Page 204 - ShowSight - August 2019

THE
JUNIOR HANDLERS
“GREAT DANES ARE FANTASTIC DOGS TO SHOW BECAUSE OF THEIR SIZE,
but it can be a challenge. Sometimes the rings are too small to get them moving out. When they do not want to participate with you, they can be very stubborn or set in their ways.”
If I could pass along any advice to the next generation of Juniors what would it be? Practice makes perfect.
Will you be lucky enough to see me working as a professional handler down the line? I plan to go to college and then pursue my dream of becoming a professional handler.
What outside interests do I have? My school work and extra curricular activities as this is my senior year and my last time to experience everything.
LOGAN YANKOWSKI
I started showing with a Labrador Retriever and Borzois. I still show Bor- zois and a Beagle from time to time, but most of the time I am showing my Great Dane, Rizzo. I have found it to be easier for me to show the taller breeds because I am almost 6’ tall. The larger breeds move out well and cover as much ground as I can. Not only that, we have had Great Danes since I
was four. When I lost my boy Joey a few years ago, my mom and I started looking for a puppy. It was a natural step to buy one that I could show. I love how affectionate the breed is.
What is the most difficult aspect of handling my breed in juniors? Great Danes are fantastic dogs to show because of their
size, but it can be a challenge. Sometimes the rings are too small to get them moving out. When they do not want to participate with you, they can be very stubborn or set in their ways.
Who is my mentor and what do I feel I have learned from them? Jean Durdin, who is my grandmother, she encouraged me to start showing her dogs. She has introduced me to a lot of different handlers who have all been very willing to share their time and help me learn different aspects of showing. Their expertise and secret tips help me when I am facing a difficult dog. I have also learned that if you have the right mentor, they can introduce you to more people with a variety of experience among a lot of different breeds. Now, my mother is involved and shows from time to time. It is great that we have three generations at the dog show!
What have I learned from participating in dog shows and other activities? It has helped in several ways. Time management is very important, especially dealing with ring conflicts. Showing dogs makes you disciplined. I have also learned how to talk to adults easily, take instructions and constructive criticism. I have also become a little more graceful and self-confident. Outside of the dog shows, I am definitely more confident and comfortable having conversation in various situations.
If I could pass on advice to the next generation of juniors, what would it be? Find the right dog for you! Not every breed or dog
is the right fit for you and the junior’s ring. Once you find your partner, find a good mentor, enjoy showing, and take criticism with a light heart.
Will I become a professional handler? I have always had my heart set on being a neuropsychologist. I would like to continue to show once I am in college, especially over the summer. I will prob- ably continue to show later in life as well.
What outside interests do I have? Typical teenage stuff. I like hanging out with my friends. I play on the volleyball team at school. I also like to travel, read and go to amusement parks.
202 • ShowSight Magazine, auguSt 2019