Bourbon Memorial Junior Handler Fund

The Bourbon Memorial Junior Handler Fund was created in memory of DASH UJJ USJ UNJ CH FS Bourbon Nights SPOT JJ CGCA CGCU (2014-2024), an American Bully whose love for his mom, Savanna Fernandez, and the sport of dock diving was unmatched.

Bourbon began competing in dog sports during a time when the American Bully was newly recognized by the UKC and still working to prove itself within the purebred and competitive dog communities. Whether he was making people laugh with his signature belly flops in the dock diving pool, working as a therapy dog in schools, or charming everyone at his mom’s job, he changed countless minds about the breed. He earned his UKC Champion title in a single weekend, completed 2/3 obedience legs, earned a Bachelors degree in Construction Management (with his mom), and competed in dock diving and lure coursing up until he was 10 years old!

His gentle nature and focus on whoever was handling him made him an incredible partner, especially for children new to dog sports. At his final dock diving event before his passing, Bourbon teamed up with a junior handler he had never met before. With his unwavering enthusiasm, he helped her compete for the first time, igniting a newfound love for dock diving. This moment perfectly captured Bourbon’s legacy of giving his all to inspire and uplift others.

Junior handlers are the future of the sport, and they deserve every opportunity to showcase their skills, build lasting bonds with their dogs, and grow as competitors. This fund exists to carry on Bourbon’s spirit by supporting junior handlers. This fund was created to help cover entry fees and other expenses associated with competing in dog sports.

Through this fund, Bourbon’s legacy continues helping young handlers chase their dreams, one event at a time.

Eligibility and Application

Any junior handler, or parent of a junior handler, who is a member of the United American Bully Association may apply. Applications must include the premium for the event and details on what expenses need coverage. This fund may be used for conformation, dock diving, lure coursing, scent work, barn hunt, agility, weight pull, or any other sport recognized by UKC, ABKC, BRC, or AKC. The junior handler does not need to own or compete with an American Bully to qualify.

☆ Bourbon Legacy Award ☆

In addition to supporting junior handlers throughout the year, a monetary scholarship award will be presented to the Best Junior Handler winner annually at the United American Bully Association National Specialty, with the goal of further encouraging excellence in the next generation.

This award is open to all Junior Handlers who enter junior showmanship at the United American Bully Association National Specialty with an American Bully, regardless of UABA membership status.

The Bourbon Legacy Scholarship Award will next be offered at: UABA’s American Bully National Specialty hosted in conjunction with UKC Premier Nationals on June 10, 2026 in Kalamazoo, MI.