18-year-old junior handler Julie Erikson with a Pointer called Arthur (Clamerkin Jubilee Fly Past For Corotine) has won the Joe Cartledge Memorial International Junior Handling final at Crufts. The pair, from Norway, were awarded first place on Friday evening, in the BP Pulse Live arena, by judge Kimmo Mustonen, from Finland.
Runner-up was chosen as 14-year-old Soleile Huikeshoven, from the Netherlands, handling a Dobermann called Carice (Shalissa’s Perfect Blend JW), and third place was Lila Holberg, representing the USA, handling a Pointer called Toggi (Sharnphilly Toggi with Hookwood).
Other countries which made the top ten included Deana Musolino from Australia, Zara Valić from Croatia, Giorgia Giuliano from Italy, Dija Maksimaviciute from Lithuania, Maria Flores Ribeiro from Portugal, Kateryna Velichenko from Ukraine, Ellie Darling-Steele from the UK and Lila Holberg from the United States.
38 junior handlers from all around the world and aged between 12 and 19 years old took part in the prestigious final, which showcased their handling skills and breed expertise with a dog they only met that morning.
Julie said: “I’m absolutely overwhelmed, it was totally unexpected. So grateful to the judge for appreciating my handling and for the organiser for arranging this wonderful event. This win means everything, and I’m overjoyed with how the young Pointer I got performed — he truly did an amazing job and his dedication and effort made him the best team player. This was such a rewarding experience, and I’m beyond happy!”
Julie lives at home with two Salukis and started handling dogs seven years ago. Since then she has competed all over Europe. She is in her final year at high school and enjoys physics, maths and sport. Her dream is to become a pilot.
Tom Mather, Crufts Chairman, said: “It was a spectacular final where the event is a wonderful exhibition of young talented handlers showcasing their craftmanship but also their love of dogs. Congratulations to all the finalists taking part but particular celebrations go to Julie on achieving the winning spot. I’d like to add a special thank you to all of our dog lenders who kindly allowed the competitors to work with their dogs on the green carpet.”