Sponsors of one of the most prestigious dairy livestock contests in Ireland have announced details of this year’s 33rd competition, including a revamped prize fund of over €10,000.

The competition was officially launched at the Baileys Irish Cream factory in Dublin this week by senior representatives of Diageo, the makers of Baileys, and its cream supplier Glanbia Ingredients Ireland (GII).

This island-wide competition will see the very best dairy cows in the land battle it out for a top prize of €2,500, followed by €1,000 and €500 for reserve champion and honourable mention respectively.

In a break with tradition, cash prizes will also be awarded for highest protein content, best EBI and best exhibitor-bred cow. The popular best heifer in milk category carries a fund of €1,700 with first place worth €500. The owner of the best dry cow will also win €250.

“The new cash prizes for EBI and best protein emphasises the most profitable factors for both breeding dairy herd replacements and milk production,” explained competition director Brendan Smyth.

“The Diageo Baileys champion cow is not a pedigree cow contest based on looks alone. It rewards breeders who can combine good conformation in their animals with milk production capability. To be eligible for entry, the cow must first have produced 500kg of butterfat and protein in a 305-day lactation. Winning or even doing well in the Baileys therefore brings great prestige.”

Last year’s winner was Co Cork breeder John Barrett with his cow Laurelmore Duplex Impala EX 96. The finale is expected to once again attract top Holstein Friesian breeders across the country when it takes place at the 75th Virginia Show in Co Cavan on Wednesday 24 August.

Entry forms for this competition are available by calling Brendan Smyth on 087-256 0952 or by visiting the Virginia Show website at www.virginiashow.com/championcow.