Federation 2016: Results
Only 11 of the 15 turkeys entered into the 2016 Federation Show actually turned up, but given the circumstances, I don’t think it was a bad turnout at all.
We actually picked up three best of breed and a second place. But when you put it into perspective in some sections it wasn’t so much a ‘competition’ as a ‘turning up’ award.
We achieved ‘Reserve Best in Show’ with our Norfolk Black hen, and I am delighted with this as the judge had 11 birds to consider, so there was an actual element of competition.
The Best Turkey in Show was won by a Bronze hen entered by Sophie and Jo Merchant. Absolutely the best bronze I have ever seen, excellent in all areas, and a credit to their breeding strategy and presentation skills.
Mr B Ward the turkey judge did an excellent job, and he happily used the comment element of the judges card. This meant that all who entered had the benefit of a comment from an experienced turkey judge. One comment in his summary was that the turkeys exhibited were not ‘in his opinion’ as ‘show prepared’ as in other poultry. I have to agree with him on this and with a few exceptions, standards of presentation has declined in recent years. Something for us all to consider for future events.