Stella Keimon: My Westminster Story

Stella Keimon: My Westminster Story

My Journey to The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show as a Junior Handler

Dogs have been a part of my life for as long as I can remember, and they have led me to incredible opportunities as a Junior Handler with the American Kennel Club. One of the most meaningful was earning an invitation to attend the 150th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

Qualifying for Westminster for the first time was a major milestone in my journey as a Junior Handler.

My main breed is the Chinese Crested, a breed that has taught me patience, confidence, and the importance of teamwork. I have also been hands-on in the whelping pen, helping to raise and socialize puppies and learning to understand puppy behavior from an early age. In addition to Cresteds, I have had the opportunity to Junior-handle several breeds from different AKC Groups. Learning how to adjust my handling style for each breed has helped me become a more well-rounded handler.

My journey began with my first show dog, CH Sunlit Miyagi’s Mate RA FCAT CGC TKN FITB, known as “Mate,” who came into my life when I was seven years old. We quickly formed a strong bond. I began showing Mate in the Breed ring before I was old enough to compete in Junior Showmanship, and together we worked toward his Championship. Once I was eligible for Junior Showmanship, our adventures expanded even more. We became a strong team in the Conformation ring and also ventured into Performance events. Now a Veteran, Mate still enjoys Rally, and together we have earned our Rally Advanced title while continuing to train in weekly classes.

My current Juniors dog is GCHG NewCrest’s Thunderstruck At Regal, known as “Rumble.” Over the past few years, I have been able to work with Rumble on occasion in the Juniors ring. During our first weekend out as an official team, we earned an Owner-Handled Group One, which was an unforgettable experience. I look forward to continuing to grow our bond both in and out of the ring. Rumble loves going to shows and traveling with me, which makes our partnership even more special. I especially want to thank Rumble’s co-owners with me, Norma Feldman, Amy Bray, and Liz Keimon, for allowing me this opportunity to showcase Rumble. The support and belief in my handling and care means the world.

Competing in Junior Showmanship has helped me grow my confidence, especially when I am able to compete against other Juniors from different locations. Every Junior brings something different to the ring, and I have learned the importance of knowing that you must lose as well as you win. Those experiences have helped me grow not only as a handler but also as a person and a stronger competitor.

Showing a coated dog in my breed, the Powderpuff variety, has been another important learning experience. I groom all of my dogs from start to finish, and learning proper coat care has had its ups and downs. Over time, and with guidance from mentors, I have learned how to keep my dogs’ coats in top condition for presentation in the ring.

Outside of dog shows, I am also involved in theater. Between school, training classes, and traveling to shows, I have participated in five musicals through St. Charles Community College’s Young People’s Theatre program. Theater has helped me build confidence and learn how to perform under pressure, skills that carry over directly into the show ring.

My parents are my biggest supporters, while also keeping me focused on my education. Staying on top of my grades and assignments is always expected, even while traveling. Balancing school, theater, and dog shows has taught me responsibility, time management, and commitment.

I am proud to be a founding member of the Heart of America Chinese Crested Club and a member of the American Chinese Crested Club. Both clubs strongly support Junior Handlers through mentorship, learning opportunities, and stipends, helping me grow not only as a handler but also as a better partner to my dogs.

Before Westminster officially began, I had the opportunity to exhibit at the Progressive Dog Club shows, where Rumble and I earned the prestigious Reserve Junior Handler award under Mr. Doug Johnson. Exhibiting at this show helped to calm my nerves and allowed me to focus before stepping into the Javits Center. Showing beforehand helped me get into a rhythm and feel more confident and prepared for the days ahead.

Attending the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for me—and my first time in New York City. I was beyond excited to see dogs from all over the country gathered in one place, and to experience such a special event. The Westminster show days were incredible. One of the best parts was seeing so many Junior Handlers I have connected with over the years, all under one roof. We cheered for one another, celebrated each other’s successes, and were genuinely happy just to be there together. The energy throughout the show was incredible and felt like a celebration of Junior Showmanship.

One of the special opportunities I had while at Westminster was being selected to participate in the Junior’s Experience at Madison Square Garden. This experience allowed us to test the lighting and sound in the arena, and being able to run the carpet alongside other Junior Handlers was truly surreal. Sharing that moment with fellow Juniors in such an iconic venue is something I will always remember. I am very thankful to everyone involved in organizing this experience for Junior Handlers. It created a lasting memory on one of the biggest stages in our sport. Opportunities like this encourage Juniors to keep working toward our goals and dream of one day returning to showcase our dogs again.

I was also able to exhibit in the Breed ring with Rumble, and earning an Award of Merit under Judge Mrs. Connie Clark was an unforgettable moment. Being recognized among such a beautiful and competitive group of Chinese Cresteds at Westminster is something I will always be proud of.

My first Westminster experience was filled with excitement, learning, and memories I will never forget. It has motivated me even more to continue working hard, growing as a Junior Handler, and appreciating every opportunity this sport has to offer.

I am also very grateful to Dr. Donald Sturz and his entire team for their dedication to making this prestigious event such a memorable experience. Their support and commitment to the sport and its Junior Handlers made my first Westminster truly special.