The largest dog show in the state of Florida has been named one of the top 20 events in the Southeastern United States. Florida Classic Clusters, featuring American Kennel Club All-Breed Dog Shows is the recipient of this prestigious award. The event is ranked by the Southeast Tourism Society, comprised of twelve southern states.
Taking place January 10-14 and January 16-20, 2008 in the Tampa Bay area (Brooksville, FL), Florida Classic Clusters will feature competing entries from across the globe. There were approximately 18,000 entries last year.
Free to the public, the event draws spectators from across the country. According to Diane Chiucchi, Show Chairperson, “I know we must be doing something right to attract so many exhibitors from all corners of the USA, as well as Canada, Mexico and South America. Last year we had more spectators than ever.”
Florida Classic Clusters is hosted by five Kennel Clubs (Clearwater, Inverness, Manatee, Pasco and Tampa Bay). Each day of competition, more than 150 different breeds of dog may be shown, culminating in Best of Show. The public can also enjoy obedience trials, rally trials and free tours to learn all about AKC dog shows. Visitors can go behind the scenes and learn how a dog is judged, meet dog handlers and more.
WHEN: January 10 - 14 AND January 16 - 20, 2008 (note: there are no shows on January 15) 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day
WHERE: Florida Classic Park
5360 Lockhart Road, Brooksville, FL 34602
COST: ADMISSION IS FREE. Parking is $5.
SPECIAL DATES:
Monday January 14th is “SENIOR DAY.” Seniors at least 60 years old receive free parking, when mentioned at the parking gate.
Friday January 18th is “KIDS DAY.” The first 100 children (ages 15 and under) who take the free AKC show tour will receive a free baseball cap. School is closed that day for some Tampa Bay area schools (Hernando, Pinellas and Manatee counties.) Citrus county schools have early dismissal.
FUN FACTS:
*People from all over the world come to compete. There were approximately 18,000 entries last year! Florida Classic Clusters hosts the largest dog show in the state!
*A portion of the proceeds will be donated to various charitable organizations.
*Pet rescues will be on hand showcasing adoptable pets
*Pet owners are invited to bring their pets to the Doggie Fun Zone, a fun multi-dimensional lure course. This event requires no previous experience. Admission to Doggie Fun Zone is $10. While your pet is welcome at Doggie Fun Zone, they are not permitted inside the official AKC show grounds.
*Vendors will be on hand to sell everything from pet jewelry and toys, to dog food and treats!
PUBLIC CONTACT: 813-361-8402 or 813-215-3580 or visit: www.floridaclassicpark.com
ABOUT THE SOUTHEAST TOURISM SOCIETY:
The Southeast Tourism Society is a non-profit organization, made up of members from: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Kelly Farnan – 727-709-5252 or Kelly @ FetchingCommunications.com
Jen Gross – 727-641-3595 or Jen @ FetchingCommunications.com