In New Zealand we have two Junior Showmanship competitions. The National Junior Dog Handler competition which comprises 10 heats and a final at the National Dog Show. The winner travels to Crufts and represents New Zealand at the World final. The second, is the NZ Young Kennel Club breed handling competition which comprises 4 age groups and consists of a series of heats held during the year with the finals also held at the National Dog Show.
On 1st January 2013 new regulations covering the judging of Junior Showmanship competitions took effect. This requires all National Junior Dog Handler heats and the final, the top 2 age groups for NZYKC heats and all age groups for the NZYKC finals to be judged by qualified Junior Showmanship judges. Handler stakes classes run by clubs not covered by these two competitions are excluded from these requirements. Overseas judges are permitted to judge this competition provided they are qualified to judge Junior Showmanship (Junior Handler) in their own country.
The examination process comprises study of the relevant regulations and training material, viewing a training DVD and completing an open book examination. An application form can be downloaded from the website and is listed under forms. Judges that are not currently on the NZKC judges list are required to be an Associate Member of the NZ Dog Judges Assn to maintain their qualification.
This qualification permits Junior Showmanship judges to officiate in Australia, the USA and any other country where their regulations require the judge to be qualified in their own country.
To apply to join the Junior Showmanship Panel contact Ashleigh Donaldson-Rogers ashleighrogers@hotmail.com or Anna Ancell annajane.ancell@gmail.com
