S H O W S
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H i g h l a n d
Leading the way at the Royal Highland was Blackbrook Heathermaid Rosa from Andrew Thornber.
Rosa blooms at Royal Highland
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t was an honour and a privilege to be able to accept the appointment as judge of the Beef Shorthorn cattle at the Royal Highland Show, particularly as it was the Bicentenary of both Coates Herd Book and the Royal Highland Show. A very special occasion.
JUDGE James Playfair-Hannay Kelso, Roxburghshire
Following two years of inactivity within showrings for exhibitors it was great to be back in the ring. It was also pleasing to see so many young and new exhibitors out with cattle in the section. The Beef Shorthorn Cattle Society promotes itself as breeders of functional suckler cows. Calving more than 400 cows in our family business it is imperative that our cows fulfil that mantra. In keeping with this, I selected my prize winners with a heavy emphasis on their structure and locomotion, mammary and fertility traits along with breed character and style.
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B eef Shorthorn C attl e S oc i ety J o ur n al 2 0 2 3
The female classes, particularly the heifer classes, were exceptionally strong and give a tremendous foundation for the future of the breed. However, I feel that some of the animals paraded in front of me will grow into huge, high maintenance cattle. The bull classes were not as consistent, demonstrating some of the huge strides and changes the breed has made since the dark days of near extinction. Again, I feel that the breed has a maternal role rather than a terminal one. One of the most pleasing aspects of the day was that there were options to be taken. My champion and reserve were outstanding animals that ticked every box on my desired list. I look forward to seeing them again and watching how they develop in future. Congratulations to all the exhibitors for their hard work in making my day so enjoyable. Thank you very much.
