It's a cutthroat world where the difference between first and second place can be as little as a hair's breadth. From the creator of Cane Toads comes this delightful look at the trials and triumphs from America's animal competitions, Standard Of Perfection. This week, the humble cow is the focus of our attentions as we go behind the scenes at the Fryeburg Cattle Show in Maine, USA.
Standard Of Perfection has become the guideline by which animal show-judges award points and prizes to worthy animals. Each animal is awarded points based on physical 'perfection' including facial features, body shape, color and pattern, gait, tail and temperament.
Standard of Perfection takes viewers into the world of the bovine makeover and shows how pride and determination, not to mention steel-capped boots, transform a barnyard cow into a regional celebrity.
Most people have seen a cow, but few can say they've seen a Grand Champion Jersey being prepped and prepared for the biggest and most prestigious event in New England: The Fryeburg Fair. Held annually in October, the Fair signals a time when cattle lovers across New England gather to bath, groom, clip and show their animals over three days of intense competition. Judged against recognized standards in a variety of categories, hundreds of cattle exhibitors compete for six Grand Champion prizes and the coveted crown of Supreme Champion.
With wit, respect and the sort of imaginative approach he has become renowned for, Mark Lewis exposes the intense preparation in order to prime an animal for the biggest show of the year and the love people have for their animals, big and small.
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