Young Person of the Year award

Our annual award is the chance to celebrate young people who are transforming the lives of others. We are looking to recognise young people going above and beyond or overcoming huge challenges to demonstrate their love of dogs, and encourage others to become a part the dog world. They could be giving up their time to mentor other young people, training dogs, fundraising or campaigning. Whatever they are doing, they have one thing in common – a desire to make a difference and improve the lives of dogs.

Shaun McAlpine Memorial Trophy

The overall winner of the Young Kennel Club Young Person of the Year award will be presented with the Shaun McAlpine Memorial Trophy. 

The award has been presented at Crufts for over 26 years by Ed and Cindy McAlpine. The award is in memory of Shaun, who tragically died two weeks after his 22nd birthday in November 1984.

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, competing at Crufts on many occasions.

Roll of honour
  • 2021 - Lewis Garstang
  • 2020 - Ryan Hennessy
  • 2019 - Paige Jepson
  • 2018 - Lauren Ashby
  • 2017 - Daisy Buckland
  • 2016 - Charlotte-Louise Page
  • 2015 - Oliver Beckett
  • 2014 - Ryan Ross
  • 2013 - Jessica Ward
  • 2012 - Kian Pellow
  • 2011 - Alice Moodie
  • 2010 - Chelsea Hickford
  • 2009 - Linzi Follet
  • 2008 - Joshua Griffin
  • 2007 - Georgina Ferguson
  • 2006 - Stephanie Lansdell
  • 2005 - Chantelle Prior
  • 2004 - Jodie Harrison
  • 2003 - Rachel Buckwell
  • 2002 - Amy Holmes
  • 2001 - Adam Rose
  • 2000 - Jodie Harrison
  • 1999 - Adrian Marett
  • 1998 - Defrel Owen
  • 1997 - Donna-Elena Hardwicke
  • 1996 - Phillippa Noble
  • 1995 - Dona-Elena Hardwicke

2024 awards

The award is split into the five categories listed below. When nominating someone for this award, please choose the category you are nominating them for and you may only nominate once per member. To nominate someone for the Young Person of the Year award, please complete the nomination form linked below. You may only nominate a member for one of the categories (and you can't nominate yourself). All nominees must be a current YKC member. Once the category winners have been announced, the general public will then get to vote on who should win the overall Young Person of the Year award from January 2024. All category winners will be invited to Crufts 2024 to find out who will be the Overall Young Person of the Year.

Nominations close on Monday 18 December.

Complete the nomination form
Find out more about the five categories
Personal Achievement Award - Celebrating young people who have overcome personal challenges with their dog as well as the skills they have developed to achieve success in 2023.

Sporting Talent Award - Celebrating young people who show real passion and dedication for competing or training their dog/s in 2023.

Inspiring Others Award - Celebrating young people and their dogs who, through their positive attitude and inspirational approach, have proved to be a good role model in 2023.

Compassion Award - Celebrating young people who dedicate their time volunteering to help others and gone over and above what would be expected of them in 2023.

Community Award - Celebrating young people who show commitment and passion through social action – fundraising, campaigning, activities at school, college or community for the welfare of dogs in 2023.