Irish Simmental Yearbook 2026 - Flipbook - Page 16
Obituaries
OBITUARIES - PADRAIG KENNEDY
July 2025 saw the passing of another stalwart of the Irish Simmental
Cattle Society, Padraig Kennedy from Creta, Elphin, Co. Roscommon.
Padraig first got introduced to the Simmental Breed commercially
in 1974 and proceeded to purchase his first pedigree female and
establishing the Creta Simmental Herd in 1975.
However, it was Padraig’s passion for Simmental X Breeding Heifers
that has had one of the greatest lasting impacts on the breed. Padraig
was instrumental in the establishment of the first Simmental X heifer
classes which took place at Virginia. Following on from the success of
this, Padraig along with his lifelong friend Ronnie MaGuire (RIP), Arthur
Dillon (RIP), Paddy Hennelly and other committed Simmental breeders
set the plans in place for the Ballymote Sale. This sale has gone from
strength to strength and in fact this October celebrated its 30th anniversary.
Padraig was an active member of the Western Simmental Club since its inception and served as
Chairman between 2009 & 2011.
In 2009, Padraig along with his friend Ronnie McGuire received the Hall of Fame Award in Athlone,
an accolade that Padraig really treasured.
Padraig’s passion for a quality Simmental X Breeding Heifer will be missed at Club and National
events but for those who knew him well, they will know that he was thrilled that events like the
Ballymote Sale are as strong today as he had hoped when the sale was established.
Ar dheis De go raibh a anam dilis.
Padraig Kennedy (2nd from right) pictured presenting the Padraig Kennedy Cup for the Overall Champion at Elphin Show 2014 to Paddy &
Elaine Hennelly, with David Dillon judge & Eddie Downey President IFA.
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