The search is on for the best dairy farming business in the UK as applications open on in early Summer for the prestigious 2025 NMR/ RABDF Gold Cup competition.

NMR are proud to continue to support and sponsor the Gold Cup competition. The UK's top national dairy award that recognises dairy businesses for all-around excellence. It was first launched in 1920 and has been won by some of the country's most influential dairy farmers. 

What are the judges looking for? 

The competition is open to entrants who can demonstrate the following:

• Strong herd performance, including high herd health, welfare and fertility
• A profitable business
• Good staff management
• Environmental management
• Building a sustainable dairy business fit for the future

So, whether you are a crossbred grass-based herd, an indoor high input high output herd, a pedigree herd or a spring block calving herd, this competition is open to all.  

How to enter

Entering the Gold Cup is now easier than ever with a streamlined entry form to complete online.  We’re also making use of the reports available through the Milk Recording Organisations to reduce the number of facts and figures you need to find and fill in yourself.  You will be prompted along the way as you fill in your entry form with which reports we need along with additional supporting documents. 

Please attach all documents to an email, clearly stating your Farm Name, Address and Herd Number and send to office@rabdf.co.uk

The competition is also open to non-recording herds, with data provided manually.

The closing date for applications is 1st August 2025 please email your report to: office@rabdf.co.uk

If you have qualified to enter your herd, simply click the big red Gold Cup Application Form button below.

• Ts & Cs can be found here

• NMR have produced a handy video and step by step guide to help you find the reports you need to enter.