The National Exhibition Centre, home to Crufts.
Thu, 03/23/2023 - 8:28pm

Editorial: March 24, 2023

Crowds at Crufts

This week’s issue of Dog News has two articles about the Crufts Dog Show, held on March 9 through 12, 2023. They are written by Our Dogs editor and Dog News contributor Vince Hogan, and American Barbara Anderson, who has made the crossing to Crufts for more years than she cares to remember. First-time visitors to Crufts come away from that experience either overwhelmed by its size and activities, or not quite sure of what to make of what some have called a trade show. But the more years you attend, you come to the realization that it is both dog show and trade show, with lots of added attractions that works in perfect harmony. The United Kingdom (England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland) has a population of approximately 67 million people. Crufts is viewed by 12 million on television and a staggering 155,000 attend the show. These numbers do not include streaming and other online numbers. At the helm of operating this massive four-day event is show manager Vanessa McAlpine. Vanessa retired from the Kennel Club and as show manager, a position she has held for more than two decades. Vanessa graciously shares her success with her team that put together this massive four-day event. A favorite spot for visitors from around the world is the famed Overseas Visitors Lounge, which was co-hosted by Liz Cartledge and Irene Terry. Sadly, Irene passed away recently, and the lounge was unavailable this year. On the up side, the show made gains on its pre-pandemic entries, exhibitors and attendees. It’s still a show that should be attended at least one time. 

On this side of the pond, the Westminster Kennel Club has announced the entries for its upcoming dog show at the Billy Jean King National Tennis Center, a new venue for the club as it continues its search for a permanent home. As a rule, we don't comment on the operation of kennel clubs, but we would be remiss if we didn't mention a major development at the aforementioned Westminster Kennel Club. Dr. Donald Sturz, Jr., has been elected as the new president of Westminster, and with that comes his lifelong devotion to purebred dogs and the sport. A second-generation Long Island fancier, he brings youth and fresh ideas along with a long understanding of the club’s tradition and unique position in holds in our sport. We wish him the best of luck along with our unconditional support.

 

 

© Dog News. This article may not be reposted, reprinted, rewritten, excerpted or otherwise duplicated in any medium without the express written permission of the publisher.

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