Last weekend we travelled to Tullamore to exhibit some of the show calves at the National Aberdeen Angus Calf Show. This is the final show of the showing season before the autumn sales kick off in late October.

This show is a real showpiece for the Angus breed and only the very best of the country’s show calves compete to take home the top prizes on offer. As we had a good deal of success with our calves on the show circuit we were quite optimistic about our chances but we knew the competition would be tougher than ever. It is quite unique as it is confined only to calves – no cows, stock bulls or animals older than 12 months are allowed to enter. Consequently, it is a sort of “stars of the future” event where the top youngstock of the breed and ones to watch for next year are identified.

We arrived at Tullamore early so we could wash and clean our three calves. The winter is almost upon us and so the calves were far dirtier than any show day in the summer season and it took a little bit of extra time to get them presentable for the judging later on. Our show heifer Buffy had won twelve first prizes over the last few months and was one of the favourites in a strong senior heifer calf class. We spent extra time grooming her and made sure every hair was shining to ensure she looked her absolute best for judging.

Our first entry of the day finished in a respectable sixth position in a very strong class then our other young calf finished second in a very competitive class, which we were all delighted with.

Finally, it was the moment we were all waiting for - Buffy’s turn to be judged. Showing cattle is always enjoyable but there is something extra exciting (and nerve-wrecking!) about leading an animal who has had a lot of success and is one of the favoured exhibits in the class. The class went well, Buffy behaved herself and I showed her off to the best of my ability. The judge spent a lot of time scrutinizing and examining her before comparing her to the other entries and deliberating his final decision. Finally, the judge made up his mind and pulled us into first place. I was thrilled. First place was a fantastic result and it is always extra special to win a big title with an animal who has performed so well at many of the shows earlier in the year.

Overall, it was a lovely day, capped off by bagging another first prize for our collection of rosettes at home. Every show is an enjoyable occasion but there is no denying that bringing home a prize makes it even more so. It was the last show of the year and we really could not have asked for a better way to finish off a superb season.