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The Rural Voice, 2003-09, Page 41year," said Blake. "We knew we would do well, but not as big as we did." ' The breeding lines have benefitted the family. The dam that won grand champion in 2002 was a past reserve champion yearling and her two-year- old won the cow/calf last year. However, success is always preceded by a lot of hard work. Each animal — they usually take 10 — has to be washed and groomed, before the show as well as the arduous undertaking of transporting them to Toronto. "Dad and I usually go and stay from Thursday to Monday. Everyone else comes on show day." • The interest in cattle and showing comes naturally to Blake. "I grew up with it and it's something I always wanted to do. Showing is in my blood." Blake has passed on that love to her three daughters who have also begun to show in the junior classes at local fairs and in the showmanship class at the Royal. The competition is supported by the Galloway Association and ensures that all showpersons are rewarded for their efforts. "The youngest helped show a cow/calf at the Royal which won first place and the older girls independently show calves locally. The experience is very worthwhile for the kids." The children also learn about the realities of raising cattle. The winning two-year-old and a yearling• heifer were sold to a couple from Quebec. Though it was sad to see them go, Blake expects to see them back showing at the Royal. This exposure to wider markets is one of the main benefits of the show, said Blake. "You get to be known. People see what you have." This exposure has stretched beyond the Canadian borders, bringing interest from European breeders as well. "According to the Galloway Association, the Canadian bloodlines are the strongest. Everyone conscientiously takes care of the lines," said Blake. That bloodline has now returned to its native home when four bulls were shipped to Scotland. From there, one ended up in Germany.0 USK COMMITTED TO QUALITY YOU CAN DEPEND ON \ ELITE MODEL 28L X 26 TIRES LIQUID MANURE SPREADER Also available 1/16 models HUSKY FARM EQUIPMENT LTD. ALMA, ONTARIO NOB 1A0 (51 9) 846-5329 The power of nature... forces of energy combining Into one technology. The WaterFurnace Synergy3 provides the ultimate home comfort solution. And since it taps into the free energy found in your own backyard, it operates at a fraction of the cost of ordinary furnaces, boilers, or air conditioners. The Synergy3 system uses only a bit of electrical en- ergy to deliver a lot of heating and cooling energy into your home. Providing you with superior levels of comfort without sacrificing energy costs. Forced air heating and cooling along with hot water for radiant floor heating systems— without the worry of flames, fumes or carbon monoxide. It's a system that's sure to electrify your senses. We're confident you'll be ecstatic with the results. To find out more about the Syt srgyrsystem. contact your local WaterFumace dealer: 019. Wn:rheu a t,na, W k ♦.0 fPEJJGY ENERGY STAII•p'* Woe&u+cle Y. Joanna. tug Un palls. man. a ENERGY STAR• fa... ••••nry ennnnn Cliff's Plumbing & Heating Lucknow 528-3913 1-800-449-CLIF SEPTEMBER 2003 37