Field of Champions: Celebrating Form and Function in Purebred Dogs
Can a purebred dog excel in the conformation ring while preserving the instinct and drive to work in the field? In this episode of Pure Dog Talk, host Laura Reeves speaks with event organizer Greg Wessel to explore the revival of the historic Field of Champions.
Originally popularized across the Midwest and at landmark venues like Detroit’s Cobo Hall, this reimagined special attraction shines a spotlight on the true essence of preservation breeding: form AND function. As Laura reminds us, life is far too short to hunt over an ugly dog. The Field of Champions bridges the gap between ring aesthetics and working performance, honoring purebred dogs that conform to their breed standard while proving their working capabilities in the real world.
Important Event Details and Deadlines
- Event Name:Field of Champions (AKC Approved Special Attraction)
- Host Club:Land O’Lincoln Golden Retriever Club, held in conjunction with the Skokie Valley Kennel Club Fall Harvest Cluster
- Date and Time:Friday Evening, November 20, 2026, starting at 5:00 PM (held after the completion of the regular all-breed judging)
- Location and Venue:Lake County Fairgrounds, 1060 E Peterson Rd, Grayslake, Illinois 60030
- Event Superintendent:BaRay Event Services (BaRay Events)
- Closing Date:Wednesday, November 4, 2026
- Entry Platform:Online entries and official premium list available through BaRay Events
- Admission:Spectators are welcome ringside with free admission to cheer on these versatile dogs
Understanding the Theme: Form AND Function
Unlike traditional conformation showcases, the Field of Champions requires dogs to possess verified working credentials before they step into the ring:
- Mandatory Dual Qualification:Every entrant must hold an official AKC Conformation Championship (or a Certificate of Merit for Miscellaneous and Foundation Stock Service breeds)ANDan approved parent club or AKC working performance title.
- Instinct Over Taught Drills:Qualification criteria focus on natural, breed-specific instincts rather than solely taught obedience tasks. Disciplines include hunt tests, field trials, tracking, scent work, lure coursing, Fast CAT, earthdog, herding instinct, draft and carting, water rescue, and barn hunt.
- All-Breed Scope:While rooted in sporting dog history, the modern Field of Champions spans all seven AKC variety groups plus Miscellaneous and FSS breeds, recognizing that working instinct exists across the entire canine spectrum.
- Preservation Focus:Spayed and neutered champions are welcomed to compete, ensuring that retired breeding stock and titled performers who represent the breed ideal can participate.
- Three-Judge Best in Show Panel:The event culminates in a final evaluation by a diverse panel of judges with deep backgrounds in both physical conformation and performance work.
Connect, Enter and Learn More
- Listen to more episodes and join the community at Pure Dog Talk
- Download premium lists and submit entries viaBaRay Event Services
