BEST BREED IN SHOW SPOTLIGHT JUDGE 2022 • DR . DON STURZ OF BROOKLYN , NEW YORK
WHAT WAS YOUR REACTION WHEN ASKED TO JUDGE BIS AT WESTMINSTER ?
Shock and awe ! The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is so highly regarded and is considered the most prestigious dog show event in the world . My relationship with Westminster goes back to childhood , has spanned many decades , and has manifested in different roles over time . This opportunity takes it all to a whole new level ! I am both honored and humbled .
WHAT DO YOU THINK WILL BE THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT OF THIS ASSIGNMENT ?
There are two aspects which I have thought about as challenges . As a judge , I expect the quality of the seven group winners to be extremely high at this event which makes for a very challenging task of choosing the best of the best . You are literally splitting hairs on which one represents their breed ’ s ideal most closely as well as performs under the pressure of the moment .
The other challenge for me will be an emotional one . My mom was integrally involved and supportive throughout my career in dogs . She was present at all the major show wins and all the major milestones as a judge . She was present the first time I showed at Westminster as a child and the first time I judged at Westminster as an adult . She understood the significant role that my love of dogs and this sport has played in my life , and she always encouraged and supported me in it . Sadly , she passed away this year and I will miss not being able to share this moment with her although I am sure I will be thinking of her when I step on to the floor to judge Best In Show .
GROWING UP IN THE SPORT YOU HAVE EXPERIENCED MANY ROLES INCLUDING BREEDER , OWNER , AND HANDLER . WHEN JUDGING THE 7 GROUP WINNERS WILL THESE EXPERIENCES AFFECT YOUR SELECTION ?
I just took my youngest dog to her first show this year and it was the weekend following the public announcement of my Best in Show judging assignment at Westminster . Lola was very excited , wiggled and wagged her tail when the judge examined her , and hopped a few times when she gaited but we had fun . It was a beautiful contrast between the importance and honor of my role as a judge juxtaposed with the fact that I am , at the end of the day , just a guy who loves dogs . Having continued to be active in the sport will assure my awareness and appreciation for the commitment and efforts of the breeders , owners , and handlers of the 7 group winners and the range of feelings they will be experiencing that night . It will be a privilege to share that magical moment with them all .
DON STURZ
24 WESTMINSTER KENNEL CLUB 2022