Thursday, December 11, 2008

WORLD FIRST PRODUCES 20,000GNS BID AT BORDERWAY

The Borderway Black and White Sale (Saturday 29th November 2008) hosted at the Borderway sale Centre, Carlisle, attracted the very best of UK pedigree dairy genetics and resulted in a top price of 20,000gns and an overall sale average of over £5,000.

Braedale Goldwyn and Picston Shottle sired many of the stars that made this sale such an immense success and resulted in the highest Black and White sale average in the past 22 years. The sale included a world first opportunity to purchase a first choice animal from two entire herd offerings. The average for all lots sold including embryos, first choice females, Holstein and Jerseys was £5,029.

Top price was 20,000gns paid for the first choice of the entire Overside Holstein herd of Hugh Neilson, Strathaven, Lanarkshire. The last bidder was Alan and Christine Watson from the Lillyhall Herd, Cockermouth, Cumbria. The successful bidders have two weeks to make their considered choice from this world renowned herd.

Another herd with a first choice offering was the famous Potterswalls Jersey Herd, owned by the Fleming family. The successful bidders have the option of any female from the entire group of 2008 born calves. Winning the bidding on this exciting 5,000gns lot was Michael Booth, Co. Laois, Rep. of Ireland.

Denmire Shottle Marie 80, bred by the Dennison family, Ulverston, Cumbria, sold for 19,000gns to Colin Dent, Bridgend Holsteins, Penrith. The first three females in this pedigree are all Excellent 94 scored dams and each animal has produced over 100 tonnes of milk in their lifetime.

The famous Lylehaven Lila Z EX 91 had a beautiful grand daughter sired by Bolton from a VG 87 Two-Year-Old daughter of Picston Shottle. This June born calf attracted enormous interest from around the world and sold with numerous embryo and bull contracts. She was consigned by Andrew Davies, Abertegan Farm, Llanybydder and now joins the breeding establishment of Andrew Bunting, New Abbey, Dumfries, for 18,000gns.

Another headliner that attracted the attention of bidders was Nethervale Goldwyn Tabby. This animal was described by auctioneer Glyn Lucas as a heifer that “flirts with perfection”. Her dam was the former All Canadian Veazland-R Bstar Tabby EX. This lot was consigned by W. Scott & Co, Netherhall Farm, Largs, and was purchased for 13,000gns by Jim Currie, Lanark, Drumchapel Estate, Brechin, and Usan Estate, Montrose.

All Red Holstein animals attracted huge interest with a top price of 11,000 paid for an Advent Red calf from Scientific Mahogany Red EX, a sister to the famous Madison show winner, Scientific Debutante Rae. This lot was consigned by Andrew Davies, Abertegan Farm, Llanybydder, and purchased by Willy Templeton, Syke.

Carhall Goldwyn Beth and Feizor Shottle L Melody both sold for 10,000gns. Both calves are bred from top UK show animals and were purchased by the Beth Syndicate and Wilsbro Farms, respectively.

The sale mangers would like to express their sincere thanks to everyone who helped make this sale such a success, and would like to wish all the purchasers much success in the future with their animals.

Leading Prices
Lot Gns Vendor Purchaser
30 20,000 Hugh Neilson “Overside” A&C Watson, “Lillyhall”, Cockermouth
31 19,000 JM&M Dennison “Denmire” C Dent, “Bridgend”, Kirkby Thore, Penrith
45 18,000 DM&M Davies “Tegan” A Bunting & Son, “Newabbey” Dumfries
57 13,000 W Scott & Co, “Nethervale” J Currie, “Carlinside”, Lanark,
Drumchapel Estates, “Drumchapel”, Brechin, Angus
and Usan Estates, Montrose, Angus
39 11,000 DM&M Davies “Tegan” RW Templeton, “Syke”, Ayrshire
33 10,000 WA&A Booth, “Feizor” Wills Brothers, “Willsbro”, Cornwall
52 10,000 I Mallinson, “Carhall” “Beth Syndicate”, Cumbria
71 8500 Noel Willis, “Conncorr” A Owen, Manor Oak Farm, Audlam, Crewe
75 7500 JM&M Dennison, “Denmire” I Robinson, “Ravara”, Ballygowan, Co Down
36 7500 H Wright & Son, “Berryholme” J Pollock, “Garrick”, Portadown, Co Armagh
61 7000 Stellar Genetics “Stellar” D O’Neill, “Denholme”, Dromore, Co Down
51 6800 Noel Willis, “Conncorr” H&M&D Hodgson, “Wormanby”, Carlisle
and S&A Morley, “Petteril”, Southwaite
34 6200 J Brewster, “Boclair” S Roan, “Colvend”, Dalbeattie
and B McMiken, “Ernespie”, Castle Douglas
53 6200 P Dunn “Dunbanard” Dr Edwin Brade, Germany
23 6000 “Absolute” & “Holmland” Messrs Scott, “Pod” Holsteins, Dorset
2 5200 JM&M Dennison, “Denmire” WM Hutchinson & Son, “Bowberhill”, Kirkby Stephen
40 5000 Fleming Family, “Potterswalls” M Booth, “Ballyduff”, Stradbally, Co Laois
66 5000 D Clarke, “Clarkestown” AH Laird, “Blythbridge”, West Linton, Peebleshire

Genomics, a UK overview.

Genomics is a hot topic in Canada, so following a recent trip to the country, Joanne Pugh takes a look at the science and its relevance to UK farmers.

IN Canada there is much talk about genomics and considerable excitement about using a bull's DNA to predict how good a sire he will be.

There is similar enthusiasm in the USA but the small amount of information coming to the UK appears confusing.

This may be because the first semen company to launch the concept in the UK - the New Zealand company LIC - has since run into difficulties, offering refunds to Kiwi farmers who have already invested in the technology.

LIC has also promoted genomics as a replacement for progeny testing, reducing its own progeny testing programme from 300 bulls per year to 100. With genomics equivalent to testing a handful of daughters, that led to backlash against the technology.

But such scepticism is less prevalent in North America, where semen companies are already using genomics, describing them as an additional tool rather than a progeny testing replacement.
Genomic information will be included in the North American proof runs next year (January in the USA and April in Canada), something that will certainly affect UK farmers. Therefore some clarity is needed.

What is genomics?

Genomics is the study of DNA. Previously 'gene markers' have been promoted to identify specific traits but, because complex traits are not controlled by a single gene and the cost of the technology has fallen dramatically, genomics relies on a panel of 58,000 gene markers instead.
Using this panel relies on developing a 'key', which is done by genomically testing bulls that have already been progeny tested. Because scientists already know what traits those bulls have they can draw parallels between recorded traits and genomics, then apply the information to predict what traits non-progeny tested bulls may pass on.

For example, if 100 progeny tested bulls have high milk protein and a certain combination of DNA markers, any non-proven bull with the same combination of DNA markers can be assumed to also have high milk protein.

The 'key' is vital and the more animals used to develop it the better. For example, LIC used around 2,500 proven bulls and several semen companies in Canada and USA combined resources to process around 5,000 bulls. Holsteins are ahead of the game because of a larger population and greater databank.

LIC withdrew its 'DNA proven' Holstein Friesian semen (sold before bulls had daughters on the ground) because its predictions (the 'key') did not match the initial progeny testing data.
The company says the Jersey and KiwiCross breeds do match up but it is 'prudent' to stop selling the Holstein Friesian semen while it 'works to understand' what has happened.
How reliable is genomics and how will it be used?

At no point has any semen company claimed genomic selection is as reliable as progeny testing, and only two companies (LIC and the Dutch CVR) have reduced their progeny testing programmes.

Most semen companies are promoting three uses for genomics:

1. Better selection of bulls for progeny testing.
All the big semen companies are now using genomics, selected young bulls on their pedigree, parent average (PA) and genomic evaluation.
Brian Van Doormaal of the Canadian Dairy Network says the reliability of PA is 24 per cent and this increases to 42 per cent when combined with genomics.
Although this reliability will increase as DNA technology improves and more data is included in the 'key', Jacques Chesnais, senior geneticist for L'Alliance Boviteq, the research arm of Semex, says it will never rival the 80-95 per cent reliability of progeny testing.

2. More reliability for farmers using young sires.
Because of the greater reliability of PA combined with genomics, farmers who use unproven bulls will get better results (although still not as good as using proven sires).

3. Potential use of 'bull teams'.
Some semen companies are marketing genomically tested bulls in teams, saying this is a way to spread the risk of using young, unproven bulls.
New Zealand is used to bull teams and LIC is a big promoter of them. Semex will also provide them 'in markets where demand is sufficient' but teams are unlikely to gain much popularity with countries used to mating individual cows to specific bulls.

How will progeny testing be affected?

Most companies will continue to progeny test because of the demand from farmers for high reliability proofs.

Also, the 'key' will only improve if data continues to be collected, and more data will be needed as and when new traits start to be selected for.

Mr Van Doormaal says: “The only limitation will be the collection of high quality data. We need to record more and more accurately then ever before, not the other way round.”
How does this affect UK dairy farmers?

Genetic information used in the UK by non-commercial companies (eg DairyCo and Holstein UK) goes through Interbull, which 'converts' national genetic evaluations into international figures.
However, Interbull currently cannot convert genomic information, and will not be able to for at least another 12 months.

Brian Garrison of Select Sires, says this is 'not ideal' but UK farmers can still gain some information from ranking tables published in other countries.

Marco Winter from DairyCo urges caution when doing this, as figures published overseas cannot be automatically transferred to the UK. For example, 65 per cent reliability in Canada or the USA will be less in the UK.

He says genomics is a 'good technology' and 'an additional tool' as long as farmers do not mistake it as being as reliable as a proven bull. Those using unproven young sires would gain from genomics but using a genomically tested bull in place of a proven bull would be 'very high risk'.
He recommends using more than one genomically tested/unproven bull and to ignore claims using 'bull teams' increases reliability to equal that of proven bulls.

Saturday, November 1, 2008

On farm view- Garrison

"I have seen about 10 Garrisons milking and i am very impressed. The daughters i have seen have had outstanding udders." -Top UK Breeder.

"Just saw a Garrison dtr this week in a customers herd, first one ive seen milking. She was very impressive and one of the best 2 yr olds in the herd. Real long and dairy with enough strength and quality udder. Maybe a bit bigger than i would have guessed." -canada ABS agent.

"Saw the one which was on early ABS brochures she was not extreme,great feet and legs and the udder was welded on, and she looked if she would last." -Young NI farmer.

World First at Borderway Black and White Sale

A world first is being offered at Borderway Black and White Sale, Carlisle (Saturday, 29th November) in the shape of first choice animals being selected from two leading UK herds. Europe’s leading livestock marketing company Harrison and Hetherington this week announced the successful bidder on two separate lots will be able to select an animal of their choice from the renowned Overside Holstein Herd and Potterswalls Jersey Herd.

The last Holstein bidder will be able to choose any animal, irrespective of age, from the Overside Herd of Hugh Neilson, Strathaven, Scotland. This choice includes a Baxter daughter from the world famous Windy Knoll View Promise EX95 as well as a Mr Sam daughter from Overside Jed Amanda Ex94, a 5th consecutive generation Excellent scored dam. There is also a first opportunity for European breeders to purchase a Lou daughter from Semex bullmother Pine Tree Finely Minnie VG.

Jersey enthusiasts will have the opportunity to select a first choice animal from the entire crop of 2008 heifer calves from the Fleming family’s Potterswalls Herd based at County Down, Northern Ireland. This choice will also include an offer of a Lexington pregnancy due one month after the sale from a full-sister to the world famous Jersey show cow, Huronia Centurion Veronica Ex. The unprecedented dual opportunity being offered at the sale is expected to generate huge interest according to Borderway Head Pedigree Auctioneer Glyn Lucas.

“We’re delighted that animals from the Overside and Potterswalls Herds are being offered at the Black and White Sale and this ensures a world first at a UK event. We have 70 lots in the sale that represent the finest Holstein and Jersey bloodlines in the world and once again expect a large crowd of cattle-breeding enthusiasts at Carlisle. The sale includes animals from all parts of the UK and this year, the sale has been boosted by six entries from Northern Ireland,” he said.

This is the company’s 22nd annual corporate event and the sale is preceded by a parade of all entered animals at 7pm, Friday 28th November. Borderway Sale Centre plays host to Europe’s most prestigious annual dairy cattle sale and since its inception the event has generated in excess of 5 million pounds of revenue for British dairy farmers. This year’s entries are expected to attracted potential buyers from as far afield as Canada, US, Spain, Holland, Italy, Germany and France.

One of the headliner animals entered in the sale is a Goldwyn daughter of the 2007 UK National Holstein Show Grand Champion, Carhall Lyster Elizabeth EX. The top winning show animal was awarded 2007 All-Britain Junior Second Calved Cow status in July. Another entry expected to create immense interest is a Bolton granddaughter from the world famous Canadian show cow, Lylehaven Lila Z VG89.

Anyone interested in receiving a catalogue or requesting further information on the sale should contact Glyn Lucas on 01228 640 924

The CREAM of Ireland Elite Sale - Friday 10 October 2008

27 Lots sold out of 32 to average 5,877 Euro (6,170 Euro including commission) which is a new Irish Record average for an elite sale.

Top price for Lot 10 which was a September 2008 born Regancrest Dundee daughter consigned by Martin O"Sullivan (Desmond Holsteins). Her dam Budjon-JK Dundee Embrace (EX92-USA) is a 7th generation (EX) member of the great breeding "ELEGANCE" family. Embrace had placed 2nd 4Yr Old & won Best Bred & Owned in the Show at World Dairy Expo in Madison just the week before the sale.

Lot No. Price (Euro)
1 7000
2 not sold
3 8600
4 not sold
5 not sold
6 6200
7 9000
8 5200
9 5200
10 10200
11 7000
12 not sold
13 5100
14 5800
15 6000
16 6000
17 8400
18 4700
19 8600
20 6700
21 5000
22 7000
23 4600
24 3000
25 5000
26 not sold
27 4000
28 4200
29 3000
30 2800
31 5100
32 5200

Thursday, October 23, 2008

Monday, October 20, 2008

Eurogenes Online Heifer Sale 2008

The Eurogenes Online Heifer Sale 2008 has now concluded, resulting in an average of €11,742.50, and a highest price of €33,500.

The 20 animals sold will go to 5 different countries.Top seller was a first choice daughter from the mega-popular Ralma Christmas Cookie VG89-2yr. Zuchtbetrieb Reinermann from Germany bought this first choice Mac for €33,500!

€32,000 was paid for a Baxter daughter from Comestar Goldwyn Lilac VG88-2yr., Lilac is one of the most popular milking heifers in Canada and stems from the “One Million Dollar Cow” Lylehaven Lila Z!

Friday, October 17, 2008

WORLD HOLSTEIN FRIESIAN FEDERATION ELECTS NEW PRESIDENT AND SECRETARY GENERAL

The WHFF Council announced the appointment of Dr Egbert Feddersen, Germany, as President and Matthew Shaffer, Australia, as Vice President of the organization. It was also confirmed that David Hewitt, former chief executive of Holstein UK, had been appointed Secretary General, replacing Mathieu Meers who is retiring.

President Feddersen emphasized the need for international cooperation, ‘We should aim for a closer relationship and co-operation with other World organizations like ICAR and Interbull. It is important that WHFF returns to its former leading industry position.’

Commenting on his appointment as Secretary General, Mr. Hewitt said ‘the global expansion of Holstein Friesian breeding offered WHFF many challenges and opportunities. The organization was ideally placed to assist emerging, as well as established herdbook’s, promote, develop and administer the Holstein Friesian breed to international standards’.

The changes were announced at The World Holstein Friesian Federation Conference in Killarney, Republic of Ireland. The conference focused on the continued development and expansion of the Holstein breed throughout the world, which was endorsed by the fact that 34 countries were represented. The conference theme from ‘grass to glass’ focused on the efficient management of Holsteins, combined with the development of new technologies to aid breeding and efficient milk production. Organized by the Irish Holstein Friesian Association the conference and three days of events climaxed with IHFA Championship Show held at the Millstreet Exhibition Centre.

Millstreet 2008 results

World Conference Holstein Show
Oct. 11 – Millstreet, Co. Cork, Ireland

Judge: Callum McKinven

Junior Champion: Moore-Farms Advnt Paradise-ET (KHW Kite Advent-Red-ET),
1st heifer born after Jan 1, 2008, Moorefarms & Mapleridge Holsteins

Reserve Junior Champion: Swiftsheath Susie Mist 923-ET (Picston Shottle),
1st heifer born July 1, 2007 to Dec 31, 2007, Liam Murphy

Champion Junior Cow in Milk & HM Grand Champion: Kilwarden Goldwyn Vixen (Braedale Goldwyn-ET), 1st Jr 2-year-old, Brochan Cocoman

Reserve Champion Junior Cow in Milk: Rosstemple Dundee Winnie-ET (Regancrest Dundee-ET),1st Sr 2-year-old, John Curtain

HM Junior Cow In Milk: Kilwarden Gibson Vixan (Silky Gibson-ET),
2nd Sr 2-year-old, Brochan Cocoman

Champion Cow: Croagh Fran 26 (Regancrest Elton Derry-ET), 1st 4-year-old, M & P Jones

Reserve Champion Cow: Smearlview A Storm Vixan-ET (Maughlin Storm-ET), 1st Production Class, Tim & John Kirby

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

Show is the perfect shop window for dairy genetics

DAIRY farmers enjoyed a pre-recession bash at the World Holstein Friesian Federation Conference and Show in Killarney and Millstreet at the weekend. The conference culminated with the Irish Examiner Supreme Championship on Saturday evening — keenly anticipated as a shop window for Irish dairy genetics, and was attended by 350 delegates.

Championship winners Mervyn and Philip Jones, who farm at Gorey, Co Wexford, were the toast of a huge attendance, including breeders who attended from 40 countries, and from all over Ireland.

At a cattle sale on Friday night breeders from France and Britain were among those who paid €159,000 for 27 Irish animals on the worst day for global stock market panic since 1987.

But the big payoff is likely to follow in the form of overseas orders for Irish embryos — the preferred option for modern dairy cattle breeders trading high priced genetics around the world.

Mervyn Jones confirmed he has strong international enquiries for embryos from his champion, Croagh Fran 26.

When dairy markets are strong, buyers of dairy genetics can achieve 20-fold returns on investment within two years by using embryo techniques.

However, after the weekend high for breeders at Killarney and Millstreet, it looks like a time for dairy industries globally to batten down the hatches.

Twelve months previously at Millstreet, farming leaders celebrated boom times and said they expected strong milk prices for at least three years. However, they now predict reduced spring milk prices, making thousands of suppliers economically unviable.

But at least one farmer is expecting a quick recovery. He paid €10,200 for Desmond Dundee Embrace ET, a one-month-old calf offered at Friday night’s Cream of Ireland Elite Sale by Martin O’Sullivan, Ardagh, Co Limerick. A week earlier the calf’s mother was one of the champions of the World Dairy Expo in Wisconsin where US breeders paid up to $97,000 for top Holstein Friesians.

Monday, October 6, 2008

World Dairy Expo 2008 Grand Champion. B&W.

Grand Champion: Thrulane James Rose (1st Aged Cow), Ferme Pierre Boulet, Montmagny, QC

Reserve Grand Champion: Quality-Ridge Stormi Hazel (1st 5-Year-Old), The Hazel Syndicate, Preston, CT

Honorable Mention Grand Champion: Mischke Durham Krystal (2nd Aged Cow), Arethusa Farm, Litchfield, CT

Grand Champion reasons:
Adam Liddle said that his barn was a little empty and he was wondering if he could take any of these home with him. So see him after the show! As you heard me talk about them in the Senior Champion class, when this cow walked in the ring, I was blown away. I'm sticking with my senior champions as grand, and I probably gave it away when I said my favorite cow of all time was this cow. They go over these tremendous intermediate champions today as they have a little more strength and are a little more ready today.

World Classic

The World Classic was held on Friday night and achieved a superb average of $25,213 on 45 lots.

The top seller at $97,000 was Lot #1 - Comestar Lautalia Goldwyn - a 6/08 Goldwyn daughter out of Comestar Lautamie Titanic (VG-89-2YR-CAN). Lautamie was the Reserve All-Canadian Jr 2-Year-Old in 2006 and is the #2 LPI cow in Canada. Consigned by Comestar Holsteins, La Travesa Farm and Granja La Ponderosa, she sold to Daryld Gahm of Mt. Carroll, IL.

Monday, September 22, 2008

Jenny-Lou Mrshl Toystory - Opinion

Just calved in my first/only Toystory @ 1y11m. Very snug udder with nice teat placement. enough strength and long legged. Like most have said before the weakest part of this bull is his legs. This heifer is a bit shallow in the heal, but her pasterns are stronger then when she was a calf. I had more calves from Toystory but they all ended up being bulls. - US small dairy holder

i like the bull a whole lot, i work with quite a few toystory's at the moment, their very aggressive eaters, tall and long, the ones that i have worked with lack a little rib. I really like the calves, ive prob seen around 40 calves. - Aussie Farmer

Lisduff Sale

Johnson Countrywide

CO. CORK

LISDUFF - 60 HEAD
PROTEIN TO 4.02% & EBI

Johnson Sells at Lisduff, Whitechurch, SATURDAY 27-9-2008 at 12 noon for John O Sullivan (087-2767222)
Visitwww.lisduffholsteins.com

FANTASTIC DAIRY STOCK (all tested)- (14 day blood test) COMPRISING & SELLING -28 fresh calved heifers freely to 8 galls per day. LISDUFF HEIFER CALVES (superb quality) 14 by Picston Shottle and Sunday Dur Watha. 12 heifers calving Jan/Feb '09 incalf to Shottle Ramos, Romero, Minister, Zeus, all AI service, dams are amongst best Lisduff Cows. 6 BULLS & BULL CALVES for Stock Bulls with A.I. Potential Comparison. ALL STOCK home bred by World Leading Superior AI for Milk & Protein and from Herds greatest International and Irish cow families. EBI FOR SALE Heifers to 157 and Bulls to 174. DAMS YIELDS TO 12348KG (36 over 2000galls) 29 DAMS ARE EX & VG - 4 more GP84. (Dams of first 12 lots are mostly 91 to 88 points.) 60 STOCK SELLING having up to 6 & 7 gens EX & VG with very extensive PRODUCTION and PROTEIN with 20 Dams over 3.5%PR and some dams av 3.77% to 3.56%PR- 3 to 6 lacts. SELLING LISDUFF BEST - LOT 1 giving over 8 gallons with H/C dam VG88 GDam EX92, Lot 2 a T-Threat (Ruud) Emmy- 3EX & 2VG. Lot 3 a Shottle with VG89 Pencol D. Lot 4 a SUPER GOLDWYN. Lots 5,9,15 are EXCEPTIONAL CALVED MARY'S- CREVA- 2 have Shottle Heifer calves (all dams over 3.5% PR to 3.85% & 3.86%PR) all with direct line to CREVA MARY one of Irelands Greatest Cows. Lot 8 - Mr. Sam (Sasha) Dam VG89 - 3.62%PR. Lot 6 - Oman (Leslie) 6 gens EX & VG- EBI-127. Lot 7 Lancelot (Constance) dam EX 90- 3 lacts 10,599KG to 11851KG- av PR 3.48% and many super calved heifers with heifer calves. 2009 CALVERS - 12 heifers calving Jan/Feb 09 inc LOT 31- LORRAINE her dam VG88 with 6 lacts over 2000 gallons with four more dams EX to over 11,000KG. LOT 34 is a RUUD LORRAINE with EBI-91. Lots 36 & 37 are GOLDWYNS (really special). LOT 38 OMAN- LETALE- EBI is 150 (5 gens EX & VG). BULLS FOR BREEDING EBI to 155 (fit to serve) 18 to 13 mths old Dams EX & VG & to 11782KG and to 3.71% Protein. VERY SPECIAL YOUNG BULLS (for the future) LOT 42 has a remarkable Pedigree, Sire To-Mar D Fortune, Dam Amlaid Lee Angel VG88-11030KG @ 3.50%PR - 1st lact LOT 47- EBI-174 Sire Oman-dam Letale (Cytise) 1st recording 32KG, 5.35%BF - 3.7%PR.
CATALOGUES RECOMMENDED & AVAILABLE.
VISITwww.lisduffholsteins.com

Sale signed 5 miles from Cork on New Mallow Road and from Whitechurch

Keenan joint sponsor of World Holstein Friesian conference

Keenan are proud to be joint sponsors of the World Holstein Friesian Conference 2008 which will take place in Ireland from 9th-11th October. This important conference, which only occurs once every 4 years, will be attended by delegates from over 40 countries.

The theme of this year’s Conference is “From Grass to Glass” incorporating technical, scientific and practical sessions on all aspects of milk production from forage intakes through to the shopping basket.

Keenan Chairman, Gerard Keenan says “We are especially pleased that the Conference theme this year is particularly relevant to Keenan, as we will be presenting our new Mech Fiber™ technology at the conference. This patented technology development is a globally significant breakthrough in cow nutrition. It has major benefits for cow performance, milk composition, feed efficiency, costs and profitability – as well as the environment and”.

In addition to having a conference stand, there will be conference presentations by Professor David Beever, Keenan International Nutrition Director, and by Martin Kavanagh MVB, Keenan Veterinary Director:

Professor Beever, (who is a member of the Keenan Scientific Advisory Board) will present “Working together with breeders and scientists – a nutritional solution to match the performance and profit of genetically improved Holsteins” will take place on Thursday 9th October at 15.50 pm.

Martin Kavanagh will present “Delivering nutritional solutions to prevent metabolic disorders” will take place on Friday 10th October at 11.00 am.

Post Conference Activities
As part of the organised post-conference activities, Keenan would like to invite and welcome delegates to visit the modern Keenan Manufacturing facility in Borris, Co, Carlow, as well a number of outstanding farms of Keenan farming customers.“We feel sure that these visits will give a deeper insight into the benefits this System can bring to producers, processors, retailers and consumers”, concludes Gerard Keenan

Dairy Event 2008 – Results

Champion (Interbreed Supreme)
Wills Bros’ Riverdane Astro Romance

Res Champion
Wills Bros’ Bassingthorpe Leader Dilys 10

Hon Mention
D & SM Osborne’s Torvalley Dante Astro

Champion Heifer (and Interbreed)
Wills Bros’ Morsan Breeze Allen Doris
Res Champion Heifer
RA Bown’s Richaven RR Squaw 2

Champion (and Res Interbreed) Ex Bred
D & SM Osborne’s Torvalley Dante Astro
Res Champion (and Res Interbreed) Ex Bred
RA Bown’s Richaven RR Squaw 2

Junior Heifer in Milk
1.RA Bown’s Richaven RR Squaw 2
2.Wills Bros’ Newnton Shottle Destiny
3.RK & SG Miller & Sons’ Moorshard Integrity Finesse 39
4.Worstead Farms’ Smallburgh Zebra Jenny

Senior Heifer in Milk
1.Wills Bros’ Morsan Breeze Allen Doris
2.Sahara Holsteins’ Wiltor September Raven
3.A & D MacKellar’s Drointon Titanic Virtue
4.Downing Partnership’s Wintersell Leona 330

Junior Cow in Milk
1.Wills Bros’ Riverdane Astro Romance
2.Sahara Holsteins’ Cheviotview Talent August
3.WJ Nadin & Co’s Sterndale Allen Ghost
4.RA Bown’s Richaven Journalist Fransci
5.RK & SG Miller & Sons’ Moorshard Jordan Primrose
6.D & SM Osborne’s Torvalley September Ricki

Intermediate Cow in Milk
1.Wills Bros’ Mileoak Stormatic Spotless 2
2.D & SM Osborne’s Trelissick Jogger Pandora 141
3.YK Bradbury’s Almond Lee Anna
4.RK & SG Miller & Sons’ Moorshard Jordan Katey 261
5.Worstead Farms’ Lyngate Bosside Lily

Senior Cow in Milk
1.Wills Bros’ Bassingthorpe Leader Dilys 10
2.D & SM Osborne’s Torvalley Dante Astro
3.RA Bown’s Ketby Bud 85
4.A & D MacKellar’s Cleevale Charles Mania
5.DA Innes’ Limpsfield Lily Phoenix
6.Worstead Farms’ Lyngate Hothead Handsome

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Website first in Ireland to provide forum for farmers to view livestock

Mid-west entrepreneurs, Donall O’Connor from Co Clare, and Michael O’Donnell from Co Limerick, founders of www.pedigreecattle.ie described the initiative as the first of its kind in Ireland.

Mr O’Connor said primary research has identified that one of the main complaints farmers have when searching for livestock is that they have to spend valuable time, often several days, travelling to view stock

“Often when they reach the destination, the animals are not as expected and the time is wasted.
“Now, farmers can go online and view the stock available in Ireland and Britain.

“Also, stock can be advertised 24/7 with no deadlines and time limits, providing increased exposure to national and international markets, thereby helping to increase sales,” he said.

In time, it is envisaged that the website will become a social networking platform for farmers and breeders.

Breeders can sign up for free to become a member of the new service and receive a free advertisement.

Michael O’Donnell said their aim is that when the site has developed a critical mass of content that it will be an invaluable resource for the entire farming community.

“We are looking forward to meeting farmers at the forthcoming national ploughing championships in Kilkenny,” said Mr O’Donnell.

“Almost one million cattle were sold outside the mart system in Ireland last year and this is the market we will be targeting in our first year,” he said.

The company is participating in the Limerick Enterprise Acceleration Platform programme which facilitates early stage entrepreneurs.

Clare breeder Shane Brigdale, who has already invested in herd profiles, said rural Ireland and the farming community is facing complex challenges today.

“The agricultural sector needs to become more dynamic and responsive to ensure that it can survive in today’s competitive environment.”

Friday, September 12, 2008

Taaffe selling at Croagh.

CROAGH ANNUAL SALE

WED 1/10/08 @ 12 Noon at Raheen House, Croagh, Rathkeale for Ms Patrick & Derrick Frawley (086-8460190).

The CROAGH SALE- Selling 30 Fresh Calved & Springing Heifers; 1 Deep Pedigreed Maiden Heifer; 4 Bulls Fit For Service (18-22 Months Old) & 5 Bull Calves (1-6 Months Old). Selling Outstanding Fresh Calved Heifers incl FIRST EVER Calved BRAEDALE GOLDWYN (a SUSIE MIST -dam (VG87-2YR) Integrity -Gdam Rubens Susie Mist (EX95)) & REGANCREST MR SAM to sell at auction in Ireland (Great Heifers). Selling SUPER Fresh Calved Heifers incl Canyon-Breeze ALLEN GRETCHEN ( incredible udder) (Pot 8TH GEN EX). Heifers sell from Top cow families by top AI bulls GOLDWYN, SHOTTLE, MR SAM, TITANIC, STORMATIC, TALENT. Selling GREAT BULLS -incl Jan '07 DUNDEE X OCEAN-VIEW DURHAM DORIS (EX94) with 4.00% PROTEIN.

Dairy market gloom

Lakeland Dairies yesterday (Wednesday) cut their August milk price by 2 cent per litre and there are fears that other processors are set to follow the same downward trend. The move follows last Friday's €100 per tonne cuts in the Irish Dairy Board (IDB) butter and skim prices.
Meanwhile, it was confirmed this week that profits for 2008 at the IDB will be sharply down on previous years and the traditional bonus payment to processors is now in serious doubt.

The IDB paid a bonus of €6m to milk processors for 2007, while the 2006 bonus was €11m. Conor Ryan, chief executive of Arrabawn co-op, said he would continue to push the case for a bonus payment from the IDB as it was an important contribution for co-ops trading heavily with the board.

Arrabawn are due to set their August price today.

IDB chief executive Noel Coakley warned that a combination of poorer market returns, higher financing costs and exchange rates will have 'a serious impact' on the IDB's performance in the current year.

Furthermore, consumer reaction to 2007's higher prices has adversely affected returns, with sales of Kerrygold butter in the crucial German market down 12% on previous year levels. This has traditionally been one of the IDB's main profit centres.

Noel Coakley explained that the IDB's financial performance was severely affected in the first half by the carry-over of expensive product purchased in 2007. This was sold into depressed markets at a substantial loss.

The IDB has now changed its procurement policy to avoid a repeat occurrence.
The timing of the announcement will inevitably be seen as preparing farmers for a milk price cut.
However, Coakley said: "it is important that all dairy industry participants are aware of the market realities''. He added: "Market conditions across all products have weakened considerably from the extraordinary heights of 2007.''

From their 2007 peak, he said that official quoted price for butter is down 39%; skim milk powder 45% and whole milk powder 35%.

Irish dairy farmers can only hope that the recent strengthening of the dollar and slowdown in US production growth may help our position.

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

Imports Risk Bluetongue Spread

In a bid to minimise the threat of bluetongue spreading in Ireland, the Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association (ICMSA) has warned against the importation of cattle and sheep. Martin Mc Mahon, beef and cattle committee chairman said that it is worrying that animals are still being imported into Ireland. Mr. McMahon said that this has been verified by the Department of Agriculture. He said: "One of the key measures to prevent the spread of Bluetongue is to cease the import of livestock until such time as the risk from the disease has receded and we receive expert advice that it is safe to resume importing livestock."

According to the beef and cattle committee chairman, anyone importing livestock at the moment is putting our herds at risk and "should cease imports immediately." There have been over 4,500 reported cases of the bluetongue virus in France up to date this year with the disease having already spread to the UK in 2007. There have also been cases of the new variant BTV8 in the Netherlands.

Martin McMahon said that the threat posed by bluetongue to Irish stocks should not be taken too lightly.

Mr. Mc Mahon concluded saying, "With the proper precautions, Ireland can avoid Bluetongue and one of the key instruments towards that end is the suspension of animal imports."

Milk quota situation and meal feeding

Due to the continuous rain in August, cows have lost yield. Nationally what will the milk quota situation be on September 1? Some of our major processors may struggle to fill their milk quota. September is a good month to introduce 2kg of ration to dairy cows. Why? Autumn grass, while it has excellent digestibility and high intake potential, has a lower energy value due to the fact that it is low in water soluble carbohydrate, i.e., sugars. As a result, the response to meal feeding in the autumn is high but the milk yield response achieved will depend on two factors.

The grass allowance to the cows.

The genetic potential of the cow for milk production.

For instance, in a tight grazing situation, allocating 15kg/cow, the milk response rates were similar regardless of genetic potential. A 1:1 response rate was achieved, i.e., a kilogram of milk for every kilogram of ration.

However, if you are allocating 20kg of grass per cow, then the response is reduced to 0.86kg milk per kg of ration fed. Breeds with lower genetic potential for milk yield achieved a response of 0.34kg of milk for each kilogram of ration fed. Clearly this is a loss-making situation.

Meal feeding in the autumn also has the potential to push too much grass ahead of cows, so care is needed.

Tuesday, September 9, 2008

NI Semex Cow of the year

The eagerly awaited final of the inaugural NI Semex Cow of the Year Competition was held at Wednesday’s Fermanagh County Show, with a huge turnout in attendance at the final judging ceremony. Six year old Glaslough Charles Fancy, sired by Boulet Charles and owned by Ivan and Louise Robinson of Ballygowan, was named as Northern Ireland’s top Semex animal by judge John Dennison.

Leading breeding company Semex UK provided a generous prize fund for the award, with £500 for first place, and a further £675 available for the animals placed second to sixth. 20 qualifying animals in total were judged at the final, all of which had been classed as the top two Semex animals at qualifying shows throughout the summer. Inch Astronomical Delli, owned by John Patterson and qualifier from the Armagh Show, was named as reserve champion, taking home a cash prize of £300.

Top judge John Dennison, of the renowned Denmire herd in Cumbria, commented on the high class of exhibitors at the Show; “The quality of animals on display here today is truly magnificent, and I’d like to congratulate the owners of all the qualifying animals. Glaslough Charles Fancy is a perfect embodiment of Semex’s balanced breeding philosophy - with superb udders and great conformation; she walks well and no doubt has a healthy and productive future ahead of her. ”

Commenting on his success, Ivan Robinson said, “We are absolutely delighted – Fancy really is a first class animal. This is the second championship she’s won in a week, which is testament to what a superb animal she is. She also won at the Winter Fair and was placed reserve in the All Britain Third Calver section. She just gets better and better.”

John Berry, NI Sales Manager for Semex concluded, “The turnout and interest in this competition has been truly exceptional. We have been extremely heartened by the effort the owners have gone to show their animals, travelling from all over the country to be here today. I’d like to extend my gratitude to all the participants and my congratulations to the Robinsons. This is the first year of the Semex Cow of the Year NI award, organised in conjunction with the Fermanagh Farming Society, and we look forward to building on its success in years to come.”

Making Tracks in Kilkenny

Preparations are well and truly under way for the forthcoming National Ploughing Championships, which take place in Cuffesgrange, Co Kilkenny from Tuesday 23rd September to Thursday 25th September.

The pegging of over 900 or so trade stands, the marquees, the trucks and all the site people was evidence that the site build is well and truly under way and is certainly taking shape. Once again this year, there is a huge diversification of stands attending with Government departments, political parties, semi state bodies, sporting organisations, hotels, education, tourism, property, stockbrokers and investment clubs.

A visit to the Livestock Exhibition promises to be quite an experience as most Pedigree Cattle & Sheep Breed Associations use the Championships to “display their finest animals” and promote the breed as well as having the time to talk to potential clients without the distraction of showing classes makes commercial sense at that time of year.

You can learn to drive at the Ploughing and not be a danger to anyone with Sim 2 Learn – a simulated car, truck and motorbike. Newstalk 104-106FM will be situ for the duration of the event, with popular presenters George Hook, Claire Byrne and Moncrieff bringing you their shows from this hugely popular and well attended event.

Hector will again host the HRI’s ‘Go Racing’ marquee and it is set out to be as interactive and hands-on as possible. There will be tuition on the simulator, live racing showing, arcade-style racing games for people to play, racehorse ownership advice and racing commentator competitions.

Celebrity chefs Neven Maguire and Jenny Bristow will heighten your taste buds with their cookery demonstrations, the ICA will be on site again to give invaluable advice and demonstrations.

Not to mention, the machinery demonstrations, forestry village, hunt chase, pony games, bio energy village, tented lifestyle village, auto arena, Stihl Timbersports World Championships and lots more, The National Ploughing Championships in Farmley, Cuffefgrange, Co Kilkenny is the place to be from Tuesday 23rd September to Thursday 25th September. Tickets are now available by calling the National Ploughing Association on 059 8625125 or logging on to www.npa.ie.

Friday, August 15, 2008

Rubens, a living legend.

Everybody knows the Canadian proven bull STBVQ Rubens RC for his wonderful red & white daughters and their show successes that have been ongoing for years. Derrwyn Miss Special and Lavender Ruby Redrose are great examples: both became “Global Red Holstein Cow of the Year”, in 2008 and 2007 respectively. Maybe not everybody knows that the vital Rubens is still alive and that he is now 15 years old! In addition, the veteran has sexed semen available - undoubtedly to the great delight of type and Red Holstein breeders!

YMA National 2008

RESULTS YMA FINALS ’08:

Junior Handler (aged 12 or under on 1st Jan)
1. TJ Maunsell – Kerry
2. Kevin Behan – Kildare
3. Chere Duffy – Breffni / Oriel

Intermediate Handler (aged between 13 & 16 on 1st Jan)
1. Emma Behan – Kildare
2. Louise Sinnott – Slaney
3. Thomas Neville – Limerick / Clare

Senior Handler (aged between 17 & 20 on 1st Jan)
1. Laura Sinnott – Slaney
2. Nicola Boyd – Breffni / Oriel
3. Diarmuid Murphy – Cork

Mature Handler (aged between 21 & 26 on 1st Jan)
1. Tadhg Bourke – Limerick / Clare
2. Dermot McCarthy – Limerick / Clare
3. John Kelly – West Midlands

Champion Handler: Emma Behan – Kildare Club
Reserve Champion: Tadhg Bourke – Limerick / Clare
Honourable Mention: Dermot McCarthy – Limerick / Clare
Junior Calf (born after 1st Jan)
1. Glaslough Fab Francy owned by D&K Boyd
2. Rowantree Elegant Molde owned by Damian Wynne
3. Greenlawn PS Storm Begonia owned by Michael Lynch

Intermediate Calf (born between 1st Sept & 31st Dec ’07)
1. Chapelhill Damion Delight owned by D&T Bourke
2. Emerald Talent Karry owned by Donal Neville
3. Glaslough Damion Rox owned by D&K Boyd

Senior Calf (born between 1st March & 31st Aug ’07)
1. Hallow Lheros Indianink owned by M&P Jones
2. Swiftsheath Susie Mist 923 owned by Liam Murphy
3. Ballinafinn Shottle Beatrix owned by D&T Bourke

Mature Calf (Born between 1st Jan & 28th Feb ’07)
1. Coolroehouse Indianink owned by John Forrest
2. Borahard Electricity Hera owned by Patrick Loughlin
3. Beechrow Gibson Twain owned by Michael Booth

Champion Calf: Hallow Lheros Indianink - M&P Jones (Slaney Club)
Reserve: Coolroehouse Indianink - John Forrest (Cork Club)
Hon Mention: Borahard Electricity Hera - Patrick Loughlin (Kildare Club)

Winning Club: Limerick / Clare

Thursday, August 14, 2008

Baileys Cow to go all-Ireland

The 25th Baileys Champion Cow Competition at Virginia Show, on August 20 will be an all-island competition, it has been announced.

Competition director Brendan Smyth confirmed last week that, for the first time in 12 years, the competition will see entries from the North. The milestone is significant as the competition celebrates its silver anniversary; the inaugural winners of the Baileys were the Crawford brothers from Co. Fermanagh.

Holstein breeders from the North entered the Baileys until 1996, when BSE restrictions prevented entries. With those issues now resolved, this year’s competition will be an all-island initiative once again, subject to compliance with Department of Agriculture regulations.

John Martin, secretary of the Holstein NI welcomed the new departure: “It is well recognized that the Baileys is one competition that exhibitors really want to win. I would encourage breeders to enter so that Northern Ireland can again make its mark in this prestigious event.”

Carrying a prize fund of €8,000, the Baileys Champion Cow Competition will bestow €2,000 to the owner of the winning cow and a reserve prize of €650. Other awards will be given for Highest Protein Content, Best EBI, Best Exhibitor-Bred Cow and Best Heifer in Milk. Details are available from the Virginia Show secretary on 049 8547197.

Thursday, July 24, 2008

WTO Protests in Dublin this week


Threat to NI dairy calf prices - Exports could be cut off due to TB problem

The recent discovery in Holland of 12 calves, imported from the UK, infected with TB could have serious consequences for dairy farmers in Northern Ireland. There is a real possibility that export of calves from NI to the Netherlands and Belgium could be stopped.

There has been no ban on the import of calves from the UK into Holland, but the SKV, the Dutch equivalent of Bord Bia, will not certify UK sourced calves for consumption.

This follows the case in which calves were exported from a farm in England, which later tested positive for TB.

The exported calves were under 42 days old and did not have to be tested before export. After the home farm in England tested positive, the calves were traced in Holland and 12 were found to have TB.

Dutch importers are now looking to source calves from other EU states. Meanwhile as the Farmers Journal went to press, the EU standing committee on the food chain and animal health (SCoFCAH) were meeting in Brussels to consider a Dutch proposal on banning exports of calves from the UK.

Tuesday, July 22, 2008

Dairy farm investment pays off

Moving a 150-cow herd to a green field site would be a daunting task for many farmers but that's just what Michael Bateman did in 2005. Three years later he is milking 235 cows, has put in place all the necessary facilities and learned a few lessons along the way.

With a total of €425,000 spent on the farm in the past three years, the Cork man was candid about what he spent his money on and why. For the first winter, the cows were kept on an out-wintering pad. At 7sqm/cow, Michael warned that he overloaded the pad but says, at the proper stocking rate of 12sqm/cow, the pads would "work a dream".

He approached the farm set up on a 'no frills' basis but refused to skimp on the areas that will return value for money. The 28-unit milking parlour is modest and without many of the possible added extras. The feeding system is a simple batch system.

On the other hand, Michael invested heavily in roadways and underpasses. At a cost of €30,000 for 3km of roadway and €75,000 for three underpasses, he is adamant that the labour requirement is vastly reduced by the investment.

New rules to open door to dairying: Milk quota for beef and tillage farmers

Under radical new proposals from the Department of Agriculture, beef and tillage farmers will be allowed to buy milk quota through the next round of the milk quota exchange.

The quota will be for the 2009/2010 milk production year, 25 years after milk quotas effectively locked all non-dairy farmers out of milk production in Ireland.

Apart from a few exceptions, purchasing a dairy farm with quota attached was the only option for entering dairying throughout that period.

The move is part of a series of policy measures aimed at preparing the Irish industry for the abolition of milk quotas across Europe in 2015.

While the IFA and Macra support the concept, the proposal will meet stiff opposition from the ICMSA. "We are against the proposal; there are still a lot of existing suppliers who need quota to remain viable,'' ICMSA president Jackie Cahill told the Irish Farmers Journal. "All you will do is push up the price of quota and restrict supply.''

Last week, Minister for Agriculture Brendan Smith signed into law the 2008 Milk Quota regulations, which radically reduced the restrictions on Milk Production Partnerships and allow milk quotas to be leased to companies controlled by farmers. The new rules also allow qualified farm managers to purchase quota and take it with them if they change jobs.

The first round of quota trading for the 2009/2010 milk production year is due to open for bids and offers this October. The Department of Agriculture will now propose that non-dairy farmers be allowed to bid for milk quota in this exchange. The aim of the measure is to facilitate the entry of new blood into the dairy industry, particularly those with large land banks of quality land.

WORLD HOLSTEIN FRIESIAN CONFERENCE 2008 TIMETEBLE

WORLD HOLSTEIN FRIESIAN CONFERENCE 2008
INEC CONFERENCE CENTRE, GLENEAGLE HOTEL,
KILLARNEY, CO. KERRY, IRELAND


DAY 1: Thursday, 9th October 2008

Session 1: Ireland, Irish Agriculture & Holstein Friesians.
Chairman: Matt Dempsey
09.00h Opening & Welcome
M. Meers - Secretary General WHFF
K Flaman - Chairman WHFF
Mervyn Eager - President IHFA
09.30h Ireland & Irish Agriculture
Michael Dowling (Chief Agr Advisor, AIB)
09.40h Holstein Friesian Breeding in Ireland Kevin Dillon (Chief Executive, IHFA)
10.00h Questions and Answers
10.30h - 11.00h Coffee Break

Session 2: Quality Data for Optimum Management.
Chairman: Egbert Feddersen
11.00h How to organise and get use of a database in an emerging herdbook Dr. Leoncio Diz (Argentina)
11.20h Data for Breeding Profitable Holstein Friesians
Dr. Brian Wickham (ICBF)
11.40h Integrated IT solutions in-between farm management systems and global Holsteins Breedings - Stefan Rensing (VIT German)
12.00h Questions and Answers
12.30h - 13.30h LUNCH

Session 3: New Tools for Genetic Progress.
Chairman: Matthew Shaffer
13.30h Automating Heat Detection
Dr. Edmond Harty (Dairymaster, Ireland)
13.50h To Sex or not to Sex, that is the Question!
Dr. Richard Williams (Cogent UK)
14.10h Geonomic Selection
Richard Spellman (LIC, New Zealand)14.30h
Questions and Answers
15.00h - 15.30h Coffee Break

Session 4: Working together the Breeder and the Scientist.
Chairman: John Meyer
15.30h Where Science and the Show Ring Meet Dr. Doreen Corridan (Irl)15.50h A Nutritional Solution to match the performance and profit potential of genetically improved Holsteins
Prof David Beever (UK & Keenan Scientific Advisory Board)
16.10h White Gold, Liquid Gold, It's the cow stupid.
Peter O'Connor (World PR Manager, Baileys Irl.)
16.30h Questions and Answers
17.00h Conference Ends

DAY 2: Friday, 10th October 2008

Session 5: A Holistic Approach to Improvement in Dairy Cow Fertility Chairman: Felipe Ruiz
09.00h Components & Auxilliary traits of dairy cow fertility: The Genetic View Prof Hermann Swalve, University of Halle, Germany
09.20h Improving fertility through management and genetics
Dr. Tom Lawlor, Director of Research, Holstein USA
09.40h Nutritional Management of High Genetic Cows
Dr. Finbar Mulligan (UCD)
10.00h Questions and Answers
10.30h - 11.00h Coffee Break

Session 6: The Holstein Friesian– maximising her potential.
Chairman: Liam Curran, Chairman IHFA.
11.00h Delivering Nutritional Solutions to Prevent Metabolic Disorders Martin Kavanagh MVB (Keenan Veterinary Director)11.20h Breeding Functional Cows Dr. Gordon Atkins (Canada)11.40h The role of the Pedigree Breeder Hank VanExel (USA)12.00h Questions and Answers
12.30h – 13.30h LUNCH & End of Conference


13.30h – 17.00h GENERAL ASSEMBLY

Open Day Results 2008

IHFA Open Day was held at Clongowes College Farm, Clane, Co. Kildare on Thursday 26th June '08. Here the results National Herds Competition 2008 were announced and were as follows:

Over 70 Cow Section:
1. Kevin Flynn, Rearyvalley, Rosenallis, Portlaoise, Co. Laois "Reary" Herd
2. Paul Hannan, Friarstown, Crecora, Co. Limerick. "Lisnalty" Herd
3. Victor Jackson, Crossnacole, Kiltegan, Co. Wicklow " Crossnacole" Herd

Under 70 Cow Section:
1. Richard Whelan, Towlaght, Clonard, Co. Meath. "Lumville" Herd
2. David Boyd, Mullaghduff, Glaslough, Co. Monaghan "Glaslough" Herd
3. Michael Nolan, Coolnamara, Borris, Co. Carlow "Coolnamara" Herd

Spring Calving Section:
1. Eamon McLoughney, Ardcroney, Nenagh, Co. Tipperary "Ballythomas" Herd
2. Padraig Floyd, Kellystown, Slane, Co. Meath. "Haypicher" Herd
3. Noel Kehoe, Battletown, Ramsgrane, New Ross, Co. Wexford "Cathu" Herd

The results of the Interclub Stockjudging Competition 2008 which was held on the day was as follows:

Over 30 Teams:
1. Kerry (T. Kirby, T. Maunsell, P. Kennelly) 3940 points
2. North Eastern (P. Tuite, T. Daly. D. Dunleavy) 3794 points
3. Carlow / Kilkenny (E. Coleman, S. Gibbons, T. Murphy) 3758 points

18-30 Teams:
1. Cork (J. Crowley, J. Webb, T. Crowley) 3730 points
2. Carlow/Kilkenny (T. Mulhall, S. Murphy, P. Murphy) 3714 points
3. Breffni / Oriel (J. Greenan, B. Greenan, F. McAdam) 3676 points

Under 18 Teams:
1. Cork (M. White, R. White, D. Murphy) 3694 points
2. Laois/Offaly (W. Neville, E. Neville, A. Neville) 3678 points
3. Slaney (L. Sinnott, N. Fortune, I. Kavanagh) 3546 points

Over 30 Individual:
Roy Cromie (Donegal) 1342 points

18-30 Individual:
Padraic Murphy (Carlow/Kilkenny) 1300 points

Under 18 Individual:
Enda Neville (Laois/Offaly) 1290 points

Mr. Sam - World opinion.

With Mr. Sam 2nd Crop coming through lets look at what breeders are saying.

"I saw the group at the German Open Show, nice cows well attached udders, legs could have been better. (being a Durham son)" - German Farmer

"Their stronger point are the udders , good functional cows , compact , sqare with strong top , we saw some in our regional shows and they do fine." - US Farmer

"Saw a few here and there and there really sweet heifers. Perhaps a bull we missed." - UK Farmer

So to sum up quick, good udders, careful of legs and feet and all round better than average bull.