There will be 30 or more of the finest bovines in the country strutting their stuff at the Virginia Agricultural Show in County Cavan on August 19 to determine this year’s Baileys Irish Champion Cow.
There may not be a swimsuit section in this year’s pageant, but the cows will be in pristine condition, and a fine long neck, attractive legs, good posture and nice udders are the criteria on which the contestants will be judged.
The cows do not have to be interested in world peace, and their views on gay marriage will not be held against them.
However, good breeding is a must, and the competition is open only to “supermilkers” – cows that produce over 11,000 liters on milk a year. Each cow participating will be representing their county of origin.
"For all their hard work in the making of Baileys' quality cream ingredient, it makes perfect sense that the world's no. 1 liqueur should recognize and reward the fairest of them all," said competition director, Brendan Smyth.
The owner of the lucky winner will win €8,000 ($11,500) and the respect of the thousands expected to attend the agricultural show.
"For breeders, winning the 'Baileys' is like having a horse win at the Derby," added Smyth.
For the victorious cow, ultimate vindication of her beauty, inside and out.
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