Canadian Kennel Club Congratulates Crufts World Junior Handling Champion Colton O'Shea

TORONTO, March 11, 2014 /CNW/ - The Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) is thrilled to congratulate Colton O'Shea on winning the esteemed title of World Junior Handling Champion, in the face of stiff competition from 45 countries, at the Crufts 2014 International Junior Handling Competition in Birmingham, England, March 8, 2014.

The talented Nova Scotia native was crowned the winner of the International Junior Handling Competition following three momentous rounds in which the young finalists showcased their handling skills and rapport with unfamiliar dogs and limited bonding time. Following his incredible win, Colton was quick to express gratitude to all his supporters and said about his win, "Thank you everyone for your fantastic support. I could not have done it without my country behind me!" The thrill of the victory was also shared by CKC members and dog lovers across the country.

Colton qualified to compete in the world's greatest dog show after winning the title of Canadian National Junior Handling Conformation Champion - which he has held for the past two years - in addition to being a former National Obedience Champion. The CKC wishes to thank Junior Handling sponsor Royal Canin for making Colton's trip to Crufts possible and for their support of the CKC Junior Handling program.

"We commend Colton for his outstanding performance and incredible achievement, as winner of the prestigious World Junior Handling Champion title, and we are proud of Colton's contribution to the sport, and the world of purebred dogs," said CKC Executive Director, Lance Novak. "This is an exciting time for Junior Handling in Canada and this victory is a testament to the value and strength of our CKC Junior Handling Program and to all those who have helped shape and support Canada's extraordinary Juniors, like Colton, along the way."

About The Canadian Kennel Club
The Canadian Kennel Club is a national member-based non-profit organization and the primary registry for purebred dogs in Canada and as an adherent to the Animal Pedigree Act, operates under the auspices of Agriculture Canada. Founded in 1888, the CKC has advocated for purebred dogs and their owners through the promotion of responsible dog ownership for 125 years. For more information, visit www.ckc.ca.

SOURCE: The Canadian Kennel Club

Media Contact:
Andrew Patton
Manager, Marketing & Communications
The Canadian Kennel Club
416.674.2855
[email protected]