HOPKINTON, N.H. — The New Hampshire Breed Show has been a long tradition in the state since the late 1940s or early 1950s. In recent years with declining cow numbers, some of the breeds have been combining their shows with county fairs.
The New Hampshire Holstein Show has prevailed and for the past two years has expanded to a New England show. This year the New England Holstein Summer Show was held July 17th at the Hopkinton Fairgrounds. The official judge was David Crack, Jr. of Richmond, Quebec. There were 152 cows shown by about 60 exhibitors, with representation from Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, New Jersey, and Vermont. There were a lot of large classes and some especially strong milking cow classes with some stiff competition.
One of the most unique and strongest parts of the show is the focus on youth. There is a Junior Show within the Open Show and youth get special recognition and have their own championship classes. In addition, there is a Youth Showcase that features skills demonstrated through a judging contest, knowledge quiz, and showmanship. A total of $2,500 was distributed among the top 5 youth in each of three age categories. This was all made possible through the generous donations of many sponsors.
Editor’s note: For more information about the New England States Holstein Association, please click here. For more photos and information about the New England Holstein Summer Show, please visit their Facebook page.Â
–John C.Porter, UNH Extension Professor/Specialist, Emeritus
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