• August 2011 - Clive Has High Hopes For 2011
• August 2011 - Entries Flood In For Summer Spectacular Show
• July 2011 - Commercial Club Launches "Summer Spectacular" Show
• May 2011: Commercial cattle club unveils 2011 Yearbook
• April 2011: Ulster Bank backing for Commercial Breeding  Heifer Championship
• March 2011 - Commercial cattle exhibitors’ AGM
• February 2011 - NICCEC Annual Dinner dance
• August 2010 - McKenna’s 2009 champion win Tullamore show title
• July 2010 - Entry forms now available for commercial beef show
• April 2010 - NICCEC Annual Dinner Dance
• April 2010 - Ulster Bank continues to back Suckler Heifer Championship

August 2011: Clive Has High Hopes For 2011

At 18 years of age Fivemiletown farmer Clive Hoey is one of the more junior members of the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors Club, but in just four years of showing cattle he has already made quite a name for himself on the show circuit.

Clive Hoey toasted success in 2010 when his Limousin heifer "Xtra Factor" was tapped out Supreme champion at the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors Club Annual Show. This years event takes place at Balmoral showgrounds on Friday 26th August with judging beginning at 11.30am.

Clive made his showing debut in 2007 with his home bred British Blue heifer "Betsy" which he showed as a calf. but it was in 2008 that he hit the headlines with this heifer when she was awarded Reserve Supreme Champion at the NICCEC Annual Show. In addition to this achievement "Betsy" won the Dunbia Butchers Heifer Championship and British Blue Championship.

This was a great victory for young Clive who was delighted to have bred this Blue heifer from his suckler herd of around 60 cows.

In 2010 Clive hit the big time with his Limousin heifer "Xtra Factor" who was crowned the Supreme Champion at the show in Moira. The NI Commercial Show is the one that every showman wants to win, and Clive's black heifer was a popular winner on the day following on from her success at Enniskillen

With the NICCEC "Summer Spectacular" just around the corner its all systems go for Clive as he prepares to make the trip to Balmoral Showgrounds.

"I'm looking forward to the Club's show which always attracts the very best commercial cattle from all six counties." says Clive.

The 2011 show team from Clive has also made an impact with his home bred Charolais heifer "Poser" securing the Reserve Championship in both the open and Fermanagh Breeders classes at Enniskillen Show.

The NI Commercial Exhibitors Club "Summer Spectacular" takes place at Balmoral Showgrounds on Friday 26th August with judging kicking off at 11.30am.

August 2011: Entries Flood In For Summer Spectacular Show

Entries are coming in thick and fast for the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitor Club "Summer Spectacular" which is to be held at Balmoral Showgrounds on Friday 26th August.

Ryan Law, secretary NICCEC has been busy receiving entries this week as the closing date looms for this popular annual show.

"The 2011 show season has witnessed some of the best entries of commercial cattle on record with large numbers forward all summer. We are now very much looking forward to our own annual show which is billed as the "Summer Spectacular".

The judging programme kicks off at 11.30am with the hugely popular young handlers section. This then leads into the calf classes and championships, and the rest of the packed programme featuring all weights and breeds of cattle.

Club Chairman Ben Sinnamon is also delighted to confirm that there are a number of new sponsors for the 2011 event in addition to those which pledged their continued support following last years successful show.

"The support of our sponsors has been overwhelming, and we look forward to many attending on the day."

A warm welcome is extended to all those with an interest in commercial cattle to join exhibitors at Balmoral. There will be catering facilities at the show in addition to unlimited car parking.

Contact Ryan Law today if you have any final entries for the Summer Spectacular on 07738283199.

AN Irwin are delighted to be associated with the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors Annual Show to be held on Friday 26th August. Ian Cummins from AN Irwin catches up with Paul Rainey NICCEC ahead of the event.

Gareth Gibson, Regional Technical Sales Manager for Lesaffe Feed Additives is a keen supporter of the NICCEC Summer Spectacular. He is pictured with committee member Paul Rainey as they gear up for the event which takes place at Balmoral Showgrounds on Friday 26th August.

Jonathan McDowell, from McDowell's Farmview Home Butchery and Alan Massey Ruminant Sales Advisor for United Feeds have a look at some of the silverware up for grabs at the NICCEC Summer Spectacular, while club secretary Ryan Law looks on.

Ivan Minford and Paul Rainey representing Ai Services look forward to the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors 7th Annual Show to be held at Balmoral Show Grounds on Friday 26th August.

Sandra Cochrane, Chairperson of the NI Charolais Club weighs in with sponsorship for the NICCEC Summer Spectacular which takes place at Balmoral Show Grounds on Friday 26th August, while Libby Clarke NICCEC looks on.

There will be classes for Hereford sired catle at the NICCEC Summer Spectacular. David Smyth, NI Hereford Breeders Club chats over details with Ryan Law, Secretary NICCEC.

July 2011 - Commercial Club Launches "Summer Spectacular" Show

Report by Libby Clarke Photos Alfie Shaw

It's all systems go for the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors Club 7th Annual Show which is to take place at Balmoral Showgrounds on Friday 26th August, commencing at 11.30am.

The "Summer Spectacular" is the highlight of the NICCEC calendar having grown from strength to strength since the first show was staged in 2002.

Club Chairman Ben Sinnamon states "We anticipate the 2011 event to be the biggest and best to date. The commercial entries at shows this season has been absolutely fantastic, and in many cases represented the largest number forward in the cattle section. The Club is very excited about the move to Balmoral Showgrounds which will see all the day's activities under one roof. In addition to the livestock we are also welcoming a number of trade stands to the event."

The "Summer Spectacular" is a show case for promoting commercial cattle of all breeds, and has once again attracted a generous prize fund thanks to the support of a large range of sponsors.

Judging kicks off at 11.30am with the ever popular young handlers section which will be judged by Mrs Melanie Alford. Devon. Following this is the calf section which features classes for heifers and males up to a weight threshold of 300 kilos. These will be placed by noted showman Mike Alford, who will also judge the open classes which comprise of a full programme for both heifers and steers in all the weight ranges.

There is strong prize money up for grabs in the calf championship with the overall winner here picking up £300 and £200 for the reserve.

Breed Championships will be judged by County Donegal commercial enthusiast Pearce McNamee, and will include Charolais, Limousin, British Blue, Blonde D'Aquitaine, Aberdeen Angus, Hereford, and Any Other Breed sections.

A new element to the show this year will be the heifer and steer championships, which will see first and second prizewinners compete for a top award of £150 for each winner and £50 for reserves. These will then go head to head for the Supreme Championship kindly sponsored by Norbrook Laboratories who have offered £350 for the overall winner and £150 for the reserve.

The Supreme Champion will also collect the Gary Pickering Memorial Perpetual Trophy.

One of the highlights of the day will be the final of the Ulster Bank Breeding Heifer Championship. This competition has rallied qualifiers at a number of provincial shows and will feature a final line up of sixteen choice heifers between 1 and 2 years of age. This hotly contested championship is now in its third year, and has become a firm favourite with commercial show men.

Dungannon based company Dunbia are once again fully supporting the Summer Spectacular, and have provided sponsorship for the Dunbia Butcher's Heifer Championship. Judging will be in the capable hands of Banbridge based butcher Jim Quail.

Exhibitors will once again have the opportunity to compete in the Pairs Championship This was hugely popular last year with a very strong entry forward representing all breeds and weights.

Entry forms and schedules are now ready and can be obtained by contacting Ryan Law 07738283199. The closing date is Friday 5th august - late entries will not be accepted.

The Northern Ireland Commercial Exhibitors Club are holding their 7th Annual Show at Balmoral Showgrounds on Friday 26th August. Colin McDonald, Chief Executive RUAS and Cyril Millar, Vice Chairman of Finance RUAS join sponsors for the event at the launch of the show with NICCEC committee members Ryan Law and Paul Rainey.

Cyril Millar, RUAS enjoys a catch up with Libby Clarke, NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors Club and Ann Calwell, Ulster Bank as they make plans for the "Summer Spectacular" which takes place at Balmoral Showgrounds on Friday 26th August. The final of the Ulster Bank Commercial Breeding Heifer Championships takes place at this event.

Ryan Law secretary of the NICCEC welcomes sponsors to the new venue for the 7th Annual Show which takes place at Balmoral Showgrounds on Friday 26th August. Dr Derek McIlmoyle, Technical Director at Vista Vet (part of A B Vista) is pictured with Alistair Sampson , Business Manager for Volac and Billy Rogers, Genus Breeding advisor for East Tyrone and South Antrim.

David Chestnutt, Procurement Manager at Dunbia is pictured with Libby Clarke, NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors Club at the launch of the "Summer Spectacular" which takes place at Balmoral Showgrounds on Friday 26th August, while Aaron Campbell looks on. Dunbia sponsor the Butcher's Heifer Championship at the show.

Norbrook Laboratories are sponsoring the Supreme Championship at the NICCEC Summer Spectacular which takes place at Balmoral Showgrounds. Marcus Scott, NI Sales Manager for Norbrook is pictured with Ryan Law and Paul Rainey from the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors Club.

A major new sponsor for the 2011 Commercial Show is Dovea Genetics. NICCEC committee member Libby Clarke recently met with Ger Ryan from Dovea to finalise details for the forthcoming show which takes place on Friday 26th August.

Ryan Law, Secretary NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors Club welcomes Allison Matthews, Sales & Marketing Administrator for Thompsons, to Balmoral Showgrounds as they prepare for the forthcoming "Summer Spectacular" to beheld on Friday 26th August.

May 2011: Commercial cattle club unveils 2011 Yearbook

By Julie Hazelton

The Northern Ireland Commercial Cattle Exhibitors’ Club has unveiled its first-ever Yearbook which is aimed at promoting the club and its members.

The brightly coloured A5 journal is the culmination of several months of planning and hard work by members of the club’s committee.

The 146-page book features a full round-up of photographs and results from Provincial agricultural shows throughout the 2010 show season. It includes a full report on last year’s Balmoral Show, as well as in-depth coverage from the club’s showcase 6^{th annual show held at Moira, the final of the Ulster Bank Breeding Heifer championship, and pictures from the club’s annual dinner and presentation of awards.}

The 2010 Moira Show champion, Xtra Factor, owned by Clive Hoey is pictured on the front cover. The contents of the booklet also features reports from leading fatstock shows around the country, including the Province’s premier beef event – Allam’s 87^{th annual Christmas show and sale at Balmoral.}

A brief summary of the club’s history is also outlined in the booklet, as well as a comprehensive diary highlighting forthcoming shows and events for commercial cattle enthusiasts, and a list of approved fatstock show judges.

Club chairman, Ben Sinnamon said:”A lot of work has gone on behind the scenes to compile the club’s inaugural Yearbook. I would like to congratulate our club secretary, Ryan Law, and his assistants for their hard work and dedication at producing such an excellent publication. Thanks also to everyone who contributed towards to the content of the Yearbook.”

“We are also indebted to the large number of sponsors, local businesses, breed societies, and individuals who purchased advertisements in the Yearbook. Their overwhelming response represents a vote of confidence in our club, and strong support for our new Yearbook.”

The Northern Ireland Commercial Cattle Exhibitors’ Club was founded in 2003 to promote the interests of commercial showmen and women. Classes for commercial beef cattle have been introduced to the schedule at many of the Provincial agricultural shows, and have been well supported by sponsors, exhibitors and spectators alike.

Membership of the Northern Ireland Commercial Cattle Exhibitors’ Club is £20 per annum.

To obtain a free copy of the 2011 Yearbook, or to sign-up for annual membership of the NICCEC contact club secretary, Ryan Law on mobile: 07738 283199. Keep up-to-date with NICCEC news by logging on the club’s website: www.commercialcattleni.co.uk

Browsing through the newly launched 2011 Yearbook are sisters, Lorna, Shauna and Katrina Killen from Crossgar.

NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors' Club secretary, Ryan Law, and vice-chairman, John Killen, proudly display the club's inaugural 2011 Yearbook.

April 2011: Ulster Bank backing for Commercial Breeding  Heifer Championship

By Julie Hazelton

Following on from the success of last year’s competition, Ulster Bank has confirmed its continued support for the Breeding Heifer Championship organised by Northern Ireland Commercial Cattle Exhibitors’ Club.

The Ulster Bank Commercial Breeding Heifer Championship is open to all non-pedigree breeding heifers, aged between one and two-years-old. The competition will kick off at Balmoral Show, and will run throughout the forthcoming show season. 

Two animals will be selected at each of the qualifying shows, and will go forward to the final which takes place in August. The eight qualifying shows are Balmoral, Ballymena, Ballymoney, Armagh, Omagh, Castlewellan, Clogher and Enniskillen.

Ben Sinnamon, chairman of the Northern Ireland Commercial Cattle Exhibitors Club said:”We are indebted to Ulster Bank for its continued sponsorship of this competition. To be eligible, exhibitors must enter in their respective class at each qualifying show.  The final will be held at the club’s 7th Annual Show, which takes place at the Balmoral Showgrounds, Belfast, on Friday, August 26.”

Last year’s hotly contested competition was won by a 730 kilos Charolais heifer exhibited by Robert Henry Sinnamon, and sons, Henry and Ben from Pomeroy, County Tyrone.  This super heifer was born in November 2008, and was bred from a Limousin cross British Blue cow. She qualified at Enniskillen Show.

Claiming the reserve championship was a Limousin heifer brought out by young member, Jack Smyth from Strabane, County Tyrone. She also qualified at Enniskillen Show.

Standing in third place was a Charolais heifer owned by Jake Finnegan from Dungannon; while fourth prize went to Gerry Law from Kesh. Both heifers had qualified at Omagh Show.

Launching the 2011 competition, Ulster Bank’s senior agricultural manager, Cormac McKervey, said:”Ulster Bank has been involved with the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors’ Club since its inception in 2004, and we are delighted to confirm our continued support for 2011.

“The Ulster Bank Commercial Breeding Heifer Championships is now in its third year.  In the past couple of years the qualifying shows have been very well supported, and last year’s final line-up at Moira was a great spectacle with 16 heifers competing for the title. This competition highlights the quality of commercial breeding heifers in Northern Ireland, and it is great to see the dedication of the exhibitors who produce and exhibit these heifers.”

Ben Sinnamon concluded by urging all commercial cattle breeders to support the 2011 agricultural shows. “Shows are a great shop window for our livestock, and I want to encourage everyone to participate.”

For further information about the Ulster Bank Commercial Breeding Heifer Championship, or other events in the club’s 2011 calendar, contact NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors’ Club secretary, Ryan Law on mobile: 07738 283199.

Launching the 2011 Ulster Bank Commercial Breeding Heifer Championship are, Cormac McKervey, senior agricultural manager, Ulster Bank, and last year's winner, Ben Sinnamon, Pomeroy, chairman of the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors' Club.

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March 2011: Commercial cattle exhibitors’ AGM

The Northern Ireland Commercial Cattle Exhibitors’ Club held its AGM recently in Dungannon.

Outgoing chairman, John McSorley, Beragh, who has been at the helm of the organisation for four successive years, welcomed everyone, including guest speaker, Oisin Murnion, chairman of the National Beef Association.

Bob Bailey from Horizon West NI Children’s Hospice was presented with a cheque for £800 – money raised from an auction at the club’s recent dinner.

Outgoing secretary, John Killen, delivered the secretary’s report for 2010/11.
He said:” Since our last AGM the club has had numerous successes.

“In total there are 45 members of the club, and the improved number of cattle shown at Provincial summer shows, highlights the increasing interest in the NICCEC and the showing of commercial beef cattle in general.

“I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all of the committee members, and key office bearers, for their assistance and work throughout the past year.”

“The show season kicked off at Balmoral in mid-May with some 40 cattle entered in the commercial beef section. Judged by John MacGregor, Glasgow, the supreme championship went to Alan Farlow’s Charolais heifer, Hillview Dora, with John Killen’s Charolais bullock, Fanta, taking the reserve championship title.

“Next up was Ballymena Show with Alan Farlow claiming the spoils again, while the reserve championship went to Clive Hoey. Alan Farlow also took the supreme championship award at Ballymoney Show, with the reserve award going to Campbell Bros. On the same day, Sarah and Sam Matchett won the champion and reserve titles at Lurgan Show.

“James Alexander won the champion and reserve prizes at Armagh Show; while Campbell Bros claimed the champion and reserve awards at Saintfield Show the following week. John Killen brought out the supreme champion at Newry Show, while Dessie O’Hanlon collected the reserve championship ribbons.

“Top honours at Omagh Show also went to James Alexander, with Law Bros winning the reserve championship.  James Alexander also claimed the champion and reserve titles at Castlewellan Show and Antrim Show in July.  John Killen won the commercial championship at Clogher Show, followed by James Alexander in reserve. The calf championship at Clogher Show went to Decal and Fergal McKenna.

“The summer show circuit was rounded off at Enniskillen Show at the beginning of August. The championship went to Clive Hoey, while the reserve award went to Law Bros.

“The commercial section at the NI National Charolais Show at Fintona was won by James Alexander.

“The highlight of the club’s calendar was our 6th Annual Show, held at the Pedigree Sales Arena, Moira, by kind permission of the late Willie Wilson. Over 120 cattle were entered in the 18 classes which were judged by Arfon Jones from Wales.

“Tom Stevenson from Scotland didn’t have an easy task judging the young handlers classes. The senior class (12-16 years) was won by Louise Breen, while the junior class (8 to 12) was won by Aaron Campbell.

“The breed championship classes were judged by Gene McCann from southern Ireland; while Will Corrie of Corrie Meats, Newtownards, selected Nigel and Sandra Cochrane’s heifer as the Dunbia Butchers’ Heifer Champion. 
“At the end of the showcase event, Arfon Jones, returned to the showring to select the supreme championship line-up. The highest accolade went to Clive Hoey’s heavyweight Limousin heifer, Xtra Factor; while the reserve title was won by Alan Farlow’s Charolais heifer, Hillview Dora.

“Sean O’Kane scooped the calf championship, with the runner-up prize going to Law Bros. The Ulster Bank Breeding Heifer Championship was won by Robert Henry Sinnamon and Sons. McKenna Bros won the pairs championship.

“The show season came to an end with the annual fatstock shows and sales. Ulster’s premier fatstock event, Allam’s, was won by Alan Farlow’s super Charolais heifer, with the reserve title going to a very stylish home-bred Limousin bullock shown by McKenna Bros.

“The Housewife’s Choice prize was awarded to Law Bros for their British Blue cross Limousin heifer. McKenna Bros scooped the reserve Housewife Choice award with a Limousin heifer.

“Gordon Cutler claimed the championship award at Ballymena Mart’s annual fatstock show and sale.

“Our 2010/11 year was rounded off with the club’s Annual Dinner and Presentation of Awards, held at Corrick House near Augher, County Tyrone. Over 140 members and friends from the north and south of Ireland attended the event. During the evening the auction raised almost £800 for the Horizon West Childrens’ Hospice in Enniskillen.

“Looking ahead to 2011/12 and the Ulster Bank Breeding Heifer Competition will be run throughout the summer show season, with two qualifiers selected at each qualifying show. The final will take place at our 7th Annual Show in August.

John Killen concluded: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their support throughout my year as secretary, and wish the club and its members continued success for 2011 and future years. This completes my secretary’s report for 2010/11.”

Outgoing treasurer, Sandra Cochrane, reported on the club’s healthy financial situation; while outgoing chairman, John McSorley, thanked the office bearers and committee members for their hard work and dedication during his term as chairman.

 “The NICCEC was founded in 2002, and I’d like to thank all past member, exhibitors and sponsors, who have contributed to the success of the club over the years.” Mr McSorley also paid tribute to the late Willie Wilson.

The election of office bearers was conducted by Oisin Murnion. The newly elected office bearers for 2011/12 include: Chairman, Ben Sinnamon; Vice-chairman, John Killen; Secretary, Ryan Law; Assistant Secretary, James Alexander; and Treasurer, Alan Farlow. Newly elected committee members include: Declan McKenna, Hugh McAllister, Alan Veitch, Nigel Cochrane, Robert Simpson, Libby Clarke, Malachy McGrath, Dessie Martin, Bartley Finnegan and Paul Rainey.

Following the formal part of the AGM, Oisin Murnion, gave members an insight into the proposed re-structuring of the Common Agricultural Policy

Bringing the meeting to a close, newly elected chairman, Ben Sinnamon from Pomeroy, County Tyrone, thanked Oisin Murnion for coming along and giving an informative and interesting presentation.

Bob Baird, Horizon West NI Children's Hospice, receives a cheque for £800 from John McSorley,outgoing chairman; Sandra Cochrane, outgoing treasurer; and John Killen, outgoing secretary, NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors' Club.

Newly elected office bearers elected at the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors' Club AGM, Dungannon. Back row, from left: Alan Farlow, treasurer; James Alexander, assistant secretary; Ryan Law, secretary. Front row, Ben Sinnamon, left, chairman; and John Killen, vice-chairman.

Office bearers and committee members of the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors' Club, pictured at its AGM, Dungannon

Ben Sinnamon, left, chairman, and John McSorley, right, outgoing chairman, pictured with guest speaker, Oisin Murnion, NBA chairman, at the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors' Club AGM, Dungannon.

Declan McKenna, Clogher, chats to NBA chairman, Oisin Murnion, at the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors' Club AGM, Dungannon.

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February 2011: Annual Dinner Dance

Sisters Shauna and Katrina Killen, Crossgar, were joint winners of the NICCEC's best young member award.

Louise Breen, Augher, proudly displays the trophy for the Allam's Belgian Blue champion at the NICCEC annual dinner, Clogher.

Sarah and Sam Matchett, Portadown, with the trophies they collected at the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors' Club annual dinner, Clogher.

Cormac McKervey, senior agricultural manager, Ulster Bank, congratulates the O'Hanlon family, Dessie, Amy and Tara, from Drumintee, Newry, at the NICCEC annual dinner, Clogher.

Twins Matthew and Mollie Cochrane (5) from Portadown collected the Dunbia Trophy for the best butcher's heifer a the NICCEC show, Moira.

Prize winner Rachel McAllister, Aghadowey, at the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors' Club annual dinner, Clogher.

Richard Law, Kesh, receives his trophy at the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors' Club annual dinner, Clogher, from Cormac McKervey, Ulster Bank.

Lisahally fatstock show prize winners, Packie and Rhonda Donnelly, Ballymena, received their awards from Cormac McKervey, Ulster Bank.

The Killen family, John, Shauna and Katrina, Crossgar, pictured with their trophies at the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors' Club annual dinner, Clogher. Adding his congratulations is Cormac McKervey, Ulster Bank, guest speaker.

Martina O'Kane, Dunloy, collected awards at the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors' Club annual dinner, Clogher.

Cormac McKervey, Ulster Bank, congratulates James and Ruth Alexander, Randalstown, who collected an array of silverware at the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors' Club annual dinner, Clogher.

Gerrard, Aaron and Aidan Campbell, Derryiaghy, proudly display their silverware at the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors' Club annual dinner, Clogher.

Cormac McKervey, Ulster Bank, pictured with Alan and Jenny Farlow, Garvagh, who collected an array of silverware, including the trophy for the supreme champion at Allam's, during the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors' Club annual dinner, Clogher.

The McKenna family, Lauren, Shauna and Orlagh, Clogher, picked up their awards from Cormac McKervey, Ulster Bank, at the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors' Club annual dinner.

Clive Hoey, Fivemiletown, received his silverware from Cormac McKervey, Ulster Bank. His trophies included the Gary Pickering Memorial Trophy for the supreme champion at the NICCEC annual show, Moira.

Fatstock exhibitor, Jack Smyth, Strabane, was congratulated by Cormac McKervey, Ulster Bank.

Philip Paul, Dunloy, received his award from Cormac McKervey, at the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors' Club annual dinner, Clogher.

Sarah Matchett, Portadown, was one of the many prize winners at the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors' Club annual dinner, Clogher.

Lynsey Lawrence, Garvagh YFC, presents awards to James Alexander, Randalstown, at the NICCEC annual dinner, Clogher.

Rachel McAllister, Aghadowey, was one of the prize winners at Garvagh YFC's fatstock show and sale. She received her award at the NICCEC annual dinner, Clogher, from Stephen O'Kane.

Naomh McAllister, Aghadowey, was one of the prize winners at the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors' Club annual dinner, Clogher.

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McKenna’s 2009 champion wins Tullamore Show title

A Limousin bullock, bred by brothers Declan and Fergal McKenna, Clogher, County Tyrone won the overall championship in the commercial section at last weekend’s Tullamore Show.

The bullock named ‘Spooks’ was exhibited by Connell Bros, Oldcastle, County Meath. It was purchased in 2009 after winning the supreme championship at the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors Club’s 5^{th annual show, held at Moira, where he was described by judge, Gareth McGuinness, ‘as a very correct, stylish bullock’.}

The McKenna brothers had a very successful day at last year’s Moira show, winning the Limousin championship, the reserve Charolais championship, and the award for the best pair of animals owned by exhibitor. The Moira Show in 2006 also proved memorable, when they lifted the supreme and reserve overall championships, and top honours in the calf section.

The 2006 Moira champion went on to win Allam’s and was sold for an All-Ireland record of £6,800 for a commercial beef heifer, selling to James Higgins, Claremorris, County Mayo; while the calf champion was sold in Roscrea for 8,500 Euro.

Declan and Fergal McKenna have been showing commercial beef cattle since making their debut at Allam’s in 1982. Over the years they have won numerous rosettes and prizes, and their reputation for producing prime beef cattle is synonymous throughout Ireland .

With just over one week to go before this year’s 6^{th annual show at Moira, the McKenna duo is busy washing and clipping its show team in preparation for the August 20 event.  They have already been competing on the local show circuit, winning the calf championship at Clogher – on their first appearance of 2010.}

Declan and Fergal McKenna run a herd of over 200 suckler cows, the majority of which are Belgian Blue and other continental crosses. Stock bulls on the farm include five Charolais, two Limousin and one Belgian Blue. AI is used during the winter months when the cows are housed, and Simmental and Limousin sires are specially selected with the aim of producing herd replacements. “The Belgian Blue cross Simmental makes an ideal suckler cow. She has bone, conformation, plenty of milk, a good temperament, and is easy to calve,” explained Declan.

The suckler herd is split into spring and autumn calvers. Heifers are mainly home-bred, and are calved down at around 30 months of age. The cows are wintered on silage, concentrates and minerals, while the calves are introduced to creep feed at an early age. Calves are weaned at seven-months-old, and the potential show calves are picked out and kept separately.  Fergal McKenna added:”A fatstock champion should display style, shape, conformation and muscle.”

When selecting stock bulls the brothers are looking for conformation, bone, character and style.

One of the most influential stock bulls to join the herd was the 18,000gns Fury Action –intermediate Charolais champion at Perth in February 2005. He is a Domino son bred from a dam by the noted Oldstone Egbert, and has proved to be a shrewd investment with 2,500 straws of semen having been sold to pedigree and commercial herd owners. Fury Action was the sire of the McKenna’s Clogher Show calf champion; and was also behind the breeding of Mountjoy Echo which won the junior and supreme overall championship for Desmond McAskie at the NI Charolais Club’s May show and sale.

Charolais stock bull, Carrigans Robust, also influenced the herd greatly by producing numerous prize winning cattle, including the All-Ireland record holder.

Fergal, Lauren, Orlagh and Shauna McKenna, Clogher, pictured with their commercial beef calf champion at Clogher Show.

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Entry forms now available for commercial beef show

Moira venue for 6th annual event on Friday, August 20

Schedules and entry forms are now available for the Northern Ireland Commercial Cattle Exhibitors Club’s 6^{th annual show, which takes place at the Pedigree Sales Arena, Moira, on Friday, August 20 commencing at 1pm.}

The event has attracted a generous prize fund, and the schedule includes classes for male and female calves up to 300 kilos, as well as lightweight, mediumweight and heavyweight steers and heifers. Judge for the event is Alfred Jones from Wales.

The schedule also includes classes for steers and heifers sired by Charolais, Limousin, British Blue, British Blonde, Aberdeen Angus, Beef Shorthorn and any other breed. The breed championship classes will be placed by southern Irish producer Gene McCann.

In addition to the cattle classes, there are two classes for young handlers – under 12 years old, and 12 to 16 years old. They will be placed by Tom Stevenson.

The supreme overall champion of the show will receive the prestigious Gary Pickering Memorial Perpetual Cup and a £500 cash award, while the reserve champion will receive £250. The calf champion will receive a £300 cash prize, with £200 going to the runner-up.

The Dunbia Cup will be awarded to the best butchers’ heifer in show. All heifers weighing between 470 and 540 kilos will be eligible for this class, and will come under the scrutiny of noted butcher and pedigree Limousin breeder, Will Corrie from Newtownards.

There is also a class for the best pair of commercial beef cattle property of exhibitor. The winner of this class will receive a £100 cash prize.

The one-day show at Moira will host the final of the 2010 Ulster Bank Suckler Heifer Championship. This competition is now in its second year, and is open to non-pedigree suckler heifers aged between one and two-years-old. Two qualifiers will go forward from each designated show – Balmoral, Ballymena, Ballymoney, Armagh, Omagh, Castlewellan, Clogher and Enniskillen -and a total of sixteen heifers will compete at the final.

John McSorley, chairman, NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors Club said:”We are indebted to our sponsors for their continued financial support. The show is now in its sixth year, and we hope that the 2010 event is bigger and better than our previous shows. We are also indebted to Willie Wilson of R A Noble and Co for the use of the premises at Moira.”

Club secretary, John Killen added:” Entries will be weighed prior to the show, and the classes will be decided and sub-divided into appropriate weight groups before judging commences. All entries must be bonafide property of exhibitor and halter trained.”

Membership of the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors Club is £20 per annum, and entries will only be accepted from fully paid club members. Exhibitors are requested to have adequate insurance cover.

Completed entry forms must be accompanied by the relevant entry fee and returned on or before Friday, August 6. For further details, or to obtain an entry form and schedule, contact club secretary, John Killen, on mobile 07740 484959. Late entries will not be accepted.

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April 2010 - NICCEC Annual Dinner Dance

Brothers Alan and Lee Burleigh, Florencecourt, proudly display the RUAS young handlers award, received by Alan at the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors' Club annual dinner, Clogher.

Emma Rodgers, Dromara, with the trophy for best young handler under 12 at the NICCEC annual show, Moira. She received her award at the club's annual dinner, Clogher.

Katrina and Shauna Killen, Crossgar, with the silverware collected by their dad, John, at the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors' Club annual dinner, Clogher.

Lauren and Orlagh McKenna, Clogher, proudly show off the silverware collected by McKenna Bros, at the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors' Club annual dinner, held at Clogher.

Dessie and Amy O'Hanlon, Drumintee, Newry, were among the prize winners at the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibtors' Club annual dinner, Clogher.

Young members of the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors' Club pictured at its annual dinner, Clogher.

The McAllister family from Aghadowey, Hugh, Cecilia and Naomh, collected an award at the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors' Club annual dinner, Clogher.

Seven-year-old Naomh McAllister, Aghadowey, pictured at the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors' Club annual dinner, held at Clogher.

Special guest, Willie Wilson, R A Noble and Co, Clogher, congratulates Gareth Small, Kilkeel; Orlagh and Lauren McKenna, Clogher; and Emma Rodgers, Dromara, all of whom won awards at the NICCEC annual show, Moira. They received their prizes at the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors' Club annual dinner, Clogher.

Cormac McKervey, Ulster Bank, congratulates Paul Rainey, at the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors' Club annual dinner, Clogher.

Proudly displaying the trophy they collected at the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors' Club annual dinner, Clogher, are Malachy McGrath and Karanne McCartan, Annacloy

The Campbell family from Derriaghy, Aaron, Aiden, Damien and Gerard, collected an array of prizes at the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors Club annual dinner, Clogher.

Nigel and Sandra Cochrane, Portadown, pictured at the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors' Club annual dinner, Clogher, with the Dunbia Cup for the best butchers' heifer at the NICCEC show, Moira.

James Alexander, Randalstown, collected an array of silverware, won throughout the 2009 show season, at the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors' Club annual dinner, Clogher. Adding his congratulations is special guest, Willie Wilson, R A Noble and Co.

James and Victoria Currie, Ballymoney, pictured with one of the trophies awarded at the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors' Club annual dinner, Clogher.

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April 2010 - Ulster Bank continues to back Suckler Heifer Championship

By Julie Hazelton

Following on from the success of last year’s inaugural competition, Ulster Bank has confirmed its continued support for the Suckler Heifer Championship organised by NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors’ Club.

The Ulster Bank Suckler Heifer Championship is open to all non-pedigree suckler heifers, aged between one and two-years-old. The competition will kick off at Balmoral Show, and will run throughout the forthcoming show season. 

Keen cattle exhibitors, Shauna and Katrina Killen, Crossgar, met up with Ulster Bank's David George to launch the 2010 Ulster Bank Suckler Heifer Championship. Looking on is John Killen, secretary of the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors Club. Picture: Julie Hazelton

Two animals will be selected at each of the qualifying shows, and will go forward to the final which takes place in August. The eight qualifying shows are Balmoral, Ballymena, Ballymoney, Armagh, Omagh, Castlewellan, Clogher and Enniskillen.

John Killen, secretary of the Northern Ireland Commercial Cattle Exhibitors Club said: ”We are indebted to Ulster Bank for its continued sponsorship of this competition. To be eligible, exhibitors must enter in their respective class at each qualifying show.  The final will be held at the club’s 6th Annual Show, which takes place at the Pedigree Sales Arena, Moira, on Friday, August 20.”

Last year’s competition was won by a thirteen-month-old Charolais heifer shown by Gordon Cutler from Enniskillen.  Reserve place went to a Limousin heifer exhibited by Dessie O’Hanlon from Drumintee, Newry.

Ulster Bank’s senior agricultural manager, Cormac McKervey, said:”Ulster Bank has been involved with the NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors’ Club since its inception in 2004, and we are delighted to offer our continued support for 2010.

“The Ulster Bank Suckler Heifer Championship was launched last year. The qualifying shows were very well supported, and the final line-up at Moira was a great spectacle with 16 heifers competing for the title. This competition highlights the quality of commercial suckler heifers in Northern Ireland, and it is great to see the dedication of the exhibitors who produce and show these heifers.”

John Killen concluded by urging all commercial cattle breeders to support the 2010 agricultural shows. “Shows are a great shop window for our livestock, and I want to encourage everyone to participate.”

 For further information about the Ulster Bank Suckler Heifer Championship, or other events in the club’s calendar, contact NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors’ Club secretary, John Killen on mobile: 07740 484959.

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