Team Canada Returns From a Successful EYBS 2017

Brantford, Ont. – Holstein Canada, along with the provincial Branches, was once again pleased to send a team of six youth to Battice, Belgium to participate in the 2017 edition of the European Young Breeders School (EYBS). Team Canada was comprised of Martin Rypma (B.C.), Vanessa Crowley (Ont.), Trent Jones (Ont.), Alana Mckinven (Que.), Jonathan Pelletier (Que.) and Lane Yuill (N.S.). These six participants competed against 125 youth from 12 different countries.

The Canadian delegates took part in the five-day event where they participated in numerous workshops, judging and clipping competitions, and conformation and showmanship classes. Each team was judged on their participation, team work and how they looked after their animals. Team Canada had a strong showing with several notable individual results. Alana was named Grand Champion Show person and finished 9th individual overall, while Vanessa was Honourable Mention Show person and placed 7th overall. Martin had the Champion Calf and placed 4th overall, Lane placed 1st in her Showmanship class and was 14th overall, and Trent placed 18th overall.

The 2017 Team Canada included (from left) Lane Yuill, Jonathan Pelletier, Martin Rypma, Vanessa Crowley, Trent Jones and Alana Mckinven

Holstein Canada and its provincial branches have been partnering to send a Team Canada to the European Young Breeders School every year since 2013. The team members are selected by their provincial branches, and are winners of provincial competitions and/or successful candidates from an interview process held within their respective provinces.

A hands-on interactive event, EYBS falls under the “Practical Leaning Opportunities” pillar of the Holstein Canada Young Leader Program, with the added bonus of the international travel component. Young Leaders interested in becoming members of the future EYBS team are encouraged to contact their provincial Holstein Branch for more information. We would also like to take this time to thank the 2017 Convention Committee for their generous contribution towards this great youth opportunity!