Ch. Darkwind's Blame it on Rio is a black and white Daily son who had tremendous success as both a show dog and a stud. Epitomizing the influences of the New Zealand Border Collies in his flashy markings and symmetrical, semi-erect ears, Rio adds a long neck built on a correctly-set shoulder to retain the side gait and reach, so treasured by the Kiwis, and matched by a flowing, athletic outline. Rio re-entered the show ring in 2001 to begin a specials career in addition to his on-going agility training.
In his first weekend out as a special, Rio placed fourth in the Herding Group at the January 2001 Abilene Kennel Club Show. Rio's focus in the ring was all business. Breeder and co-owner Robyn Powley, standing ring-side, had a bit more trouble keeping her enthusiasm in check. While Rio and Storey calmly stood in the center of the ring to receive the ribbon, Robyn called to Rio in delight and excitement. Not wanting to ignore her, Rio gave a quick turn of his head and a slight wag of his tail before locking his gaze back on Storey. His message was clear, "Not now mom, I'm working."
As 2001 came to a close, other breed and group wins followed and Rio was ranked 13th in breed points for Border Collies in the US. Storey showed Rio at the inaugural American Kennel Club Invitational show in Orlando, Florida, on December 12, 2001.
2002 found Rio in the expert hands of Jill Bell at shows across the United States. Rio won many best of breeds, multiple group placements and a Group 1 against top competition.
2003 was a mixed year for Rio. He was bred once to Ch Acoma's Sky Dancer but the litter produced only a single puppy. A very nice puppy to be sure, but only one. Rio showed off and on, winning enough to stay in the top 20 of the Border Collie breed nationally.
2004 started off on the east coast with Rio now in the ring with Michael Scott and going head to head against the Border Collies with the big $ behind them. The Westminster Kennel Club show on February 10 ended with Rio gaining his first Award of Merit at the Garden.
March wins at the Louisville, KY., circuit put Rio into the number 1 breed dog spot for Border Collies in the USA.
In January 2005, Rio was once again entered at the AKC Invitation Dog Show. His consistancy of type, showmanship, and partnership with breeder, Robyn Powley, won him the Best Bred By Exhibitor award.
Rio retired from the ring and stud service in 2007.
