The information below has been supplied by dairy marketers and other industry organizations. It has not been edited, verified or endorsed by Hoard’s Dairyman.

The famed 7HO12587 Mr D Apple DIAMONDBACK (EX-93) passed away in late January. He was a Doorman son of Ms Delicious Apple-Red-ET (EX-94-2E-EX-MS). In 2021, DIAMONDBACK sired more than 200 new Excellent cows and 465 Very Good two-year-olds in the United States. He sired fierce competitors in many national shows and was awarded Premier Sire of the heifer show at the 2017 World Dairy Expo and Premier Sire of the Red & White Show at the 2021 World Dairy Expo. He was known worldwide for his impressive pedigree and high-type profile. DIAMONDBACK earned his credentials through the success of his many daughters, consistency and time.

“He was a standard in Select Sires’ Showcase™ program for the last seven years,” said Kevin Jorgensen, Holstein sire analyst. “He sired both Holstein and Red & White champions and Excellent cows from coast to coast and around the world. DIAMONDBACK left an indelible mark on the breed.”

Select Sires thanks John and Connor Erbsen and Mike Deaver of Illinois for their partnership in breeding DIAMONDBACK and offering this tremendous sire to the industry.

Based in Plain City, Ohio, Select Sires Inc., is the largest global A.I. cooperative and is comprised of six farmer-owned and -controlled local organizations in the United States. As the industry leader, it provides highly fertile semen, as well as excellence in service and programs to supply dairy and beef producers with the world’s best genetics.