North Wales Holstein Club
The 2013 Herd Competitions once again proved how important they are in generating interest amongst members with nearly 100 individuals entered in classes. Both Bernard Liddle (Dalesend) and Jane Whittaker (Knowlesmere) had their work cut out.
With the sun beaming down in July, Bernard Liddle commenced his four days in the scenic beauty of vales Clwyd and Conwy, completing his first day in Anglesey. So warm were the sun’s rays that steward, Dewi Evans, mixed up the days and was witnessing the sights of mount Snowdon on the Tuesday, forgetting his duties!
Nevertheless, the task was completed and after a quick re-shuffling, Carole Jones from CIS – efficient as always – escorted Bernard Liddle around the Isle of Anglesey with Dewi completing the tour of North Wales in Lleyn Peninsula.
Liam Phillips of Burgedin was flying the flag for Montgomeryshire as Jane Whittaker commenced the Youngstock & Unproven Bull judging, ably shepherded by the Club’s Vice-Chairman, Ian Venables. Once again, Lleyn was the last leg of the 2013 Herd Competitions judging with Steward Philip Coker on home turf.
Over the years the 50 & 80 tonne cow classes have proven popular, and with over 25% of individual class entries in these two classes, it demonstrates that members are achieving long-lived, productive animals.
The Journal article on Star Brood Cows triggered a closer look at these individuals; this lead to an additional ‘Brood Cow Class.’ The criteria being that an animal had to be a Star Brood Cow. Other criteria, approved by the committee, were Calving Index and LDY weightings, along with number of Stars and Inspection points.
Interestingly, after looking at the classifications of the four individuals, it demonstrated a close correlation with Dairy Strength and Legs & Feet; the average score for the qualified individuals being 94.5 & 94.75. It is little wonder that they are the ‘Cornerstones’ of these members’ herds. Genus ABS and Area Manager, Delwyn Jones, provided a Challenge Cup for the new competition.
The Annual presentation dinner was held at Royal Oak, Betws y Coed. Again, it was well attended with guest of honour, Holstein UK President, Jimmy Wilson. The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Anafon Cup to the HYB Member who achieved highest place in National Competitions. Once again the winner was Harri Kynaston of Clustyblaidd.
