The Baileys Champion Dairy Cow Competition is more than just a contest—it celebrates excellence and dedication in the dairy farming community. For over 40 years, this prestigious event has brought together the best cows and the most passionate breeders, making it the ultimate stage for showcasing breeding prowess and dairy quality.
Meet Greenlea MG Rhapsody EX 96, owned by the dedicated brothers Padraic and Brendan Greenan from Co. Monaghan, this remarkable 9-year-old sired by Mr Moviestar Mardi Gras-Et stole the spotlight at the 2024 Diageo Baileys Irish Champion Dairy CowCompetition. Not only did Greenlea MG Rhapsody EX 96 take home the prestigious Irish Champion Dairy Cow title, but she also secured a substantial prize of €3,000 and the coveted Virginia Milk Products Cup. This phenomenal cow wasn’t just recognized for the overall title. She also bagged the Best Protein Award and the Best Exhibitor Bred Cow, solidifying her status as a top-tier dairy cow.
The praise from the competition’s judge, Markus Hock, highlights her exceptional qualities: “Not so often do you find a cow as old as she is, winning a competition like this. She was the best cow, just beautiful and fantastic for her age.”
Other winners included Knowlesmere Jones Unix Victoria VG as the Reserve Champion, owned by Gary and Izzy Jones from Co. Wexford and Andrew and Jane Whittaker from England. Honourable Mention went to Hallow Octain Twizzle VG89, owned by Philip and Linda Jones from Co. Wexford.
The Best Heifer in Milk award was won by Slatabogie Lambda Gold from Co. Londonderry, owned by Alan and Leanne Paul. The Best EBI Award went to Desmond Radio Rozelle from Co. Limerick, owned by Martin O’Sullivan. The Best Junior Cow title was awarded to Hallow Denver Twizzle VG89, owned by Philip and Linda Jones from Co. Wicklow.
