The Finnish Kennel Club organises again in December the international Winner shows that are among the biggest dog shows in the world. The one-day dog shows Helsinki Winner 2011 and Winner 2011 are held on December 3rd and 4th at the Helsinki Exhibition and Convention Centre.
All breeds are judged at both shows and the best in show dog will also be selected at both shows. The Bests of Breed as well as the Best of Opposite Sex will receive the esteemed titles of Helsinki Winner 2011 and Winner 2011.
Moreover, the Helsinki Junior Winner 2011 and Junior Winner 2011 titles will be awarded to the best junior dogs and bitches that have been awarded “Excellent”.
This year approximately 15,000 dogs are expected at the shows. Entry should be made by mail no later than October 19th or via the Internet no later than October 27th. Entry time for the first phase ends on Tuesday September 27th.
Diverse programme for dog enthusiasts In addition to the shows the weekend offers the visitors a lot to see and experience. The theme of the weekend is "Dogs close to people" and in the new programme arena in hall 6 also people just thinking about getting a dog are considered in addition to existing dog owners. Dog owners and the people performing in the programme arena are available for dog-related advice and there will also be a possibility to pet dogs.
On Saturday and Sunday the visitors may enjoy "dog dancing" freestyle-performances. The positive cooperation between the handler and the dog as well as the special qualities of the dog are assessed in these exciting competitions. The dogs also present their skills in agility and obedience shows, dog bowling and ball herding.
The many lectures of the weekend offer information among other things about basic skills in dog training, dogs and children living together, behavioural problems of dogs and dog health issues. One of the weekend's lecturers is Tommy Wirén who has also become known on TV in Finland.
A toy dog competition for children with their toys is arranged on both days. Satu Tuomisto will judge this extremely popular children’s toy dog competition this year. The young have their own part of hall 6.
Furthermore, Hero Dogs will be rewarded during the weekend. The Finnish Kennel Club has awarded the Hero Dog title since 1997.
You can buy high-quality dog accessories or even Christmas presents from the numerous sales stands at the show.
Extra show space in hall 7 This year the Winner show will have even bigger facilities than before. A new and fantastic hall 7 has been opened at the Helsinki Exhibition & Convention Centre and it offers a great setting also for exhibitors.
Opening hours and ticket prices
Helsinki Winner 2011 and Winner 2011 are open on Saturday and Sunday from 7 a.m. until 9 p.m.
The detailed day-specific programme and additional information about the show weekend will be updated on the website http://voittaja.kennelliitto.fi/EN/.
One entrance ticket gives access to all events and lectures. The price for a one-day ticket for children at the age of 4 - 12 years is 7 euros and the price for adults is 13 euros. The price of a two-day ticket is 20 euros and a one-day family ticket (max. two adults and four children at the age 4 - 12 years) is 30 euros.
Tickets are available at the entrances of Helsinki Exhibition & Convention Centre during the event.
Accreditation Accreditation of the media for the Winner weekend opens on week 39 on the Winner show website. Accreditation ends on November 30th.
Additional information: Head of Communications and PR Kaija Unhola
050 432 0844 or kaija.unhola(at)kennelliitto.fi
Helsinki Winner 2011Winner 2011