Junior Handlers enjoyed more of that wonderful Winnipeg weather
for their National Finals on August 13th, with new
national champions being chosen from an outstanding field of Zone
Champions from across the country. Best Overall Junior -
Conformation was Nigel Phillips, continuing a Phillips
Family tradition of outstanding achievement, from Ontario (Zone 6)
and Best Overall Junior - Obedience was the poised and
talented Haley McCrea, also from Ontario (Zone 6). There
must be something special in the water out there in Zone 6!
Again this year, sponsor Eukanuba and CKC will help make it
possible for Conformation champion Nigel Phillips to travel to
Crufts to compete at the International Junior Handling Competition
in March 2012. It will be a wonderful trip for Nigel and the CKC
will have a stellar Junior Handler representing Canada at Crufts.
Nigel can ask his older brother Tony, a former National Champ and
Crufts competitor, about all those funny Birmingham accents.
Obedience Champion Haley McCrea will receive a $1000
educational bursary through the kindness of Eukanuba for her
talent and hard work. Congratulations to Haley for an exceptional
performance.
Marvellous organizer and Nationals Chair Diane Fast added some
pomp and circumstance to the event by having a bagpiper and the
junior members of the Manitoba Kennel Club presenting provincial
and territorial flags lead the competitors into the ring. Huge
thanks to Diane, her team and the Judges, particularly Joe Lobb,
for their hard work and enthusiasm. They were consummate Manitoba
hosts and helped present an unforgettable weekend for competitors
and their families. Check the Junior
Nationals Facebook page for posts and photos.
Congratulations once again to all competitors for their hard
work, dedication and stellar performances. The 2010 National
Junior Handling Finals winners include:
Best Overall Junior - Conformation: Nigel
Phillips
Best Overall Junior - Obedience: Haley McCrea
Wenrick Sportsmanship Award Winner: Ashley Loitz
Conformation
First - Nigel Phillips - Ontario (Zone 6)
Second - Danica Eisworth - BC (Zone 11)
Third - Michelle Gaudet - Alberta
Fourth - Susie Emerson – Ontario (Zone 5)
Obedience
First - Haley McCrea - Ontario (Zone 6)
Second - Veronica Fraser - Alberta
Third - Jade Unrau - Manitoba
Fourth - Kristin Griffin - BC (Zone 11)
