The Midland and Western Livestock Improvement Society hosted the first of the 2021 Irish pedigree bull sales in the Showgrounds, Carrick-on-Shannon, over the weekend.

Over a decade ago, this sale was a must-attend to secure your bull for the coming season.

However, in recent times, the sale has struggled to reach the same heights due to the success of society premier sales in December for its main breeds on show - Angus and Charolais.

That said, a number of good bulls sold well to a top of €4,650. However, only half of the bulls presented on the day found new homes.

Leading the way

Leading the way was the Charolais breed, with Coolembley Pablo selling for €4,650.

This September 2019-born bull was brought out by Martin Herity, Co Sligo.

Pablo was the only bull on offer sired by the constantly popular sire Doonally New, more commonly known as CF52.

Out of a homebred Gerard cow, the five-star terminal bull didn’t have to travel far, finding a new home in Castlerea.

Top Angus price

Securing top price from the Angus entries was one of the first lots through the ring, Brideswell Sonny.

Bred and exhibited by Karl Harrison, Athlone, Co Roscommon, Sonny is a son of Duibhgiolla Luigi and hit the market at €4,100.

The almost-two-year-old bull carried five stars on the terminal index and now takes up residence in Co Donegal.

Full report in this week’s Irish Farmers Journal.

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