Trial ID: N/A
Experience the premier canine competition at the official Skokie Valley Kennel Club, Inc. Conformation and Specialty Show in Grayslake, Illinois! Held on June 12, 2026 to June 14, 2026, this prestigious show brings together the region’s finest purebred Labrador Retrievers to compete for top honors under an esteemed panel of judges. Competitors and spectators can look forward to a showcase of breed standard excellence and wonderful camaraderie among breeders, handlers, and Labrador lovers.
🌟 Key Competitor Information
• Location: 1060 E Peterson Rd Grayslake Illinois
• Event Dates: June 12, 2026 to June 14, 2026
• Eligibility: Open to all AKC registered purebred Labrador Retrievers.
📝 Event Overview
• Preparation: Carefully review the official Premium List and breed schedules for ring times, assignments, and specific entry details.
• Venue Regulations: Dogs must be kept on short leashes or crated at all times when not actively competing. Clean up after your dog immediately.
• Competitor Comfort: Please bring your own grooming tables, pop-up tents/shades, crates, folding lawn chairs, and fresh water for your dogs.
• Spectators Welcome: Spectators are highly encouraged to attend and witness magnificent canine athletes. Please follow ring etiquettes and ask handlers before approaching dogs.
🔗 Quick Competitor Resources
🏢 Superintendent: Managed by Event Superintendent. Visit their portal for online entries.
🏆 Dr. Steve Keating
📍 ROCKWALL, TX | AKC ID: 6065
Standard Rating (139)
🔥 Expert Panel (13)
🎯 Key Judging Style Tendencies:
😊 Patient & Gentle (25.0%)
💂♂️ Strict Ring Protocol (12.5%)
🔍 Fussy Dental Exam (5.7%)
📏 Strict Table Exam (5.7%)
📐 Type & Silhouette (4.5%)
🛡️ Conservative Scoring (4.5%)
🌟 NOHS/Amateur Friendly (3.4%)
📊 Style Profile & Executive Analysis
Exhibitors consistently note this judge’s warm, exceptionally patient, and encouraging ringside manner. They take active steps to put sensitive dogs, young puppies, and newer amateur/owner-handlers at ease. The ring atmosphere is described as highly positive, supportive, and conducive to showing undercard exhibits. This judge strongly prioritizes physical soundness, efficient side gait, and correct coordination. Placements are heavily decided on the go, with the judge closely monitoring correct reach, drive, and topline stability on the move. Ensure your dog is moved at a balanced, steady trot to show their best movement.
📌 Actionable Ring Preparation Checklist
- ✔️ 🦷 Clean & Scale Teeth: Highly meticulous dental and bite exams are standard. Ensure the dog’s teeth are fully cleaned and scaled prior to showing.
- ✔️ 📏 Practice Table Stack: Follows a specific, focused table setup and examination procedure. Practice stacking steadily to prevent backing up.
- ✔️ 🏃♂️ Pace the Trot: Showcases heavy movement focus. Keep the dog at a controlled, balanced pace on the move to show maximum reach and drive.
- ✔️ 📐 Highlight Silhouette: Emphasizes clean outline shape and carriage. stack neatly and highlight breed-specific proportions.
- ✔️ 💂♂️ Follow Ring Commands: Demands strict ringside protocol. Listen carefully to ring steward/judge commands and comply promptly.
- ✔️ 😊 Relax Sensitive Entries: Exceptionally patient and gentle. Keep sensitive dogs or young puppies relaxed to take advantage of this friendly ring environment.
- ✔️ 🌟 Showcase Owner-Handling: Noted for supporting Owner-Handlers. Perfect for presenting owner-handler or amateur entries.
- ✔️ 🛡️ Be Prepared for Tight Cuts: Historically conservative with ribbon awards. Present a highly worthy, correct exhibit.
📅 Official Premium List Pending
The official Premium List (including entry forms, rules, and schedules) for the Skokie Valley Kennel Club, Inc. Rally Trial has not yet been released by the superintendent.
It is typically published 4-6 weeks prior to the event date. Please check back soon!
