Junior Handlers Competition 2025

Handler Profile

Handler Name : Lucia Ackland
Age Class : 13 to under 19 years
Competition State : VIC

Points tally based on top 40 shows (points value) : 22
Number of First Place Wins : 2
Number of Second Place Wins : 2

Born into a family deeply involved in the showing world, Lucia’s lifelong passion for dogs started early. Having attended her first dog show at just 7 days old, she was immersed in the exciting world of conformation showing from the very beginning.

Lucia began handling at the tender age of 2 in Tiny Tots, quickly demonstrating a natural talent and an uncanny ability to connect with dogs of all sizes. Beyond her handling success, Lucia is also a dedicated and responsible dog owner, currently sharing her family's passion for Papillons under the TapDogs Prefix, a special affection for Afghan Hounds and in 2024 finding her heart breed in the Sheltie, which she is excited to hopefully (fingers crossed) add to the family this year.

Her dedication to the dog world is evident in her meticulous preparation and unwavering sportsmanship. Lucia is a true ambassador for the dog show world, always happy to help the younger handlers and excited to show any breed for anyone.

Lucia thrives on any opportunity to enter the ring which is evident in the smile she wears whilst showing.
Lucia loves to learn from experienced handlers and has been gifted the experience of some very accomplished handers, always eager to learn and grow from their experience and advice.

To date Lucia has been lucky enough to have over 50 breeds on the end of a lead for various handler classes but no doubt some hold a special place in her heart Jack (Australian Shepherd), Valley (Xolo), Morticia (Afghan Hound), Albert (Smooth Fox Terrier), Kayden (Siberian Husky), Beau (Keehond), Jerry (Boston Terrier) and of course her favourite Shelties Breez, Wynta and Loki.

I asked Lucia recently what she loves about showing dogs, her response 'My favorite part of showing is getting to meet so many different breeds and being given the opportunity to build a bond with each and every dog and getting to know their personality”.
Date Show Name Breed Result Points Top 40
4-Jan-2025 South Eastern Kennel Club Shetland Sheepdog First 4 Y
5-Jan-2025 Bass Valley KC Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Second 3 Y
11-Jan-2025 Cranbourne Dog Club Shetland Sheepdog Second 6 Y
1-Feb-2025 Classic Dog Show Shetland Sheepdog First 6 Y
8-Feb-2025 Lyndhurst Canine Country Club Border Collie Third 3 Y
Pointscore total based on top 40 shows (points value) 22