The purpose of the BHCA’s Futurity Stakes is to recognize and reward BHCA Member Breeders for their efforts in the breeding of better Basset Hounds through carefully planned breeding and the evaluation of puppies.
The Futurity has been supported by the BHCA since 1989 and is open to all breeders or co-breeders of record who are members in good standing of the BHCA. Contrary to popular belief, it is not “just another Sweepstakes.” It is a yearly opportunity for breeders to showcase their best puppies.
Although the nomination process is much different and lengthier than participating in any other AKC Conformation event, it is not difficult. The BHCA Futurity Stakes Rules are available here on the BHCA website. These rules outline the nomination process, fees, and other pertinent information about participation in the Futurity, as well as all needed forms involved with the complete nominating process.
The purpose of the Maturity Stakes, which began in 2005, is to validate the expectations of the BHCA Member Basset Hound Breeders from the previous 24 months of Futurity nominations and entries. The Maturity Stakes is intended to encourage the breeding of the best possible Basset Hound and to reward breeders for their efforts. Recognition is given to the owners, in whose hands lay the responsibility of developing the inherited potentialities.
The Maturity Stakes is open to all member breeders, co-breeders, co-owners, or owners at the time the dogs and bitches have previously completed their enrollment in the Futurity according to the Futurity Stakes Rules and are listed in the Futurity Catalog or Futurity section of the catalog under Futurity.
Maturity enrollment forms are on the website from the conclusion of the Nationals event until July 1st of the current Futurity year. After that time, enrollment for the event is closed.
It is important that those of you who have previously participated in the Futurity or Maturity check the website or contact a member of the Futurity/Maturity Committee, as changes may have been made to the events for any given Futurity/Maturity year. These changes are posted by April 1st of the Futurity/Maturity year and are in effect for the year in which they are posted. In addition to the rules, all forms are updated prior to the March 31st deadline for each Futurity year.
The Futurity/Maturity secretary, chair, and committee members are always willing to assist new participants through the enrollment process.
Contact Gene McDonald, Futurity/Maturity Secretary, at bhcafm@aol.com with any questions.
Required Futurity Forms
It is important to follow the rules and time frames regarding the Nominations and Entries for the Futurity Stakes. You might find it helpful to make notes on your personal calendar to make sure that you don’t miss important deadlines. If you have questions, be sure to contact the Futurity & Maturity Stakes Secretary at bhcafm@aol.com.
Remember, even though you may have nominated your litter and or individual dogs correctly, you still must enter them in their correct class for the Futurity Event held at the Nationals.
Required Maturity Forms
It is important to follow the rules and time frames regarding the Nominations and Entries for Maturity. You might find it helpful to make notes on your personal calendar to make sure that you don’t miss important deadlines for the Maturity Stakes. If you have questions, be sure to contact the Futurity & Maturity Stakes Secretary at bhcafm@aol.com.
Remember, even though you may have nominated your dog(s) correctly for Maturity, you still must enter them in their correct class for the Maturity Event held at the Nationals.
Note: When using the fillable forms, use Save As to save a copy of the completed form on your computer. Mail the saved form to the Futurity & Maturity Stakes Secretary.
