Last weekend, Blonde enthusiasts from across the United Kingdom, the Republic of Ireland, and as far away as Holland joined club members to visit some of the region's top breeders.
Weekend Tour Highlights
Friday evening: The weekend kicked off at Ballygowan Blondes with over 120 people in attendance. Established in 1979, it is one of the longest-running Blonde herds. Visitors admired the strong consistency that stock bull Hallfield Titan is passing on to his calves.
Saturday morning and afternoon: Guests visited Moneyscalp Blondes, which was established over 10 years ago and features super heifers by Bridge Obama and calves from stock bull Hillhead Victor. This was followed by a trip to Silverwood Blondes in Newry, where a tremendous group of cows featured strong Ardmore Gargoyle breeding enhanced by Hillhead Unbelievabull.
Celebratory meal: Visitors enjoyed a traditional carvery dinner at the Royal Hotel in Cookstown.
Sunday finale: The tour concluded at Drumnafern Blondes. The McGartland family runs a quality commercial suckler herd alongside pedigrees bred back to Blonde bulls, which perform exceptionally well across the board.
Chairman's remarks
Club Chairman Alan Carson reflected on the successful weekend:
"As always, the club members stepped up to the mark and beyond to make it all work. I am so proud of our club and the positive feedback we are getting. To the host farmers, your cattle and hospitality were fantastic, and both will live long in people's memories. Thank you to the British Blonde Society, who sponsored the coach, ensuring everyone got around safely and in comfort. Most of all, thank you to all our visitors; without you, the weekend would not have been the success that it was. The craic was mighty."
Upcoming 45th anniversary online sale
The celebrations continue with an online sale hosted by Harrison & Hetherington (H&H) on the MartEye platform.
The Offering: A selection of eight pedigree Blonde bulls and five pedigree Blonde heifers.
Consignments: Sourced from top herds across Northern Ireland with a variety of bloodlines to suit all requirements. All lots are eligible for export.
Sale Times: Bidding closes on Monday, 24th August, starting at 7:00 PM.
How to Join: To view lots or register to bid, visit the MartEye platform.
More Information: Follow updates on facebook.com/NIblondecattleclub
Pictures by Bo Davidson
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Visitors looking over some of the commercial cows and calves at Drumnafern Blondes. Photo: freelance