Download FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Passionate Fullblood Simmental

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Passionate Fullblood Simmental Fleckvieh Breeders Gather in Louisville
by Dana Henert and Jessica Clodfelter
LOUISVILLE, KY –November 16, 2010- Numbers are up in the Fullblood Simmental
Fleckvieh Show at the North American International Livestock Exposition (NAILE). It is the
only show dedicated to this breed of cattle in North America.
Fullblood Simmental Fleckvieh entries are up by almost 20 percent from 2009. Breeders,
exhibitors and sale participants traveled from 12 states and three countries.
Simmental cattle are the second most popular breed of beef cattle worldwide. The
Fullblood Simmental Fleckvieh breeders focus on maintaining the genetics and characteristics of
the original Simmental breed.
Simmental cattle originated in Poland, Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Only animals
whose ancestors originate from the herdbooks of countries recognized by the World Simmental
Federation are eligible for the designation of Fullblood Simmental Fleckvieh.
These cattle are known for their desirable temperament and maternal instincts. Research
shows they have carcass qualities similar to the Angus breed and produce high quality lean beef.
“We are passionate about keeping the breed pure,” said Barb Vance of V-5 Simmental in
Kanata, Ontario.
The Fullblood Simmental Fleckvieh community is a small group of breeders focused on
preserving the historical integrity of the breed.
“Parents want their children to succeed,” said Mike McCart of Alliance Simmental Farms
in North Gower, Ontario. “This is the only show for our breed in North America and we would
love to get more people involved.” The Fullblood Simmental Fleckvieh Show at the NAILE
provides an opportunity for breeders to succeed in the show ring while maintaining the base herd
genetics.
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The Fullblood Simmental Fleckvieh Federation Inaugural International Fullblood Sale
was held in conjunction with the Kentucky Simmental Association on Monday, Nov. 15, at the
NAILE. This event attracted buyers from across the globe including Australia and Brazil.
Bidders participated in the live sale as well as online.
Breeders hope to reintroduce Fullblood Simmental Fleckvieh genetics into mainstream
Simmental herds worldwide. Using Fullblood Simmental Fleckvieh semen in cattle breeding
programs reinforces the positive characteristics of Simmental cattle. With genetic testing
available today, breeders can be confident in retention of desired hide color and traits.
The Fullblood Simmental Fleckvieh Federation supports the exhibition of the breed at the
NAILE. They plan to continue the growth of awareness and participation of the breed.
“If we think we can compete with the beef cattle industry in North America we need to
act like it,” said Larry Maxey, Fullblood Simmental Fleckvieh Show superintendent at the
NAILE.
The “PINNACLE” International Fullblood Simmental show was held in Broadbent Arena
at the NAILE on Tuesday Nov. 16.
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