17 December 2012

2 minute read

Aiming to offer the industry a comprehensive introduction in genomic indexes and sire analyses the annual ‘Futures’ programme is entering its fourth cycle. The programme will shortlist four candidates who will experience the role of a sire analyst and will assess potential bull mothers, selecting cows for suitable bulling.

The 2012 ‘Futures’ winner, a Cornish dairy farmer, Ross Symons, harboured an interest in cattle breeding from being young at Treburthes farm near Truro where his family currently run 150 holsteins.

Owain Harris, Sire analyst for Cogent Breeding rated Ross’s aptitudes in the field and explained the itinerary for the last tour: “During our tour we visited a range of farming operations in our search for potential bull mothers, these varying from 50-cow tie stall farms to 2,500 cow units. It was evident that Ross had used all the knowledge and experience that he had gained during the year as part of the ‘Futures’ team and was able to identify the most interesting cows during the trip.”

“It was an honour to present Ross with the title of 2012 Cogent ‘Futures’ winner, and to be able to share the study tour to America with such an enthusiastic individual.”

Prizes for first and second place in the genomic matching exercise are a study tour of Holland in which the winner will receive a package of four high genetic merit embryos.

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