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Dogs Australia is extremely proud to announce that an Australian-bred dog, CIB Sup Ch A20 SupCh Voila Raising the Stakes (call name Anton), was awarded Reserve Best in Show at the FCI World Challenge of Top Dogs 2026 in Bologna, Italy. This historic achievement marks the first time an Australian representative has reached this level at a World Challenge.
Anton is co-owned by Lance Wright and James Bennett. Lance his breeder has dedicated his lifetime to producing some of Australia's finest dogs, and this result is the culmination of that lifelong commitment to excellence in the breed.
Reflecting on the achievement, James and Lance said: "To be selected as one of the finalists from 57 countries to represent Australia is truly an honour. To then be one of the 12 dogs to make the final cut and stand among the best in the world is iconic. Hearing Australia named as the runner-up is a moment that will live with us forever."
This milestone is a powerful reminder that Australia produces dogs of the highest international standard. While we may not have the same numbers as Europe, the quality of our breeding speaks for itself on the world stage.
James Bennett added: "Anton never ceases to amaze us and always keeps raising the bar. That night, he owned the ring and showed the world the calibre of Australian dogs. Being named second in the world against such elite competition has left us speechless and truly grateful. This result belongs to Anton, Lance, Kirri, and everyone who believed in this journey from the beginning."
On what the moment meant personally, James said: "We have always known Anton was special. To see that acknowledged on the world stage, among the very best from every country, is truly humbling. It is something I will carry with me for the rest of my life."
This is a historic result for Australian dogs, the show community, and everyone who has followed Anton’s remarkable journey. Well done to Lance, James, Kirri Jacobson, and Anton for representing Australia with such distinction.
We also have more news of another Australian bred show dog doing well, winning BOB (Best of Breed), stay tuned for more information!
Dogs Australia is a not-for-profit organisation advocating for the preservation of purebred dogs through ethical breeding.
It champions the highest standard of animal welfare through education and fostering dog-loving communities.
Internationally recognised and established in 1958 as the Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC),
the organisation promotes responsible dog ownership; maintains the ORCHID* heritable canine diseases database;
funds research into canine diseases; and supports state and territory-based member bodies.
Dogs Australia promotes breed conformation shows and community sports for dogs that fulfil a breed’s natural instincts.
