(1) Tell us a bit about yourself and why you chose the Japanese Chin as your chosen breed to own and handle?
I am 10 years old and when I was 6, I asked my mum for a Chihuahua she said I had to wait till I was 7 as I might break it! When I was 8 we went to Discover Dogs at Crufts 2009 and I was allowed to pick a breed that would fit in with our family and I chose the Japanese Chin. By April 2009 I had a Red & White bitch Muden Princess Kinsai (Missy) which I bought with my own savings. She is my best friend and went everywhere with me. A lady at our local car boot used to stop me every week and told me every week that I should show her and I joined the local dog club. In August that year I went to my first show a companion and out of about 20 handlers I came last! Over the next two years I have learnt a lot and had lots of help and advice I bought another Japanese Chin a Black & White dog Hysterical Kotobuki for Holmchin (Bailey) he has been my handling dog this year as Missy was having puppies.
(2) On the road to the Semi-Finals, i.e qualifying, preparation?
I qualified for Richmond Junior Handling Semi Finals a number of times during the year. I was also there last year for the first time and gained 4th place. I was very nervous but excited to be going to the Semi-Finals unfortunately this year we took a wrong turning and we were stuck in traffic. We arrived very late I had to get changed and do my hair in the back of a van as it was speeding to the show. My mum and me pushed passed security and ran across the ground to get to the ring everyone was already in there but I was just in time to tag on at the end of the line completely out of breath.
(3)How did you feel getting the red rosette?
I don’t take part to win I do it for fun I always look at showing and handling as a great day out with my dogs and to see my friends. I was shocked and very happy at getting 1st place it was such an achievement especially as the judge was Marina Scott, ex- Scottish, British and World Junior Handling Champion. I also handled Bailey in the Breed class that day and got 1st in Limit Dog gaining his Stud Book Number and a 2nd in Limit Bitch with Missy qualifying her for Crufts 2012.
(4) Plans for the future?
To get through the Junior Handling Finals at Earls Court I am very nervous as I have never been before so I am not sure what to expect but I am looking forward to having a great day.
I am looking forward to showing our new puppies in the coming year and competing in the handling and breed classes at Crufts 2012.
Marina Scott presenting Holly and Bailey with her Red Rosette.
Interveiw by Sam Chambers.