2023 AKC NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP BIS & GROUP JUDGES
KAROLYNNE McATEER SPORTING GROUP
8. A dog show of this magnitude is a monumental under - taking. Is there anything you’d like to say on behalf of the AKC and the show’s sponsors? Again, the organization, the ring size, lighting, and footing are all very good examples of how a show should be put on. In today’s world, it’s very difficult to get a venue that fits every- body’s needs—and it takes a lot of money if one is even avail- able. Royal Canin’s presence is done in great taste and blends in beautifully with the style and mission of the event. Their partnership is key to the success of the event. And I cannot say enough about the AKC staff, from the show committee to the support staff. You have to remember they have full-time jobs keeping the AKC operating day-to-day; to also commit their time and effort to put on this world-class event is a great reflection of their dedication and work ethic. 9. Are there specific ways in which this show furthers the cause of purebred dogs? The mere fact that it is televised and is sponsored by Royal Canin and the American Kennel Club brings a lot of atten- tion to purebred dogs for the benefit of the general public. The extra footage added to the final broadcast, and the correspond- ing social media before and after the show, is an excellent way to promote purebred dogs and the human-canine bond. 10. Now that it’s over, what are your thoughts on the 2023 show year? Any thoughts on the year ahead? You hear a lot about how there are not as many good breeders as yesteryear, but you wouldn’t know it if you watched this year’s Groups and Best in Show. In the years that I’ve been involved in this sport, things have only gotten better. “In today’s world, it’s very difficult to get a venue that fits everybody’s needs—and it takes a lot of money if one is even available. Royal Canin’s presence is done in great taste and blends in beautifully with the style and mission of the event. Their partnership is key to the success of the event. And I cannot say enough about the AKC staff, from the show committee to the support staff.”
1. Can you describe your reaction to receiving an invitation to judge the Non-Sporting Group at the AKC National Cham- pionship Presented by Royal Canin? As most people now know, I covered the wonderful Pluis Davern’s Sporting Group assignment when she became “under the
weather.” Everyone hoped she’d feel well enough to make it, so I was not posted as her replacement until Friday. Big shoes to fill. 2. What were you thinking or feeling moments before you stepped into the center of the Group ring? Entering the ring and turning to the entrance, I was absolute- ly taken by the fact that, as dog after dog entered the ring, in the end there were 35 Sporting Dogs in the arena. How often do we see that! And what a treat for my eyes and my hands as I went over the dogs. It was not a surprise that the quality was exceptional; breeders had brought their best, and it was a learned and experienced panel of judges that had these breeds during the day. I got the reward of the breeders’ work, and the judges’ decisions. The real work begins after you have examined the last dog in the lineup, and you go over your “mental notes” as to what you had seen. The Sporting Group is the epitome of the ca- nine athlete, so it is particularly important that the phrase “purpose-bred” be at the forefront of decisions; correct bone to reflect the original geography over which they hunted, correct headpiece to carry their game, soundness, and a sil- houette that reflects the “whole package.” And when I think condition, I think appropriate muscle. That is what was on my mind as I made my cut to 10. This meant 25 dogs of great quality were excused. 3. Do you have a word or two about your Group winner? As I took my cut around individually, the four placements emerged, as I thought they would. Exceptional quality x 4. The German Shorthaired Pointer had a wonderful silhouette and covered the ring as though he owned it; this took GCHG Ch VJK-Myst Heir to the Throne JH FDC CGCA CGCU KN BN-V to First Place. 4. Are there specific ways in which this show furthers the cause of purebred dogs This event and the surrounding events of the week are
SHOWSIGHT MAGAZINE, JANUARY 2024 | 157
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