Yesterday we returned from a trip to Farmfair International in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada along with Andrew Hughes from Coley Herefords.
Not only was it a gathering of 1,300 cattle but the opportunity to network and catch up with cattlemen friends old and new from around the world. The grand finale was “The Supreme” where the supreme male and female were tapped out in much more spectacular fashion than home with a Charolais female and Red Angus bull taking top honours. Many thanks to Farmfair and Explore Edmonton for all of the support for us international visitors during the trip!
We took the opportunity to sample local culture and attended an ice hockey match with the Edmonton Oilers. The fans are as passionate about ice hockey as we are about our football. The Roger’s Stadium was then transformed into a bull riding arena at the weekend for the PBR Canada Finals. Some top quality bull riding and a great atmosphere…an unreal experience we would recommend to anyone.
We managed to find some very good restaurants in Edmonton with steak on our plate every night! The local drinks were also sampled (!)…a “Paralyser” vodka, coffee liqueur, Coca Cola and milk! Also a Caesar which is a form of Bloody Mary with extra spice and a runner bean! Cans of hard (alcoholic)ice tea were a favourite in the Hereford cattle lines. We also visited Rig Hand Distillery where it was interesting to hear about the distilling methods and most importantly sample the goods…something called “Double Double” made it into our suitcase and home! A new addition to the show drinks box
On Saturday evening we left the city and travelled the three hour journey out of Edmonton to visit Pugh Farms, Alberta. The weather turned during our journey with the first snow of the season and we woke up on Sunday to snowy conditions and freezing temperatures. It all added to the experience of being on a remote Canadian ranch with some beautiful scenery. We also visited MJT Cattle Co. (Hereford & Angus) and Big Gully Farm - many thanks to all concerned for allowing us to visit. We will be watching your forthcoming cattle sales with interest. Thank you to Greg Pugh and Amanda Elzinga-Pugh for their hospitality, transport and just the best time!
And now to get over the jet lag!
Tom Harrison Di Harrison
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