A Conformation dog show…in a mall?! Who’s ever heard of such a thing? We hadn’t until we learned about “Match in the Mall” held by the Abilene Kennel Club in Abilene, Texas.
The club held this small “match” to bring the wonder and excitement of the sport of purebred dogs to the public, and of course, to have some fun with dogs and friends.
The competition took place on Saturday, May 20th, 2017. With 19 “regular” match entries and eight champions for exhibition in Conformation and two Novice, five Beginner Novice, and 10 Rally Novice in Obedience.
Participants came from all over the state, including some from Ft. Worth (150 miles away), Midland (150 miles away), and Lubbock (170 miles away). Distance can’t come between the love and pride we have in showing and participating in sports with our dogs!
Seven of the individuals competing in the Conformation exhibition had never shown a dog, compared with five in Obedience.
While the event went on throughout the day, spectators came to watch the competition and enquire about handling classes and kennel club membership.
After an intensely fun exhibition, a Siberian Husky puppy was named “Best in Match” and a Black Cocker Spaniel was named “Best Champion in Match.” The Cocker Spaniel was handled by a junior.
What a unique way to showcase the sport of purebred dogs! Clearly the “Match in the Mall” was a fun and exciting day for all. Two thumbs up for the initiative and creativity of the Abilene Kennel Club. We can’t wait to see the draw from all over Texas for next year’s event.
Learn more about the Abilene Kennel Club and see more pictures from the event on their Facebook page, here.