Pictured - the Minister for Agriculture, Food & the Marine Charles McConalogue T.D with from left Laurence Feeney Chief Executive of the IHFA; Richard Hamilton, President of the IHFA; Aoife Murphy Director of Ingredients Tirlan; Martina Jameson, of the Virginia Show committee; and Robert Murphy, Head of Baileys Global Operations and Donal Brady, Vice President of the Virginia Show.

Diageo Baileys Champion Cow show marking their 40th anniversary

Paul Murphy

Published: Mon 24 Jul 2023, 9:31 AM

Diageo Ireland and its cream supplier Tirlán are inviting Holstein Friesian breeders across Ireland to the Diageo Baileys Champion Dairy Cow at this year’s Virginia Show on 23rd August. It includes an enhanced prize pot of €13,000 to mark the 40th year of the contest.

The Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue T.D., said, “The Baileys Cow Competition presents an annual opportunity to showcase the very best of Ireland’s grass-fed dairy breeding practices and our sustainable milk production.”

Winner of the top title, Overall Champion, will this year receive a €3,000 prize; followed by €1,500 and €800 for Reserve Champion and Honourable Mention respectively. Other awards will be presented on the day across several categories.

Robert Murphy, Head of Baileys Global Operations said: “The Diageo Baileys Cow provides a focal point for the entire Holstein Friesian breeding community to be recognised for the superior genetics and breeding excellence that go into the dairy herd."

Aoife Murphy, Director Ingredients at Tirlán said: “We look forward to welcoming previous and new entrants in County Cavan on 23rd August. Their participation in this competition is the centrepiece of the Virginia Show."

Entries can be submitted online at virginiashow.com. Breeders can also contact Patrick Gaynor on 087-2898707.