DENNIS B. SPRUNG NOHS FINALS BEST IN SHOW
1. Can you describe your reaction to receiving an invitation to judge the Finals of the National Owner-Handled Series (NOHS) at the AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin? During a planning session for the show, Gina and Michael suggested that I judge Best at the AKC National Owner-Handled Series Finals. I was initially hesitant due to my responsibilities as Show Chair. How- ever, knowing that our Show Committee and staff are most capable to carry on I willingly accepted. 2. What does it mean to judge this singular event at the only all- breed show organized directly by the American Kennel Club? As a former Judge, my belief has been that every AKC assignment is one to be proud of. This entry was impressive at 875 and I was confi- dent the Group Judges would send quality into the Finals. 3. In your opinion, how does this show differ from other AKC events? It differs in size and scope, being the largest Conformation show in North America, with its combination of Junior Showmanship, Fast CAT, Agility, Obedience, National Owner-Handled Series Finals, Puppy & Junior Stakes and Bred-By. The aggregate entry was 9,801. The magnitude of the events requires intricate planning to execute the logistics necessary to serve our Breed- ers, Exhibitors, and Judges, and in achieving with the many volunteers who give of their knowledge and time. 4. What were you thinking or feeling moments before you stepped into the center of the NOHS Finals ring? I was calm and looking forward to the balance of the evening’s Groups, the entire next day, and then the crowning of America’s National Champion. 5. Was there a heightened energy coming from the dog and owner- handled teams? Did you feel the energy of the spectators? Certainly, I did feel that excitement, as the quality was evident, witness- ing healthy, well-tempered purebred dogs combined with the human- canine bond and breed-specific presentations. Our spectators, many of whom are dog people, appreciated the depth of the competition.
OUR SPECTATORS, MANY OF WHOM ARE DOG PEOPLE, APPRECIATED THE DEPTH OF THE COMPETITION.
182 | SHOWSIGHT MAGAZINE, JANUARY 2024
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