In a unique initiative to promote the ability of Aberdeen-Angus females to calve at two years old, the Aberdeen-Angus Cattle Society has launched a new event “The Futurity Show”.
The show itself is a three year concept and started in 2011 culminating in a National Final to be held in 2013 at the Winter National Aberdeen-Angus Show which is held in conjunction with Borderway Agri-Expo at Carlisle.
Explaining the rules behind the Show, Society Chief Executive Ron McHattie said: “To qualify for the Futurity Show Final a heifer calf must have been shown in 2011 at any regional or National Show where there were more than 15 Aberdeen-Angus entries present at the show. In 2012 that same heifer must have been shown as a yearling in any regional or National Show where there are more than 15 Aberdeen-Angus entries. In 2013 that same heifer can then compete at the Futurity Show Final with her natural born calf at foot. The heifer calf or yearling need not have been a prize winner in previous outings.
“Any show which has had more than 15 entries of Aberdeen-Angus cattle, independent of age or sex is deemed a qualifying show and they don’t necessarily have to have competed at the same show in 2011-2013 and she doesn’t have to have won a class.” However, evidence of entry to the show should be retained by the exhibitor to validate the Futurity credentials, he adds.
“When shown in 2013 at the Final, the natural calf at foot must have been born no later than 26 months after the date of birth of the dam. Changes in ownership of the female during the course of the three-year process are also permissible, as the female simply proceeds under new ownership.”
Prize money will be significant at the Final in 2013 with the champion Futurity heifer receiving £800 and the reserve heifer receiving £400.
Mr McHattie adds: “This show will work along similar lines to how the Canadians and Americans host Futurity Shows. The Aberdeen-Angus female is more than capable of calving at two years of age and this is a great way of showcasing how the best modern Angus genetics work.”
Press release issued by mooandbaa.com on behalf of the Aberdeen-Angus Cattle Society. For more information on this press release please contact Chrissie Lawrence.
Tel 01233 749177;
Mob: 07909 524483;
Email: chrissie@mooandbaa.com
Meat Trade News Daily Supporting British Pig Farmers
Source: newsroom - meattradenewsdaily.co.uk
Back to News Headlines