The Northern Ireland Simmental Cattle Breeders’ Club has confirmed Danske Bank’s continued sponsorship of its Male and Female of the Year competition.

Danske Bank has been sole sponsor of the prestigious competition since 1997. The winners are determined using a points system which is collated at nominated agricultural shows throughout the season.

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“Prizes mean points,” explained club chairman Richard Rodgers. “Points are awarded to individual animals, and the higher the animals accolade in the show ring, the bigger the points it earns.”

“The supreme breed champion at each show will be awarded eight points, while the reserve attains seven points. Six points will be awarded to the male and female champion at each show, while the reserve male and female award winners will secure five points each. Marks are also awarded for class placings, with four points for first prize, down to one point for fourth prize. At the final, each animal’s best five scores, out of a possible eight, will be totalled to reveal the winners.

Danske Bank presents the winners and runners-up in each category with engraved crystal awards, commemorative rosettes and cash prizes.

John Henning, head of agricultural relations at Danske Bank said:”The points system ensures keen competition amongst exhibitors, and helps to encourage entries of quality stock at local summer shows. We are delighted to offer our long-standing support to this prestigious Northern Ireland Simmental Cattle Breeders’ Club competition. “

Nominated points shows for the Danske Bank Male and Female of the  Year competition include, Balmoral, Ballymena, Lurgan, Armagh, Omagh, Castlewellan, Clogher and Enniskillen

Richard Rodgers concluded: ”This is one of the major competitions in the club’s annual calendar, and I  would like to take this opportunity to thank Danske Bank for its continued and valued sponsorship.

“The winners will be revealed, and the awards presented at Fermanagh County Show on Wednesday 5th August.