Would you like to have some howling good family fun for a fantastic price this Labor Day weekend? Then load up the kids and head to The Bluegrass Classic Dog Shows.
This annual event presented by the Lexington Kennel Club, Mid-Kentucky Kennel Club, and Northern Kentucky Kennel Club will be held at the Kentucky Horse Park Campground in Lexington, Kentucky from August 31 to September 4.
Just take I-75 and follow the signs to the Kentucky Horse Park, located at 4089 Iron Works Pike.
Admission is $5.00 per person or $8.00 for a carload.
You’ll find a professional event in a clean, relaxed, family atmosphere. If you are a regular dog show fan, you’ll see familiar faces.
I found this out a few years ago when my son, Victor, told me he recognized Jimmy Moses. Honestly, that name did not ring a bell until he reminded me that Moses was the handler of the famous German Shepherd Dallas. (Dallas was a regular breed winner, group winner, and even Best in Show winner on the major circuit.)
I wasn’t confident he was indeed Moses, so Victor challenged me to ask him. At first I resisted, but Victor kept prodding me. I can’t believe I had the nerve to ask, but it seemed important to Victor. This man had never seen me before and most likely would never again, so I took the plunge.
Of course, Victor was right! Jimmy Moses was a very gracious professional. He was friendly and took the time to speak to us!
Now I look carefully to see if I recognize any of the familiar faces from the big shows covered by television.
Our family has been attending this event for several years. Each year we look forward to feasting our eyes on some of the more uncommon breeds of dogs as well as some of our favorites.
The dogs in these shows are immaculately groomed and exhibit ultimate manners and grace.
Many dogs are shown by professional handlers, like Moses. A professional handler may groom and show several dogs, which is the ultimate in multi-tasking. Some are actually handled by their owners.
Dog show people spend many weekends a year traveling all over the country earning points and championship titles. Many travel in RVs. You’ll see a myriad of RVs at the campground as dogs are groomed and waiting their turns in the ring.
While professional dog people view these competitions as the important events they are--to themselves and the dogs, I look forward to the event as an enjoyable family day of fun. I’m a dog person, and it’s a real treat to be in the presence of so many different canines.
The vendors at the show offer a different kind of entertainment. They come from all over the country to present their finest wares—everything from gourmet dog treats to human attire sporting your favorite breed. To the non-dog person, some of the merchandise may be tacky, but to dog people it is treasure!
The actual competition takes place under a huge tent. This is an outdoor event, so bring lawn chairs if you plan to stay for several hours. Children will enjoy the freedom to walk about as they watch.
Wear comfortable shoes and feel free to dress casually to beat the heat.
While the show begins at 8:00 a.m. and ends at 4:00 p.m., you can feel free to come and leave at your own convenience.
The only downside to this show is the Port-a-Potties. So you might want to go before you get there!
