AKC NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP NOHS FINALS BEST IN SHOW
IT ABSOLUTELY HIGHLIGHTS THE IMPORTANT POSITION OF THE OWNER-HANDLER WITHIN THE AKC UNIVERSE. IN THE FINALS, EACH HANDLER WAS PROFICIENT IN PORTRAYING THEIR DOG’S UNIQUE BREED CHARACTERISTICS. THESE HANDLERS CAN HOLD THEIR OWN IN ANY COMPETITION WITH ANYONE. AS I STATED, THE SEVEN HANDLERS WERE SUPERB; WITH THE TWO WINNERS HAPPENING TO BE JUNIORS, WHICH DEMONSTRATES A BRIGHT FUTURE IN THE WORLD FOR CONFORMATION.
6. How challenging was this assignment? Can you share your selection process? Not challenging, as it was actually another enjoyable experience. My examination process was to individually examine, sending each down and back to a free-stack, then around the ring. Next was a look at their profiles and another full circle to view the silhouette in motion. I did as each of our Judges do in comparing every dog to the Parent Club Breed Standard and choose the one closest for Best. 7. Do you have a word or two about your NOHS Finals winner? About the Group winners? In my opinion, the Irish Setter exudes breed type, presented in excellent condition, and handled very well. The Australian Shepherd is pure qual- ity and in superb condition. 8. Are there specific ways in which the NOHS furthers the cause of purebred dogs? It absolutely highlights the important position of the Owner-Handler within the AKC Universe. In the Finals, each handler was proficient in portraying their dog’s unique breed characteristics. These handlers can hold their own in any competition with anyone. As I stated, the seven handlers were superb; with the two winners happening to be Juniors, which demonstrates a bright future in the world for Conformation.
9. A show of this magnitude is a monumental un- dertaking. Is there anything you’d like to say on behalf of the AKC and the show’s sponsors? I thank my committee for their outstanding work throughout the planning year; Gina, Michael, Jason, Amanda, Paula, and Ashley. Also, the dedicated staff in AKC and Royal Canin who contributed mightily with planning and follow through. It is a passion of love for the sports. There are countless details to at- tend to before, during, and after the events. My ap- preciation to AKC’s Board of Directors for the con- fidence placed in staff to serve our constituency well. 10. Now that it’s over, what are your thoughts on the 2023 show year? Any thoughts on the year ahead? We achieved many successes in 2023. The last two years have been record-setting both in the number of events and entries. With 27 sports, we have something for everyone, and as a result, we have welcomed many newcomers under our umbrella, the result of responsi- ble breeding, responsible ownership, good sportsman- ship, and the promotion of the AKC brand.
SHOWSIGHT MAGAZINE, JANUARY 2024 | 183
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