Interview With Eugene Blake – 2022 AKC National Championship Bred-By-Exhibitor Judge
Can you describe your reaction to receiving an invitation to judge the Bred-By-Exhibitor Non-Sporting Group at the AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin?
Eugene Blake: I was thrilled and honored to be invited to judge the BBE Non-Sporting Group for the AKC National Championship Show for 2022.
What does it mean to judge this event at the only all-breed show organized directly by the American Kennel Club?
Eugene Blake: Breeders are the backbone of our sport, and I always want to support and reward our great breeders.
In your opinion, how does this show differ from other AKC events?
Eugene Blake: This competition highlights the breeders, and therefore, this is a most important competition for our dedicated breeders.
What were you thinking or feeling moments before you stepped into the center of the Bred-By-Exhibitor Non-Sporting Group ring?
Eugene Blake: I was excited to see these outstanding dogs and find the best dogs according to their AKC Breed Standards.
Was there a heightened energy coming from the dog and handler teams? Did you feel the energy of the spectators?
Eugene Blake: I believe breeders, at this level of competition, are so proud of their dogs, and their presentation of their dogs reflects their lifelong dedication to their breed. I don’t hear the spectators, I am concentrating on the dogs completely.
I believe breeders, at this level of competition, are so proud of their dogs, and their presentation of their dogs reflects their lifelong dedication to their breed.
How challenging was this assignment? Can you share your selection process?
Eugene Blake: The Non-Sporting Group is the most diverse Group to judge. You have the glamorous Poodles and the “what you see is what you get” Xoloitzcuintli. You must keep foremost in your mind the AKC Breed Standards. The Non-Sporting Group was steeped with quality.
Do you have a word or two about your BBE Non-Sporting Group winner? About the dogs that placed?
Eugene Blake: My placements speak for themselves. All are outstanding breed representatives.
Breeders are fundamental to the health and welfare of the sport of dogs. Based on this assignment, are today’s breeders doing well by the sport and for their breeds?
Eugene Blake: I have no knowledge of the dog’s health testing for the dogs I judged. However, I would hope that all breeders are vigilant about health testing and are doing the very best for our sport and for their breed.
A dog show of this magnitude is a monumental undertaking. Is there anything you’d like to say on behalf of the AKC and the show’s sponsors?
Eugene Blake: This show is, without a doubt, the most amazing show. The American Kennel Club should be applauded for this event. Michael Canalizo, Dennis Sprung, and their team—wow! I cannot imagine the amount of time, work, and energy that is required to accomplish this event. I want to personally thank them all for giving this to our dog show family.
Now that it’s over, what are your thoughts on the 2022 show year? Any thoughts on the year ahead?
Eugene Blake: How can you top 2022? Only by breeding the best dogs that will compete in future competitions at the AKC National Championship Shows.
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