Gorilla, called "Go Go" at home, stood out among the 630 entries at the show held at the Georgia International Convention Center. Gorilla's black coat flowed and his eyes glistened a deep copper as he was held aloft by CFA president Pam DelaBar and proclaimed the overall winner of the show.

"He's just a youngster at eight months of age, but he is a superb example of the Persian breed," said Ms. DelaBar. "He has massive bone structure, a round and smooth head, plus gorgeous color and coat."

Six cats, three longhair and three shorthair, competed for the overall award with three judges consulting to choose the winner. Judge Kathy Black of Oklahoma said, "All six of the cats competing were very deserving of the award but the best longhair in Championship, Gorilla, simply impressed us the most."

Gorilla has just completed a successful kitten career and this was the first show at which he was eligible to compete as an adult. Mr. Pelletier and Gorilla's breeder, Paolo Carnevaletti of Italy, are used to the hoopla surrounding this win. They also had "Best in Show" last year with another black Persian male.

Other finalists for the top award were:

Best Longhair Kitten
Kourii Chiquitas of Cuzzoe
Black Persian Female

Best Shorthair Kitten
Purrtek's Syrah
Platinum Mink Tonkinese Male

Best Shorthair Cat in Championship
Grand Champion KCDancers Eye-of-the Tiger
Silver Tabby and White American Shorthair Male

Best Longhair Cat in Premiership
Grand Premier Highlander Tony Bennett of Wenlock
Brown Tabby Maine Coon Neuter

Best Shorthair Cat in Premiership
Grand Premier Mar-chu Electra of Karleton
Sable Burmese Spay

Related Link

• Top Five Winners - Kittens, Championship & Premiership
• Breed Winners
• Show Slideshow