The expansion of the Belted Galloway as a beef breed is hampered by a lack of performance data and production information.

Consequently the show ring has become the most important venue for presenting our product to potential customers.

It is appreciated that breed societies may not control all aspects of the show ring but they should do their best to obtain the maximum benefit for our breed generally.

Too often the show ring is only of benefit to a few individual breeders. Therefore we should consider the following points:-

         1.    If possible select a show in an area likely to contain the maximum number of potential customers.

         2.    Make sure the show organisation will not be too restrictive in the way the ring
operates.

         3.    Make sure the leading, washing, stalling and ring facilities are suitable and judging time is convenient.

         4.    Start early in organising the maximum number of entries of the highest possible
standard.

         5.    Arrange instruction and demonstrations for new exhibitors.

         6.    Organise publicity to attract sponsors and spectators.

         7.    Select a judge most likely to benefit your breed in that show ring. Spectators and competitors will appreciate his/her comments.

         8.    Attract and keep spectators at the ring side by use of a continuous commentary on the judging and about the breed between classes.

         9.    Ensure the stewards are conversant with the requirements of each class and organise the cattle to the judge's requirements.

       10.    Have shed stewards organising entrants for the next class with the additional handlers available to hold animals for the exhibitors.

        11.    Arrange spectator participation in the form of judging sweepstakes.

        12.    Arrange judging competitions for junior exhibitors.

        13.    Consider the merit of some group classes - they can be confusing to the spectators.

        14.    Consider running trimmed and natural classes.

        15.    Have promotion material available at ring side and in stalls.

        16.    Attempt to organise preshow publicity using the judge and exhibitors.

        17.    Ensure the maximum number of entries in any Grand Parade.

        18.    Encourage exhibitors to keep tidy and informative stalls.

        19.    This level of activity will require a large, active show committee. Consider having them wearing some type of uniform that will emphasis the team involvement.

        20.    Top the event off with a social gathering at the end.