I hope other's see this thread the way I do.....
You have someone who posted who is pretty proud of the growth rate and
general health and development of the koi and the breeder who made them.
you have a respected judge who knows what it takes to win in shows
and we have your comments that seem to say that there are other ways to view koi...that part of the journey is to patiently await the outcome. If it falls short of show criteria will it still be the owner's special koi they look for each morning that brings them joy.
I quess that's what makes this chat line a sounding board for different viewpoints. Each valid yet helpfull in understanding the different ways to enjoy this hobby
