Celebrate the legacy of Sunibelle Dempsey’s Esprit, a Holstein legend. How did this iconic cow leave an indelible mark on Swiss’Expo and the world of pageants?
Few names resonate as profoundly in the International Show Ring as Esprit. The 2024 SwissExpo Geneva stands as a testament to Esprit’s greatness, a celebration of her life, and an opportunity for the community to honor a true icon. As we prepare our hearts for this final tribute, Esprit’s legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire and uplift all who were fortunate enough to witness her grandeur.
“Our forty cows were just outside. There was no threat of thunderstorms, but suddenly, there was a blow from nowhere, a lightning bolt. And that’s it. It’s unbelievable, but it meant the end of Esprit,” says Markus von Konel from the Swiss Kumiswald, where Esprit has been staying for the past six years. “Esprit was the darling of our family, and she had a character of her own. You have a cow in your life in the stable. Fortunately, there are descendants of her. In our stable, but also in various other countries,” says Von Koenel.
In front of thousands of breeders and spectators worldwide, Esprit will make what will end up being her final runway tour. As always, she is in exceptional shape, and as usual, she would become the Holstein Grand Champion for the 3rd time. In addition she was Reserve Grand Champion Expo Bulle 2019, Reserve European Grand Champion 2019 and Udder Champion Expo Bulle 2018 & 2019. Esprit is straight out of five generations VG/EX dams! Her deep pedigree: Phinicas Sanchez Esperanta EX-91-CH EX-94-MS 4E x Phinicas Baxter Niagara EX-92-CH EX-92-MS 3E x Phinicas September Elegante EX-91-CH 4E.
Esprit is a legend, as there are few pageants in the world. Alongside Decrausaz Iron O’Kalibra, she is the only cow to have won the Holstein contest of SWISS’EXPO three times. It’s an indelible imprint she will leave behind. We at The Bullvine share the grief of the breeders and owners – VK Holstein, Sudan, Jones, Conroy, Agriber, Serrabassa – of Esprit. She marked an entire generation through her successes in the most prestigious rings in the world.
