WKC 2023 (Part 2)
This year was the first year for a New Westminster Kennel Club venue, back in NYC, but rather than the Piers or the Garden, at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. We spoke to those in attendance about their experience and how it stacked up to years prior.
Exhibitor Name: Meghann Belser
How many times have you attended WKC?
I’ve been 4 times, each one being a different experience. From the Piers with both levels, Piers with the downstairs only, Lindhurst, and this year at the USTA Billie Jean Arena
Were you there as an exhibitor or spectator? What day/ breed
I attended Monday, and set up on Sunday. I was proud to represent English toy spaniels (King Charles and Ruby) as the only owner handler in the ring.
If you’ve been to other WKC venues, how do you feel this venue compared? What did you like?
I had a lot of anxiety coming to the event initially, as I feel most exhibitors had. However, I found it was much easier than I anticipated with items such as parking your car elsewhere and shuttling. I enjoyed that this venue had the magical feeling of being back at the Piers, and of being back at a special dog show. The outdoor rings all had covers should it rain, which was a nice added touch.
What did you dislike or feel could be improved about the venue or location?
The initial check in process was confusion, as myself and many checking in at 6am were surprised to find our tickets were not accepted, and we had to go to MBF to get wrist bands. It would be convenient to have the wrist band exchange at the gate to smooth the process and reduce the amount of confused exhibitors trying to then scramble to the line inside the MBF office. Additionally, it would be nice to see a variety venues outside of the sponsors, as well as additional “pop up” food/drink/snack vendors outside of the standard park pizza and burgers that were offered. One disappointment I will add is the lack of spectators, especially at the Groups rings. Understanding that, of course, the demographics take a play with this. But wonder if more could be done in the way of marketing to bring spectators to see the beauty of purebred dogs.
How likely would you be to attend at this date and venue again?
100% – I preferred this over Lyndhurst Mansion (even though, as a photographer, portrait locations are limited in the concrete jungle). Having the available grooming is essential, and knowing our dogs are protected from the elements should Mother Nature choose to not behave. Bonus – no February snow of being at the Piers!
Exhibitor Name: Jennie Chen
How many times have you attended WKC?
I’ve attended WKC twice as an exhibitor. The time previous was 2020 at the Garden. I exhibited Löwchen both times.
If you’ve been to other WKC venues, how do you feel this venue compared? What did you like?
I can’t really compare Madison Square Garden to the USTA center in the vibes. It is so dramatically different in feel. They both have their perks and challenges. I did like the outdoor feel of the USTA center with multiple outdoor places to take photos with dogs, instead of crowding into a single spot indoors.
What did you dislike or feel could be improved about the venue or location?
The flooring on the courts outside (ring 1-6) was odd today the least. When gaiting, you would feel the platform flooring flex instead of feel solid. I know I made some missteps there when landing on the wobbly areas.
How likely would you be to attend at this date and venue again?
Westminster is a long-standing celebration of the sport of purebred dogs. While the date may be a factor on my ability to attend, the venue doesn’t impact my willingness to attend. As it is more and more difficult to find willing and able venues, I am grateful that the show continues to move forward.
Exhibitor Name: Donna Fierko Beadle
How many times have you attended WKC? 3
Were you there as an exhibitor or spectator? What day/ breed
exhibitor Berger Picard Monday
If you’ve been to other WKC venues, how do you feel this venue compared? What did you like?
It was nice but I still like Madison square Garden best
What did you dislike or feel could be improved about the venue or location?
It’s really big and more signage for shuttles would be great. The acoustics in the main building isn’t great so it was hard to hear what was being said.
How likely would you be to attend at this date and venue again?
I don’t like this time. I wish it go back to beginning of February
Exhibitor Name: Deanna
How many times have you attended WKC?
20+
Were you there as an exhibitor or spectator? What day/ breed
Exhibitor, both days, multiple breeds
If you’ve been to other WKC venues, how do you feel this venue compared? What did you like?
I REALLY loved the venue!!! Parking, crating, rings were all great. With a feel of the old Garden
What did you dislike or feel could be improved about the venue or location?
More food options
How likely would you be to attend at this date and venue again? I absolutely LOVE the dates and venue I would 100% come back!!!