With such young talent coming through the ranks, the event is shining a light on one of the biggest challenges facing Irish dairy farming - succession.

A recent survey conducted by Opinions, and commissioned by Agriland and the Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers’ Association (ICMSA) found that one in three Irish farmers intend to exit the sector within the next five years.

Of those farmers, half have no successor identified ahead of their departure, with 60% of farmers stating that they are fearful of even raising the subject of succession within their own families.

That is why the Irish Holstein Friesian Association's (IHFA) is proud to have the Young Members Association (YMA) showmanship league finals front and centre at the Green Glens arena.

YMA showmanship league finals

The YMA showmanship league finals is the end goal following months of hard work and dedication by some of the finest young breeders on the Emerald Isle.

Competitors have been travelling the length and breadth of the country all summer, competing in hopes of accumulating the required 24 qualification points needed to secure their place in the prestigious final.

Now it all comes down to Friday, October 9, where these skilful handlers will battle it out in the ring in front of this year's judge, Izzy Jones.

The finals bring together handlers across three age groups, those aged 12 and under, 13 to 16, and 17 to 26.

A spokesperson for the IHFA noted that the finalist will demonstrate not only their livestock handling skills, but also their passion, perseverance and sportsmanship, adding:

The competition is the backbone of enabling future master breeders, and is directly addressing the challenge of generational renewal, by giving young handlers a competitive platform and a grá for the industry.

The IHFA's Focus Farm programme further tackles the challenge of succession, by showcasing progressive family farms to the nation.

This shows the commitment in which the IHFA has toward actively building the next generation of breeders.

This year's showmanship league finals will take place alongside the Champion and Reserve Champion Handler classes, giving visitors a first-hand look at the young talent coming through the ranks.

Young members

Meanwhile, IHFA has also confirmed the young members who will represent Ireland at the Open Junior Show in Italy this year.

Georgina Hynes and Alex Windrum will compete in the Junior category, with Pauric Coleman and Kevin Smith representing Ireland in the Senior category.

All four handlers earned their place on the international stage through their performances on the show circuit at home.