Interview with Barbara Robinson – Chairperson of the Gulf Coast Classic Dog Show, President of Mobile Kennel Club
What is the name of your show/cluster?
Our show is the Gulf Coast Classic Dog Show.
Where are your shows held? When?
Our shows are held in Mobile, Alabama, AKC Show Calendar Week 36.
The 2022 year was my first as Show Chair. I’ve learned a lot and I’m going to implement those ideas and lessons for 2023—our 100th Anniversary Show!
Can you please provide a brief history of your club?
We were formed in 1921. Our anniversary was in 2021. I know that at one time MKC was a vibrant club, but over the years there were a few “bumps in the road,” so to say. But we are getting back on our feet and we just had the best entry we’ve had in seven years.
How are the following accommodated at your show/cluster: Parking; Grooming; Bathing; Hospitality; Vendors; Public Education?
Parking is free. Grooming spaces are reserved for a fee and we have four outdoor, covered bathing stations. For hospitality, one of our members is a part-time caterer. Vendor spaces are rented indoors (10×10, 10×20, and 10×30). Public education is still in the planning phase.
Does your show/cluster offer the National Owner-Handled Series? Junior Showmanship? 4-6 Month Beginner Puppy? Best Bred-By? Specialties? Supported Entries?
We offer NOHS, Jr. Showmanship, 4-6 Month Beginner Puppy (next year), BBE, and a Toy Breeds Specialty. And we are working on three more and IABCA shows.
How are judging panels decided?
The Show Chair decides, hires, and assigns judges.
Who stewards at your show(s)/cluster?
Our stewards are from United Dog Show Stewards.
Are Breed Seminars and Judges Education offered?
No, not yet.
How are your show(s)/cluster promoted? TV? Radio? Print Media? Social Media?
Our shows are promoted through TV, print, and social media.
What are some of the challenges that you’ve had to face as show/cluster chair?
Due to an unexpected (but welcome) 1,200 entry rise from last year, I had to hire three judges two weeks before the show for overloads and I had to replace two judges who retired a month before the premium list came out.
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, what have you and your club members learned about putting on a dog show? What, if any, are the differences from previous years and how are you planning for the future?
The 2022 year was my first as Show Chair. I’ve learned a lot and I’m going to implement those ideas and lessons for 2023—our 100th Anniversary Show!
In closing, I must thank my Committee Chairs and those who really helped to make ours a very successful show.
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