200 entries for Multibreed calf show

The much-anticipated event is a highlight within the annual calendar of events for the young members of the Holstein, Ayrshire & Jersey breed societies, with this year seeing the inclusion of an Any Other Breed class, comprising Brown Swiss, Friesian & Shorthorn entries.

This is the fourth year that Animal Health Vision (AHV) have been on board with the event as platinum sponsor and this year sees the inclusion of their new partnership with Elanco.

“We are extremely fortunate to have the continued support of such a reputable company behind the Elanco AHV Multibreed Calf Show," comments

club coordinator Jessica Hall, Nutts Corner.

“Without the support we could not run the event to the standards that are desired by all those taking part.”

Young handlers and calves will take to the ring in classes based on age. The biggest class on the day will be the Holstein calf born between 1st December

2025 and 31st January 2026 with a 24 strong entry.

Taking on the onerous task of judging the large entry of Holstein calves will be Jane Steel, Glasgow. Jane needs little introduction to the industry having been a leading professional cattle photographer for over 30 years. Jane also runs the Lomond herd alongside her family’s Kepculloch herd and is no stranger to the centre of the ring having racked up an extensive list of judging appointments throughout the UK, Europe and even Australia.

A familiar face to many, Neil Sloan, Ayr will be taking on the role of showmanship judge at the event. Hailing from the Knoweside herd, Neil spent 12 years competing at the highest level in Scotland HYB, achieving successes such as Champion Showman at the All Breeds All Britain Calf Show in 2022, claiming the top clipping title in Cremona, Italy as well as top showmanship honours at the Royal Highland Show.

Of course, no event of this scale would be possible without a loyal and supportive sponsor base. As well as principal sponsor Elanco/AHV, Lakeland Dairies have kindly continued support as sponsor of the showmanship section whilst Thompsons Feeds throw their weight behind the calf conformation classes. Western Farm Enterprises sponsor the best exhibitor bred calf in each class with Blondin Sires sponsoring the Interbreed award.

The ’Summer Sizzler Sale’ continue their sponsorship of the ‘Fancy Dress’ class and this proved a real success at its introduction last year. Deemed to be a fun way of encouraging young handlers into the ring, both calf and handler will be in fancy dress alike.

Results from each class will be updated live on the Northern Ireland HYB social media pages but spectators are welcome to come along next Saturday (22nd August) to see first-hand the next generation of both show men/women and show calves take to the ring.