For many years, La Villa Del Cane Corso's owner Gerry Iannachino raised and bred some of the finest old world Corsos I've ever seen, both in temperament and structure. Many countless hours were spent out back in the kennel and fields forging ahead with his breeding program, competing his dogs and his program against his own traditions and high standards, and all the while with no one to impress, share his successes or console his hardships.

 My fondest memories were learning about this ancient breed during long walks with Gerry and his dogs out in the fields behind Gerry's home. As a young man of 18 years, this was my introduction to this noble yet fierce breed. I was shown their gentle side when,with his family and children, they were careful not to intentionally overpower them with their size and strength but would lean on you as to say, I fear nothing, therefore, there's no need to be aloof. However, if a stranger overstepped his welcome, he was met with a ferocity and rage seldom matched in the K9 world. I truly felt like I was a boy amongst ancient titans. The fragility of being human was clear and obvious when you walked amongst these dogs; it was as if they were immortals, and it was awe-inspiring.

Many times, I was honoured to have been present during traditions, testing and examinations to determine which dogs would be paired off for breeding. A very significant highlight in my life was accompanying Gerry to Italy to bring dogs there for an exchange program of sorts. This is unheard of in the Cane Corso community and I was astonished to discover that this was a common occurrence between Gerry and the breeders in Italy.

Many breeders count their success from the successes of the breeders they purchased or imported their puppies from. True success is creating your own legacy and measuring it at the end of a life's work. Mr. Iannachino, your life's work is a SUCCESS, a GREAT SUCCESS. It is with great humility, respect and honour that I accept the challenge put forth to uphold the heritage, traditions and lessons I learned from you through the years. You didn't ask me for anything, just a simple handshake between friends and a promise to do good by your dogs. You are truly a class act, my friend. A true dog man.  My hat's off to you, Mr. Gerry  Iannachino.