FROM THE SHOW CHAIRMAN Mr. Dennis B. Sprung
It is hard to measure the sense of wonder, pride and gratitude that has swelled in our hearts as we experienced The 2017 AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin. By all accounts, our flagship dog show was an unprecedented success. Over 8,600 entries from fifty states and forty-four countries were showcased at the highest levels of competition in Conformation, Agility, Obedience, Rally, Junior Showmanship and Dock Diving. Knowledgeable volunteers from one hundred sixty Parent Clubs created an outstanding visitor educational experience at AKC Meet the Breeds, we thank each one. More than 1,225 entries in our inaugural Puppy Stakes were a veritable celebration of the future of purebred dogs and a testament to our breeders. A steady flow of spectators, live streaming of every attraction and an aus- picious air date of January 1 on Animal Planet point to robust viewer- ship across many media channels. Yet no matter the numbers, as favorable as they are, nothing proves the success of this monumental event more than the quality line-ups we saw in our rings, the cheers we heard ringside, and the smiles we saw on so many faces. And certainly none of it would be possible without our immensely talented, experienced and dedicated team of AKC staff and our devoted sponsor, Royal Canin. For seasoned owner-exhibitors and handlers to future owners, the AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin offered an experience like no other. Executing such a large-scale event with concurrent com- petitions, demonstrations and educational opportunities is a challenge and a labor of love. It is also an honor and a privilege to be entrusted with the important responsibility of promoting, advancing and celebrat- ing the sport of purebred dogs. The 2017 AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin took our passion for purebred dogs to new heights. Broken records and growth are thrilling, yet nothing motivates us more than the immeasurable power of the bond we feel with our purebred dogs. --- Dennis B. Sprung
© 2017 American Kennel Club
S how S ight M agazine , J anuary 2018 • 187
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