Underdog Triumphs at the Prestigious Westminster Dog Show
Witnessing an outstanding performance, the handler of the victorious pup expressed immense pride and gratitude. "She exceeded all expectations, and I couldn't be happier with her success," praised Sage's handler Kaz Hosaka.
Sage the Miniature Poodle was crowned best in show at the 2024 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. The fluffy all-black dog had already won the non-sporting group earlier in the event. Making history, Sage became the first female Best in Show winner since 2020, solidifying her status as a new feminist hero.
Mercedes, the German Shepherd, won the herding group and was awarded Reserve Best in Show, coming in second place for the night.
Poodles have a strong history at Westminster, with twelve standard poodles winning the top prize in the past. This year, poodles of all sizes were well represented, with 43 entries at the event.
However, Sage isn’t just a poodle. She’s a Miniature Poodle, and is the 4th of her kind to claim Westminster’s Best in Show.
Sage, a Miniature Poodle from Houston, Texas, wins Best in Show during the 2024 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in New York City.
Sage, a Miniature Poodle from Houston, Texas, wins Best in Show during the 2024 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in New York City.
Kena Betancur/AFP/Getty Images
The Westminster Dog Show, which has been entertaining fans of well-groomed dogs since 1877, is the second-oldest sporting event in the US after the Kentucky Derby.
Each year, approximately 3,000 dogs and their handlers participate in this prestigious event. The primary competition evaluates how well purebred dogs meet the standards of their breed. In addition, dogs from all backgrounds can also compete in the Masters Agility Championship and the Masters Obedience Championship.
The highlight of the event is definitely the Best in Show competition. The winning dog is selected from the seven group winners, each group representing breeds with similar characteristics, almost like a dog zodiac. This year's group winner for the Herding group is Mercedes the German Shepherd.
Hound Group: Louis the Afghan Hound
Non-sporting group: Sage the Miniature Poodle
Sporting group: Micha the Black Cocker Spaniel
Terrier group: Frankie the Bull Terrier (Colored)
Toy group: Comet the Shih Tzu
Woking group: Monty the Giant Schnauzer
Unfamiliar with the world of fine dog shows? You might be surprised to learn that the fate of the Westminster hopefuls lies in the hands of just a few judges. Each of the seven groups has only one judge who selects the winning dog from a pool of hundreds. The same goes for Best in Show, where only one judge makes the final decision. This year, Kennel Club judge Rosalind Kramer had the honor of being the Best in Show judge. Before the final round, Kramer was sequestered and did not know which dogs she would be judging until she entered the ring.
"This is the most incredible lineup of dogs, it's absolutely glorious," she exclaimed before announcing Best in Show.
The Westminster Dog Show is a great place to discover interesting facts about dogs. For example, did you know that three US presidents have had Scottish Terriers as pets? Or that dogs from Canada have won six "Best in Show" titles at Westminster?
However, this year is different. The winner of the crown is a cute little lady from Houston, Texas.
Kaz Hosaka, Sage's breeder and handler, expressed his happiness and excitement after the win. This was his final show after competing in 45 Westminster competitions. He shared, "I walked into the ring tonight and Sage seemed a bit unsure at first. But she quickly got used to it and gave a fantastic performance. I am proud of her and grateful for this opportunity."
Editor's P/S:
The 2024 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show witnessed a historic triumph for Sage, the Miniature Poodle. As the first female Best in Show winner since 2020, Sage's victory symbolizes a shift in the male-dominated world of dog shows. Her achievement serves as an inspiration to all, demonstrating that determination and talent can overcome any perceived barriers.
The Westminster Dog Show showcases the incredible diversity and beauty of the canine world. From the majestic German Shepherd to the playful Shih Tzu, each breed has its unique charm and purpose. The event also highlights the exceptional bond between humans and dogs, with handlers tirelessly dedicating themselves to the well-being and success of their furry companions. Sage's triumph is a testament to the unwavering love and dedication of her breeder and handler, Kaz Hosaka, who has witnessed firsthand the transformative power of these remarkable animals.
