Gussy wrote:
So...worth the trip for curiosity sake? Is thissimilar to a dog show? I hate to show up at 11AM to look andfind one or two bunnies there.
If, like Calgal said, this is
only a Flemish Giant specialtyshow- you will ONLY see Flemish Giants there. In my experience mostspecialty shows are held at the same time, or at least the same weekendas a normal All-breed show.
I'd go to the ARBA website(
www.arba.net), or maybe it's printed onthe flyer you found and call the Show superintendent. They should beable to answer your questions about the best time to attend.
The organization of rabbit shows is similar to dog shows. But insteadof showing in rings, like the dogs do- the rabbits are shown on table.The judge is on one side of the table, the exhibitors are on the other.On the table are 'coops' where the rabbits are kept while the judge isevaluating each animal. The rabbits are brought up according to variety(depends on the breed), broken vs. solid, age, and gender. They areslowly sorted and the lower placing rabbits are taken off the table.Only the best and best opposite of sex are kept on the table for eachvariety within a breed. Once all varieties have been judged- then thejudge will re-evaluate the rabbits for Best of Breed.
Multiple breeds will be shown at one time, so it can get hectic forexhibitors with more than one breed- as they might have to keep trackof two or more tables being judged! Exhibitors usually 'camp out'around the judging area and set up chairs and their carriers, andgrooming stand. This is where every one hangs out when their rabbitsaren't on the tables.
If you are just going to observe, and want to make sure you see a large variety- I'd do a few things :
A) Attend an all-breed show.
B) Show-up around 9 to be sure to see rabbits being judged, and not catch the show during lunch time.
C) Be prepared to stand- there aren't usually sitting areas for exhibitors around the judging tables.
D) Keep an open mind, enjoy the experience and try talking to a few exhibitors who aren't actively showing at the moment.
I hope you have a great time!