21 Jul AAA National Fleece Challenge 2020

What is this show all about?
In this year of challenges and isolation many members have missed the opportunity to demonstrate the quality of their breeding program. The AAA has developed a one-off fleece show concept that allows the entry of up to two fleeces from one alpaca. This allows showing of a 2019/20 shorn fleece plus a later shearing in 2020. The rule dictating that the fleece must have been shorn in the past 18 months still stands but the rule limiting the showing of only one fleece per animal is being suspended for this special show.

Why can’t we have a halter show?
Unfortunately, the limitations on travel, gatherings of people and social distancing present challenges that cannot be overcome in a normal halter show. The Board and the Showing and Judging committee are working on plans to enable some shows (at least) to take place in 2021.

Is this the AAA National Show?
No. The AAA National Show will not take place in 2020. The National Fleece Challenge is a special event. Trophies and awards normally associated with the National Show will not be presented.

When is this competition happening?
Entries will open in October and fleeces must be delivered by mid-November. Judging will take place early December. This timetable gives as much time as possible for shearing and preparation of this year’s fleeces.

Where will judging take place and can I attend?
Judging and all the prior weighing and testing will take place at Pacofino in the NSW Southern Highlands. Unfortunately, COVID19 restrictions prevent us allowing members to attend but the award announcements will be live-streamed so all exhibitors will be able to share the excitement of the presentations and hear the comments from the judge.

How do I enter my fleeces?
Entry will be via eAlpaca. There will be two shows available for entry:
– National Fleece Challenge 2019-2020 will be for fleeces shorn between June 2019 and May 2020
– National Fleece Challenge 2020 will be for fleeces shorn after May 2020
The entries for these two shows will be merged and judged within the one competition.

Do I have to enter two fleeces from each alpaca?
No. You can enter one or two fleeces from each alpaca. However, there will be a special award for the pair of fleeces with the highest combined score.

How do I see the results?
The Champions will be announced on a live stream at the completion of judging. All results, including score cards for placed entries, will be posted on the AAA web site.

How can I help?
Start preparing your fleeces and plan your shearing ready to put in your entries.
You may also like to sponsor a section – sponsorships are available by contacting Lyn Dickson (warralinga@hotkey.net.au).  First in – best dressed!

You’ll have access to the best information, support and services for managing and breeding alpacas in Australia.