Islavale Jabba has lifted the Simmental Champion of Europe award for owner Gavin Brown of the Springfield herd, Springfield, Penicuik.

The European title is held within the Simmental Champion of the World competition run by a Texas, USA-based breeder.

Jabba, a May 2018-born bull was purchased for 6000gns in 2020 from the Stronach family, Keith, and his first bulls at Stirling last year averaged 5000gns, with a good run of heifers levelling at 4500gns.

A prolific breeder in the 30-cow Springfield herd, Islavale Jabba has sired some 40 calves in the last two years. He also stood senior male champion at last year’s Scottish National Simmental show.

“We are over the moon with the result. In this online competition, Jabba has been judged on his presence by breeders from different parts of the world who will have different takes on the values of the Simmental breed in terms of colour, fleshing, and muscle definition. So to be picked out as champion from all of these entrants is very special,” said owner, Gavin Brown.

Runner up went to the young bull, Pistyll Nightrider from Welsh breeders GA and HM Francis, Pistyll Uchaf, Abergorlech, Carmarthen. May 2022-born, he is by Team Celtic and out of Pistyll Frances VG87, a Brookwood Alla King daughter.

Judges for the Champion of Europe award consisted of Flávio Montenegro Alves (Brazil): Fred Dell (South Africa): Dominik Matti (Switzerland): and Deanne and Rob Young (Canada).