A detailed look at the champions and contenders from the Stirling Mart event.
Topics covered
Today, Stirling Mart became the epicenter of cattle breeding excellence as a variety of breeds descended for United Auctions’ multi-breed show, leading up to tomorrow’s anticipated sale. The event featured an impressive lineup of bulls, with judges evaluating their commercial attributes and overall quality.
Charolais bulls take the spotlight
The show kicked off with the Charolais breed, where Magnus Baillie from Orkney took on the challenging role of judging 50 bulls. The champion title was awarded to Ouston Unwin, a rising two-year-old bull from Richard and Carol Rettie of Dyke Farm, Slamannan, near Falkirk.
Bred by Ouston Farms, Ouston Unwin is sired by Major and boasts a lineage that includes a Thrunton Florida daughter, Ravensworth Jasmin.
Magnus praised the champion for its commercial viability, describing it as “a long, clean bull, with power.” The competition was fierce, with Silvermere Vortex, a 15-month-old bull from Michelle Hanson and Darren Irvine, closely following as the reserve champion. Vortex, an AI son of Wesley Equinox, is out of Silvermere Solitaire, a heifer that previously earned accolades at the Stars of the Future calf show.
Simmentals shine in the ring
Next up were the Simmentals, judged by Gavin Brown from Springfield, Penicuik. The Stronach family from Berryleys, Keith, achieved a remarkable double triumph, securing both the champion and reserve titles. The champion, Islavale Pegasus, a 17-month-old bull, is sired by the home-bred stock bull Islavale Lucifer, known for producing sons that have fetched up to 13,000gns.
Gavin noted that Islavale Pegasus exhibited “size, scale, and flesh,” while the reserve champion, Islavale Pilot, also a son of Lucifer, showcased “tremendous character.” This success highlights the Stronach family’s commitment to breeding quality Simmentals.
Aberdeen-Angus and Salers breeds featured
The Aberdeen-Angus classes were led by Tonley Victor Z053, a 21-month-old bull from the Wattie family’s 100-cow herd at Mains of Tonley, Alford. Judge Ewen MacGregor commended the champion for its “bone, presence, and power.” The reserve champion, Drumhill Pure Contemporary Z651, from Northern Ireland-based breeders Jonathan and Lisa Doyle, also impressed the judges with its stylish appearance.
A small but select entry of Salers bulls was dominated by Gill and Malcolm Pye’s Rednock herd. Their champion, Rednock Top Gun, and reserve, Rednock Topol, both sired by the imported bull Senateur, showcased the breed’s potential for producing quality offspring.
Beef Shorthorn and Limousin highlights
In the Beef Shorthorn category, Drumsleed Thor emerged as the overall champion, representing the Smith family’s herd. This embryo calf, by Meonside Javelin, demonstrated the quality that the family has cultivated over the years. The reserve champion, Trade Mark of Upsall, also showcased the breed’s strengths.
Finally, the Limousins concluded the day’s events with Alistair Cormack judging a strong entry of 67 bulls. Anside Urban, a 19-month-old son of the prolific AI bull Plumtree Fantastic, took home the best overall title, marking a significant achievement for the Irvine family’s herd. The reserve champion, Grahams Valkyrie, was noted for its impressive qualities as well.
As the Stirling Bull Sales continue, the excitement surrounding these breeds and their champions highlights the dedication and passion of breeders in the cattle industry.
