Double Edged Sword – Two Shows in One Day

by Cheslie Pickett

Last October, the Dog Show Superintendent Association proposed that AKC allow clubs to hold two all-breed dog shows on the same day. The benefits and reasons cited in their proposal included fewer expenses for clubs and more opportunities to show for exhibitors. They also specifically noted that this could be a financial benefit for shows that continue to experience decline in entries.

The AKC answered the proposal at the December 2013 Board meeting, approving a pilot program, which allows clubs with small entries to hold two shows in one day. There were a few limitations involved in the pilot program, such as, an entry limit of 500 dogs for each show and no concurrent specialties allowed in conjunction with the shows. AKC encouraged the use of multiple group rings at these shows. The announcement of AKC allowing two shows to be held in one day was met with excitement from some and uncertainty from others.

The first shows of this nature are coming up on Saturday, July 12^th. These shows include the Riverhead Kennel Club and the Brookhaven Kennel Club in Yaphank, New York. They close this Wednesday, June 25^th. These clubs will also be the first shows to execute having two all breed dog shows in one day. The Premium List states that the second show cannot begin until thirty minutes after the first show ends. I have reached out to several New York residents for their opinion of the upcoming Riverhead and Brookhaven Kennel Club shows – many were not even aware of the new format of these shows sharing the same date. Unfortunately, the Premium list for these shows does not promote the clubs sharing the same date in a new and exciting way.

These shows, and future clubs that follow suit by holding two shows in one day will prove whether the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. Some exhibitors have noted that having the opportunity to show twice in one day would limit their own travel expenses and increase their chances for points. Other exhibitors have also expressed that they have shown at two shows in one day at UKC shows and Canadian shows with no issues.  Other exhibitors have noted that showing twice in one day would make a very long day for dogs, judges, and exhibitors. Judges may feel fatigued or rushed during their respective judging assignments. Also, clubs that follow AKC’s suggestion that multiple group rings are used will create unwanted ring conflicts for handlers.  In my own opinion, having two shows in one day will certainly lack time for camaraderie and fellowship among handlers and exhibitors.

Time will tell how the AKC’s pilot program is received. AKC plans to rate the success of the pilot program after a year and a report will be presented to the Board with a recommendation for future shows.

Short URL: http://caninechronicle.com/?p=51809

Posted by chesliepickett on Jun 24 2014. Filed under Featured, The Buzz. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Both comments and pings are currently closed.