Events
IWANE CommunityYear-Round Activity
There is always something happening at IWANE.
From the prestige of our annual Specialty to the camaraderie of the Fun Match, IWANE offers a full calendar of events for Irish Wolfhounds and their people. Whether you compete, volunteer, or simply attend, there is something here for you.
01 / Specialty & Shows
The Crown Jewel of the IWANE Calendar
The IWANE Specialty is our premier annual event — an AKC-sanctioned conformation show celebrating the best of the Irish Wolfhound in New England. It is the cornerstone of our year, drawing exhibitors, breeders, and enthusiasts from across the region and beyond.
Judges are selected through a democratic process: the membership submits candidates, the board narrows the list to three finalists, and the membership votes at the specialty each year. IWANE follows a one-year foreign, one-year domestic judge rotation to maintain international perspective and fresh eyes on the breed.
The Specialty also serves as the venue for IWANE’s annual general membership meeting, heart health testing in partnership with the IWF, trophy and ribbon presentations, and the recognition of outstanding club members.
- AKC-sanctioned conformation show
- Sweepstakes for young dogs
- Membership-elected judges
- IWF heart testing on-site
- Annual membership meeting
- Trophy & ribbon presentations
02 / Performance & Sports
Built to run. Born to compete.
The Irish Wolfhound is a coursing hound with a history of breathtaking speed and athletic grace. IWANE supports members who want to explore the breed’s heritage through AKC-recognized performance events held throughout the region.
Coursing Ability Test
Dogs follow a mechanically operated lure across an open field in a timed event. The CAT is a pass/fail test that showcases the Irish Wolfhound’s natural coursing instinct and sighthound heritage.
Fast Coursing Ability Test
A straight 100-yard dash where dogs individually chase a lure against the clock. Results are converted to miles per hour and used to calculate FCAT titles — a pure test of sighthound speed.
Large Gazehound Racing Association
Oval track racing where large sighthounds compete in heats over a 200-yard course. LGRA racing is exciting, social, and a wonderful opportunity to watch Irish Wolfhounds run at full stretch alongside other coursing breeds.
AKC Obedience Trials
AKC obedience trials test a dog’s ability to perform a set of exercises with precision and willingness. IWANE members have successfully titled their hounds, demonstrating the Irish Wolfhound’s intelligence and trainability.
03 / Annual Fun Match
No pressure. Just good dogs and good company.
The IWANE Annual Fun Match is an informal conformation event where dogs of all experience levels are welcome. No championship points — it’s all about learning, socializing, and celebrating your hound.
The annual general membership meeting is held in conjunction with the Fun Match, making it a full day of community and connection.
- Open to all experience levels
- Ideal for puppies and new exhibitors
- Social and family-friendly atmosphere
- Held in conjunction with the annual membership meeting
04 / Cultural Events
Celebrating the Irish Wolfhound in the world beyond the ring
Irish Wolfhounds carry a rich cultural heritage that extends far beyond the show ring. IWANE members bring their hounds to community and cultural events throughout the year, celebrating the breed’s Irish roots and magnificent presence.
St. Patrick’s Day Parades
Irish Wolfhounds are a beloved presence in St. Patrick’s Day parades throughout New England. IWANE members participate annually, sharing the breed with thousands of admirers along the route.
Irish Festivals
Regional Irish festivals are a natural home for the Irish Wolfhound. IWANE members attend with their hounds, connecting with Celtic heritage enthusiasts and educating the public about the breed.
AKC Meet the Breeds
The AKC Meet the Breeds event gives the public an opportunity to interact with over 200 dog breeds. IWANE showcases the Irish Wolfhound’s unique character and helps prospective owners learn more about the breed.
Community Outreach
From school visits to community gatherings, IWANE members and their hounds are ambassadors for the breed wherever they go. Our Education Coordinator helps members prepare for public appearances.
Interested in representing IWANE at a community or cultural event? Contact the Special Events Committee through our club officers page.
05 / Annual Recognition
The IWANE Sportsmanship Award
Each year, IWANE honors an individual who has shown exemplary support of the club and exhibits the very best traits of sportsmanship, ethics, and integrity in all of their activities as a member of IWANE.
The award is dedicated to the memory of Bill Holmes, one of IWANE’s most beloved members, who exemplified what it means to love this breed and serve this community with grace and humility.
“Each member is expected to conduct themselves in a manner which brings respect to The Club and to the breed.”
Whatever your interest — there is a place for you at IWANE.