On Sunday 28th May, Koi enthusiasts flocked to the highly anticipated Secret Sanke Showdown event at Newark Showground. With over 300 attendees, the event showcased an impressive array of Koi, and included many interactive sessions, as well as the opportunity to meet with Koi Wholesale and Koi Talk resident Koi experts Ricky Stoddart and Chris Wall, and a number of special guests at the event.
One of the early highlights of the day was the judging session led by Allan Tait, Chairman of the BKKS Judging Standards Committee. Attendees eagerly absorbed his expert insights and gained a deeper understanding of what makes a champion Koi. The session proved to be an invaluable educational experience for both seasoned Koi keepers and beginners alike.
Following the judging session, visitors had the opportunity to participate in various live activities, including a thrilling Koi auction and the engaging Koi Wholesale Question Time Live. Ricky Stoddart, accompanied by input from Yvo de Wal (The Koi Partner), shared their knowledge and answered a series of Koi-related questions from the audience. The Koi Talk Live session featuring some of the events other special guests further enhanced the day, with many keen to hear some of the memorable Koi-related stories from Lee Hadfield (The Koi Soldier), Anthony Day (Krafty Koi), and Chris Wall.
For 50 fortunate ticket holders who had attended the initial Secret Sanke Selection event in February, the Secret Sanke Showdown brought an extra layer of excitement. They returned to collect their carefully selected Takano Sanke, knowing they were taking home hand-selected Koi that they had been eagerly awaiting for months.
As the day drew to a close, the much-anticipated Secret Sanke Showdown prize awards took place. The event organisers recognised the quality of the Koi showcased at the Secret Sanke Showdown by awarding four prestigious titles. The Grand Champion title went to Jason Candler, and John Rodgers secured the Reserve Champion title. Colin Harvey’s Koi earned the coveted Best Tategoi title, symbolising its potential for future development and growth, and lastly, Harry Capon clinched the Size Champion title with his Sanke.
The Secret Sanke Showdown at Newark Showground was undeniably a resounding success. As the event concluded, many hobbyists at the show paid their appreciation to the event organisers, and paid thanks in person, as well as by follow-up emails.
Koi hobbyist, Darren, said; “I would like to thank you for putting on such a fantastic event. It was evident just how much hard work that you and your whole team have put in, and I was glad that it was such a success.”
Another event attendee, John, said; “I would like to thank Ricky and the team for a fantastic day. I really enjoyed myself and am looking forward to next one.”
