Little Man heads to Dovea Genetics

Portadown based sister and brother, Sarah and Sam Matchett are toasting success after leading AI company Dovea Genetics selected their Aberdeen Angus bull Birches Little Man L923 to join their stud for 2012.

This young pair first started breeding Aberdeen Angus in 1998 when Sam Matchett was given heifer Drumcrow Lima G266 for his eighth birthday present. This foundation female was bred by Frank McKieran, Co Cavan.

A successful mating with the herd’s stock bull Cloghogue Evolution resulted in Birches Little Man L923 being born in March 2011. Evolution was Junior Champion at RUAS, Balmoral in 2009, Ulster Champion 2010 and formed part of the highly coveted Pairs Championship at Castlewelland Show in both 2010 and 2011.

His first son quickly made a name for himself on the local show circuit collecting red tickets at Saintfield and Enniskillen shows last season. He also scooped the Best Bull award at Enniskillen and was Reserve Champion Bull Calf at the NI Aberdeen Angus Calf Show held in the Autumn.

An approach was made by Dovea Genetics towards the end of 2011 and a deal struck for Little Man to join their team of Angus bulls. Sarah and Sam were persuaded to sell their rising young star despite having their sights on the 2012 show season with him.

Dr Ger Ryan, General Manager at Dovea Genetics commented when first details of the sale emerged “We are delighted to have been able to secure Birches Little Man L923 as he just oozes style and breed character. His sire has always been greatly admired, especially here in the South and I feel there will be real interest in this young bull.”