Setting up a show of this size is no easy task, but the members of AKC handle it with tremendous efficiency and a pleasantness that sets the tone for a thoroughly enjoyable four days.
Exhibitors begin arriving early Thursday to find attractive and spacious rings already laid out with huge canopies in place to protect the dogs from the elements. Encircling the show rings are rows of large tents to accommodate the many vendors who will be in attendance.
Within hours the beautiful grounds of Shouldice Athletic Park are transformed into a mini city with areas for day campers, RVs, vans and even Tent Town for those who will sleep on the ground rather than miss any part of the show.
Throughout the weekend there is a spirit of celebration and a camraderie that is seldom seen at shows. Old friendships are re-newed and new friendships are forged. Exhibitors crowd the Specialty, Group and Best in Show rings, alongside throngs of spectators, to cheer on their breeds, their friends and fellow competitors. After the last ribbons of the day are handed out and dogs are ex'd and fed, the festivities continue with any number of specialty events, club dinners, barbeques or just groups of people gathering together to enjoy the company of fellow dog lovers. Even those notorious prairie cloudbursts cannot put a damper on this well run event.
I have attended this show in various capacities for over 20 years and I never ceased to be impressed by this club's constant desire to better each successive show. Its promotion of the sport of purebred dogs is unmatched. Superb media coverage with constant radio spots and filmed TV hi-lights throughout the four days attracts thousands of spectators, and a full page newspaper ad containing the complete judging schedule ensures that no one will miss seeing his or her favorite breed.
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