Baileys judge looking for combination of conformation and performance

Kevin, who is judging in Ireland for the first time, said he had high expectations for the event which takes place on August 24 at the Virginia Show in Co. Cavan.

“I have heard excellent reports about the very high standard of cows so I am looking forward to the pleasure of judging them,” he said.

Kevin is an experienced judge at major shows including the Great Yorkshire and the Royal Welsh. The reputation of his own 400 strong Walnerview Holstein herd was boosted recently with one of his cows joining the elite EX-97 group: Warnelview Final Cut Nita. Kevin said to win the top title at ‘the Baileys’ would require “a very functional cow with a fine udder”.

The event has become known as the ‘All-Ireland for Dairy Cows’ because it consistently attracts the top Holstein Friesian breeders from across the island.

Unlike other shows, all classes are exhibited together for a final line-up to be selected by Kevin who will then crown one 2016 Diageo Baileys Champion. The event carries a 10,000 Euro prize fund and is co-sponsored by Glanbia Ingredients Ireland, suppliers to Diageo for Baileys’ cream.

Entries close August 12.