Ex-Factor event earns 26,000gns for Holstein

The first live Holstein export from the UK to Spain and a 26,000gns top price headlined last weekend’s Ex-Factor sale of Holstein and Jersey genetics at Carlisle.


The fixture also saw a new UK record of 8500gns for a Jersey heifer.


The Cornwall-based Willsbro herd added another potential star to their growing genetic base of top Holstein cattle, paying 26,000gns for a first-choice pregnancy from Lylehaven Lila Z (VG89) sired by Braedale Goldwyn.


The Regancrest Elton Durham daughter Lila Z – known as the “million dollar baby” – was sold for CAN$1.15m (ÂŁ545,779) at the Triple Crown sale last year after wins on the Canadian circuit.


Consigning the first choice pregnancy – from four recipients – was the syndicate of Acecroft Holsteins, Cormdale Genetics, Comestar Holsteins, Genervations and Whittier Farms. This was the first offering of these genetics in the UK and competition was intense.


Calves from this flush are due in September.


Under the buying arrangements Wills Bros paid 25% on sale day with the balance due when the youngest calf is three months old.


They have the option to choose the calf up to that age.


Lancashire breeder Mr Lawson of the Almondene herd was the next big investor with his 14,000gns bid for Almond Stormatic Avis, although a half-share is being retained by the vendors.


This June 2003-bred heifer is out of the 13,192kg Almondene BC Avis who was exhibitor-bred champion at the 2003 Dairy Event.


Stormatic Avis was consigned by Scottish-based breeders Paul and Gillian Rawcliffe and is bred from six generations of Ex and VG dams.


Her family traces back to the Hanoverhill Anna family.


A bid of 4500gns from Senor Quim Serabassa of Barcelona saw the first Holstein exported from the UK to Spain.


The 14-month-old Wyndford S Storm Rebecca was offered by Wilfred Maddocks of Newport, Shropshire.


She took the calf title at the National Holstein Show and is by Pursuit September Storm and out of a Prelude dam.


Other deals included 5500gns for Riverdane Talent Sara Red, a September 2004-bred daughter of the great Copywood Integrity Sara Red.


Averages: 17 Holsteins ÂŁ3810.


jh@jeremyhuntassociates.com