Oldest Living ABS Bull Celebrates Golden Birthday

MADISON, Wis., U.S.A. (March 2, 2015)— ABS® Global, Inc., the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services, and artificial insemination technologies, recently celebrated the 17th birthday of a veteran ABS bull—New Design 878. A Black Angus, born February 17, 1998, New Design 878 has been an impressive producer since he was a yearling.

At the turn of the year, 878’s production level approached 725,000 units, and he continues to rank in ABS’s top 20 bulls for beef semen sales in several regions across the globe. From 2003 through 2006, New Design 878 topped the registration charts as the number one sire for registrations in the Angus breed, still holds the single-year registration record with 10,190 calves registered in 2004, and ranks second (behind first place, another ABS bull, N Bar Emulation EXT) for total lifetime registrations with 52,978 calves through September 2014.

“We knew from the day 878 arrived at ABS that he was going to be a popular animal,” said Doug Frank, ABS Beef Product Manager. “He had a quick start and customers really liked his first calves—skyrocketing his popularity. He has since had a strong finish—continuing to offer the highest accuracy multi-trait proof in the industry.”

“At a healthy 17 years of age, 878 is proof that solid genes and great care are key to the performance and longevity of the animals,” said Brian McCulloh and Dan Borgen, Woodhill Farms, part owners of the bull. “As producers out in the field every day, we see firsthand that the way we care for our animals directly impacts how they grow and perform. ABS has this figured out and it only takes one look at their facilities and their animals for living proof of the great care their animals receive.

Despite his age, New Design 878 continues to hit the list of American Angus Association’s Pathfinders®—holding the top slot for five years from 2008-2012 and remaining #12 today. 878’s maternal influence will likely be his most important legacy with 16,630 daughters on record weaning 55,543 calves and continuing to pass along his phenomenal genes.

About ABS
Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, U.S.A., ABS Global, Inc. is the world‐leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, artificial insemination technologies, and udder care products. Marketing in more than 70 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

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