Red Brahmans show their mettle in this crossbreeding system

The deeper the red, the more beautiful the animal - provided the cattle possess both the genetic ability and ideal conformation to thrive and produce under challenging conditions. This philosophy, embraced by Chris Badenhorst and his son, also Chris, is delivering great results on their farm, Witpan, near Lichtenburg in North West.

- By Andries Gouws

Through rigorous selection for traits of economic importance and medium-framed cattle that are not too high on the leg, the Rooihart Brahman Stud’s animals are excelling in the industry and performing exceptionally well in a two-way crossbreeding system.

Both their stud and commercial herd utilise natural grazing and crop residues of several crops grown in their crop farming division. During winter, they supplement their feed with Japanese radishes. In addition, their feedlot leverages the hybrid vigour of Brahman-Simmentaler crossbred cattle, adding value by utilising a greater portion of the value chain.

A strong focus on improvement

Chris snr has dedicated almost 30 years to Brahman cattle farming and has been farming on Witpan for the past 26 years. His journey began with just five cows and a bull, carefully improving the animals through selective breeding. He focussed on eliminating traits such as thick teats and long sheaths while prioritising fertility, longevity, strong legs, and a calm temperament.

Chris jnr joined his father in 2008. To help him get started, his father lent him 50 cows with the agreement that he could keep the calves but return the cows once they've reached a certain age. Together, they founded the Rooihart Stud, which has since grown to approximately 160 breeding cows.

The Badenhorsts’ main breeding goals are fertility, temperament, and type. Initially, bulls remained with the cows year-round, as breeding animals were acquired from various regions at different times. To establish a fixed mating season, they first implemented a six-month cycle from November to May. This period was then gradually shortened by one month a year until they reached the current three-month mating season.