Sporting Chance

How and where to get in the game

Comments (0) By Julie Dunn Thursday, Feb 13 2003

Do you think your little Fido is the greatest doggie ever? All owners do, but we'll see who really is the "Best in Show" at the Rocky Mountain Cluster Dog Show, held this weekend at the National Western Stock Show Complex.

Christopher Smith

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"The agility and obedience competitions are great, with dogs jumping through hoops and ducking in and out of weave poles," says Rene Green, spokeswoman for the event. "There are so many really fun events to watch."

Sponsored by the Plum Creek Kennel Club of Castle Rock and the Colorado Kennel Club of Denver, the event will gather more than 2,500 dogs representing 158 breeds. They will be competing with their handlers in three categories: obedience, agility and conformation, in which dogs are judged against their breeds' standard description. All will be hoping to win a coveted title.

"Competing is very exciting for both of us," says Green, who will also be participating in the show with her Russian wolfhound. "Working as a team with your dog is very rewarding."

On top of crazy canine antics, over a hundred vendors will be on hand selling puppy paraphernalia. If you're in the market for a new four-legged friend, swing by the daily "Meet the Breed" showcases, or pick out a new pooch at the "Parade of Rescued Dogs."

Admission to the show, Friday through Monday at the National Western Stock Show Complex, 4655 Humboldt Street, costs $3 per day for adults; seniors over sixty and kids under twelve are admitted free. Competitions start at 8 a.m. daily, log on to www.plumcreekkennelclub.com for a complete schedule, or call 303-297-1166 for further information.