EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS

by Simon Blackshaw

DORTMUND IN JANUARY IS ALWAYS COLD, and this year was no exception. It was an incredible week at the 6th European Taxidermy Competition. Yet again, the general public and colleagues alike were able to enjoy the high quality of craftsmanship that was represented in the competition area. The Westfalen Halle Complex, where the competition was held, is well known as one of the most modern exhibition centers in Germany. Despite the heating not being on until the halls opened for the public on Tuesday, the hospitality of the organization team was heart-warming. The chance to meet old friends and colleagues was welcomed by all, and whilst the exhibitors built up their stands, the judging team started on what promised to be a long and difficult task. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday we worked deep into the night judging the mounts, but by Monday morning, we were all unanimous about our decisions and the ribbons could be placed.

In the close vicinity of the competition area, leading European supply companies had been building their stands up over the weekend and were ready to start trading. A final visit from the Natuurschutz official (German version of the USFW) who conscientiously checked all the protected species paperwork involved, gave us the green light to open the exhibition.

A special thanks is also needed for the incredible amount of work the organization....
 

...Continued in the Spring 2004 Issue of Breakthrough.

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