes BOW for another two points towards his Championship. Congratulations, boys!
The same day, in Canada, his brother Zion (Elance Beyond the Blue) takes BOW for another two points towards his Championship. Congratulations, boys!
AUGUST 2010
SONJA TAKES TWO MAJORS IN LOMPOC, CA
Sonja, "Elance Sitting Pretty" took BOW for 5pts under judge Patti Neale, at the Borzoi Club of California 2010 Specialty in Lompoc, CA. The entry for class dogs was 60+.
The same weekend, she earned a second major, the 4 pt WINNERS BITCH under judge Allan Pepper, at the Lompoc Kennel Club show.
Sonja's great weekend continued, as she easily earned her first JUNIOR COURSER leg, and passed her ECHOCARDIOGRAM OFA as well.
The same weekend, she earned a second major, the 4 pt WINNERS BITCH under judge Allan Pepper, at the Lompoc Kennel Club show.
Sonja's great weekend continued, as she easily earned her first JUNIOR COURSER leg, and passed her ECHOCARDIOGRAM OFA as well.
LOMPOC DEBUT: RYDER WINS HIS SPECIALTY CLASS AND MORE
Ryder, "Elance Black Swan," not only won his Borzoi Club of California Specialty Class under judge Patti Neale, but he repeated the win under judge Allan Pepper, at the Lompoc Kennel Club show the same weekend. For such a baby, his very first weekend out, he showed like a pro!
At the coursing trial, he showed us some KEEN interest - while he wasn't able to have a turn this time, he went wild over the lure. We are eager to see him get out and after that bunny!
At the coursing trial, he showed us some KEEN interest - while he wasn't able to have a turn this time, he went wild over the lure. We are eager to see him get out and after that bunny!
JULY 2010
ZION'S FIRST SHOW = POINTS
Zion, "Elance Beyond the Blue," went to his first show at 6mths and 1 day old, coming home with a two point BOW over older/adult dogs. Like his brother Ryder, he showed like a pro.