Club History
The Bulldog Club of Metropolitan Atlanta was founded on May 5, 1963, by approximately 35 people who expressed an interest in forming a bulldog club. The founders originally decided to name the club Sourmug Bulldog Club of Metropolitan Atlanta. This was to distinguish it from all the booster clubs in the area supporting the University of Georgia Bulldogs. In 1964, the club dropped the word sourmug from the club's name. The club motto is “Promoting Better Pure Bred Bulldogs.”
The first AKC-sanctioned “B” match was held August 30, 1964, with an entry of 14 dogs and 18 bitches. In 1967 and 1968, the remaining “B” match and sanctioned “A” matches were held. In 1968, BCMA applied to become a member BCA Division VIII and was approved.
The first AKC-licensed specialty show was held on October 10, 1969, with a BCA Division VIII show held the same weekend. This show was advertised as the Bull-Dog-A-Rama. It was held at the Marietta National Guard Armory. The show chairman was J.O. Puckett, and the judge was Beyrl Gould, who drew an entry of 60 dogs.
The winners were: Ch. Otis of Greenville, best of breed; Bayside Conigliario, winners dog and best of winners; and Gypsin Angel Babe, winners bitch and best of opposite sex.
The membership decided that any club member at the time of the first AKC-licensed show in 1969 would be considered Charter members.
Officers
President
Vice President
Secretary
Traci Thomas
5743 Park Central Ave.
Norcross, GA 30092
678-663-7996
Treasurer
Board of Directors
Breeder Referral
Rescue Coordinator
Newsletter Editor
The BCA Nationals have been held in Atlanta twice. The first National specialty was in 1974. The highly successful National at Atlanta in 1990 celebrated the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Bulldog Club of America.
The BCMA has approximately 75 members. The club annually hosts very successful three-day specialty shows in February. The membership is very diverse. It has pet owners, breeders, judges, those who show in conformation classes, agility, rally, and obedience, one veterinarian and a Rescue Program representative.
There are several members who currently serve in various positions at the BCA Division VIII level. Members meet once a month and have programs on health, show training, grooming, and legal issues of owning dogs. They try to have a couple of picnics each year where members bring their bullies for fun and socialization.
In July a Pool Party is scheduled. In December the club has a Christmas Party where outstanding members and owners of new champions are recognized.
Submitted by Alison Palmer