Championship success for Aberdeen Angus and Limousin teams at Balmoral Show

THE wet weather didn’t deter spectators or exhibitors on Saturday as crowds flocked to the cattle lawns for the ever-popular beef group of five championships.

The Livestock and Meat Commission (LMC) was pleased to once again sponsor the native and continental breed competitions. Judging responsibilities fell to Sterling man Stuart Bell who assessed each team not only on the individual merits of the cattle, but also on the overall conformity and balance presented within the group.

First into the ring were the native breeds with teams representing the Hereford, Beef Shorthorn, Aberdeen Angus, Dexter and Irish Moiled, all competing for the championship title. After careful consideration it was the Aberdeen Angus team tapped out as champion, impressing the judge with the overall strength of the group. Following in reserve was the Beef Shorthorn group.

Commenting on the champion and reserve champion groups Mr Bell said, “They’re [Aberdeen Angus] strong cattle, with two strong calves behind the cows, overall, they are a good balanced team. The Beef Shorthorns were a balanced team too, maybe just not as stylish on the day as the Angus.”

Competition remained strong as the continental breeds moved to take their place in the championship line-up. Entering the ring were teams representing the Simmental, Limousin, Charolais, British Blonde, British Blue and Saler breeds. Once again, it was over to judge Stuart Bell to assess the impressive line-up.

This time it was the Limousin team catching Mr Bell’s eye as he stepped forward to tap them out as continental group of five champions. Securing the reserve champion title was the Charolais team.

Commenting on this year’s championship, LMC Chief Executive, Colin Smith said, “It is encouraging to see such a strong turn out of cattle, impeccably exhibited for this championship. The standard of livestock is testament to the unwavering dedication of breeders and exhibitors and competitions such as these serve as an important platform to showcase the strength, diversity and high quality of the local beef sector.

“On behalf of the LMC, I extend congratulations to all those taking home well deserved accolades. We were delighted to once again have provided sponsorship for this popular event. We also wish to take this opportunity to thank the Royal Ulster Agricultural Society (RUAS) for facilitating this competition, Mr Bell, for giving of his time and expertise to judge the competition and finally, all exhibitors; events like this would not be possible without their unwavering passion and commitment to showcase the very best of our local livestock.”