One of the most eagerly anticipated events at this summer’s World Angus Forum is the Youth Competition, where young, aspiring farmers and breeders get the chance to pit their wits against their counterparts from all over the world.
We recently announced the names of the successful candidates who’d been selected to represent the United Kingdom and Ireland in this year’s competition, one of whom was Shane Healy of Bengour West, Newcestown, Bandon, Co. Cork. Shane is an avid lover of the Aberdeen-Angus breed and aspiring young farmer. Shane has shown throughout his development that he has the qualities to go right to the top of his field. Having been previously recognised as best new entrant at the Munster Aberdeen-Angus Club Herds Competition 2016, Shane is a fully qualified AI technician who has some great judging experience behind him at the young age of 23.
When speaking about why he wanted to represent the United Kingdom and Ireland in this year’s youth competition, Shane said:
‘It was really important to me to be a part of such a momentous occasion in the history of the world’s greatest beef breed as the World Angus Forum is hosted on home soil for the first time in 40 years.’
Shane went on to add:
‘Being on the UK and Ireland team will see us compete in many challenges, such as stock judging, public speaking and agricultural sports, as well as preparing and showing skills. I am passionate about using this experience to learn more and show off the skills I have already learnt.’
When discussing what he was looking forward to the most about the whole World Angus Forum, Shane said:
‘I’m really excited to have the opportunity to meet some of the great breeders and pioneers of the Aberdeen-Angus breed from across the world, that will be one of the biggest thrills I could get from the Forum. I’m also looking forward to meeting up-and-coming young breeders who I’m excited to become friends with for many years to come. Seeing the herds which helped form the modern Aberdeen-Angus will also be great to see.’
The World Angus Forum 2017 Youth Competition will encompass a 12 day long series of exciting tasks and challenges, culminating in the prestigious final at Netherton/HW Angus on the final leg of the tour on Sunday 2nd July. More information on the Youth Competition can be found at: http://worldangusforum2017.com/youth-programme