MR . ROBERT H . SLAY OF CARY , NORTH CAROLINA
• BEST IN SHOW JUDGE •
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO A LONGTIME JUDGE TO RECEIVE THIS INVITATION ? This judging assignment was and will always be the pinnacle of my judging career . It was a great honor and privilege to judge Best in Show at “ America ’ s Dog Show .” Canine history is made every February at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show and it was humbling to be a major part of the 2020 show .
WHAT WAS THE MOST DIFFICULT PART OF THIS JUDGING ASSIGNMENT ? Actually , judging the seven Group winners in Best in Show was not that difficult because they were all so outstanding . Best in Show at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show means so much to so many that it added some mental pressure to make sure I did the best job I was capable of doing .
IS THE AUDIENCE APPLAUSE AND CHEERING A DISTRACTION ? The audience applause was no distraction for me . I love to see the audience enjoy watching purebred dogs being shown and getting into the excitement , but the judge has the responsibility to select the dog he / she determines to be the best and should never be influenced by things outside the ring .
WHAT HAS MADE THE SPORT A LIFELONG PASSION FOR YOU ? The love of dogs .
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU LIKE TO GIVE TO PEOPLE NEW TO THE SPORT ? Be yourself , be honest , take care of your dogs , and become a lifelong student of purebred dogs . Do these things and the sport will reward you with a lifetime of enjoyment .
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This judging assignment was and will always be the pinnacle of my judging career .
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– Mr . Robert H . Slay
LEFT : JACK GRASSA , RIGHT : HALEIGH MANSFIELD
50 WESTMINSTER KENNEL CLUB 2021