Table Talk · May 12, 2023
And just like that another Westminster Kennel Club dog show is in the rearview mirror! The members of the Westminster Kennel Club along with John and Harry Miller and the Site Control folks (more fondly known as the men in orange) worked incredibly hard to provide those in our sport with another memorable show! While there was early speculation of how it was all going to work, I did not hear any negative comments which is unusual. Everyone I spoke to raved about the location and the show! A huge thank you to everyone who made the 2023 Westminster Kennel Club dog show very special!
The USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis center was magically transformed into the home of Westminster for events from May 6-9. Unloading and loading, shuttle service, and grooming was amazing! The Arthur Ashe Stadium was an incredible option for Group and Best In Show competition, and the BJTA staff was friendly and helpful.
I felt a great sense of community at this year’s show. Going into the city to enjoy traditions that we have missed the past several years was simply amazing. My heart is full after witnessing so much support for the Juniors who are the future of our sport. I am seeing so much more appreciation, mentorship and support of the junior competitors. Keep it up, my friends!
I also saw several rings with spectators standing four deep to watch their favorite breeds. It has been a few years since I have seen this, and it was a beautiful sight to behold.
One thing missing that I think would be a welcome addition to the Westminster broadcast is full coverage of the Juniors Finals. FS1 did a couple of small “hits” of the Finals competition this year, but I truly think that the kids–and the fancy as a whole–deserve the Juniors Finals coverage to be consistent with the group competition coverage. What better way to encourage participation than to televise one of the most important Junior Showmanship competitions of the year?
What do you do if you are back home in the UK and your dog wins the group at Westminster?? If you are Gavin Robertson, you immediately book a flight to New York so you can be ringside to cheer on your dog and your team! Gavin, I am so glad you could get a visa and arrive in time to witness Buddy Holly’s big win! Congratulations to team Buddy Holly on a magical night and a most deserved Best In Show win. I think it was an outstanding and beautiful lineup of purebred dogs. A PBGV has never gone Best In Show at Westminster prior to this year.
Gina Weiser had incredible words for everyone associated with this dog: Success in life can never be an accident. It is the result of right decisions at the right time. Champions are not the people who never fail, but the people who never quit.
Vicki Cushman, the Juniors Finals judge, took a bit of a fall on the stairs earlier on Tuesday and had some pretty good lacerations on her legs. Once again, she demonstrated her ability to overcome adversity; and she didn’t miss a beat for her coveted assignment on Tuesday evening. Looking absolutely stunning as usually, Vicki stood center ring and performed her assignment with poise, elegance and expertise.
Ania Kelly had an A-Fib episode while showing at Westminster on Tuesday. Grahm Swayze pitched in to help, and Ania was able to finish up with her dog. She was taken to the hospital via ambulance, and they were able to get her heart rate regulated. Of course, handlers pitched in to help ensure that her dogs were cared for properly. Take care of yourself, my friend!
I hear Liz Muthard has been released from the hospital after suffering a stroke. It took a few days to get her blood pressure regulated, but she is doing better. Through it all, she remained in good spirits. I am sure Charlie will take great care of her while she recuperates. We hope to see them both at a show very soon.
Fanciers celebrating birthdays this week include: Heather Johnson, Dylan Kipp Keith, Patrice Lawrence, Patrina Odette, Jackie Fisher and Alessandra Folz. May your special day be filled with joy, great friends and loving family.
If you have not had the opportunity, be sure to check out our Table Talk Live coverage of Westminster on The Canine Chronicle Facebook page and Canine Chronicle TV. Thanks to everyone who participated. Our next stop for live coverage will be another of my favorites, The Houston World Series of Dog Shows in July!
I am praying for safe travels to you all. Please do not forget that you choose to show dogs. Your dog is trying to please you! Show a little extra love just as they do for us! Don’t let the ugly in others destroy the beauty in you! Until next time…
#westminsterdogshow #caninechronicle#thecaninechronicle#caninechroniclemagazine
Short URL: http://caninechronicle.com/?p=263158
Posted by Comments are closed
