The 2019 Diageo Bailey cow competition took place at the Virginia Show today boasting a prize fund of €10,000. Despite constant downpours, the best of the Holstein breed were showcased at the Cavan showgrounds.

While weather may have dampened some breeder’s spirits, the same can’t be said for Cyril and John Dowling who walked away with the top award of €2,500. The Dublin-based herd is no stranger to success at the Baileys competition, having collected the award a total of seven times now.

Their champion this time around was the seven-year-old cow Baldonnell Flashmatic Dawn. Classified EX94, the fourth-lactation cow calved back in March and has a predicted yield of nearly 13,000kg. Sired by the homebred Baldonnell Flashmatic, she is out of the Ex94 classified Suirvalley Fair Dawn.

Commenting on his champion judge Peter Waring said: “This cow has a tremendous open rib, correct teat sizes and placement and just an overall great cow.”

Reserve

Taking the reserve overall spot was Aidan Fawley, Buree, Co Limerick, with Ballytigue Goldchip Shower. This EX93 classified cow gave 13,387kg in her last lactation of 897 milk solids. Sired by Mr Chassity Gold Chip she is out of a homebred Sanchez cow.

Again judge Waring praised his reserve saying “this cow has a great length of neck, and length of body. They always say there’s more milk in length then depth. A real balanced cow”.

Finally taking the honourable mention was Wexford-based Jim and Una Sinnott with Ballyboy Sid Carmen 1039. This rising four-year-old junior cow calved back in February and has a predicted 305-day milk yield of nearly 9,000kg.

Closing out his comments Peter Waring said: “This is an every-man type of cow. Not the biggest, but balanced with great legs and will no doubt turn into a great cow.”