The Young Kennel Club (YKC) is seeking nominations for the next Shaun McAlpine Outstanding Young Person of the Year, which will be awarded at the world’s biggest dog show, Crufts 2017.
Through five different categories, the prestigious award acknowledges and highlights the positive contribution that YKC members make to the world of dogs. The categories are:
- Young Braveheart of the Year: Recognising young people who have overcome personal barriers with their dog to achieve success.
- Champion Volunteer of the Year: Recognising young people who give up their time to volunteer to help others.
- Good Buddy of the Year: Recognising young people and their dogs who have proved themselves to be good role models.
- Sporting Talent of the Year: Recognising young people who demonstrate a real passion for competing with or training their dog.
- Fundraiser of the Year: Recognising young people who raise money for good causes.
Previous winners of the annual competition have been selected for their volunteering and fundraising for dog charities, helping organise dog activities in the local community, and assisting others through training, stewarding and mentoring.
Shortlisted nominees for each category will be invited to Crufts 2017 for a special presentation ceremony where the overall winner will be announced and will receive £750 to be used towards helping them progress their love of dogs.
Young Kennel Club Chairman, Gerald King said: “Each year we really look forward to the announcement of the Shaun McAlpine Outstanding Young Person of the Year and it’s fantastic to hear about all the outstanding commitments of our YKC members. This award allows us to recognise young people working and helping dogs, reminding us of the way in which the two together can make such a difference in society.
“Last year’s overall winner was a perfect example of the dedication of our members. Charlotte-Louise Page won ‘Fundraiser of the Year’ after raising £3,000 for a number of charities including the likes of Dogs for Good and Macmillan. Charlotte’s incredible achievements included climbing Ben Nevis with her Dalmatian, Pandora as well as taking on the Virgin London Marathon. We look forward to discovering more passionate and committed members like Charlotte with this year’s award.”
The award is the highest level of achievement for young dog lovers. For over twenty five years, Ed and Cindy McAlpine have presented the Shaun McAlpine Outstanding Young Person of the Year award in memory of their son. The trophy is awarded annually to encourage young dog lovers to become more involved in dog activities, as Shaun himself had achieved considerable success as a dog handler.
Anyone can nominate a YKC member in one of the Shaun McAlpine Outstanding Young Person of the Year award categories by submitting the application online from now until 1st December 2016. For more information or support with nominating, please email our YKC team or call 020 7518 1030.
Once nominations have been revealed, the general public will then decide the winner via an online vote on the YKC Facebook page.