Two Shows in the West - The Western Maturity & the New Mexico Specialty
Judge: Robert E. Williamson One of the problems faced in the maturity class was that of Champions of Record entered in a class of Champions and competing against dogs who have not completed their championships. Personally, I do not believe this should be a problem, In England and elsewhere Champions compete at all times against so-called Class dogs. This problem, however, was pointed up in my youth dog class where GV CH (US) Bismarck Von Graustein was second to his litter brother Barry von Graustein, who was not then a Champion. Another litter brother, Brando von Graustein was third. This result could well be justified by one of the animals being a slower developer, and now coming to a full maturity. It could be justified by the showing of the animal on the day or a variety of other reasons. Regardless of this, it does tend to upset the owners of the Champion. The Cowleys, both the breeders and owners of GV CH (US) Bismarck Von Graustein, were very nice about it and showed the kind of sportsmanship that is needed if our Maturities are to continue as presently set up.

Source: GSDCA Review September, 1960
Note: Not verbatim, edited for the age of cyberspace!