Entries are now open for the 2026 RABDF NMR Gold Cup, celebrating excellence across the UK dairy sector.
Organised by the Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers (RABDF) and sponsored by National Milk Records (NMR), the Gold Cup is one of the UK dairy industry’s most prestigious awards, recognising businesses demonstrating outstanding performance, efficiency, herd health and innovation.
Dating back to 1920, the competition is open to all herd management systems, including block-calving, grazing and housed herds.
RABDF Chair Robert Craig said: “The Gold Cup is about recognising the hard work, commitment and innovation that goes into running a successful dairy business. It is a fantastic opportunity for farmers to benchmark their businesses, showcase what they are achieving and learn from others across the industry. We would encourage any eligible dairy farmer to put themselves forward and be part of this year’s competition.”
Dairy businesses can enter through their milk recording organisation, provided they meet the qualifying criteria, or be nominated by consultants, discussion groups or companies supporting their business.
Qualifying herds must have a minimum of 100 cows/heifers with qualifying lactations and meet the required somatic cell count and genetic merit criteria. Entrants must also provide official milk recording data covering milk production, SCC and genetic merit, alongside a Spring/Autumn calving index for block-calving herds.
Entries are open until 11 September, and shortlisted businesses will be visited by the judging panel in the autumn. The 2026 RABDF NMR Gold Cup winner will be announced at Dairy-Tech on 3 February 2027.
Alongside the overall Gold Cup, awards recognise the highest-ranking Holstein, Jersey and other breed herds, while the Chris May Memorial Award is presented to the herd with the highest Lifetime Daily Yield.
Find out more www.rabdf.co.uk/gold-cup/
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About RABDF
RABDF is the sole UK charity dedicated to the needs of dairy farmers. Established in 1876, it is the only dairy organisation to hold a Royal Patronage. RABDF is the organiser of the Dairy Tech event and the RABDF NMR Gold Cup competition.
