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JONATHAN LANE, 13 YEARS OLD
DISTRICT/COUNTY WHERE YOU LIVE: Northamptonshire
HOW DID YOU START OFF JUNIOR HANDLING :
When my dad bought my mum her first saint bernard in 2001 and we joined the breed clubs. I enjoyed handling at these events that I asked mum to enter me into 'proper' shows!
HOW MANY DOGS DO YOU LIVE WITH,OWN AND/OR SHOW:
Nine, 8 st bernards , 1 great dane. I handle 3 of the st bernards
WHICH ONES DO YOU USE FOR JUNIOR HANDLING AND WHY:
One of my st bernards, Danny because he is very impressive to look at and we work very well together. We have a good rapport. The first was Bella... we started off & learnt alot together but she has retired now.
WHAT BREEDS HAVE YOU SHOWN BEFORE IN COMPETITION:
A Chihauha and a flat coated retriever, although now I show my saints but I am still up for a challenge with any breed!
TELL US ABOUT HOW TO HANDLE (SHOWING STYLE) YOUR BREED IN JUNIOR HANDLING CLASSES:
With a st bernard they are a 'stacked' breed, making the most of the head piece. They can be 'free stood' but this takes concentration. I also believe a gentle but controlling manner should be taken, otherwise it will turn out to be some what of a memorable occasion, but unfortunatley not a good one I might add.
WHAT DO YOU NORMALLY WEAR IN COMPETITION
A black 3-piece suit with tie as it compliments the dog and is very smart. Clean shoes are a must.
WHAT ARE YOUR BEST ACHIEVEMENTS:
I have many achievements to be proud of such as winning Best Junior Handler in Show at many of the breed club events, also Best JH in Show at Bedford Open show in Sept '05, being part of the Runner up team at the UKJHA in June '06, plus there are others that would take too long to mention.... but I also believe that as long as the day is enjoyed even not getting placed is a sence of achievement if you learn from your mistakes , although qualifying for crufts & winning Best JH at the same show wasn't half bad :)
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST MEMORABLE OCCASION SO FAR?
When I qualified for Crufts and my mum came up to me crying and smoothering me with hugs and kisses (memorable yet embarrassing)
IF YOU ONLY HAD ONE 'TOP TIP' TO SHARE, WHAT WOULD IT BE :
Always have a smile & be polite no matter what as long as its not fake though!
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE THING ABOUT JUNIOR HANDLING?
Having the biggest dog in the ring!....... no seriously, I enjoy showing our breed in JH as so many people don't get to see a st bernard & they are a worthy & noble breed & should be given the opportunity to be seen!
WHAT DISAPPOINTS YOU IN THE WORLD OF JUNIOR HANDLING?
That no one ever seems to take into account how hard it is to handle such a large breed & I have been penalised at a few shows for exactly that.
IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU WANT TO BRING UP:
I would like to thank Marina so much for appreciating the skills it takes to handle a large breed & awarding me a first place & best JH. I am also grateful that she gave me the time of day & chatted to me after the awards, so that I can learn & improve. Her book is very informative & helpful and her account of her day at the pedigree chum finals was very inspiring so here’s a BIG THANKS.
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