Adam and Leia show rivals who is top dog
A Hamilton teenager and his prized pooch have bagged a top award at the world’s biggest dog show.
Leia, a seven-year-old Border Collie, and 15-yearold Adam Thomson, won the Young Kennel Club (YKC) Agility Dog of the Year at Crufts on Saturday.
The competition, which was open to YKC members aged from six to 17 and their dogs, saw top young agility handlers compete for the coveted title of YKC Agility Dog of the Year.
And Adam and Leia triumphed in the Resorts World Arena at the NEC in Birmingham.
Excited owner Adam said: “It feels really good to win! I’ve been competing for about nine years now and I have always wanted to run in the main ring so I am happy I got to do that, and I am over the moon about winning!”
He added: “I was a bit nervous but when I came out everyone was cheering, and it made me feel good!”
To reach the Crufts final, YKC members competed at qualifying classes in their respective categories for under and over 12s, and for small, medium and large dogs, looking to complete an agility course in the fastest time.
Vanessa Mcalpine, Crufts Show Manager, said: “A huge congratulations to Adam and Leia for winning the YKC Agility Dog of the Year.
“The pair showed incredible confidence and skill and we are sure to be seeing them at many future Crufts.
“We are always so impressed by the expertise demonstrated in the YKC competitions and all competitors should be proud of themselves for inspiring other young dog handlers.”
If you would like to find out more about the Young Kennel Club and how to join, contact the YKC team by emailing ykc@thekennelclub.org.uk or by visiting the Kennel Club website. Crufts was held from March 9 to 12 at the NEC in Birmingham.