Tipperary native John Maher, alongside son JJ and nephew Tómas, had a day to remember at The Belgian Beltex Breeders Society of Ireland’s annual show and sale, held in recent days in Tullamore Mart, Co Offaly.

Their Balnakill Flock took top spots in all six showing classes before being crowned supreme champion with shearling ewe Balnakill Lotus.

Judge Chris Johnston of the Johnstown Flock also placed the Maher’s shearling ram, Balnakill Liverpool, as reserve supreme champion, completing the Balnakill ‘clean sweep.’

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The Mahers' golden touch continued into the sale ring, with a joint top price of €2,200 achieved for both Balnakill Lotus and Balnakill Liverpool, both sired by Rochdale Head Over Heels.

Balnakill Lotus was knocked down to Brian Matthews, Co Offaly, while Balnakill Liverpool was purchased by judge Chris Johnston.

Further Balnakill success

Balnakill Maximus, winner of the Lambplus ram lamb class, made a commendable €2,100, also going to Brian Matthews.

Reserve male champion and earlier ram lamb champion Balnakill Marvel sold for €1,500 to Damien Quinn from Co. Westmeath.

The Balnakill team sold 11 sheep and averaged an impressive €1,360.

The Belgian Beltex Breeders Society said, “Despite store lamb prices, grass supplies and the weather forecast continuing to influence trade throughout the country, there were plenty of standout prices throughout the day.”

Competitive sales

Summerfield Magic Mayo from Amy Ryan and Shane O’Brien, Co Mayo, was purchased by John Mayer for €1,400.

Sean and Paul Mcartney’s hogget ram, Beetles Luke Skywalker, made €1,100, selling to Jarlath and Shane Walsh, Co Galway.

Hugh O’Connor, Co Meath sold shearlings to a top of €900, while Pat O’Malley, Co Galway, averaged €825 for his pen of shearling rams.

The Belgian Beltex Breeders Society expressed thanks to Christ Johnston for judging the presale show as well as inspectors and all staff for their work in making the premier show and sale such a success.

The society also congratulated John, JJ, Tómas and the entire Balnakill team on “an exceptional day’s showing and selling”.