Success in the showring for Sheep Young Handlers

THE ever-popular sheep young handlers competition returned to the showrings on Saturday morning at Balmoral Show. Sponsored by the Livestock and Meat Commission (LMC), this competition sees the next generation of young handlers bring their breed knowledge and exhibiting expertise to the fore.

The event which kicked off at 11am drew crowds of spectators who were keen to show support for the young people. The competition was subdivided into three age categories: 8-9 year olds, 10-11 year olds and 12-14 year olds, first into the ring were the youngest of the three groupings.

Eager to make an impression on judge Julie Loughrie were 10 budding young handlers. Ms Loughrie made her way around the ring speaking to each young handler before moving to pull her final line up. Taking the top spot was Lucas Megarrell, following in reserve was Alfie Wells.

The 10-11 year old group had a hard act to follow, but the 14 young handlers confidently made their way into the ring to take their places in the line-up. Making her way around the ring, Ms Loughrie engaged with each young handler, taking stock of their exhibiting abilities. After careful consideration Emilie McCullough took home the champion rosette with Alana Steenson following in reserve.

The final group taking to the showring was the 12-14 year olds, the 20 strong line up made judging this competition no mean feat. Their ability to control and exhibit their sheep came under careful watch from the judge. Ms Loughrie took some time to deliberate before announcing Bethany Megarrell as champion and Archie Henry as reserve champion.

The champion and reserve young handlers from each class then made their way back into the ring, each hoping to clench the overall champion and reserve titles. As anticipation around the ring grew, Ms Loughrie stepped forward to announce Bethany Megarrell as overall champion and Emilie McCullough as overall reserve champion.

LMC Chief Executive, Colin Smith extended the Commission’s thanks to all those involved in planning and co-ordinating the event. He said, “LMC was delighted to provide sponsorship for this event. We wish to take this opportunity to thank the Royal Ulster Agricultural Society (RUAS) for facilitating this competition, Ms Loughrie, for giving of her time and expertise to judge the competition and finally, all young handlers; events like this would not be possible without their enthusiasm to showcase the very best of our local livestock.”