Large numbers of Friesian enthusiasts from across the country attended last week’s National Young Members Association (YMA) national finals and calf show, which was again held in Kilkenny Mart. The two-day event included competitions on clipping and handling as well as calf classes and club awards.

Taking home the Barrett perpetual trophy for the champion handler for the second year in a row was the Cork exhibitor Paul Murphy. Fellow Cork club member Diarmuid Murphy followed close on his heels to pick up the reserve title, while Breffni/Oriel club member Colin Todd secured honourable mention.

In the calf classes Hallow-bred stock took both the champion and reserve spots. Hallow Doorman Abrakazoo 2 from Gary & Izzy Jones was out in front with full sister Hallow Doorman Abrakazoo from Philip Jones taking the reserve. Honourable mention in this section went to Brian Corley with Cornboro Beemer Dolly.

Results for YMA National finals:

Clipping: 1st – Cork (Brian Smith/Kevin Smith). Novice A: 1st – Jennifer Harty, Kerry. Novice B: 1st –James Taaffe (North Eastern). Novice C: 1st – Andrew Barrett (Cork). Junior Handler: 1st – Manus Murphy (Carlow/Kilkenny). Intermediate Handler: 1st – Mark Hurley (Slaney). Senior Handler: 1st – Paul Murphy (Cork). Mature Handler: 1st – Diarmuid Murphy (Cork).

Laois/Offaly Bill Flyn Memorial YMA Perpetual Trophy for Best Stand: Cork.

Cork Friesian Breeders Club YMA Perpetual Trophy for Clipping: Cork.

Breffni/Oriel Friesian Breeders Club YMA Perpetual Trophy for Best Calves: Breffni/Oriel.

Kildare Friesian Breeders Club YMA Perpetual Trophy for Handling: Cork.

West Midlands Friesian Breeders Club YMA Perpetual Trophy for Ag-Analysis Competition: Cork.

Denis Barrett Auctions & Pedigree Sales Perpetual Trophy for Sportsmanship: Breffni/Oriel.

Barrett Family Perpetual Trophy for Handling: Paul Murphy (Cork).