Fokida, Greece 2020

Add high mountains, crystal clear air and beautiful endless sights from the point of view of Olympic gods and you will have an approximate impression about the show ground of CAC Fokida – the first show in the COVID-19 situation in Greece.

This year the Fokida Mountain Dog Show was dedicated to the memory of Mr. Dionisis Doulou, a long time breeder, judge, hunter and active member of the Greek dog society, a good expert, real gentleman and true friend for many. 

The host committee, headed by Mr. Nikos Fotakoupoulos and including all the members of his family, offered excellent conditions for all participants. The rings, placed in the shadows of the majestic pines, had nice scenery for showing beautiful dogs. 

More than 350 entries were registered in the catalogue for the two days of two CAC shows and several breed club exhibitions. The special measures for entering and staying in Greece, related to Coronavirus, didn’t stop the participants from Bulgaria, Greece, Ukraine, France and Italy to compete together with their Greek colleagues for the champions titles. Special interest by the viewers and judges was focused on native breeds as Hellenic hound (ichnilatis hellinikos) and not recognized yet Molossus of Epirus, Kokoni and Greek Shepherd Dog.

A celebrity of the show was the legend and the grand dame of the Greek cynology, Mrs. Voula Papouptsani.  She is well known as one of the founders of the Greek Kennel Club and its former president. At her age of 86 now she is focused on development and promoting the national breed - Ellinikós Pimenikós (Greek Shepherd Dog) and is the moving power in the breed club. She was honoured to choose the winners in the national breeds.

The indisputable BIS winner both days was an amazing black toy poodle, bred in Japan and presented by its Italian handler. The runners-up were Old English Bobtail, English cocker spaniel and Small Italian Greyhound.

Held at 1250 m above the sea level Fokida Mountain Dog Show is in fact the highest – as an altitude – dog show at least at the Balkans and a great example of keeping high level standard in organizing a great even for the dog lovers. 
 

Photos: Thanos Fotakopoulos