A Memorable Experience at the Tunisian All Gloster Show
The Tunisie Gloster Fancy Club was founded in 2020 by a dedicated group of Gloster enthusiasts, led by its current president, Yassine Dridi. That same year, they successfully hosted their first all-Gloster show, marking an important milestone for the club. In 2021, the club received invaluable support from Michel Abou Khalil, the GFCC-UK Ambassador for the Middle East and North Africa. I am in contact with Michel all through the year, collaborating on behalf of the GFCC-UK to help refine the club’s structure, implement new classes and establish regulations that align with international standards.
I found the enthusiasm of the Tunisian fanciers to be truly remarkable, making it one of the most passionate communities I have encountered. The club is experiencing continuous growth, both in membership and exhibitor participation. This year’s show saw an impressive entry of over 400 birds, reflecting the increasing dedication and commitment of Tunisian breeders. Notably, the strong presence of young participants brought a vibrant energy to the event, creating a welcoming and engaging atmosphere for all involved.
During the event, together with Michel, we dedicated time to each exhibitor, offering individual feedback and valuable guidance on improving their birds. This hands-on approach was well received and contributed to the overall friendly and educational atmosphere of the show.
Like many clubs around the world, the Tunisian Gloster community faces the challenge of defining the ideal form and standard for their birds. Differing influences from champion breeders have led to a variety of interpretations, making consistency an ongoing topic of discussion.
Following the show, I addressed attendees, highlighting concerns about the Gloster Fancy's future. I warned against the practice of crossbreeding and emphasised the importance of maintaining purity in the breed. I hope that my speech served as a reminder that responsible breeding and adherence to established standards are crucial for the longevity and integrity of the Gloster Fancy.
The Tunisian All Gloster Show was a testament to the country’s growing passion for these beautiful birds. With continued dedication and guidance, the future of the Gloster Fancy in Tunisia looks bright.
Looking back, this experience was truly special and I wouldn’t hesitate to judge alongside Michel again in the future. It was the perfect reminder that passion, respect, and teamwork are what make the Gloster world so rewarding.
