The Richmond Afghan Hound Club began in July 1972. The first meeting was held at the home of Renie and Bell Benton in Richmond, VA. Some of the Afghan fanciers in attendance were : the Bentons, Karen and Durwood Usry (Zuvenda), Mimi and Latane Baker (A'Mirla), the Blancos (Stumpy Acres), John and Susan Tucker (Shah Saz), Lonnie Schwab, and Dean Morris. By the fall of 1972 the Club had 57 members on the roster.
One of the Club's first Fun Matches was judged by AKC Judge Lynn Schanzle, which drew an entry of 71 dogs. Over the years more matches were organized. One outstanding weekend event was a symposium with Dr. Barbara Divers, Bill Maseth, and Judge Raymond Kelly. Our match judge for that weekend was Sunny Shay of Grandeur fame. This match had entries of 92 Afghans.
Our first AKC approved show was held in 1976. Judge Lila Stafford Wadsworth awarded Ch. Jamica's Rani Fafnir Best of Breed, and history was made that day when he went on to win the Hound Group and go all the way to win Best In Show.
Many of our club members have passed over rainbow bridge, and we have lived to see the Afghan Hounds popularity decline, how ever we are still proud to be one of the oldest Afghan Hound Clubs in existence and still have three founding members Mimi and Latane Baker, Lonnie Schwab, and Dean Morris actively participating in our clubs continuing endeavors to educate the public about our wonderful breed.
Richmond Afghan Hound Club
