2022 BEST JUNIOR HANDLER
HAILEY GILLOTTI
Photo by Cate Auserwald
My name is Hailey Gillotti and I have been showing dogs since I was 6 years old, but fell in love with Springers at the age of 10. I currently have two English Springers; Valor (GCH Cerise Valor FDC) and Amanda Rose (GCH Cerise Star Witness RI BN CGCA ATT ACT1 TKA FDC) who are half siblings. Amanda and I have been competing ever since she was 8 months old, from there her and I have placed in the Sporting Group multiple times, multiple Owner Handled Best in Shows, numerous Best Junior Awards, and have earned close to 20 titles in Obedience, Rally, Agility, and numerous other tests that you dog can do.
Valor and I have been working together for just about 3 years and in that time he has brought me places I never thought I would ever go. Earlier this year was the first time we went together to show in Junior Showmanship at Westminster and made the first cut in my preliminary class against some very talented Juniors. He has also made my dreams come true by being the first dog I have won a Group One with. That moment was absolutely surreal when Judge Mrs. Chris A. Levy pointed to the Springer for first.
Outside of showing dogs, I am highly involved in the Torrington Music Program which has been recognized for 23 years for being the best community for music in Connecticut. I play the violin in the orchestra, as well as mentor some of the younger students when I get the chance to meet with them. I am also a part of 4-H which is a great organization that has taught me all about being a leader and it has given me some amazing friendships. I also am very involved in academics at my school, receiving multiple awards for grades and being on the honor roll for the entirety of my high school career. I just started my senior year and am hoping to go to college in the fall of 2024. I am looking to major in Art History or Egyptology when I getthere, but I know that I will always show dogs.
