Celebrating the 90th Anniversary of Junior Showmanship at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show
As we celebrate the 90th anniversary of this exciting component of the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show , we asked our Junior Handlers some questions about competing at Westminster .
JUNIOR
Showmanship
Celebrating the 90th Anniversary of Junior Showmanship at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show
Since 1934 , The Westminster Kennel Club has bestowed the title of Best Junior Handler to one deserving recipient . These talented handlers , who are between the ages of 9-18 , come from all across the country to be judged on their dog handling skills , with eight advancing to the finals competition . These dedicated young dog lovers spend countless hours training , grooming , and perfecting their ring techniques throughout the year to qualify for a chance to show at Westminster . Each year , approximately 100 qualified Juniors make their way to New York City for the most prestigious junior handling competition in the sport . The Westminster Kennel Club congratulates these Juniors for their continued involvement and future success in the sport of showing dogs and beyond .
As we celebrate the 90th anniversary of this exciting component of the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show , we asked our Junior Handlers some questions about competing at Westminster .
What are you most looking forward to during Westminster Week ?
I am most looking forward to meeting the junior handlers from all over the USA . Making new friendships and just the overall experience . I look forward to traveling to New York , a state I have never been to . I am so excited to be on this big stage . I am ready for this whole new experience . Kareena Iwamoto-Capenia , age 12
I am looking forward to the experience of competing against the top junior handlers in the country , but also getting to see the top dogs ! I always get so excited when Westminster comes , watching all of the FOX lives , and this time I actually get to compete ! Zoe Brewer , age 16
I am most looking forward to making memories with my entire dog show family ! Gracelyn Spires , age 17 Competing with the best of the best and experiencing Westminster for the first time ! Tatum Duvall , age 15
I am looking forward to showing at the Westminster Dog Show . It will be my first time seeing New York City and I can ’ t wait . This has always been a dream of mine . Allison Chism , age 18
WESTMINSTER . There ’ s only one ® 37