Dairy Event at Shelburne Farms

So, only just back from Texas and not quite recovered (we're both a bit coldy) Adam remembers at the last minute that he's supposed to put in an appearance at a UVM extension dairy event. Actually, I think Russ reminded him in a rather timely manner.

After an unplanned lie in we hustled to get there only an hour or so late on Saturday...

It emerged that Adam, together with Russ and Gilly (other UVM faculty) would be 'competing' against each other to show the 4H'ers (local kids who are in various dairy clubs and show their cows regularly through the season) what they know - or don't know - about showing cows.

It was all good fun and a great learning experience for the kids and faculty alike - Adam clearly has lots of dairy cow experience but never in the show ring ;)

The event was held in the remarkable breeding barn at Shelburne Farms - a must-see place for any visitors to Burlington.

Adam receives instruction from 4H'er Clare who was kind enough to offer up her services and her Brown Swiss calf, Barbie

A sneaky practice for Adam and Barbie before show time, and some last minute tips from Clare

The boys and their girls in the ring


The 4H judges in final discussions

The final line-up! Gilly won of course, but Adam pipped a 'less-reponsive' Russ for second place ;)

Now just look at those happy smiley faces. See Adam, it's not just the winning that counts!