The AXA National Dairy Show Committee welcomes one of Denmark’s top Holstein breeders, Niels Erik Haahr, as judge for the 42nd edition of the event.
This prestigious event will run over two days, Friday, October 11, and Saturday, October 12, 2024 at its traditional venue, the Green Glens Arena, Millstreet, Co. Cork, featuring dairy classes and a large trade show.
In 2022, the show moved to a two-day format and was a resounding success, with large crowds and a vibrant atmosphere throughout the venue.
Judge announced
Haahr, renowned across Europe, works closely with cattle in Germany and Scandinavia, investing in high-quality genetics sourced globally.
Haahr was originally invited to judge the 2023 National Dairy Show, however, a brief illness prevented him from attending.
Haahr, along with his wife Anja and their four children, manage the Anderstrup Herd, a name familiar to many in the dairy farming community.
Anderstrup Holsteins is recognised as the source of numerous top artificial insemination (AI) bulls used throughout Europe.
The bulls include VikingGenetics sires, such as Mandel (MOM-Didrik; Tirsvad Luke Classic family) and Miracle (Massey-Roumare; Tir-An Calano Kristine family), which together have produced over 40,000 daughters.
Another notable bull from Anderstrup, Clash-P, is currently the highest-scoring bull on Italy’s progeny proven list.
Additionally, the herd has produced prominent Red Holstein bulls, such as Sting, Gonzales, and Marsden-P in Germany, and Sky-Red in Scandinavia.
The Anderstrup Herd, comprising 540 cows, boasts an impressive average production of 17,052 kg of milk with 3.82% fat and 3.5% protein, earning the distinction of being Europe’s top production herd in 2022.
Haahr is no stranger to the show ring, with a wealth of experience both as an exhibitor and a judge.
His judging credentials include the European Red Holstein Show in Germany and National Shows across Spain; Holland; Belgium; England; Portugal; Denmark, and many more.
Haahr has a clear vision for this year’s competition: “I follow a two-step approach when it comes to assessing cows. I’m searching for a well-balanced animal with excellent feet and legs, as well as an outstanding udder.
“The mammary system is very important to me and is crucial for any dairy producer aiming for top results.”
The AXA National Dairy Show
This event has solidified its reputation as the gathering place for the dairy industry, showcasing the largest specialised dairy trade exhibition in Ireland.
Attendees can expect to see major exhibitors in AI, animal health, breeding and dairy agri-tech, milking equipment, robotics, livestock machinery, finance, dairy services, nutrition, soil and land management, and more.
New for 2024 is the introduction of the ‘Calf Village‘, an informative space dedicated to all aspects of calf rearing and husbandry.
Visitors will find expert displays on nutrition, housing, and vaccination programs, making this area a must-visit for those committed to the future of dairy farming.