2013 Vizsla Nationals - Junior Handler Parade

This past weekend my son Paul, our six-month old Vizsla puppy Vivien, and I all traveled to Minnetonka, Minnesota for the Vizsla Club of America's National event. Having just met the minimum age requirements, this was Vivien's first show. Also meeting the minimum nine year age requirement for the Junior handler competition, this was Paul's first show too!

The VCoA is extremely dedicated to the support of their Juniors. I heard several members state that Juniors are the future for the breed. The "Parade of Juniors" was held the evening before the Junior show classes, which are judged on the handling of the dog, rather than on the dog's conformation.  Each Junior, ranging in age from 9 to 18, received a huge, personalized sash to wear as they rounded the ring.  Most of the Juniors had extensive dog showing biographies read over the loudspeaker as they made their individual laps. Being Paul's first show, we provided information about his other activities, and some details about getting our puppy Viv, instead.

Paul following the Parade of Juniors at the VCoA Nationals. Shown with the
gorgeous personalized neck sash and gift bag given to each Junior! 

Paul has been taking classes to learn how to handle his puppy in conformation shows. Puppies will be puppies, however, and you will see that she has her moments, and Paul still has a lot to learn too. The gorgeous neck sash was probably intended for the average size junior, so it was huge for Paul, and provided some great comedy relief during his personal parade, which can be seen on this video.