Batailles de Reines: Finalists & October 26th Showdown

Aosta Valley’s ‘Battles of the Queens’ Culminate in Regional Final Preparations

The final autumn selection stage of the 68th Concours Régional Batailles de Reines concluded Sunday,October 19,in Antey-Saint-André,setting the stage for a highly anticipated regional final that will showcase the unique rural traditions of the Aosta Valley. The event, deeply rooted in the region’s identity, saw 248 cows compete across three categories for a coveted spot in the championship.

Did you know?-The *Batailles de Reines* tradition dates back centuries, originally serving as a way for farmers to determine breeding rights and establish herd hierarchy.

Fierce Competition at Antey Arena

The Antey arena witnessed intense competition as the cows battled for supremacy. Twelve new “queens” were crowned – four from each category – following hard-fought and visually spectacular contests. The selections represent the culmination of a lengthy season, with the focus now shifting to the Arena Croix-Noire in Aosta.

Category Results: New Champions Emerge

The competition was divided into three categories, each producing a clear victor. In the first category, Allegra, owned by Piero Busso of Donnas, emerged triumphant, defeating Nevada, handled by Loris Diemoz of Quart, in the final bout. Samba (Roberto Bacci of Fénis) secured third place, followed by Contessa (Roberto Muin of Quart).

The second category saw a decisive win for Amoureuse, guided by Mauro Chatrian from Valtournenche, ahead of Faroux, owned by Renzo Marquis from Verrayes. Zenica (Alex Cerise of Fénis) and Adrenalina (Clelia Bich of Pontey) rounded out the podium finishers.

in the third category, Taccon, owned by Nicole Bechaz from Challand-Saint-Anselme, claimed victory, followed by Tracas (annie and Nicole Noz of Nus), Fuoco (Roby Bich of Pontey), and Queggion (Livio Charles of Valgrisenche).

Pro tip:-Cows are judged not only on their strength during the battle, but also on their technique and overall presentation in the arena.

Milord Crowned ‘Queen of the Heavyweights’

beyond the category winners, the event also recognized remarkable size. The “Queen of the Heavyweights” title was awarded to Milord, owned by Ronny Vial, boasting an impressive weight of 767 kilograms – a record for this year’s selections.

Road to the Regional Final

With the Antey stage complete, all eyes are now on the Arena Croix-Noire. The arena will host preliminary events on Saturday, October 25, including the first Combat Premier Veau, the sixth Combats Deuxième Veau, and the first Combat des Communautés de Montagnes. These contests will serve as a prelude to the main event: the Regional Final of the 68th Concours Régional Batailles de Reines on Sunday, October 26, where the ultimate “Reine des Reines” will be crowned.

Reader question:-What factors contribute to a cow’s success in the *Batailles de Reines*? Strength, technique, and breeding all play a role.

“It was an exciting day that established the worthy contenders for a Final that promises to be of the highest level,” stated a senior official with the Ass