Raleigh, NC — AKC® Chief Operating Officer John Lyons today announced the appointment of Mary N. Dukes, Riverside, CA, to AKC Executive Field Representative. Dukes is replacing Peter Gaeta, who recently left the position to become AKC Director of Judging Operations.

With more than 30 years in the sport, Dukes will cover all shows throughout the southeast beginning Aug. 15, 2005. She will be based out of Charlotte, NC.

Currently, Dukes is a professional show dog handler and a member of the AKC Registered Handlers Program. She breeds Whippets under the “Delacreme” prefix and she is a breeder/owner/handler of the top-producing sire of all-time in the Whippet breed.

She has been a member of the American Whippet Club, Greater San Diego Whippet Club (Board of Directors), Santa Barbara Kennel Club, and the Ventura County Dog Fanciers Association. She attended Moorpark College and California State University.

According to COO John Lyons, “Mary Dukes brings a wealth of experience and talent to the Field Representative position. Her background in the Sport and her professional reputation are a formula for success. We are fortunate to have her on our team.”