BIDEFORD RESIDENT’S DEVON REX CAT ACHIEVES PINNACLE TITLE IN UK CAT SHOWS
Source: North Devon Today (Extract)
Posted: January 28, 2024
A Bideford cat enthusiast is the proud owner of the highest-titled Devon Rex cat in the UK.
The star of the story, Gemma Clarke’s Devon Rex, named Jago but affectionately called Stripes, has become a familiar face in the cat show circuit.
With a title that includes Olympian Gold, Jago has left an indelible mark on the Cat Fancy community, particularly within the GCCF (Governing Council of the Cat Fancy).
His whisker-mangling title, Champion & United Kingdom Olympian Gold Imperial Grand Premier Merrypurr Stripey Pyjamas (!) is the highest you can get within GCCF for a neutered cat and he is also the first Devon to reach that summit.
Gemma, a self-proclaimed ‘crazy cat lady’ at the age of 41, has been captivated by the charm of Devon Rex cats since her early teens. Her love for the breed began at a cattery in Littleham, where she worked at the age of 13. The owner of the cattery was a Devon Rex breeder, sparking Gemma’s deep connection with these characterful and affectionate cats.
“I’ve had him since he was 14 weeks old, and I have seven other indoor pedigree cats. I am a crazy cat lady and only 41,” Gemma shared, highlighting her love for these feline companions.
Speaking on the various shows the pair get involved in, Gemma shared, “he (Jago) loved show days, and judges always commented on how he just owned the certificate and was basically saying ‘look at me, I’m the best!'”
Jago’s impressive title journey culminated in October 2022, earning the Gold distinction in August of the same year before gracefully retiring. Having participated in cat shows since he was a mere 14 weeks old, Jago celebrated his 11th birthday in November 2023.
As Gemma puts it: “He is a very important boy and will be in Devon Rex history books forever. He has earned that title, and it is recognised within the Cat Fancy and we show within the GCCF.”
Jago’s triumphs in the show ring have not only made him a standout personality but also a source of pride for his devoted owner, Gemma Clarke.
