Atlantic Holstein Promotions unveiled a new show format for the Atlantic 2018 show season on February 20th.
Following a series of discussions, exhibitors and the Board of Atlantic Holstein Promotions has decided to adopt the following class schedule for the Atlantic Spring Showcase in Fredericton on April 28th, 2018:
Intermediate calf – born December 1, 2017 to February 28, 2018
Senior Calf – born September 1, 2017 to November 30, 2017
Summer Yearling – born June 1, 2017 to August 31, 2017
Junior Yearling – born March 1, 2017 to May 31, 2017
Intermediate Yearling – born December 1, 2016 to February 27, 2017
Senior Yearling – born September 1, 2016 to November 30, 2016
Bred Heifer 23 Months & Under – born May 1, 2016 to August 31, 2016
Junior Champion
First Lactation Heifer in Milk 26 Months & Under – born after February 1, 2016
First Lactation Heifer in Milk 26-29 Months – born October 1, 2015 to January 31, 2016
First Lactation Heifer in Milk 30 Months & Over – born prior to October 1, 2015
Second Lactation Cow under 39 Months of Age – born after January 1, 2015
Intermediate Champion
3-Year-Olds – born September 1, 2014 to December 31, 2014
4-Year-Olds – born September 1, 2013 to August 31, 2014
5-Year-Olds – born September 1, 2012 to August 31, 2013
Mature Cow – born prior to September 1, 2012
Production Class – Lifetime Production over 60,000 kg milk
Grand Champion
It is believed this class structure, which offers additional class breakdown for intermediate cows over traditional classes, will better reflect the current industry standards for age at first calving and may see more young cows entering the showring. The birth date range for each of the bred heifer, first lactation and second lactation classes will vary throughout the show season.
In addition, the Production Class will be a new feature for the Atlantic shows and provide recognition to those cows bringing longevity and productivity to their herds.
“We are in a unique position in Atlantic Canada,” notes Bruce Wood, the visionary behind this concept, “we are small enough to try out some new options and work through the challenges which may arise. Our shows need to remain relevant to the industry and this is a positive first step toward changes.”
The 2018 show season will be a trial for exhibitors to provide feedback on the new classes, and it is hoped this format may be implemented at the 2019 Convention Show in Charlottetown, P.E.I., to provide a national demonstration.
For more information about Atlantic Holstein Promotions and these events, please contact Angela Masters at atlanticholstein@gmail.com.