Somewhere in Canada
right now, there are two women who ought be exceedingly proud. They
wanted something, went after it and got it.
Thanks to them, this year - for the first time ever - the Canadian National Specialty will play host to all-breed agility and rally trials. To some, this may seem small potatoes.
We say, "Holy Smokes!"
Admittedly, Mary-Anne Boulet and June Stevens have drooled over the American National for years. In Mary-Anne's words, "you have the tracking, the herding, the
agility, the obedience AND the conformation. . . To me the American National celebrates the total dog."
While I am certain the
pair will shy away from the spotlight and give credit to others, we
wish to publicly - and loudly - thank them for what they have done.
Consider this:
- In a year where entries are down Nationwide due to astronomical gas
prices and a bad economy, these women found a relatively inexpensive
way to make their club money. Agility is hugely popular and draws both
exhibitors and spectators;
- Aside from the above-mentioned cash influx the GSDCC will see in
entry fees, the women also found a way to bring attention to the event,
and the club. This could add new members, and the spectators will have
a place to learn about our breed in a valuable and meaningful way;
-Lastly, as Mary-Anne said above, the German Shepherd Dog is the 'total dog.' This is yet another way to show just that. "We are hoping for lovely cool weather and a huge GSD
contingent, so that what has begun here can grow and more disciplines can be
incorporated into the Canadian National Specialty Show," Mary-Anne said.
These women did face obstacles
- judges in short supply and, once booked, moving across the country; a
lack of local equipment. But the GSDCC officers, to their immense
credit, were supportive.
It seems to us that the best show in North America, which also happens
to have the nicest site, the friendliest people and the most wonderful
atmosphere,is going to be a smash in 2008.
We won't miss a minute of it.