Westminster and The Leash

The Westminster Kennel Club and The Leash

Joint Outing & Dog Show Tradition

Mr. and Mrs. Jim Stebbins hosted the first WKC - The Leash Dog Show at their home in East Norwich, Long Island on May 15, 1971, and the 2nd on May 13, 1972. The Joint Outing was held annually until 1983 and has since been held biannually, 2023 was the 32nd such event.

To those who are unfamiliar with this biennial event, it is a wonderful garden party that includes an informal dog show. The Joint Outing & Dog Show is an event for members of both clubs, their families, and guests.

The winner of the 32nd match will be the first to be added to The Bishop Memorial Cup. This exquisite perpetual trophy commemorates Louis F. “Jerry” Bishop and his wife Alexandra “Sandy” Bishop, who epitomized the rich traditions of both Clubs. Jerry served on the Boards of both the WKC and The Leash and was a former President of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). He also memorably installed the first club flag over The Leash clubhouse. Jerry’s wife, Sandy, played a pivotal role in the support of the Joint Outing for over four decades.

An engraved sterling silver tray will be awarded to the inaugural winner of the Bishop Memorial Cup. The Perpetual Trophy will be presented permanently to the first winner of five Joint Outing Dog Shows.

WKC and The Leash Outings