Those who attended this year's iteration of the Westminster Dog Show bore witness to the coronation of a queen.
Sage won the title of Best in Show after a glistening showcase, one which saw her strut the carpeted floors of Arthur Ashe Stadium with aplomb.
Her gait teemed with all the elegance and grace one would expect from a canine of Sage's prestige — and it certainly impressed the judges, who gave her the victory (though not any prize money, following the tradition for the show).
Sage stands in the history books, joining the likes of past winners Warren Remedy, Chinoe's Adamant James and, most recently, Buddy Holly.
The Best in Show winner at the 148th @WKCDOGS Show is Sage the Miniature Poodle! 🏆🐩 pic.twitter.com/Cb4pSr8YLN
— FOX Sports (@FOXSports) May 15, 2024
Here's what you need to know about this year's Best in Show winner, Sage.
Who won Best in Show at Westminster?
Sage, a miniature poodle from Houston, Texas, captured top honors at the 2024 Westminster Dog Show, emerging out of the mire of more than 2,500 competitors to race to the top of the podium.
Her perfectly-manicured coiffure captivated the masses. Couple that with her even-keeled demeanor and self-assured presence, it was little surprise that she outlasted her adversaries.
"Walked in this ring tonight, she's kind of unsure," handler Kaz Hosaka said. "But then she get used to it, then she gave me a great performance. I'm proud of this dog."
Hosaka has competed alongside dogs at 45 editions of the Westminster Dog Show, but 2024 will be his last, he said after his win with Sage.
Sage racked up plenty of titles on the regional circuit, garnering national acclaim for the elegance which she showcased under pressure. She comes from royalty, too; her great-grandmother, Surrey Spice Girl, took home the prestigious title of Best in Show back in 2002 with Hosaka as her handler.
Sage beat out Mercedes, a German Shepherd who finished in second place as the reserve Best in Show.
What breed is Westminster Dog Show winner Sage?
Sage is a miniature poodle, a breed that falls in the non-sporting group. With her victory, Sage becomes one of 11 poodles (of all sizes) and 12 non-sporting breed competitors to take home Best in Show in the 148-year history of the Westminster Dog Show.