This farm knows how to bring home the gold.
Brothers Bill and Neil Peck grew up on their family’s farm just 10 miles from the famous Saratoga horse racing track where Pecks have farmed since 1836. But it was another type of racing champion that has made a real difference in each of their lives. Kristen Talbot-Peck, Neil’s wife, is a local who ascended the ranks of competitive speed skating to earn a spot in three Olympic Games. Among the friends she made while competing was five-time Olympian and three-time medalist Amy Peterson of Minnesota. Amy came to visit Kristen. Kristen introduced Amy to Bill, her brother-in-law. Now they are all a big farming family.
Cow champions, too
Along with speed skating champions, the family also has helped create more than its share of cow champions through Welcome Stock’s world-renowned genetics program. Buyers from as far as China, Japan and Europe prize the farm’s award-winning pedigrees. Bill and Neil’s father, William, has been honored with the National Dairy Shrine Distinguished Cattle Breeder award.
Space to breathe
The juggle of farming, the breeding operation and young Pecks allows for little down-time but the family makes space for community involvement and outdoor recreation. “We all love to just be outdoors, to enjoy the beauty of this old farm,” says Neil. “We appreciate all that we’ve got.”
The farm is comprised of 700 acres and 650 milking cows.
Information and image courtesy of Cabot Creamery Co-operative