Dream debut: Glynllifon Animal Care staff and students triumph at the Royal Three Counties Show

Members of the Animal Care teaching staff and students at Glynllifon are celebrating an extraordinary competitive debut after showcasing their herd at the prestigious Royal Three Counties Show in Malvern, Worcestershire, from the 12th to the 14th of June. Stepping into the ring for the very first time with ten Boer goats, the team exceeded all expectations against top-tier competition.

The stakes were high, with the event adjudicated by the internationally renowned Mr. Johan Strauss.

“To stand at the top of the line under a judge of Mr. Strauss's calibre is a massive milestone for any breeder, let alone a debut team,” said Glynllifon Animal Care Tutor, Sian Thomas.

The hard work behind the scenes

While the staff steered the team to victory at the venue, the foundation for this success was laid months in advance back at the college campus.

"The foundation of a successful show goat begins long before show day, and at Glynllifon this responsibility is undertaken by dedicated students," explained Sian.

Throughout the year, students managed the goats' daily care, ensuring they received a balanced diet of quality forage and concentrates, alongside routine health checks and hoof trimming. As the show season approached, the students turned their focus to presentation and rigorous show preparation. They handled the goats daily to build trust, teaching them to walk calmly on a lead and stand correctly for inspection, while exposing them to different environments to mimic the bustling atmosphere of an agricultural show.

Through this hands-on experience, students developed invaluable skills in livestock management, ensuring the Boer goats were healthy, well-muscled, and presented to the highest possible standard.

Standout stars capture the spotlight

The culmination of this tireless preparation paid off spectacularly in the show ring. Glynllifon’s standout stars captured the spotlight:

Elis, a three-month-old buck kid, won an ultra-competitive class of 18 kids. He didn't stop there, going on to claim Reserve Kid and Overall Reserve Male Champion.

Ceri, an impressive doeling, fought hard in an incredibly tough lineup to secure a brilliant second-place finish.

To achieve such heights at their very first outing was an emotional milestone for the entire department.

"Even now, I am still smiling," Sian shared. "To achieve Reserve Champion Male with Glynllifon Elis, a goat that was bred and born at the college, at our very first show is something truly special. I felt extremely proud and privileged to represent Glynllifon in the show ring and showcase the efforts of the students who had worked tirelessly throughout the year."

A bright future ahead

The Glynllifon team would like to extend a huge thank you to the committee and members of the British Boer Goat Society for their invaluable help, support, and warm welcome into the show ring. Extended gratitude also goes to Mr. Johan Strauss for his expert critique of the Glynllifon stock and for engaging in a fantastic, educational open discussion on the future of goat breeding.

This debut marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the college's agricultural program. As Sian noted:

"This success reflects the commitment, teamwork, and passion shown by everyone involved...This achievement gives us great confidence and excitement for the future of the college's Boer goat herd and what can be accomplished in the years ahead."

Congratulations to the Animal Care staff and students on a spectacular start to their competitive journey!