For, about and by the next generation...

A Word of Encouragement

The selection of both the KC and YKC Agility Team GB was concluded recently.

Ant Clark posted this message on Agilitynet FB to all those who tried out for the team.

After watching the YKC partnerships at Crufts and again at the selection weekend, I have no doubt that those who didn’t make the team this time have the potential to come back stronger next year. Now is the time to reflect, set goals and plan for the rest of the season to take that next step towards 2026.

Feeling disappointed, upset, or even frustrated is completely normal. Let that drive your motivation. As a management team, we look forward to seeing you return next year with fire in your belly, ready to fight for your place.

For those who have made the team, the journey starts now. Over the coming months, analysis, development, and continual reflection will be key as you prepare for the championships.

Being selected is an incredible achievement, but standing on a podium for your country is an indescribable feeling. Your preparation, training, and mindset from this point forward will shape that moment. As a coach, I’m excited to be part of your journey and support you along the way.

Let’s get to work!

YKC Agility Dog of the Year

Cocker Spaniel Arrow (4) and Summer Clark won the coveted title of Young Kennel Club (YKC) Agility Dog of the Year at Crufts  on Saturday, 9th March in a competition was open to YKC members aged from 6-24 and their dogs.

An excited owner Summer said, 'Arrow was such a nervous puppy. It took ages to even get him to run so to get him here is amazing - this is the pinnacle. All the hard work has paid off. This has always been a huge goal of mine so to tick this off is fabulous.'

Helen Kerfoot, Crufts Show Manager, said: 'A huge congratulations to Summer and Arrow for winning the YKC Agility Dog of the Year. The pair demonstrated incredible skill, and it’s clear they have worked very hard. We are sure to be seeing them at many future Crufts! “We are always so impressed by the expertise demonstrated in the YKC competitions and all our competitors should be so proud of themselves.'

If you would like to find out more about the Young Kennel Club and how to join, please contact the YKC team by emailing ykc@thekennelclub.org.uk or by visiting thekennelclub.org.uk/ykc.   

Crufts took place from 7th-10th March 2024 at the NEC, Birmingham.

For more information and results from the show, visit the Crufts website.

Inspirational Young People Nominated for Shaun McAlpine Trophy

The Kennel Club, which runs the world’s greatest dog show, Crufts, has revealed the finalists for the prestigious YKC Young Person of the Year award. The accolade celebrates the dedicated, inspirational and selfless actions of young dog lovers, all of whom are members of the Young Kennel Club (YKC).

The YKC Young Person of the Year award is the highest achievement for young people who are passionate about dogs and recognises those who are going above and beyond to help transform the lives of others as well as encouraging their peers to make a difference with the help of their canine friends.

The winners of each category have been chosen by the YKC judges and will now face a public vote with the overall winner to be announced at Crufts on Sunday, 10th March.

For 39 years, the Shaun McAlpine Trophy has been presented to the winner of the award at Crufts, in memory of Ed and Cindy McAlpine’s son who was tragically killed in a car accident aged 22. Shaun had himself achieved considerable success as a dog handler.

Previous winners of the annual competition have been selected for their volunteering and fundraising for dog charities, helping to organise dog activities in the local community and for assisting others through training, stewarding and mentoring.

Speaking about the finalists, Helen Kerfoot, YKC spokesperson said, 'Well done to our four finalists. They are truly an inspiration, and a credit to themselves, their families and, of course, their dogs. Every year we receive amazing nominations and it is always such a difficult task to whittle these down, but we are so proud of everything our extraordinary YKC members have achieved. We are looking forward to welcoming our finalists to Crufts and seeing who the public have chosen as the winner of the Young Person of the Year award in March.'

This year’s finalists are:-

Personal Achievement Award
Celebrating young people who have overcome personal challenges with their dogs as well as the skills they have developed to achieve success.
 Winner: Poppy Coleby

Over the last two years, Poppy (18) has been diagnosed with Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction/dysautonomia, Postural Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), Vasovagal Syncope and Ehlos Danlos Syndrome. As a result, Poppy has had to cope with a number of debilitating symptoms, such as regular dizzy spells, brain fog, joint pain and frequent joint dislocations as well as an abnormal heart rate and high blood pressure, among others. Despite all these setbacks, Poppy has maintained her devotion to her dogs and passion for agility, and will be heading to Crufts for the third time, with her dogs Jackson and Sky. Not only that, Poppy also earned a silver medal at the ParAgility World Championships in Italy.

Sporting Talent Award
Celebrating young people who show real passion and dedication for competing or training their dogs.
Winner – Gemma MacKenzie

Having only started showing in December 2022, Gemma (14) has demonstrated significant dedication to both her dogs and her newfound hobbies, including handling, grooming and breed showing, as well as scheduling her own regular training sessions across obedience, agility and trick training. In just over a year, Gemma has amassed a number of awards including a Championship show group win and has also qualified for YKC handling and grooming at Crufts 2024, as well as the Scottish Junior Handler of the Year final, for the second time. 

Compassion Award
Celebrating young people who dedicate their time volunteering to help others and have gone over and above what would be expected of them.
Winner:– Amèlie Smith

Amèlie (15) has a very special relationship with her younger sister, who has complex special needs. Amélie has not only been an adoring older sister but also plays an undeniably important role in her sister's life as a carer. Amèlie has always been very protective and nurturing of her sister, and has evolved into playing a more mature and caring role, and she helps her with everything from getting dressed, getting around, to helping her with eating and drinking. With such a lot of responsibility, Amèlie finds respite and community in her favourite hobby, helping out those new to dog showing at her local ringcraft club, through holding extra training classes to helping with seminars.

Inspiring Others Award
Celebrating young people and their dogs who, through their positive attitude and inspirational approach, have proved to be a good role model.
Winner: Emily Dabb

Emily (18) has been a member of the Brigg Muttley Crew flyball team since 2018, and this year will be competing as part of the YKC Flyball team at Crufts, where, as the oldest handler on the team, has proved to be an inspirational role model to the younger members of the team. She has also spent a lot of time persevering with training her rescue Border Collie, Dolly. Emily has tried numerous training techniques and recently managed to successfully compete with her.

The overall winner will be decided via an online vote, which can be found at thekennelclub.org.uk/YKCYPOTY

The finalists in each category have been invited to Crufts 2024 on Sunday, 10th March for a special presentation ceremony and each will receive an exclusive YKC ambassador’s badge and award. The Kennel Club Educational Trust will be awarding £100 to all category winners, with an additional £350 to the overall winner at Crufts.

Young handlers and their dogs prepare to pitch up for camp

YKC Summer Camp is Returning to Rutland Showground

Young dog lovers and their four-legged-friends are preparing for a fun-filled summer in Rutland, as the annual Young Kennel Club (YKC) Summer Camp returns to Rutland Showground, for a third consecutive year.

Promising an action-packed week of activities, training and entertainment for both youngsters and their dogs, the YKC Summer Camp will kick off on Sunday 30 July until Friday 4 August and will see over 70 young dog enthusiasts descend on the showground, with their canine companions in tow.

The Young Kennel Club has been running since 1985, with the first Summer Camp taking place in 1992, and 2021 saw the Camp take up residence at the showground for the first time. This year, the YKC will be welcoming back children and teenagers between the ages of seven and sixteen, and with festival season in full swing, the week provides a perfect opportunity for them to enjoy a holiday with their dogs, whilst also keeping active, joining in with social events and taking part in plenty of training activities with their four-legged friends.

The week will include the opportunity to brush up on skills across a range of dog-focused disciplines, including agility, hoopers, scent work, obedience and heelwork to music, plus an educational programme that will provide information about all things canine – from dog grooming and care, to The Kennel Club Good Citizen Dog Training scheme, as well as a packed evening schedule for the humans, with a sports night, talent night, quiz night and many more. Senior YKC members will be on hand as team leaders, which not only provides them with the invaluable developmental opportunity to put their leadership skills into practice, the younger members also benefit from being mentored by older members, who have been involved with the YKC for many years.

YKC members must have a parent or guardian on-site at all times, but all the family are welcome to enjoy the fun, with onsite activities including daily bingo, afternoon tea, camp fun run and many more.

Helen Kerfoot, spokesperson for the Young Kennel Club said, 'YKC Summer Camp is a real highlight of the summer, and provides our young members with the chance to not only develop their skills in the training and care of dogs, but to also have fun with their friends.

'Equipping youngsters with the knowledge and awareness of what it means to be a responsible dog owner is so important, especially at a young age, and Camp will offer not only that, but also opportunities to socialise, train and compete, with a varied week of fun and games. The skills, knowledge and friendships that are created at Camp last a lifetime and are so important at encouraging the next generation into the wonderful world of dogs.

Celebrating Young Handler's Knowledge& Achievement

Boom, a TV production company based in Cardiff, is currently in the casting process for a children's series called  Meet the Experts for Channel 5’s Milkshake. They are looking for confident children between the ages of 7 and 8 years old to talk about agility.

Assistant producer Sarah says, 'It's a fun, engaging, child-centered television series, focusing on children with a real passion for and expert knowledge of a subject or hobby.'

They would love to hear from children aged 7-8 years old who are passionate about dog handling/agility/obedience training. The programmes are 11 minutes long, and the child will be at the forefront of show, therefore we are looking for children who are not afraid to talk and share their passion on camera!

You can watch the current series on My5 to get a better understanding of what they are looking for.

https://www.channel5.com/show/meet-the-experts

Photo: Beat Media

Morgan is Young Handler of the Year

Morgan Tait-Shoosmith (15) and Cuba (Alisiane Greatest Showman), her four-year-old Standard Poodle, won the Young Kennel Club (YKC) Handler of the Year award at Crufts on Sunday 12th March. The competition, which was open to YKC members from the ages of 6-24 and their dogs, saw top young handlers compete for the sought-after title of YKC Handler of the Year before Morgan and Cuba took first place in the YKC ring at the Birmingham NEC.

A surprised Morgan said: 'I was shocked last year as well, but getting it twice in a row is very very shocking! I think there was more pressure this year because I had already won it before, and all of the handlers were amazing. I didn’t recognise that the judge had picked me at first, but when I did, I was just so happy that Cuba had performed so well.

'Away from the ring, Cuba is very chilled and very quiet. He does agility as well and when he gets to the agility ring, he’s completely different he is all bark, bark, bark!

'I’ve been showing dogs since I was six and started handling four years ago. My mum breeds Standard Poodles and just watching her in the ring has inspired me, as has watching other handlers.

'It is great to show at Crufts. The atmosphere is great. The crowd get the dogs going, and it is just an adrenaline rush.'

To reach the Crufts final, YKC members competed in age categories: 6-11, 12-17 and 18-24 years. YKC handling qualifiers were held across the country throughout the year and the first place in each age group qualified for their respective finals at Crufts, with Cuba and Morgan taking the ultimate title of YKC Handler of the Year.

Vanessa McAlpine, Crufts Show Manager said, 'A huge congratulations to Cuba and Morgan for this fantastic achievement. The pair demonstrated a high level of skill and teamwork which was exceptional for such a young handler. We are incredibly hopeful and excited to see what more the pair will achieve in the future years and Crufts to come!'

If you would like to find out more about the Young Kennel Club and how to join please contact the YKC team by emailing ykc@thekennelclub.org.uk or visit www.ykc.org.uk.

Inspirational Agility Juniors Nominated for Young Person of the Year

The Kennel Club, which runs the world’s greatest dog show, Crufts, has revealed the finalists for the prestigious YKC Young Person of the Year award. The accolade celebrates the dedicated, inspirational and selfless actions of young dog lovers, all of whom are members of the Young Kennel Club (YKC).

The YKC Young Person of the Year award is the highest achievement for young people who are passionate about dogs and recognises those who are going above and beyond to help transform the lives of others, as well as encouraging their peers to make a difference with the help of their canine friends.

The winners of each category have been chosen by the YKC judges and will now face a public vote, with the overall winner to be announced at Crufts, on Sunday, 12th March.

For over 35 years, the Shaun McAlpine Trophy has been presented to the winner of the award at Crufts, in memory of Ed and Cindy McAlpine’s son who was tragically killed in a car accident aged 22. Shaun had himself achieved considerable success as a dog handler.

Previous winners of the annual competition have been selected for their volunteering and fundraising for dog charities, helping to organise dog activities in the local community and for assisting others through training, stewarding and mentoring.

This year’s finalists include two agility junior are.

Ryan Feehan
Sporting Talent Award
Celebrating young people who show real passion and dedication for competing or training their dog/s in 2022

At 14, Ryan Feehann is the youngest member of his dog agility club (alongside his Jack Russell Terrier, Mitsi). However, he has proven that age is nothing but a number, having achieved Grade 7 (the highest level) and travelled to Finland last year to compete as part of the Junior Team GB agility team. Ryan raised funds for this trip by himself, alongside his sister, showing the commitment and passion he has for agility.

Faith Elkins
Compassion Award winner
Celebrating young people who dedicate their time volunteering to help others
and gone over and above what would be expected of them in 2022.

At just 11 years old, Faith Elkins has shown true dedication to her favourite hobby – dog agility, devoting much of her time outside of school to not only taking part in shows with her Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Cassie, but also to volunteering, proving her competence in all areas of ring management. Despite her age, she has shown a vast amount of knowledge and expertise in agility and always helps out her friends and fellow competitors at shows.

Jessie Harrison
Community Award winner
Celebrating young people who have overcome personal challenges with their dog
as well as the skills they have developed to achieve success in 2022.

Jessie Harrison, aged 11 has overcome extreme anxiety and low confidence to not only achieve her own goals, but has used her experience to help others around her. Having had a difficult time at school, she turned to dog training in 2019 with her Cavachon, Woody, as an outlet to find confidence. Sadly this was put on pause during Covid but they came back and achieved the Good Citizen Dog scheme Gold Award – the highest level of achievement within the scheme. Jessie now uses what she has learnt to help her peers with training their dogs as well, whilst also playing a vital role within a number of charity events, raising money for dog charities.

Izzy King
Personal Achievement Award winner
Celebrating young people who have overcome personal challenges with their dog
 as well as the skills they have developed to achieve success.

In 2020, Izzy King, now 17, was diagnosed with a vascular malformation tumour, for which she is still undergoing treatment at Great Ormond Street Hospital. Not only affecting her physical health, the diagnosis had a huge impact on her mental health, and also resulted in her missing 60% of school time. Despite all these setbacks, Izzy passed all of her GCSEs and is currently studying A Levels, with the ultimate career goal of opening her own canine photography studio.

Izzy has been helped through her illness by MIND and, in 2021, she ran an online dog show, raising £2100 for the charity, to say thank you.

Emer Wright
Inspiring Others Award winner
Celebrating young people and their dogs who, through their positive attitude and inspirational approach,
have proved to be a good role model in 2022.

Emer Wright, aged 24, has dedicated her life to dogs. Her favourite breed is the Japanese Shiba Inu, which she also owns. As such, she is extremely passionate about both the breed and the world of dogs, and devotes much of her time to encouraging young people to get involved with taking part in activities with their dogs, especially showing. She is Secretary of the Irish Junior Handler’s Association of Ireland, a voluntary role, through which she organises events, competitions and fundraisers.

In the last ten years, alongside her dogs she has achieved 16 Irish Champions, five International Champions and a UK Champion. 

Speaking about the finalists, the Kennel Club Events & Youth Development Executive Vanessa McAlpine said, 'We are so proud of these five young finalists who demonstrate a level of determination, commitment and passion that exemplifies the ethos of the Young Kennel Club. It is always such a difficult task to select just five from the many inspirational entries that we receive each year, but everyone who received a nomination should be so proud of their achievements. Our members are such a credit to themselves, their dogs and their families. We are looking forward to welcoming our finalists to Crufts and seeing who the public have chosen as the winner of the YKC Young Person of the Year award in March.'

You can support our agility juniors by voting for the overall winner online vote

The finalists in each category have been invited to Crufts 2023 on Sunday, 12th March for a special presentation ceremony and each will receive an exclusive YKC ambassador’s badge and award. As well as being crowned the YKC Young Person of the Year, there is a prize fund of up to £750 which will be used towards helping the winner progress their love of dogs.

Poppy Coleby

Max Glover

Junior Handlers Inspire Awards

One of Inspire Agility's ambitions is to support the development of agility which is why an Annual Junior Training Bursary of £500 was to set up to fund agility training for an ambitious junior agility handler. 

Juniors are invited to answer the following questions in less than 250 words:-

• Why do you love training and competing your dog in agility?

• What are your biggest achievements in agility?

• What are your agility dreams?

• Who is your agility idol and why?

A panel of judges short-listed the Juniors from anonymous applications and chose Poppy Coleby as the 2022 winner.

Head Judge Lucy Creek said, 'All the team at Inspire Agility are very proud of Poppy' s agility achievements this year and look forward to hearing about Poppy' s future successes. Last year' s winner, Mariann Bayliss, has had a very successful agility year with the support of the Junior Training Bursary.'

Some of Poppy's achievements include:-

• Placing 2nd at their first Crufts in 2022

• Numerous KC wins and placings

• Qualifying with Sky (Darleyfalls Skys the Limit) for three classes at Crufts 2023 - Pairs, Agility Dog of The Year and U18's Jumping.

• Also qualifying with her other dog Jackson (Jump to It) for two classes - U18s Jumping, Agility Dog Of The Year.

• Jackson also qualifying for UKA Grand Finals 2022

A delighted Poppy said, 'I've had a great year competing with my dogs. I was lucky enough to get the opportunity to compete in the Para Agility World Championships In Italy with Sky where we won a Silver medal which was the most amazing experience! Can't thank Inspire Agility enough as all this would not have been possible without the training I've received and training days I have booked onto for the rest off the year which I hope will help me prepare for next year through the Junior Bursary!'

The Tracy Flower Memorial Award for Agility Champions' 2022 has been awarded to Max Glover, a GB Junior Team member whose Gold Medal winning success at the 2022s Junior Open Agility World Championships in Finland was achieved through hard work, determination and a love of dogs.

Ruthie Pegs said, 'All of us at Inspire Agility are so pleased to present this Award to a super junior role model. Well done Max. Last year' s winner, Rory Tidmarsh, has had an outstanding record of success in International Competitions for Junior Team GB.'

Next year's winner will be announced after the 2023 Junior Open Agility World Championships (JOWC) which are being hosted in the UK

Applications to receive the 2023 Annual Junior Training Bursary will be open from 1st January and close on the 31st January 2023.

SWAT Junior Finals Report

The Finals of the SWAT South West Junior Challenge were held at the SWAT show on Saturday, 6^th August 2022, after the rings had all finished. A large audience brought chairs to sit ringside and cheered on the Junior handlers.

Heats had been had held at various local shows from Cornwall to Bristol for the previous 12 months. All judges were asked to design flowing jumping courses with the aim to build confidence in the handlers. The younger handlers clearly look up to the older Juniors and the support they all give is wonderful to see, congratulating each other even when their own run hasn't gone to plan.

2022 had more finalists than Pre- Covid, four dogs in the Under 9s and 18 in the Overs. The standard of handling was phenomenal!

Martin Tait, International and Championship Judge, judged the evening finals, setting a wonderful course that everyone could attack. Natalie Mitchell, who had judged all day, kindly agreed to do the commentary bringing a touch of Crufts to the atmosphere. The crowd participation encouraged all the handlers and their smiles were infectious. There were definitely a few tears of happiness shed.'

All the finalists received a rosette and sweets with the winners and reserves getting lots of prizes including goodies from our sponsors Skinners Pet Foods.

SWAT was not only delighted that Martin agreed to judge the finals - especially after judging in the day - but was also so encouraging of all the young handlers.

Afterwards he commented, 'I wanted a fast but handled course and the Juniors did not disappoint. They were a wonderful bunch who ran hard and celebrated with their dogs at the end whether clear, faulted or eliminated. All in all, an amazing day.'

Huge congratulations to everyone who took part, but especially to our winners - Thomas Newsam did the double in the Under 9s!

YKC Training & Qualifying Day Change News

There will not be holding a YKC training day on Saturday, 17th September. The new dates will be Friday, 28 October and Saturday, 29 October at Stoneleigh Park. There will be training in handling, obedience, hoopers and agility.

Crufts qualifiers for 2023 available will be: Agility Dog of the Year, Pairs, Under 18 Jumping, Obedience, Handling, Dog Grooming, Crossbreed competition.

You will be able to book online via the website soon.

5th September2022

A Message from Greg Derrett

Junior Agility Team GB Manager Greg Derrett posted this on Facebook before he went out to Finland to meet up with the GB Team for the 2022 JOAWC.

Before it begins, I would like to thank the Management Team and everyone at the KC for the hard work to just get to this point.

It's been a huge achievement by the parents and handlers in regard to the travel, raising the funds, organising the logistics and actually carrying out the epic journey from the UK to Helsinki.

We have a great team that I am confident will do well this week, but more importantly they are likely to become the future of our sport. I' m pleased to be just a small part of that development. This Championship has been a long time coming, but it' s been a pleasure to watch these guys qualify and then prepare over the last eight months. I hope they enjoy the next five days and the experience stands them in good sted for their future careers in our sport.

Thank you to GB sponsors:

• Natural Instinct

• Galican

• Dog Sports Derby

#AgilityTeamGB

Cake sale at Dartford

Let Them Eat Cake

As many of you are aware, 14 of our up and coming Junior handlers have been chosen to represent Britain at the Junior Open Agility World Championships (JOWC) in Finland in July.

What you probably don't know is the cost! £14,000 for a coach ... and that's without hotels, food, ferries, rabies jabs and Animal Health Certificates The list is endless.

The youngsters have been fundraising to help cover some of the costs. They are running a cake sale at the Thames show on the 11th and 12th June, but they can't have a cake sale without cakes.

Fiona Smith said, 'This is where they're hoping Thames attendees can become involved. Would anyone be prepared to make a cake or cakes (s) to bring it to the show? If you can't make a cake, then buy one. The cake sale will only work if people come along and buy buy buy! So bring your money, too.'

For anyone not going to Thames, there is a JustGiving page.

Update: The Thames cake sale was a stonking success, raising 3632.40. Thanks to the many people who came over on Saturday and donated cakes and then came back and ourchased some, too. Everyone was very generous with their donations and time, showing the agility community at it's best. Fiona Smith

Thomas and the Doc
By his mother Anna Newsam

Yet again the agility community leaves me speechless and humbled. I could not think of a better community for me and my children to be a part of.

Thomas Newsam (9) came home from school the other day to find a parcel from Angelo 'Doc' Docherty. He and Border Terrier Monty had run the Starters Cup at Wallingford which was judged by Doc and he had received a Judge's Special rosette. Then in the post, he received a trophy and a lovely card. Absolutely amazing! So encouraging! A treasured memory for life.

For young handlers who compete against adults, trophies are hard to come by. A clear round rosette goes a long way. it is wonderful to get a Judge's Special as a sign that someone has noticed the hard work and determination that that even when it hasn't resulted in a win.

Agility is so important to Thomas. He and Monty started agility from scratch just two years ago. Thomas works hard to improve and he wants to go all the way. To get recognition like this means the world to him and is so motivational.

Thomas has now qualified for Crufts with not one dog but two. He doesn't run the family dogs which are super fast Working Cockers and just a bit too much for him until his legs get longer. He runs Debbie Poole's dogs Monty and Betty. I think that makes their partnership extra special. The bond he has with these dogs is unreal.

A million thanks again to Doc for his amazing gesture. Taking the time to judge but then to write a letter and post a trophy, is going the extra mile to encourage young handlers. It shows kindness and generosity. You made a young boy's year - and made his mum cry . You are the Agility community at its finest.

Go team Poole-Langer-Newsam-Borders-Spaniels.

Supporting the Junior Agility GB Team in Europe

Our talented Juniors are off to Finland this July to represent Great Britain in the Junior Open Agility World Championship.

It's a staggering 3000 mile round trip including Eurostar and ferry crossings and 13 nights accommodations! The Kennel Club does not contribute to this journey. It is fully funded by the competitors which, in this instance, means their parents. The cost for the coach alone is in excess of £14,000.

Their parents would like to hire a coach so that the kids can spend time together as they only see each other at shows normally so they have set up a JustGiving fundraising page to raise £10,000 to fund travel to Finland.

Chloe Thompson said on behalf of all the parents involved, 'We are reaching out to the Agility family to ask for your support in any amount that you can spare to get the future of agility to Finland. Thank you for reading. As parents to these wonderful children, we would like to give them this opportunity to represent their country in a sport that they are so passionate about. Thank you.

More information about the team is available on the Kennel club website.

Photo: Linda Gore

Dreams Really Do Come True
Mariann Bayliss and Daniel are YKC Agility Dog of The Year Champions 2022.

Ever since I was little, it has been my dream to win at Crufts. Due to COVID, I never thought I would get one last shot at winning the YKC Agility Dog of The Year.

It was always going to be an emotional Crufts for me as it' s my last as a Junior, so I was determined to make my dream a reality! I cannot even begin to explain how it feels and how special this moment was to me.

We ran as the penultimate dog in the Finals and, knowing there were only a few clears, the pressure was really on. My mentality recently has changed so much, and I was so ready to step on that start line with my best boy Daniel and attack that course like our lives depended on it.

I really have no words as to how this feels. It is just such a surreal moment and to share it with Daniel and his owner Ruthie has meant the world to me. Daniel has so much talent and has had such phenomenal training. I'm so pleased that we could go out there and do Ruth proud.

I cannot thank everyone enough for supporting me through my Junior journey as it has made me who I am today. Many thanks to the YKC which has been an incredible organisation for helping me on my agility journey and allowing me to have these fantastic opportunities.

Thank you so much to everyone who made today the best experience for me and Daniel at his first of hopefully many Crufts! And to the judges and ring party who make it all happen.

I am, of course, sad that my time as a Junior is over, but I will now focus on inspiring the next generation. I hope that people will aspire to be the greatest they can be

Congratulations to Sophie Atkinson for coming 2nd and Emilia Bowers for coming 3rd.

Jess & her Not a Mini Cooper

Jessica Sansome and her collie Cooper will be representing Wales in the International Agility class at Crufts 2022.

She start competing when she was 11 and has travelled all over the UK, representing Wales at Junior level and, at the age of 16, she qualified for the World Agility Championships.

Jess says, 'This is our first time competing in the Main Ring at Crufts, and we are so excited. We were lucky enough to qualify and compete in the YKC ring in 2020, which we thoroughly enjoyed.

When we started agility, Cooper was a very, very nervous dog, unable to complete a full course but, with a lot of hard work and determination, he has totally exceeded my expectations, reaching Grade 7, gaining his Agility Warrant Platinum and being invited to attend the Team GB Performance Squad weekend. I' m very proud of him and very excited to walk out on the Crufts green carpet together.

I would love to say a big thank you to everyone that has helped us achieve our dreams, and thanks to the Welsh Kennel Club for their support.

Graham Hill, Hon Sec for Welsh Kennel Club said 'We are delighted Wales will be represented by such a talented duo and hope Jess and Cooper's achievements are an inspiration to lots of Welsh youngsters in the dog world and join everyone in wishing them the best of luck in the competition.'

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Spotlight on... Ryan Feehan

Ryan has just turned 13 and has been training and competing with 'other peoples' dogs for around three years but never actually had a dog of his own. He is now lucky enough to have taken over training Mitsi, his mum's eight year old Jack Russell Terrier and has been training her for the past year.

Back in August 2021, Ryan entered a heat of the Agility Dog of the Year competition. He went on to win this event, giving him and Mitsi the prestigious award of Agility Dog of the Year which automatically qualified him to attend the Semi-finals event held at the world's largest dog show Crufts in March, held at the NEC arena in Birmingham.

Then on the 22nd November Ryan received an email from the Young Kennel Club inviting him and Mitsi to tryout for the GB Team.

Ryan is very happy to have been given these opportunities at such a young age. His whole family is very proud of how hard he has worked on training himself and Mitsi to a high standard.

News flash...
Congratulations to Lewis Garstang who has been chosen as YKC Young Person of the Year at Discover Dogs 2021.

Two Young Agility People Nominated for YKC Young Person of the Year

The Kennel Club has revealed the finalists for the prestigious YKC Young Person of the Year award including two Agility youngsters. The accolade celebrates the dedicated, inspirational and selfless actions of young dog lovers, all of whom are members of the Young Kennel Club (YKC).

The YKC Young Person of the Year award is the highest achievement for young people who are passionate about dogs and recognises those who are going above and beyond to help transform the lives of others, as well as encouraging their peers to make a difference with the help of their canine friends.

The two winners of each category have been chosen by the YKC team at The Kennel Club, with the overall winner – decided by a public vote – to be announced at London' s biggest dog event, Discover Dogs, at ExCeL London, on Saturday, 20th November.

For over 30 years, Ed and Cindy McAlpine have presented the Shaun McAlpine Trophy to the winner of the award, in memory of their son who sadly died. Shaun had himself achieved considerable success as a dog handler.

Speaking about the finalists, Vanessa McAlpine, Kennel Club Events and Youth Development Executive said, 'We are so proud of these ten young finalists who are a credit to themselves, their dogs and their communities. We receive so many inspirational entries for the Young Person of the Year award and it' s such a tough task to narrow it down to just ten, but everyone who received a nomination should be so proud of their achievements.

'The finalists and their stories really sum up the passion, determination and hard work that is at the heart of the Young Kennel Club and that shines through all of our members. We are looking forward to welcoming and celebrating all ten of our inspirational young people at Discover Dogs in November.'

Previous winners of the annual competition have been selected for their volunteering and fundraising for dog charities, helping to organise dog activities in the local community and for assisting others through training, stewarding and mentoring.

Support our two young agility handlers by voting.

Personal Achievement Award - For young people who have overcome personal challenges with their dog, as well as the skills they have developed to achieve success.

• Lewis Steven Garstang (11)
  Following the tragic loss of his dad Steve back in 2018, Lewis took on the agility training and running of his dogs, Rosie and Willow. He was only eight, nearly nine years old. Both rescue dogs were from Ainmhithe and have very different behavioural challenges and needs. Willow is still a work in progress, but Lewis is very patient with her despite her naughtiness. Rosie is a different story. She was once scared of her own shadow, very nervous and would not venture too far from sight. Lewis has taken his time and used kindness and patience with her. Thanks to his work, she is now a confident collie who can be heard barking in the queue while waiting for her turn. Lewis has taught her to work ahead with confidence, and they have gained many clear round rosettes and even a few places. This year at Dogs in Need, they won the Agility Dog of the Year Class so they are off to Crufts 2022. Lewis even qualified his Mum's dog Teasel by winning the YKC Jumping at RVA show this year.

Creative Talent Award - For young people who have managed to keep positive by being creative. This award is for those who have honed existing creative skills, or developed a skill that they will carry forward with them, during lockdown.

• Isabel Patten (13)
  With her favourite activity, dog agility, significantly impacted over the last year of lockdowns and restrictions, Isabel used the time to learn new crafts whilst also raising money for charity. Using upcycled material, Isabel made her own facemasks and sold them to her local community, friends and family, with the money raised going to Many Tears Dog Rescue and Colchester Zoo. To date, Isabel has made over 200 facemasks and raised nearly £300. She has since diversified her offerings to make slippers, peg bags, cushions and dog toys from materials such as old jeans and scrap material, and also knitted more than 60 ‘Bunnies of Hope' over Easter 2021 and raised £155 for a local cancer charity. Not stopping there, Isabel is now making poppies (including purple versions for the war animals) and taking donations for the Royal British Legion.

Other 2021 nominees include:-

Community Award winners - For young people who show commitment and passion through social action – fundraising, campaigning, activities at school, college or community for the welfare of dogs over the past year.

• Emily Williams (17) dedicates her time between raising funds for different animals and charities whilst also working as a qualified dog trainer and hoopers instructor at her local dog training class, run by volunteers. During the pandemic, Emily set up a donation box to help street dogs in Greece by collecting donations of doggy items such as food, collars and leads, and sent them to Greece, whilst also helping many people in the UK with the care and exercise of their dogs when they were unwell. Throughout lockdown, she also created free puppy training videos for owners who needed an extra helping hand.
   
• Maria Louise Clark (24) is a passionate fundraiser and has raised impressive amounts of money for various charities over the past six years. In 2017, following her granddad's cancer diagnosis, Maria shaved her hair live on Facebook, raising over £1,500 for Cancer Research. Maria has also run online dog shows for charities such as Dogs for Good, RAF Benevolent Fund for Hounds and Heroes, as well as live shows in Devon in aid of The Snowdrop Appeal. It' s not just dogs that Maria is looking out for though, as during the first lockdown in 2020, Maria ran an online auction for the local zoo that returns cats to the wild and raised over £1,200 which helped to feed many of the animals.

Compassion Award - For young people who dedicate their time volunteering to help others or where their job is to put others before themselves.

• Rosie Shepherd (24) has worked on the frontline during the pandemic, having qualified as a nurse only six months before. She supported not only those with Covid but families who are unable to visit their loved ones. Rosie' s caring and compassionate nature shone through before becoming a nurse, having cared for her granny in hospital whilst she was in sixth form herself. A member since the age of eight, Rosie continues to volunteer for the Young Kennel Club and organises and runs a number of events, including the YKC Autumn weekend.
   
• Millie Youngs (16) has proven to be a real support to her older brother throughout her childhood, including many operations and hospital visits, and is currently training her dog to become a service dog for him. In addition, she also started her own agility club where she dedicates her own time to help other people to bond with and train their dogs.

Personal Achievement Award - For young people who have overcome personal challenges with their dog, as well as the skills they have developed to achieve success. 

• Emily Rice (15) has made huge strides with her mental health after a very difficult year, thanks to the help and support from professionals and headed back to school with an assistance dog. Emily is now helping others by spreading awareness of mental health challenges and suicide, proving to be an inspiration for not only everything she' s overcome, but also for looking out for others. 

Creative Talent Award - Celebrating young people who have managed to keep positive by being creative. This award is for those who have honed existing creative skills, or developed a skill that they will carry forward with them, during lockdown.

• Rebecca Colley (21) has already displayed a talent for photography. She used the unexpected extra time in lockdown to support others to capture not only exceptional images, but also lasting memories of their faithful pets. Her skills later developed into a fully-fledged business in 2020, whilst still organising activities to encourage many young photographers in getting creative with their dogs during the many lockdowns.

Inspiring Others Award winners - For young people and their dogs who, through their positive attitude and inspirational approach, have proved to be a good role model.

• Charlotte Baker (18) turned to her dogs to help her through her grief after the death of her brother. Proving to not only be a support, they have also been by her side as she has competed in a number of activities and competitions with them, including the UKA Grand Finals twice, winning the Junior Masters agility and competing at Crufts twice, among many other achievements. Charlotte has also organised several fundraising events and helped to raise thousands of pounds for Child Bereavement UK, as well as collecting packing hundreds of Christmas shoeboxes for orphanages in Serbia and Bulgaria every year. 
   
• Danielle Wilson (12) has won the Scottish Junior Handler of the Year in 1st place in 2018 and 3rd place in 2019. Outside of these achievements, she has been a pillar of strength and support for her friends during the turbulent past year of the pandemic. She is also on the Annandale Canine Association Committee and loves helping to set up on show day.

The overall winner of the YKC Young Person of the Year award will be decided via an online vote open to all, which can be found at bit.ly/3FmLETg

The finalists in each category have been invited to Discover Dogs 2021 on Saturday 20th November for a special presentation ceremony and each will receive an exclusive YKC ambassador' s badge and award. Finalists will receive £100 with the overall winner being awarded an additional £250.

To find out more about the award and Young Kennel Club membership, please visit ykc.org.uk 

YKC Summer Camp Returns

The Young Kennel Club (YKC) is pleased to announce that its popular YKC Summer Camp will take place this year, following last year's event, which was held online due to Covid-19.

Open exclusively to YKC members aged from 7-16, the camp is a perfect opportunity for children and teenagers to enjoy a holiday with their dogs, whilst also keeping active, joining in with social events and taking part in plenty of training activities with their four-legged friends.

The YKC Summer Camp has been running since 1992 and was set for an action-packed return in 2020, the first in six years, but was sadly cancelled in its physical form in order to ensure the safety and security of participants, spectators, volunteers and staff.

Thankfully, this year' s camp is set to return, based on the Covid-19 guidelines, and will be held at Rutland Showground in Oakham from Sunday, 1st August – Friday, 6th August. As well as reuniting the members, many of whom will have not seen each other in over a year, the week will also include the opportunity to practise a range of canine activities including agility, scent work, obedience and heelwork to music, as well as a full social schedule with team-building games, barbeques, a quiz night and a sports evening.

YKC members must have a parent or guardian on-site at all times, but all the family are welcome to enjoy the fun.

Ben Ashcroft, Young Kennel Club Chairman, said:, 'We are delighted to see YKC Summer Camp return this year. It was a real shame we weren't able to hold the event in person last year, but both our hard-working staff, volunteers and members really persevered to make the most of such an unprecedented time.

'Of course, nothing can compare to being reunited with friends in person, so we are so pleased that our members will once again be able to get together and have fun with their friends, something which the YKC is renowned for.

'Kids and their dogs are in for a really varied week of fun and games, with invaluable opportunities to socialise, train and compete alongside like-minded companions.'

Young dog lovers who are interested in attending summer camp should visit ykc.org.uk to find out about becoming a member.

The price for one member and family attending, including camping pitch, is £350 for a non-electric pitch and £380 for an electric pitch (including five nights camping and involvement in the training and social programme). If a sibling who is a YKC member also wishes to attend, their cost of training and team activities will be £180. YKC members wishing to attend the camp can reserve a place by visiting ykc.org.uk/content/for-members/ykc-summer-camp/.

Nominations Open for the YKC Young Person of the Year 2020

The Young Kennel Club (YKC) is welcoming nominations once again for the next Young Person of the Year award, a major award that recognises outstanding young dog owners. It is calling on the families and friends of YKC members to put forward those that they believe are deserving in one of the five categories.

With this year proving to be challenging and difficult for all its members, the YKC wants to honour the efforts, compassion and devotion to dogs that they have demonstrated throughout the lockdown period.

To acknowledge the abnormal circumstances of the previous six months, two new categories have been introduced, with all five highlighting the positive contribution that YKC members make to the world of dogs.

The categories are:-

• Personal Achievement award: Celebrating young people who have overcome personal challenges with their dog as well as the skills they have developed to achieve success in 2020
• Compassion award: Celebrating young people who dedicate their time volunteering to help others or where their job is to put others before themselves
• Inspiring Others award: Celebrating young people and their dogs who, through their positive attitude and inspirational approach, have proved to be a good role model in 2020
• Creative Talent award: Celebrating young people who have managed to keep positive by being creative. This award is for those who have honed existing creative skills, or started a skill during lockdown that they will carry forward with them
• Community award: Celebrating young people who show commitment and passion through social action – fundraising, campaigning, activities at school, college or community, for the welfare of dogs in 2020

Last year' s overall winner, 24-year-old Ryan Hennessy, set up the organisation Forever Agility in memory of his mum, Ann, who passed away from cancer in March 2019. Ryan wanted to replicate the love and support shown by the agility community following Ann' s diagnosis, with the aim to be there for those who need help whilst facing life-limiting or long-term illnesses.

Young Kennel Club Chairman, Ben Ashcroft, said, 'This year has been like no other and yet we have been astounded by how our members have risen to the challenges that this year has thrown at them. From entering the YKC online competitions in their hundreds and sharing stories of their personal achievements, they have really lifted our spirits and so we are looking forward to recognising and rewarding more brave and inspiring young members with this year' s award.'

The closing date for nominations is 18th December 2020, and all shortlisted nominees from each category will be announced in January before being put forward for a public vote for the overall winner.

Anyone can nominate a YKC member in one of the Young Kennel Club Young Person of the Year award categories by visiting www.ykc.org.uk/content/for-members/young-person-of-the-year-award/.

Taylor's Day Out at Blue Peter

During September 2020, Young Kennel Club member Taylor went to the Blue Peter studio to demonstrate agility. Blue Peter is a TV programme which is shown live on the CBBC television channel. Taylor was on the programme to demonstrate agility with her dog Elliot and also had the opportunity to try the course with the Blue Peter dog Henry. We caught up with her to find out how hers and Elliott day went, what they did and how it felt to train to Blue Peter dog Henry. 

Taylor blog
I loved going on Blue Peter with Elliott. It was one of the greatest experiences of my life. It was almost too good to put into words, but I' m going to give it a try.

As we were going to start filming early in the morning, my mum, Elliott and I travelled up to Manchester the night before. I think that Elliott was just as excited as I was. Whilst staying over in the hotel the night before filming took place, he was quite literally bouncing off the furniture! In the hotel, we were on the 15th floor up and had an excellent view of Media City, the location of the studio, and across the whole of Manchester. We had a floor to ceiling window in our room, and Elliott enjoyed watching the humans below going about their daily business! And that night, we got many great pictures around Media City.

On the morning of the filming, my mum and I had a full breakfast. I had a chocolate muffin, a porridge bar, a bacon and sausage bap, and a small croissant. We then made our way to the studio, and met with Richie, one of the presenters, and all of the producers. Because of Covid-19, we all had to make sure we kept our distance from each other and had to wear masks in the studio, except when we were in front of the camera.

When we arrived, the agility equipment had already been delivered and was laid out on rubber matting. Even though the rubber provided some cushioning, it was rather slippy underfoot, and it took Elliott a while to get accustomed to it. He was soon running just like he does in competition.

To begin with, I did a bit of practice with Henry, the Blue Peter dog, trying to coax him over the jumps and through the tunnel and weaves. It took quite a few treats to get him into the tunnel and, in the end, we decided to throw treats inside, and encourage him through that way. Sadly, he didn' t quite pick all of the treats up, and I momentarily lost Elliott in the tunnel when it was our turn to run the course.

Henry really seemed to understand what he was doing. By the time Richie and I had done some practice runs, Henry was going round the short course really well.

For the actual episode filming, we had to do many different shots from different angles to make sure that they had everything they needed for the final result! In the end, two and a half hours of filming was edited down to four minutes on screen.

Elliott took to the environment very well, and performed perfectly with every try. Henry was so sweet, and was doing really well by the end of the filming session.

When I got back to school, everyone was so excited to hear about everything, and many of my friends had watched it on television. 

We had a fantastic time in Manchester, especially Elliott, but I have to say that the highlight was definitely meeting Richie and Henry, the Blue Peter Dog. It was such an amazing experience, and I am so thankful to everyone who helped give me the opportunity to be part of the programme!

https://www.ykc.org.uk/content/our-programmes/members-spotlight/taylor/

Reprinted with the kind permission of the Kennel Club.

YKC Summer Camp Goes Online

The Kennel Club has announced that, for the first time ever, this year' s Young Kennel Club (YKC) Summer Camp will run online. Taking place from 12th until 23rd August and arriving in the wake of the ongoing ‘lockdown' situation, the upcoming digital alternative promises to provide plenty of activities and will be just as interactive as ever.

The YKC Summer Camp has been running since 1992 and was set for an action-packed return this summer, the first in six years, at Rutland Showground in Oakham. Sadly, amidst the current pandemic, the event in its physical form was cancelled in order to ensure the safety and security of participants, spectators, volunteers and staff. However, thanks to determination and perseverance, the event is set to return online, running for two weeks, with a full schedule of free activities to suit all interests, including a talent show, bake off and a dog walk challenge. 

Vanessa McAlpine, Events Executive at the Kennel Club, said, 'We are so pleased to be able to announce the return of the YKC Summer Camp, in an all-new virtual format. We know how much our members were looking forward to it, and as such an adored YKC annual tradition, it will be a shame to not be able to see our attendees in person this year.

However, with the new setup comes new opportunities, and by taking camp online we can run for longer, with even more fun and activities, and our members can continue to socialise and have fun with their friends, something which the YKC is renowned for. I would like to thank our hard-working staff and volunteers for ensuring Summer Camp can still go ahead this year.'

For more details on YKC Summer Camp and to view the full schedule, please visit www.ykc.org.uk/content/digital-resources-and-printables/ykc-virtual-camp/.

Young Agility Handler Wins National Lockdown Competition

Elsie Bradley, a young agility handler, was one of three winners of the Kennel Club online competition, celebrating the bond between owners and their canine companions and how this has helped them through lockdown. There was a prize of £100 in each age category.

Sponsored by the Kennel Club Educational Trust (KCET) and hosted by the Young Kennel Club (YKC) via its social media channels and website, the Life in Lockdown competition saw almost 100 entries from members aged as young as six years old, and up to 24-year-olds. Participants were split into three age categories, with each age group having a week to submit their entries between 29th June and 8th July.

The entries were varied in their format, from slideshows to photo montages and even videos captured from the dog' s point of view, showcasing the talent and creativity of the youngsters and celebrating the positive role that our four-legged friends play, not only during lockdown but as lifelong companions.

Nine year old Elsie Bradley and her four-year-old Pomeranian X Chihuahua Daisy won the 6-11 years category with their slideshow comprised of snapshots of all the fun activities the pair had been up to, keeping active and sharing laughs.

Speaking of their win, Elsie said, 'Having Daisy has been brilliant through lockdown. She always makes me happy. I loved making the video to show everyone what we have been getting up to. It feels very exciting to win and I feel very proud.'

The Young Kennel Club has been providing its dedicated members with fun games and activities to enjoy with their dogs during lockdown across its website and social channels, including a successful online dog show last month, which saw over 1,000 entries, as well as a series of upcoming dog breed drawing tutorials, printable quizzes, colouring pages and more.

Gerald King, Chairman of the Kennel Club Educational Trust said, 'It was a real delight to see so many YKC members submitting entries for the Life in Lockdown competition. Dogs have played a really supportive and important role to their young owners during such a difficult time and they have certainly put a smile on our faces! “It was really hard choosing just three winners amongst so many impressive entries, but we felt that the submissions from Elsie and Daisy, Susanna and Teasel and Alexandra and Ollie really summarised the strong bond between the young dog owners and their four-legged-friends and highlighted how beneficial dog ownership can be.'

You can read Elsie's own story of how Daisy and agility have got her family through the COVID-19 lockdown on Homeschooling in an Agility Household.

More information for parents and/or young dog lovers who are interested in joining the Young Kennel Club is available at the YKC website.

YKC Summer Camp Cancelled

The Kennel Club has announced, with regret, the cancellation of the 2020 Young Kennel Club (YKC) Summer Camp due to take place on August 12 - 17 at Rutland Showground in Oakham.

This decision has been taken in light of the Government' s most recent announcement concerning the ongoing ‘lockdown' situation during the pandemic and also takes into account the safety and security of participants, spectators, volunteers and staff at Kennel Club events, which are of paramount importance.

Refunds will be issued as soon as possible to those YKC Members who have already paid to attend Summer Camp.

The Kennel Club looks forward to staging YKC Summer Camp next year from Sunday, 1st to Friday, 6th August.

Advice on the situation regarding the pandemic is changing daily and the Kennel Club strongly suggests that everyone keeps aware of updates as issued by the Department of Health at www.gov.uk/coronavirus.

Further announcements regarding how the pandemic is affecting other Kennel Club events will also be posted on the Kennel Club website at www.thekennelclub.org.uk as well as on the Kennel Club' s various social media channels such as Facebook and Twitter.

Vanessa McAlpine, Events Executive at the Kennel Club, said, 'It is such a shame that this year' s YKC Summer Camp has had to be cancelled. This was going to be the first such event for six years but it was not to be. We know how much everyone was looking forward to it, but the health and welfare of all participants must come first and now we turn our sights to 2021 when we shall surely see a Summer Camp full of the friendship and fun which the YKC is famous for.'

All queries regarding YKC Summer Camp should be directed to ykc@thekennelclub.org.uk.

Ryan Hennessy is a Winner

Dog loving young adult Ryan Hennessy from Chipstead, Surrey was chosen as the Young Kennel Club (YKC) Young Person of the Year at Crufts 2020 on Sunday, 8th March.

Ryan Hennessy (24) co-founded the organisation Forever Agility last year in memory of his mum, Ann Hennessy who passed away from cancer in March 2019. Ryan wanted to replicate the love and support shown by the agility community following Ann's diagnosis, with the aim to be there for those who need help whilst facing life-limiting or long-term illnesses.

Forever Agility has helped others in a range of ways, from vet' s bills to travel costs, palliative care retreats to state-of-the-art medical equipment and mobility aids. The organisation is currently trying to find a specialist lawyer who can help them be legally ratified as a charity with the Charity Commission.  

Ryan, who will take over as chief judge for YKC agility events in 2020, has competed for a decade in YKC agility, helped and encouraged by his mother during that time.

Proud Ryan said: 'I wasn' t even aware that a friend had nominated me until the Kennel Club contacted me. I won that round and then found out I had been entered into a public vote for the main award. To think that the public voted for me to win is really nice and gives us the kind of boost we need to move what we hope to soon be calling our charity forward.'

The YKC was inundated with nominations for one of five categories in the prestigious award which celebrates the hardworking, inspirational and selfless actions of young dog lovers. Each category winner was invited to Crufts 2020 for the award ceremony following a public vote to decide the overall YKC ­Young Person of the Year award.

The category winners were:

• Community Award – Ryan Hennessy (24)

• Volunteering Award – Jamie Smith (14)

• Personal Achievement Award – Georgina Kent (15)

• Sporting Talent Award – Taylor Lyon (11)

• Inspiring Others Award – Jodie Forbes (23)

The YKC Young Person of the Year award is one of the highest levels of achievement for young dog lovers. For over thirty years Ed and Cindy McAlpine have presented the Shaun McAlpine Trophy to the winner of the award at Crufts, in memory of their son, Shaun. The trophy is awarded annually to encourage young dog lovers to become more involved in dog activities, as Shaun himself had achieved considerable success as a dog handler.

Previous winners of the competition have been selected for their volunteering and fundraising for dog charities, helping organise dog activities in the local community, and assisting others through training, stewarding and mentoring.

Vanessa McAlpine, Crufts Show Manager, commented, 'Congratulations to Ryan for winning this year' s YKC Young Person of the Year award. He is a well-deserved winner and is a real inspiration to many other young dog lovers around the UK. Well done to our other finalists and to all of our other YKC members who were nominated this year. They truly deserve the recognition for all of their hard work, time and dedication that they put into helping the lives of dogs.'

The category winners were each invited to Crufts 2020 on Sunday 8th March for a special presentation ceremony in the YKC ring where they each received an exclusive ambassador' s badge and award.

For further information about Crufts visit www.crufts.org.uk. If you would like to find out more about the Young Kennel Club and how to join please contact the YKC team by emailing ykc@thekennelclub.org.uk or visit www.ykc.org.uk.

Crufts took place from 5^th – 8^th March 2020 at the NEC, Birmingham. For more information, visit www.crufts.org.uk.

YKC summer Camp Back with a Bark

The Young Kennel Club (YKC) has announced the dates for its YKC Summer Camp, returning for the first time in six years.

Open exclusively to YKC members aged from 8-15, the camp is a perfect opportunity for children and teenagers to enjoy a holiday with their four-legged friends, whilst also keeping active, joining in with social events and taking part in plenty of training activities with their dog.

This year's camp will be held at Rutland Showground in Oakham from Wednesday 12th August – Monday 17th August and will include the opportunity to practise a range of canine activities including agility, scent work, obedience and heelwork to music, as well as a full social schedule with team-building games, barbeques, a quiz night and a sports evening.

YKC members must have a parent or guardian on-site at all times, but all the family are welcome to enjoy the fun.

Vanessa McAlpine, Events Executive said, 'YKC Summer Camp has previously been a real highlight in the Young Kennel Club calendar so we are delighted to see it return this year. Kids and their dogs are in for a really varied week of fun and games, with invaluable opportunities to socialise, train and compete alongside like-minded friends.'

Young dog lovers who are interested in attending summer camp should visit www.ykc.org.uk to find out about becoming a member, whilst visitors to Crufts 2020 can join the Young Kennel Club at a discounted rate of £12 by visiting the YKC stand.

The price for one member and family attending, including camping pitch, is £250. If another YKC member who is a sibling wishes to attend their cost of training and team activities will be £200. YKC members wishing to attend the camp can reserve a place by visiting www.ykc.org.uk/content/for-members/ykc-summer-camp/.

YKC Young Person of the Year Award

The Kennel Club has revealed the names of the five inspirational young people who have been nominated for the prestigious YKC Young Person of the Year including two of our own agility Juniors - Ryan Hennessey and Taylor Lyon. The accolade celebrates the dedicated, inspirational and selfless actions of young dog lovers, all of whom are members of the Young Kennel Club (YKC). It is the highest achievement for young people who are passionate about dogs and recognises those who are going above and beyond to help transform the lives of others as well as encouraging their peers to make a difference with the help of their canine friends.

The winners of each category have been chosen by the YKC team at the Kennel Club and will now face a public vote with the overall winner to be announced at Crufts on Sunday 8th March. For over 30 years, Ed and Cindy McAlpine have presented the Shaun McAlpine Trophy to the winner of the award at Crufts, in memory of their son who sadly died. Shaun had himself achieved considerable success as a dog handler.

Previous winners of the annual competition have been selected for their volunteering and fundraising for dog charities, helping to organise dog activities in the local community and for assisting others through training, stewarding and mentoring.

This year' s finalists are:-

	Community Award winner Celebrating young people who show commitment and passion through social action – fundraising, campaigning, activities at school, college or community for the welfare of dogs. Ryan Hennessey (24) set up the organisation Forever Agility last year in memory of his mum, Ann, who passed away from cancer in March 2019. Ryan wanted to replicate the love and support shown by the agility community following Ann' s diagnosis, with the aim to be there for those who need help whilst facing life-limiting or long-term illnesses. Forever Agility has helped others in a range of ways, from vet' s bills to travel costs, palliative care retreats to state-of-the-art medical equipment and mobility aids.
	Sporting Talent Award winner Celebrating young people who show real passion and dedication for competing or training their dog. Taylor Lyon (11) has been taking part in agility since she was five years old and trained her own working Cocker Spaniel puppy, Elliott, in agility since that same time. Taylor has various accolades under her belt, including winning the Under 12 Medium YKC Jumping last year as well as coming third in the YKC Agility Dog of the Year Final at Crufts. Taylor was also selected to represent Junior Agility Team GB with both Elliott, and her friend' s Border Collie, Tariq, at the European Open Junior Agility Championships in Switzerland, winning two bronze medals.
	Volunteering Award winner Celebrating young people who dedicate their time to helping others and gone over and above what would be expected of them. Jamie Smith (14) volunteers his free time after school and at weekends to the national charity, the Cinnamon Trust, which helps organise volunteers to walk dogs for the elderly, terminally ill or housebound. Along with his mum, Jamie walks Sam, a nine-year-old Dachshund, twice a week on behalf of Sam' s owner who is unable to walk. Jamie lost his dad last year and experienced the effects of terminal illness and not to be able to look after yourself, or a pet, so finds the time he spends with Sam and her owner very rewarding.
	Personal Achievement Award winner Celebrating young people who have overcome personal challenges with their dog as well as the skills they have developed to achieve success. Georgina Kent (15) has recently completed a year of intensive treatment for lymphoma and has since begun a further 18 months of maintenance treatment. Georgina' s diagnosis came at the same time that their family had chosen a new Border Terrier puppy, Dylan, and he joined the family at the same time that Georgina returned from her first month' s stay in hospital. Georgina credits Dylan' s beautiful nature with helping her to get better, and she has begun practising agility in the garden with both Dylan and his brother, Boo, ready to return to classes.
	Inspiring Others Award winner Celebrating young people and their dogs who through their positive attitude and inspirational approach have proved to be a good role model. Jodie Forbes (23) counts working with difficult and misunderstood dogs as the most important thing to her and in 2019, set up a dog training and behaviour academy called Make Your Mark, alongside her partner. Over the past year they have worked with over 100 dogs in a variety of activities that they would normally be unable to attend due to their behaviour problems. Jodie regularly visits schools to teach and has also spoken publicly of her own struggles with mental health disorders and acceptance of neurodiversity, and how there can be so much more behind ‘problem behaviours' .

Speaking about the finalists, Vanessa McAlpine, Kennel Club Education Executive said: “These five young finalists are a credit to themselves, their dogs and their communities. They demonstrate a level of determination, passion, courage and selflessness that we are proud to see in our Young Kennel Club members.

'We receive so many inspirational entries for young people every year and it' s a tough task to select just five, but everyone who received a nomination should be so proud of their achievements. These stories prove how much a dog can impact someone' s life and vice versa. We are looking forward to welcoming our finalists to Crufts and seeing who the public have chosen as the winner of the YKC Young Person of the Year award in March.'

The overall winner will be decided via an online vote open to all, which can be found at https://www.crufts.org.uk/dog-exhibitors/young-kennel-club/young-person-of-the-year-award/

The finalists in each category have been invited to Crufts 2020 on Sunday 8th March for a special presentation ceremony and each will receive an exclusive YKC ambassador' s badge and award. As well as being crowned the YKC Young Person of the Year, there is a prize fund of up to £750 which will be used towards helping the winner progress their love of dogs.

Classes for Juniors + One at Phase Purple Shows

At all Phase Purple shows, adults are allowed adults in the ring with the younger handlers.

The UKA Junior Open Championship 2020

The aim of this competition is to encourage Junior handlers to compete against their peers in the sport of Agility and prepare them for their future competitions. 

General Rules

• Open to all handlers who are under 18 on the 1^st December 2020.

• Open to all levels and all heights. 

• There will be a separate competition for each height.

Final Qualification

• The way to qualify for the Junior Open final is through a Junior league table taken from normal UK Agility Class results. (10 spots per height).

• The Final will be held at the UK Agility Grand Finals and follow the Junior Masters Rules.

Junior League

• Agility, Jumping, Games and Steeplechase classes held at UKA shows from 1st January 2020 until 27th September 2020 will offer the opportunity for Juniors to gain points.

• Only classes with UKA progression points will count with progression points being used for the league.

• Junior handlers must include their Date of Birth on their records. The league will automatically include handlers with eligible DOB.

• If a dog is run by two junior handlers and both achieve points, the handler with the most points will qualify that dog.

Junior Masters (Final)

• The Junior Masters rules will adhere to the standard rules of the regular Masters however course level should be UKA Senior with course time also set using Senior course times.

• There will be a maximum of 22 obstacles permitted.

Junior Bursary. Wendy Jones has very kindly offered a bursary of £50 to each height winner at the Grand Finals. The bursary must be spent on Dog agility training and will be paid on submission of the receipt for training.

https://m.facebook.com/Agility-For-Juniors-144841152247337/

 
Juniors at UKA Shows

Very few UKA shows now have specific classes for Junior but they do have a Juniors League where all progression point class results go towards a league and the top ten in each height get invited to compete at the UKA Grand Finals. In addition, the league is one of the three qualifying events for Juniors to win a place onto the WAO Team England.

In addition to this, WAO is opening the event up to one Junior per height from each country next year. The Junior will compete in the same classes as the adults in all the events and the most successful Junior overall will become World Champion. The selection process for Team England is via a points system. Points are earned from the top ten places of the Junior League, Junior Masters results at UKA Grand Finals and the results from OJAC held in February next year.

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