For the third year in a row, NR 12222 Skoien has been named the winner of Geno’s Export Prize, underscoring his position as one of the most influential sires in modern dairy genetics. With wins already documented in 2023 and 2024, this newly awarded 2025 Export Prize confirms Skoien as an unprecedented three‑time consecutive champion, an achievement unmatched in recent Geno history.
A Global Favorite with Proven Impact
Skoien’s continued dominance is no surprise to breeders and dairy operations worldwide. His 2023 and 2024 wins were driven by massive international demand, supported by a consistently strong profile in production, fertility, udder health, and conformation, traits that make him exceptionally reliable for both purebred and crossbreeding programs. Norwegian Red’s official updates highlight his high fat and protein production, excellent fertility, and strong udder health, all key reasons for his global popularity.
As Skoien’s influence expands, so does his genetic legacy. By early 2025, his daughters in Norway were already demonstrating the expected performance levels, and several of his sons such as 12387 NR Sandbu‑P and 12381 NR Melleby, had entered international markets, further extending his reach.
Why Skoien Remains a Top Choice year after year
A Trait Profile That Meets Modern Market Needs
Skoien is consistently recognized for his balanced combination of high milk solids, strong health traits, and excellent conformation. These strengths have made him exceptionally attractive in markets where profitability, efficiency, and sustainability are top priorities.
A Herd Built on Vision and Innovation
The success behind Skoien traces back to breeders Line Borgerud Skøien and Ole Hjerpaasen, whose fifth‑generation farm has implemented cutting‑edge breeding strategies, including genotyping and optimized mating plans.
Their long-standing commitment to performance, animal welfare, and progressive herd management has played a pivotal role in shaping Skoien’s global appeal.
A Standout Result for Norwegian Red
Skoien exports surged in 2023 and 2024, with particularly strong demand in the U.S., South America, and Europe. Skoien’s third Export Prize represents more than a personal achievement, it signals the continued global rise of Norwegian Red genetics. His repeated success confirms:
- The breed’s strong reputation for health-driven efficiency
- A global shift toward functional and robust dairy cows
- The value of Geno’s long-term, data-driven breeding strategies
As Norwegian Red continues expanding into key markets, Skoien stands as its most visible ambassador, one whose genetic footprint is now shaping dairy herds on nearly every continent.
Skoien’s strong daughter performance, his promising sons, and his continued global demand indicate that his influence will remain substantial in 2026 and the years ahead. His third consecutive Export Prize reflects sustained results built on consistent breeding performance and a clear breeding strategy, rather than short‑term trends.
