Junior Showmanship Regional Events Starting in 2026

Host Laura Reeves is joined by Mari-Beth O’Neill, vice president of sports services at the American Kennel Club, to discuss the planned Junior Showmanship Regional events for 2026.

“I’ve always had that sort of dream that there would be something happening in each part of the country for the juniors,” O’Neill said. “And especially for the ones who may not be able to make it to Orlando, to the AKC National Championship or to Westminster. So, let’s do something that’s more local.”

Junior Criteria for Entry:

• The Junior must reside in the region
• The Junior will have earned three first place wins in an Open Class with competition in the prior 12 months ending 3 months prior to the date of the event

Requirements for a club to host a Regional Junior Showmanship Event:

• Use of a Superintendent
• Should there be an entry fee, it should not exceed the regular event fee
• The Junior Regional must be held in conjunction with an all-breed event
• AKC will offer $1,000 in Scholarship funds for Best Junior to be matched by the club

Clubs are encouraged to take part in this exciting opportunity to support the next generation of exhibitors by hosting a Regional Junior Showmanship Event in conjunction with their all-breed show in 2026. To be considered, please submit a Request for Consideration Form by December 5, 2025, to juniors@akc.org.