As a write this column I am thinking back to the Ballyfoyle Show which attracted a record crowd to this rural setting. There were hundreds of horses and ponies taking part in lots of disciplines be that show jumping, lead rein competition, side saddle etc. To run such an event takes a lot of work and requires a large body of people to park cars, look after trade stands and steward the different rings. All monies raised go to very worthy causes with the main beneficiary being the Carlow Kilkenny Home Care Team with other local charities also supported. CLICK HERE FOR THE LATEST IN KILKENNY SPORTS NEWS This hard working committee, under the direction of Ann Callanan deserve great credit for their magnificent achievement. The volunteers also need to be acknowledged for their dedication. I have often said that without volunteers who manage to raise large sums of money for the many magnificent causes this country of ours would be in a much worse state. Ballyfoyle take a bow. Mart Sales Last Thursday in Kilkenny it was good to see a lift in the trade for all types of cattle be that beef or forward stores. With factories dropping quotes over the past few weeks it appears that the reduction in numbers has steadied the situation and an excellent export trade plus farmer interest means the livestock mart is proving an excellent alternative to the negativity being displayed by factories. I would suggest that prices were increased by €30 to €80 per head on last weeks returns. Top call in the bullock ring was €3380 for a 790 kilo Char with the beef heifer ring recording a price of €3290 for a 780 kilo AA animal. The strength of the trade can be determined by the fact that the average price for bullocks was over €2000 per head, with all heifers recording an average of €1770 per head. Our sale on Tuesday saw an excellent trade for cull cows with calves and runners making super prices eg 8 AA bulls 200 kilo made €1080. Sheep The sheep trade is the only sector showing disappointing returns compared to last year, with butcher lambs ranging from €176 to €206 and factory types €150 to €180 per head. Cull ewes are selling from €94 to €300 per head . While the rest of Europe is trying to cope with heat waves, with temperatures raging from 30 to 40 degrees, the dull weather we are experiencing is being welcomed by many. TAP HERE FOR MORE LOCAL NEWS Relay For Life Last weekend Kilkenny Rugby Club hosted Relay For Life Kilkenny 2025. This was a fundraiser for the Irish Cancer Society and also remembers all those who have passed away from cancer. Thank you to all of you who attended. All going well this event will take place around the same time next year. GAA Sad to see that both our hurlers and camogie ladies lost to Tipperary. It’s been 10 years plus since Liam crossed the river Nore and the wait goes on with our camogie girls bringing our last title home in 2022. Perhaps next year will be kinder to us on the sporting front. Until next time do be careful on the farm and good buying, good selling and good luck.