— Records More Than 3 Million Entries —
The American Kennel Club® (AKC®) leapt over the 3 million entry mark in 2010, recording a total of more than 3,014,000 dog entries across all conformation, companion and performance events. The growth over the number of entries received in 2009 was sparked by the ever-growing interest in the sport of Agility, where entries increased by 9%. The new “Grand Champion” title assisted shows by providing an increase of over 40,000 additional entries in Best of Breed. This equates to more than $1.2 million in additional entry fees to Conformation clubs.
“We were very proud to see the uptick in entries,” said Dennis B. Sprung, AKC’s President and CEO. “The increase is a promising step forward for our clubs in the face of a persistently challenging economy. We will continue to research ways to enhance the fun and value of competing in each of our sports.”
In addition, Sprung said, “We salute the finest Agility competitors in the nation who continue to set records; the entire AKC community appreciates their skills.”
The 2010 entry total includes entries from all-breed and specialty conformation shows, obedience, field trials, hunt tests, coonhound events, herding tests and trials, lure coursing, agility, earthdog, tracking and rally.