Orange : A Sunlit Finale to a Brilliant Season

Dear readers,

On March 28 and 29, a most significant moment unfolded : the final show of the season in France. And what a finale it was! No fewer than three clubs joined forces to offer us a weekend that will undoubtedly linger in our memories for quite some time.

But before recounting the many splendors of this show, allow me to linger for a moment on the city of Orange itself. Nestled in the heart of Provence, bathed in golden light and steeped in history, Orange possesses a charm that is truly its own. Its famed Roman Theatre—standing proudly through the centuries—seems almost to watch over our modern feline gatherings with quiet approval. The warm-toned façades, the gentle rhythm of its streets, the unmistakable hint of spring in the air… all combine to create the perfect setting for such a gathering.

Yes, dear readers, it must be said: Orange has become “the place to be” of the 2025–2026 season.

And as if to confirm this, the sun—our faithful companion at previous events—once again graced us with its presence, wrapping the entire weekend in a soft and delightful springtime glow.

The Orange Cat Club, the UK Cat Club, and the Universal Cats Club united their talents brilliantly, proving once more that there is true strength in unity. Nothing was left to chance. Eight rings were set, including two OCP rings, offering a valuable opportunity at the end of the season to secure those final Grand titles. In addition, two SSP rings further enriched the competition.

An impressively international panel of judges had gathered for the occasion, traveling from the United States, Italy, the Canary Islands, Germany, Hong-Kong and Canada —a true global assembly in service of feline excellence.

While the kitten class remained somewhat modest in numbers, the adult divisions told quite a different story : 78 entries in Championship and 25 in Premiership, reflecting a particularly high level of competition.

This show was held in conjunction with a traditional event organized by the PAF club of LOOF, and the experience of the organizers was evident throughout. Everything flowed with remarkable ease: no long delays, no frantic searches for absent exhibitors—just smooth, efficient organization executed with elegance.

The rings themselves were spacious and tastefully decorated, blending French refinement with that distinctive Italian fair so dear to our transalpine friends. A perfect harmony of sophistication and warmth.

As always, the organizing clubs ensured that winners were rewarded with generosity and distinction. And what results, dear readers! No fewer than 18 new titles were awarded over the course of this final weekend: 9 Grand Champions and 9 Grand Premiers.

Let us warmly congratulate:

  • GC D’Eden Lover Anakin of Fairy 4 U
  • GC Quatregrapes Tai-Lung
  • GC D’Eden Lover Tartempion
  • GC D’Eden Lover Amenhotep II
  • GC Miro Apocalypse
  • GC Fairy 4 U Silver Moon of PL*Jantar
  • GC Re Desiderio Leonora
  • GC Fenway Desert Diamond
  • GC Songgwangsa Bunny-D of St Emilion
  • GC Songgwangsa Umami

And also:

  • GP D’Eden Lover Mini GI
  • GP D’Eden Lover Zapata
  • GP D’Eden Lover Riyad
  • GP PL*Jantar Xiana
  • GP PL*Jantar Zuppa
  • GP St Emilion’s Tonnerre de Brest
  • GP D’Eden Lover Rosy Sunlight
  • GP Graffio Orlando
  • GP Re Desiderio Layla

Our congratulations also go to Yvarie Jubel, who achieved the prestigious DM title—a distinction honoring an exceptional legacy.

Finally, the highest honors of the weekend were awarded to the Best Cats, celebrated with all the generosity their excellence deserves:

  • Best Cat in Championship: GC Resilience Anastasia Lullaby
  • Best Cat in Premiership: GP Siriuksen VesperCurl of St Emilion
  • Best Kitten: De Mesara Raton

And so, dear readers, a brilliant French season draws to a close beneath the sun of Orange—a city that has become more than a destination… it has become a signature.

And if every ending heralds a new beginning, one cannot doubt that the next season will bring its own share of wonders.

Respectfully yours,
Lord Whis(pur)down ✒️🐾

Milan : Italian Elegance in the Service of Feline Excellence

Dearest readers,

The end of the season is fast approaching… and yet, what a joy it was to reunite with you in Milan ! Once again Italy—indeed, the peninsula has truly become a welcoming land for our beloved CFA shows this season.

Two intense and exciting days awaited us in this city of timeless charm. No fewer than twelve judges, traveling from all corners of the world— from the United States to Japan, Finland, Ukraine, Lithuania, and even the Canary Islands—were entrusted with the delicate task of evaluating 72 competitors.

Seventy-two, you might say… perhaps fewer than some of the grandest shows ? Perhaps. But, dear readers, quality was most certainly present. The finest had made the journey, coming from across Europe to compete with elegance and determination for the extraordinary rosettes offered by the Dolce Vita Cat Club.

And what rosettes they were! But first, allow me to say a word about the show hall, which deserves a paragraph of its own. Luxurious, spectacular, almost theatrical… every detail had been carefully considered. The rings were beautifully arranged and adorned  fresh flowers and diamonds, adding a rare touch of refinement. Splendid rosettes, gleaming trophies, and impeccable presentation ensured that nothing—absolutely nothing—was left to chance.

So much so that even the famed Milanese fog, so common in early March, seemed to retreat, giving way to radiant sunshine that felt almost like summer—perhaps nature’s own tribute to the success of this remarkable weekend.

Regular participants of these wonderful CFA gatherings also had the pleasure of welcoming new faces, eager to discover the unique spirit of our shows. One cannot doubt that these newcomers will soon become dear friends within our ever-growing feline family.

As for achievements, success was abundant, with no fewer than eleven new Grands added to our Region’s distinguished list. Let us warmly congratulate :

  • GC D’Eden Lover Zaqaryan
  • GC Welcome Mea Culpa of Felinidivini
  • GC Graffio Toto’
  • GC Narf Chummy
  • GC Aristopints King of Tresor d’Kai
  • GC Resilience Anastasia Lullaby
  • GC Lac Hong Allo Lola
  • GC Atzelhof’s Poppy
  • GP AOL Mr Blue Sky
  • GP Re Desiderio Krishna
  • GP Re Desiderio Kundalina

Congratulations as well to the Best of the Best winners on Saturday :

Championship
GC D’Eden Lover Virgo of Anni 80

Kitten
Atzelhof’s Licence to Kill

Premiership
GP Preciousice Woo Boom Doo

And to the Best of the Best winners on Sunday :

Championship
GC Fairy 4 U Together of Westglow

Kitten
Lac Hong Adele Blanc-Sec

Premiership
PR Graffio Orlando

Hardly had our Milan weekend come to an end when exciting news reached us : the Dolce Vita Cat Club has already invited us to their next show in Genoa, once again in Italy.

One question remains, dear readers : how will they possibly manage to amaze us even more ?

And yet, knowing their talent and their legendary hospitality… we trust they will.

Respectfully yours,
Lord Whis(pur)down ✒️🐾

Bédarrides : Friendship, Resilience, and Feline Excellence

Dear Readers,

It was in France — that land of elegance and enduring passion — that we had the great pleasure of reuniting with our friends. And it was in Bédarrides, near Orange — yes, Orange once again, which seems to be the beating heart of our Region — that the UK Cat Club, Orange Cat Club, Universal Cats Club, and Edelweiss Cat Club joined forces to offer us a weekend we shall not soon forget.

Some among us were still bearing the marks of Storms Nils and Pedro, which had recently battered parts of France. Travel was at times complicated, spirits occasionally shaken — and yet, dear readers, we were present. United. Determined to support our clubs and to take part, with genuine joy, in a weekend devoted equally to friendship and competition.

Four clubs, four energies combined, one shared ambition: excellence.

No fewer than 91 feline marvels were entered for the occasion. And as though nature herself wished to turn the page on recent turmoil, radiant sunshine bathed the show hall in warmth beneath a brilliant azure sky. Good humor flowed freely through the aisles and around the rings, in cheerful conversations and shared laughter among exhibitors.

And what better setting to celebrate a birthday ? Ulrike Knuppel was surrounded by friends and her extended feline family as she marked her special day. Once again: Happy Birthday, dear Ulrike ! A heartfelt and joyful celebration, shared by all.

The winners, as always, were thoroughly spoiled. The rosettes — magnificent and generously sized — were as stunning as ever, and the abundance of prizes reflected the clubs’ unwavering care for their exhibitors. Our sincere thanks to each club for treating participants with such thoughtful generosity.

Success, naturally, was also in the spotlight, with no fewer than eight new Grands crowned over the course of the weekend.

Our attention was particularly drawn to two newcomers — two Siberians, a breed still rarely seen in our Region. With confidence and presence, they captured the judges’ attention and climbed the first steps toward victory with admirable poise. A promising beginning, indeed, and one we shall follow with keen interest.

Let us warmly congratulate:

  • GC D’Eden Lover Yumi
  • GC Macladi My Way
  • GC Lac Hong Atomic Betty
  • GP Molins Popocatepelt
  • GP D’Eden Lover O’Caline
  • GP D’Eden Lover Saperlipopette
  • GP D’Eden Lover See Your Smile
  • GP Lou Cat Me Vegas of Emry’s Tear

A weekend defined by RESILIENCE, camaraderie, and feline excellence — proof, if any were needed, that our community knows how to gather, support one another, and shine… even after the storm.

And believe me, dear readers, when friendship and passion unite, nothing can truly dim the brilliance of our rings.

Respectfully yours,
Lord Whis(pur)down ✒️🐾

Riga: When the Ice Sparkles and the Cats Triumph

Dear Readers,

There are first times that mark a season… and others that write history. But before speaking of felines, allow me to transport you to a northern city whose winter charm alone deserves a few devoted lines.

Riga, a Baltic jewel crowned with snow-dusted rooftops and graceful Art Nouveau silhouettes, seemed lifted straight from a winter fairytale. The Daugava River, frozen solid by the cold, offered a breathtaking sight: a vast sheet of ice that I bravely crossed on foot, as though nature herself had chosen to build a fleeting bridge between the two shores. The air was crisp, the sky a crystalline blue, and the winter light cast an almost unreal glow upon the city.

It was within this enchanting setting that the Purrfect Paws CatWalk made its debut on January 31 and February 1, hosting its very first edition in Riga. A first, indeed—but what a grand entrance it was!

Admittedly, everything seemed poised to discourage the more cold-sensitive among our exhibitors: Latvia in midwinter, temperatures well below freezing… Yet this was without reckoning with the determination and talent of this young and dynamic club, enthusiastically led in part by Linda Riekstina. And as if by magic, even the elements showed kindness: radiant sunshine accompanied us throughout the weekend, transforming this northern escape into a luminous and unforgettable memory.

The show hall was set within the sumptuous Bellevue Park Hotel, whose elegance was rivaled only by the warmth of its welcome. A sparkling glass of hospitality set the tone—refinement paired with conviviality. That evening, a gourmet dinner worthy of the finest tables brought us together in a festive atmosphere, animated by a magician as lively as he was inspired, delighting us with laughter and wonder.

As for the competition, it rose magnificently to match the setting: no fewer than 95 cats were entered, including 12 majestic Maine Coons. The judges—traveling from the United States, Finland, Ukraine, Germany, Lithuania, and even the Canary Islands—had no easy task in distinguishing among such excellence.

Seven new Grands emerged from this radiant weekend, and the crowning of GC Preciousice Bada Bing Bada Boom, who also earned the prestigious DM title, added a triumphant flourish to this inaugural edition.

Let us therefore warmly congratulate:

  • GC Kaw-Liga’s MOI – One Show Grand
  • GC Kis’Herbas Gulliver of Lofoten
  • GC Precious Ice Va Va Voom
  • GC Heinroos Happy
  • GC Heinroos Luna
  • GC Kelmikerhon Hiljahyasintti of Deraza
  • GP Nebuankhet Perfect Me, Perfect Hue

A masterful first edition, dear readers, proving that even beneath Baltic ice, feline passion burns with brilliant intensity.

Riga has captured our hearts. And one suspects it will not be the last time our steps—and our cats—tread upon its frozen shores. Mark your calendars for their Halloween Show on October 31 and November 1!

Respectfully yours,
Lord Whis(pur)down ✒️🐾

January in Padova: When Excellence Becomes a Tradition

January in Padova : When Excellence Becomes a Tradition

Dear readers,

An extraordinary month of January indeed… You asked for shows, and our clubs have gone above and beyond to indulge us. After Orange and Helsinki, it was now Padova’s turn to take center stage and host an exceptional event—an annual rendezvous no discerning enthusiast should ever miss.

The setting itself was nothing short of magnificent. The welcome ? Truly grand. And the cats—simply breathtaking—ready to compete with poise and determination, giving no fewer than eight judges, from a variety of backgrounds, a most challenging task in attempting to distinguish the finest among them.

For our regulars, there were no surprises : the show hall was vast, impeccably organized, and ideally located in the heart of the city, within easy reach of hotels and restaurants. Even the famed Venetian fog failed to dampen our spirits ; the warmth of the atmosphere quickly made us forget it—at least for the duration of the weekend. Our heartfelt thanks go once again to the organizing clubs for such a generous and delightful welcome. Bravo to the Universal Cats Club and the Orange Cat Club.

Once again—perhaps the result of New Year’s good resolutions ? — we welcomed two new Clerk Ring Assistants to the rings, who performed their duties with efficiency, enthusiasm, and admirable skill. Warm congratulations and a sincere welcome to Alessandra Seneci and Kévine Moneuse.

Interest in this show reached such heights that Championship finals featured as many as fifteen cats ! This unexpectedly strong turnout kept our beloved rosette maker extremely busy. Yet, as always, she never lost her smile nor her dexterity, supplying all eight rings—promptly and beautifully—with stunning rosettes, each a true symbol of joy and success.

As you may well imagine, dear readers, such intense competition allowed many exceptional cats to earn the highly coveted title of Grand. Others accumulated valuable points toward future titles, while some already crowned Grands competed fiercely for potential Regional Winner honors. The numbers speak for themselves: no fewer than 18 Grands in a single weekend !

Let us therefore applaud :

  • GC D’Eden Lover Zigoto
  • GC D’Eden Lover Yquem of Ydem
  • GC D’Eden Lover Yes Sir, I Can Boogie
  • GC D’Eden Lover Tennessee
  • GC Desmadinina Cat AbarthOne Show Grand
  • GC D’Eden Lover Avatar of PL Jantar
  • GC D’Eden Lover Vinicius
  • GC Callisto Atlas Junior
  • GC D’Incanto’s Chantilly
  • GC Lac Hong Wake Up Little Susie
  • GC Atzelhof’s Blue My Mind
  • GC Jaffna MarilynOne Show Grand

And our newly crowned Premiership Grands :

  • GP D’Eden Lover Nizza
  • GP D’Eden Lover Nicoletta
  • GP Enzo’s Cat Mimia of D’Eden Lover
  • GP Jantar Lyra
  • GP Atzelhof’s A Quantum Blue
  • GP Songgwangsa Bansky

Our warmest congratulations also go to GC RW Atzelhof’s Peggy Blue, who proudly achieved her DM title—an accomplishment worthy of the finest chronicles.

Finally, special recognition must be given to the supreme winners of the weekend :

  • GC D’Eden Lover Virgo of Anni 80Best Cat
  • Fenway Desert DiamondBest Kitten
  • GP Preciousice Woo Boom DooBest Premier

Another brilliant chapter has been written in the history of our Region… and one cannot help but suspect, dear readers, that January still had more wonders in store for us.

Respectfully yours,
Lord Whis(pur)down ✒️🐾

A Finnish Winter Marked by Elegance

Dear readers,

The opening of 2026 appears firmly shaped by the intimate and refined character of the CFA shows in our beloved Region. After a nearly at-home gathering in Orange, it was the Sherwood Manx Club that invited us to a most delightful feline interlude just outside Helsinki, Finland.

Admittedly, Finland in January may not be the first destination that comes to mind for some of our regulars: daylight is fleeting, darkness lingers, and snow reigns supreme. And yet, dear readers, curiosity proved stronger than the cold.

The famously warm Finnish welcome and the promise of a well-organized show intrigued us greatly. What a surprise it was to find ourselves so graciously received less than half an hour from Helsinki Airport, in an atmosphere both friendly and festive. Snow was certainly part of the scenery, but temperatures were entirely manageable—so much so that one of the clerks was rumored to be wearing shorts !

Four judges shared two impeccably arranged rings, offering our feline competitors particularly spacious cages—comfort that did not go unnoticed. An excellent spirit filled the show hall, where laughter and good cheer blended seamlessly. Exhibitors were remarkably disciplined and attentive, making microphones and repeated calls entirely unnecessary ; everyone was in place precisely when needed.

It was also a pleasure to see our dear Regional Director among the exhibitors, presenting her beloved Norwegian Forest Cats, fully engaged and clearly delighted to spend the day sharing in the experience alongside us all.

Our enjoyment was multiplied by the wide variety of breeds present: magnificent Manx, the welcome return of several splendid Korats, and delightfully expressive and talkative Siamese, Colorpoint Shorthairs, and graceful Orientals. Speaking of Orientals, it was a particular joy to see the return to the rings of a young calico female we had discovered in a previous season—still as entertaining as ever, with her lively personality and fine qualities.

And the awards, dear readers ? They were certainly not lacking, with three new Grands proudly earned by our Region. Let us therefore salute:

  • GC Mythai Tydah Thong
  • GC Deraza Risky Business
  • GP Preciousice Woo Boom Doo

It is now undeniable, dear readers, that Finland’s shows are calling to us — and it will be most difficult to resist returning to these snow-kissed gatherings.

Respectfully yours,
Lord Whis(pur)down ✒️🐾

A show like at HOME ! A show made in France

Dear Readers,
The year has barely dared to begin, and yet our minds still hum with Christmas carols, our eyes linger on the last sparkling lights of the season, and our taste buds reminisce—ever so fondly—about holiday feasts and the gentle thrill of a few champagne bubbles… And yet, we are already summoned back to the show halls, where true society gathers.

For this very first weekend of the season, Orange Cat Club and Universal Cats Club graciously invited us to Orange, France, for an event as surprising as it was refined. Picture this, dear readers: a show right at home—just two rings, an intimate hall, and that delightfully hushed yet lively atmosphere where calm and celebration mingle. What better way to begin the year with style? Even the sun seemed to have received its invitation, illuminating this enchanted interlude.
But wait… do you truly think our hosts would stop there? A carefully arranged dining area offered homemade dishes that could make any grand reception pale with envy. A delight, my dear readers, an absolute feast for the senses. Adding to the charm were the exquisite rosettes, as original as they were festive-chic, which captivated every exhibitor. It must be said: Orange Cat Club and Universal Cats Club know how to entertain—and with flair.

Our attentive eyes also witnessed the first steps of Adam Rogowski as a Clerk. A promising debut, assuring us that the next generation is indeed prepared to carry the torch in our region. Let him be warmly congratulated.

Admittedly, only the first 65 registrants were allowed to attend this select gathering. But what 65 cats they were, dear readers! True gems, presented with such elegance one might have thought they had just stepped out of a high-society ball. Two judges, wise arbiters of this distinguished assembly, had the delicate task of selecting the finest. And notably, four of them departed crowned with the prestigious title of Grand.

Our sincerest congratulations to:
• GC D’Eden Lover Senorita Prada
• GC Jantar Zodiac
• GP D’Eden Lover Pink Lady
• GP D’Eden Lover Samuel

Thus concluded this first rendezvous of the season: elegant, warm, and delightfully memorable. One thing is certain : if the year begins in such fashion, there is little doubt that this feline chronicle promises to be utterly delectable.

Respectfully yours,
Lord Whis(pur)down

December in Region 9 : The Golden Brilliance of Vercelli

Dear readers,

December opened with remarkable flair for our beloved Region 9, and it did so in the most dazzling fashion : the Vercelli Show finally opened its doors. Announced more than a year in advance, this long-awaited event had stirred great anticipation. A new club, a first edition… and what a first it was indeed!

Two splendid days of showing unfolded under the discerning eyes of distinguished judges who traveled all the way from the United States to evaluate and rank our most charming felines. The show hall itself was vast and majestic, arranged with exquisite taste and flawless practicality, all wrapped in an elegance beyond compare. Saturday shimmered in gold, while Sunday gleamed in silver — a true spectacle of refinement.

The rings, lavishly adorned with high-quality rosettes and an abundance of gifts, reflected a meticulous attention to every detail. Nothing was left to chance. Cakes bearing the club’s emblem proudly graced the tables — yet another testament to the extraordinary refinement that defined the entire weekend.

At the close of each day, the Best of the Best were rewarded with a generosity rarely seen: magnificent trophies, oversized rosettes, and valuable gifts crowned the most beautiful cats in the traditional categories.

Saturday’s highest honors went to :

  • Best of the Best Championship: GC Snookums Keerati
  • Best of the Best Kitten: Graffio Bonita
  • Best of the Best Premiership: GP RW Callisto’s Ferrari

On Sunday, glory was bestowed upon:

  • Best of the Best Championship: GC Snookums Keerati
  • Best of the Best Kitten: Graffio Bonita
  • Best of the Best Premiership: GP Siriuksen Vesper Curl of St Emilion

Our warmest congratulations also go to the newly crowned Grands, who brilliantly earned their titles during this enchanting weekend :

  • GC Pyrampepe Luchino
  • GC Welcome Golden Boy
  • GC St Emilion Uther-Pendragon
  • GP Re Desiderio Merlino
  • GP Re Desiderio Jacaranda
  • GP Songgwangsa Kabuki

This exceptional weekend was further immortalized by the distinguished presence of the renowned Chanan, who had the opportunity to celebrate his birthday in truly spectacular fashion, at the heart of an old world that remains as welcoming and generous as ever.

Our deepest thanks go to our gracious hosts, Vita Molotese and Vitaly Oreshkin, as well as the Dream Team of the Dolce Vita Cat Club, for this extraordinary welcome and a weekend filled with pure magic.

And now, dear readers, anticipation grows…

The next rendezvous awaits: Milan in March.

Mark your calendars — history is certain to be written in gold.

Respectfully yours,
Lord Whis(pur)down ✒️🐾

10 YEARS for 44 Gatti Cat Club !

Dear Readers,

There are anniversaries one simply cannot let pass unnoticed. And among them, the ten dazzling years of the 44 Gatti Cat Club certainly deserve a place of honor in the most refined chronicles of our feline society.

At the dawn of November, as the mists of Malpensa slowly lifted over a shimmering scene—filled with exotic birds, carnivorous plants, and an excitement that even the social season could hardly rival—a most distinguished assembly gathered. Ten rings, yes ten, gleamed like promises bestowed by our Italian hosts, while a panel of judges from across the globe stepped forth like a parade of dukes and duchesses prepared to crown the rising stars of our catteries.

There, Giulia, Bruno, Domenico, Carlo, and Cristiano—masters of ceremony with unmatched generosity—curated a spectacle one could only describe as… magnificent. And magnificent it was, for thirteen titles—thirteen !—were awarded over a weekend in which every purr seemed to echo like applause.

Allow your humble chronicler to congratulate the worthy recipients :

GC Tommyland Louis Vuitton
GC Macladi Lucifer
GC Dolceamor Estrema Belleza
GC Kuorii Lapetite of Macladi
GC D’Eden Lover Virgo of Anni 80
GC Richson American Made of Vibrations
GC Lac Hong U Cocotte
GC Sri-Sawasdee Blue Lotus of Atzelhof
GC Re Desiderio Hildegard
GC Songgwangsa Bunny Bunny Run Run
GP D’Eden Lover Sandy
GP D’Eden Lover Ursa
GP Songgwangsa Bunnywan Kenobi

On Sunday, like the grand finale of a season’s closing ball, a splendid anniversary cake—accompanied by delightfully fizzy bubbles—was offered to the exhibitors. A final gesture, both tender and sumptuous, sealing a luminous decade spent with the club’s faithful friends.

Alas, dear readers, even the brightest stars must occasionally rest. The 44 Gatti Cat Club has announced a few months’ pause—news received with regret, yet full understanding. Still, let us hope this interlude is merely the prelude to an even more resplendent return, for none doubt that once renewed, these passionate organizers will bestow upon us further editions just as unforgettable.

Until then, we shall have the pleasure of seeing them throughout the season’s various events. For in the feline world—as in high society—legends never truly disappear… they merely prepare for their next entrance.

Yours faithfully,
Lord Whis(pur)down ✒️🐾

The International: A World of Feline Splendor

Dear Readers,

Pray allow your devoted chronicler to recount a most extraordinary gathering. On October 11th and 12th, in the spirited city of Cleveland, a small yet valiant contingent of Europeans crossed the vast ocean to attend none other than… The International.

But what, you may wonder, is The International? It is nothing less than the grandest spectacle organized each year by the CFA — a true pinnacle of the feline world, and an unmissable event for any soul who holds affection for our noble companions. This world-class celebration blends competition, community, and passion with an elegance that would make even the highest salons of society nod in approval. Breeders, exhibitors, cat lovers of every stripe — all find their place within its illustrious halls.

This year, twelve judging rings graced the show, including five allbreed and three specialty/HHP rings, giving each contestant a total of eight opportunities to shine. A vast exhibition space hosted hundreds of vendors and artisans: accessories fit for feline royalty, towering cat trees, delightful toys, gourmet specialties, and treasures of every kind.

But The International is far more than a competition — it is a true cultural fête. Educational booths from feline associations, adoption areas bustling with hopeful whiskered hearts, demonstrations, presentations on feline welfare, and abundant entertainment filled the air. Costume contests, feline agility courses, and interactive activities charmed both seasoned exhibitors and curious newcomers alike.

Once more, Region 9 stood proudly represented, sending nine cats to compete on this global stage! Every class was accounted for:

• Four kittens — a French-German Exotic Shorthair, two Italian Persians (one tabby, one bicolor), and an American-Spanish Cornish Rex.
• Four adults in Champion class — a Russian Siberian, a German Abyssinian, a German American Shorthair, and an Italian Chartreux.
• One adult in Premier class — a French-Finnish American Curl.

Our regional ambassadors performed splendidly — each cat reached the finals in both Specialty and Allbreed rings. A standing ovation to all! The excellence of our Region was once again made indisputably clear.

The crown jewel of the weekend was the Best of Best, where the top Longhairs — best kitten, best champion, and best premier — faced off against their Shorthair counterparts. These six extraordinary felines stood as the finest of the entire show, with the final verdict delivered by Larry Adkison.

We were also delighted to see one of our own esteemed judges, Peter Vanwonterghem, officiating on Ring 11. Sadly, Pam DelaBar, our Regional Director, was unable to attend, though Florent Fissot served with distinction as Clerk beside Rachel Anger on Ring 1.

An unforgettable event — singular, dazzling, overflowing with talent, passion, and camaraderie — one that continues to inspire dreams long after the curtains fall.

And so, dear readers, a question remains: why not join us next time? Crossing the ocean may require effort, yes… but The International is unquestionably worth the journey. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience where our beloved companions stand shoulder to shoulder with the world’s very best.

We shall be counting on you.

Respectfully yours,
Lord Whis(pur)down ✒️🐾