Top Stock Magazine July 2016

Making it on a collegiate livestock judging team Youth finds her calling in the beef show ring

ISSUE 5 JULY 2016

&

role model

For a generation of show cattle enthusiasts, Stierwalt's message of hard-work and self-improvement is a recipe for success.

WORDS FROM THE

Welcome to the summer edition of Top Stock. Today, we celebrate the start of our second year — with huge thanks to all of you who have advertised, read, commented and made Top Stock a part of the show cattle landscape.

A sign of the building momentum in the industry, the spring show season was absolutely exciting. A short time ago, it was relatively easy to pick a few winners from the stands — How things change! This year, steers that would have walked away a champion any other year took up residence in the middle of pack when the dust settled.

This is a credit to you, the breeders, for building cattle so good in so short of time, and to the exhibitors for feeding, fitting and showing with the utmost dedication.

Without question, this will be one of the most impressive sets of steers to walk into the ring at Calgary Stampede — and this summer’s heavy line-up of Junior shows throughout the country should see some fierce competition.

It is never too soon to start looking for next year’s great one, and with this in mind, I invite you to peruse ads for several new sales commencing this fall. If you are in the market for show prospects, I would encourage you to start looking early and visiting the calves on pasture if you can.

Though there is nothing so appealing as a pen full of show prospects washed and clipped, a stout, sound, mobile steer with great potential will be apparent even in summer condition. His mother will give you an idea of the finished frame size you can expect from that steer, or if shopping for a heifer, the mother and sisters can indicate what kind of cow she’ll turn into when her show career is over. You want to buy from a cow family that produces quality with consistency, rather than buying the good outlier from a family with traits you can not live with. When the sale run starts this fall, some pre-shopping will ensure you have a list of breeders and calves to revisit and 04

you can use sale videos as a review, having already seen the calves in person.

That being said, there will be many outstanding calves for sale and the ingredient that may separate the cream from the rest is work ethic. We are honoured to feature a cattlemen who knows a thing or two about work ethic and attention to detail in this edition of Top Stock: One of my personal heroes, Kirk Stierwalt pioneered the role of show cattle clinician with his numerous demonstrations across North America. In a world where success often breeds hubris, Kirk’s humble, approachable, down-to-earth personality has made him a role model for a generation of cattle-people, both in the show ring and later in life. It will be both a pleasure and a learning experience to watch him judge the Calgary Stampede steer show.

Speaking of judging, this issue also interviews three young stockmen — Jack Oattes, and Riley and Cody-ray Lafrentz — who have been competing successfully on the collegiate team judging circuit. If you are interested in judging competitively, you will want to read about their experiences on page 26. The important role of the show ring in setting these men on their path in the agriculture industry cannot be understated — so too is the case with our junior profile in this issue, Bailey McConnell. Like countless other youth, an accomplished show career is just the beginning of her contribution to the agriculture industry. We hope you enjoy these profiles as much as we enjoyed interviewing their stars.

Finally, we would like to remind our readership that the deadline for our earlyfall edition is coming up quickly on July 25.

Please contact us as early as you can if you are interested in advertising — but even if you are not, we welcome your input and involvement as we make this next edition better than ever.

See you at the summer shows!

– Katie Songer Top Stock Magazine / Summer 2016

FEATURES JULY 2016 26

IN THIS 26

ISSUE

55

55

Be Competitive Making it on a collegiate livestock judging team

Junior Profile Ontario youth finds

16

her calling in the beef show ring

Role Model

For a generation of cattle enthusiasts, Stierwalt's message of hard work and self-improvement is a recipe for success.

"Hard work beats talent when talent doesn't work hard."

Top Stock Magazine is published four times per year. A one year subscription costs $10.00 per year ($10.50 with GST) in Canada, $40.00 per year in the USA. Top Stock magazine, hereby expressly limits its liability resulting from any and all misprints, errors and/ or inaccuracies whatsoever in the advertisement and editorial content published by Top Stock and its said liability is here by limited to the refund of the customer for its payment for said advertisement, or the running of the corrected advertisement, or editorial notice. Notification by the customer of any error must be made within 30 days of the distribution of the magazine. Advertising copy received after the deadline may not be returned for proofing. Changes to advertising copy made after the deadline date will be allowed only if time permits, and will incur the appropriate charges according to time and materials involved in the changes. The opinions or views expressed in the editorials are those of the writer or persons interviewed and not Top Stock magazine. Top Stock does however reserve the right to edit or refuse all material which might be objectionable in content. No material or part thereof may be reproduced or used out of context, without prior specific approval of a proper credit to Top Stock.

Top Stock Magazine / Summer 2016

05

JULY 2016

CROSS-CANADA COVERAGE

ISSUE 5 J ULY 2016

Making it on a collegiate livestock judging team Youth finds her calling in the beef show ring

On the Cover A wideeyed junior gets advice from Kirk Stierwalt.

Cover illustration by Tori Redbird at Polygon Graphics (www. polygongraphics.ca) and based on a photo

by ShowChampions.

&

role model

For a generation of show cattle enthusiasts, Stierwalt's message of hard-work and self-improvement is a recipe for success.

©© Christine Boake Photography

SHOW INDEX 34 35 36 38 39 39 40 41 42

DEPARTMENTS

Regina Spring Show GMACK Progress Show London Junior Beef Expo Chinook Junior Stock Show Prospect 2000 Saskatchewan Beef Expo Making Champions CRY Show Olds Spring Classic

43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51

Manitoba Winter Fair Island Spring Beef Show Weldon Junior Show SE Club Calf Cruz Lord of the Ring UFA Country Classic Bruno Lion's Jackpot Stettler Heartland Classic Acme Steer Show

UPCOMING ISSUES Ad Deadline

Published

Early Fall

Issue

July 25

Sept 1

Late Fall

Sept 25

Nov 1

ADVERTISING RATES Frequency Double Page Spread

1x 2x

3x 4x

DESIGN RATES* Rate: $40/hr

1200

1175

1150

1125

250

Full Page

650

625

600

575

175

Half Double Page Spread

650

625

600

575

175

Mid-Summer To Be Announced

Half Vertical

350

325

300

275

85

*Please contact for camera-ready ad deadlines

Half Horizontal

350

325

300

275

85

Quarter

250 225 200 175

50

Eighth

150 125 100 75

30

Spring A.I.

To Be Announced

Ads paid prior to press date receive 5% discount off the listed price. Back cover, inside back cover, inside front cover, and other position pages are priced upon request.

06

04 WORDS FROM THE EDITOR 08 CONTRIBUTORS 12 JUNIOR NEWSMAKERS 34 SHOW RESULTS 62 UPCOMING EVENTS 64 ADVERTISERS INDEX

All ads are full color. 5% GST not included. *Design rates when you run your ad in Top Stock.

Top Stock Magazine / Summer 2016

PAST WINNERS

Find us on Facebook

STEER & HEIFER SALE

September 11 hosted by Show Circuit Online Sales

trust IN THE

RESULTS

HE SELLS

Bandwagon x PCC One Canadian TH and PHA Free • 80 pound birthweight

Miller Show Cattle Chase Miller 403.807.1075 | Don Miller 403.637.2589 Box 340 Cremona, Alberta T0M 0R0 | millershowcattle@hotmail.com

GRAND CHAMPION MARKET STEER 4H On Parade 2016. Shown by Kylie Sibbald. Sold for $7.40 per pound to Tom Arnett.

Grand Champion Market Steer 4H On Parade 2016 Reserve Grand Champion Market steer 4H On Parade 2015 Grand Champion Female Saskatoon Beef Expo 2016 Reserve Grand Champion Market Steer Jumping Pound 4H Club 2016 Reserve Champion Prospect Steer Medicine Hat Stampede & Exhibition Grand Champion Market Steer Mankota 4H Club 2016 Grand Champion Commercial Heifer calf Stars of Tomorrow 2015 Reserve Grand Champion Prospect Steer Stars of Tomorrow 2015

www.facebook.com/topstockmagazine

M A G A Z I N E JULY 2016

ISSUE 5 Editor-in-Chief

Letters to the Editor

Katie Songer

Top Stock Magazine welcomes your comments, questions and opinions.

Send your letters via email to info@topstockmagazine.com

Creative/Art Director Katie Songer

Contributing Photographers Barn Girls Photography Brianna Bathery Christine Boake Photography Erin Campbell Dawn Dust Carla Fellner Grant Rolston Photography Ltd. Colleen and Myles Hansen Legacy Livestock Photography Kim Matthews Prairieland Park Vintage Studios » Jenna Donnelly Rural Route Creations Royalty Images » Shelby King ShowChampions Jay-Dean Smyth

Contributing Writers Piper Whelan

Advertising Representatives Katie Songer Canada and USA info@topstockmagazine.com 587.802.3110 Sarah Buchanan Eastern Canada sbuchanan@gold-bar.com 519.546.3352 Tracy Kimmel Western Canada btkimmel@shaw.ca phone 780.875.2089

Back Issues Back issues can be found online at topstockmagazine.com or can be ordered, subject to availability, from the publishers.

Subscription Services Subscribe to Top Stock magazine for only $10/year (+$0.50/GST) in Canada

Publication Schedule Top Stock is published four times per year in full color.

All rights reserved No part of Top Stock magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without the expressed written consent of the publisher.

The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any editorial or advertising material.

Office Top Stock Magazine 157B Bowman Circle Sylvan Lake, Alberta T4S 0H4 phone: 587.802.3110 info@topstockmagazine.com www.topstockmagazine.com ©© copyright 2016 Top Stock Magazine

Got Talent?

Interested in writing, photographing or designing for Top Stock?

We are looking for you! Contact us at info@topstockmagazine.com

MEET THE TOP STOCK TEAM

CONTRIBUTING WRITER Piper Whelan is a writer and editor from Irricana, Alberta. Raised on her family’s MaineAnjou ranch, she competed in junior shows and 4-H. After graduating from the University of Alberta, she studied at the University of King’s College School of Journalism. Her work

Katie Songer

Editor-in-chief Creative Direction

08

Sarah Buchanan

Eastern Canada Ad Representative

Tracy Kimmel

Western Canada Ad Representative

Piper Whelan

Contributing Writer

Top Stock Magazine / Summer 2016

has appeared in Atlantic Beef & Sheep, Western Horse Review, and various breed publications.

Send your junior news or letters to the editor to info@topstockmagazine.com.

M A G A Z I N E JUNIOR NEWS + NEWSMAKERS

Manitoba Youth Round-up to host their 9th Annual Event - July 29 - 31, Neepawa, MB

Numbers Increase at Chinook Stock Show

Interested Youth up to age 25 years of age (as of Jan. 1, 2016) should plan to attend the 9th Annual Round-up at the Beautiful Plains Complex. Featuring selections for the Canadian Western Agribition judging team and the opportunity to meet other Junior producers and learn new skills, this will be a fun, educational weekend. Our goal is to prepare young entrepreneurs in the livestock industry, through this exciting showcase of youth, cattle and friendly competition. This event will educate encourage, stimulate and unite participants in the business of agriculture and the beef industry. It encompasses a variety of competitions and events to match all interests and skill levels of participants. Some of the events are Team Grooming, Individual and team judging, showmanship, marketing, art, photography, scrap booking, educational workshops as well as cattle classes of all breeds.

Contact Chairperson Lois McRae for more information at 728-3058 or visit the Manitoba Youth Beef Round-up Facebook page.

The 2016 Chinook Junior Stock Show was a huge success once again. This year we celebrated 21 years, our largest show to date.

Annually the show is held in Claresholm, AB at the Agri-Plex on the Wednesday following Easter. We had 240 kids ranging in age from 3-21, representing the 3 western provinces. They exhibited 260 head – 60 Purebred heifers, 70 Commercial heifers and 130 Steers. We had the privilege to have Allen (Buck) Thompson judge the show and Joe Barnett judge showmanship. The Chinook Junior Stock Show would like to thank the following sponsors for their support:

thank you to our sponsors for their generous support of our 2016 show!

Hoodie Sponsors

Patron Sponsors

AFSC, Agricultural Financial Services Corp • Bar 15 Ranch, Claresholm • Bar Double M Angus, Alberta Beef Producers, Hill Spring • Bella Spur Media • Big Coulee Ranch, Philip Kaiser Zone 1, 2 & 3 • Alberta Memorial • BMB Brewin Angus, Taber • Burton Cattle Company, Hereford Association • Claresholm • Kaptive8 Photography, Wendy Sloboda • Carey ATB Financial • Anodizing Auction Service, Stavely • Cargill Nutrition • Cervus Equipment • Chinook Credit Union, Claresholm • Claresholm 4-H Beef Club Calgary Inc. • Davis Chev, Claresholm • Fleming Stock • Claresholm Local Press • Cooper Fleming, Lethbridge • Cudlobe Angus, Stavely • EMF Nutrition, Lethbridge • Elanco, Sheila Farms, Granum • Herdtrax Hilmer • FCC, Farm Credit Corporation • Frontier Western Cattle Management System Wear, Claresholm • Granum Seed Cleaning Plant • Jade Soedtart • • Kesteven Cattle, Calgary JC High Ranching, Pincher Creek • KFJ Signs, Claresholm • Lucasia • Lilybrook Herefords, Ranch Vacations, Claresholm • McLeod Livestock, Calgary • MCG Claresholm • MD of Willow Simmentals, Stavely • Miller Show Cattle, Cremona • Nels & Terri Creek • Merial • OLS Mineral Nixdorff, Hal, Adam & Coleman, Airdire • Olson Silver, High River • Proline Silk Screening, Lethbridge • Remington Land & – Fleming Stock Farms • Cattle, Calgary • RJ Livestock, Ricki & Justin Pittman, Granum • Progressive Waste Solutions Sharples Ranch, Claresholm • Sonya Isley Memorial, Langdon • • SHAC Environmental South Country Co-Op, Claresholm • Southern Alberta Angus Products Inc. • TEAM, Club • Sundown Livestock Transplants, Cremona • Sunny South Calgary Stockyards • UFA • Vet, Lethbridge • Symens Land & Cattle, Claresholm • Thistle Ridge Ranch, Taber • Top Stock Magizine, Sylvan Lake • Two – W Zoetis Livestock Equipment, Nanton • Willow Creek Ag Service Board • Willow Creek Ag Society • Wocknitz Farms, Magrath • YPM, Young Parkyn McNab LLP

Class Sponsors

Alberta Angus Association • Alberta Simmental Association • Arda Angus, Acme • Balog Auction, Lethbridge • Bart young, Hill Spring • BJ Cattle Co, Del Bonita • Blades Angus, Nanton • Blatz Family, Designs by Shelagh • Brost Stock Farm, Irvine • CD Land & Cattle, Taber • Claresholm Vet Service • Foothills Auctioneers Inc, Stavely • Freeway Angus, Acme • Genex • Jones Hereford Ranch, Airdrie • Kate & Martin Puch & Family, Pincher Creek • Kopper LC Red Angus, Duchess • Koster’s Bakery • Layne Burton, Claresholm • LJB Fuels Ltd., Milk River • Mackenzie Red Angus, Mountain View • Murray & Chris Glimsdale, Claresholm • New Trend Cattle Co., Strathmore • Nieboer Farm Supplies, Nobleford • Rack Red Angus, Claresholm • Reid Angus, Calgary • Rohler Angus, Stavely • Sherman Ranches, Claresholm • Stockmens Insurance, Agent Cheryl Brown • Tony Slingerland, Nobleford • V8U Ranch Ltd., Mountain View

• Young Enterprises,

Hill Spring

www.chinookjuniorstockshow.com 012

Top Stock Magazine / Summer 2016

find us on Facebook

Unstoppable x Canasta steer

Selling *Elbow grease not included A good steer makes all the hard work worth while.

Our steers are bred and selected to be sound, athletic, easy-feeding, hairy and good tempered. Past customers consistently comment on the docility of their purchases, and many of our calves are suitable for juniors of any age.

Monopoly x Swagger bull

Congratulations to our 2015 customers on all your successes!

Unstoppable x Maverick steer Our 2016 calves are sired by Dakota Gold, Walks Alone, Unstoppable, Monopoly and more!

All calves for sale by private treaty – call us to book your tour!

LUCKY SPRINGS FARMS 403.845.5239

•

• LEN & SALLY SONGER & FAMILY • Rocky Mountain House, Alberta, Canada luckyspringsfarms@yahoo.com • www.luckyspringsfarms.com • www.facebook.com/LuckySprings

XLP Kairee 97C

XLP Reese’s Action 500C Reserve Senior Heifer Calf Champion, Agribition 2015 • Champion Hereford Heifer, Regina Spring Steer & Heifer Show 2016 • Champion Hereford, Yorkton Spring Steer & Heifer Show & Jackpot • Champion Hereford Heifer, Saskatchewan Beef Expo for Michelle Hordos

chasing

Reserve Champion Hereford female at the Manitoba Winter Fair • Junior Champion Hereford at the Filmore/Francis 4-H Achievement Day for Emily Sebastian

We invite you to participate in the Saskatchewan Junior Hereford Show on July 30 at our farm, Vibank, SK. Contact us for more details.

Also visit us at the Saskatchewan display during the Canadian Junior Hereford Bonanza, Olds, Aug 9-13.

banners

s from with docile, hairy Hereford grees proven championship pedi

XLP Mount-Vern Fancy 118B shown by Lexie O’Connor. CHA Show Female Silver medal & Junior Champion at the Manitoba Summer Hereford Show.

More Action daughters offered for sale at the farm on

October 14, 2016.

Show Steer prospects for sale by private treaty.

ANL A XLP Action ET 75Z

LONE PINE

cattle

THE XLP SPECIAL! 4-H or Junior Hereford Members: Send us an electronic show photo of your XLP branded animal before Oct. 1, 2016 and receive a $250 credit towards the purchase of a heifer or steer. Purchase Must Be Made Prior To December 1, 2016.

Supreme Champion Bull at AG-Ex and Grand Champion Hereford Bull • Reserve Grand Champion at Agribition and top ten finalist in the RBC Royal Supreme

Rob and Dawn O’Connor | Vibank, Sask, Canada | S0G 4Y0 PHONE 306.762.4543 | CELL 306.550.4890 | www.lonepinecattle.net

OFFERING A FULL LINE OF CLIPPERS & BLADES, CHUTES, FANS, BLOWERS, STALL DISPLAYS, AND DAILY CARE & SHOW DAY GROOMING PRODUCTS.

THE SHOW STARTS HERE

RK

CONVENIENT, FAST CANADA-WIDE SHIPPING. 24/7 ONLINE SHOPPING. SHOWBLOOM ULTRA New ShowBloom Ultra concentrate is like no other. Fed at less than half the rate of regular ShowBloom. You can feed one animal for 175 days...that’s less than $0.80 a day.

TEFLON COMBS Sullivan’s teflon fluffers & combs glide through the hair easily, making gluing a breeze.

RK

SUPRA ZR CLIPPERS

VITA HAIR VOLUMIZER

SULLIVAN’S SHOCK

5-Speed Cordless Clipper with a two hour run time on a two hour charge. Fits all regular Andis snap-on blades, including blending and blocking blades.

This foaming shampoo prevents hair from sticking together – Actually springs hair loose making each follicle stand on end, for a noticeable difference in hair body and volume.

Electrifying show day hair product gives long lasting body to lifeless hair.

Spray on clean, dry hair. Comb in and work hair with blower 5-10 minutes.

FOLLOW US ON FB FOR THE NEWEST PRODUCTS, SPECIALS AND UPDATES. 7647 Wellington County Road 10 Moorefield, Ontario N0G 2K0 EMAIL rkanimalsupplies@xplornet.com TOLL-FREE 1-800-440-2694

RKANIMALSUPPLIES.COM

"It teaches kids how how to deal with success and how to deal with disappointment, and I think that sets us up for the game of life. At the end of the day it's how we cope with those different situations that make us a better person."

Kirk Stierwalt at work. ŠŠ Legacy Livestock Photography

016

Top Stock Magazine / Summer 2016

A

sk any junior exhibitor to name a show cattle clinician, and chances are they’ll mention Kirk Stierwalt. The man behind Stierwalt Cattle and Clinics is a well-known figure in the stock show world, and has judged at many livestock shows, including the American Royal, the National Western Stock Show, the Iowa State Fair, the North American International Livestock Exposition, the World Beef Expo and the Illinois Beef Expo. Stierwalt has also judged at a number of noteworthy Canadian shows, including Regina’s Canadian Western Agribition. “I love looking at the cattle in Canada, and I love visiting with the people in Canada,” says Stierwalt. This summer, Stierwalt will be at the microphone to judge the annual Junior Steer Classic at the Calgary Stampede. “I’m excited about judging the Calgary Stampede this year,” he says, adding that he anticipates high-quality cattle.

Stierwalt’s story begins in Iowa, where he was born and raised. He grew up in town, but it was time spent at his grandfather’s operation that fostered his passion for cattle, leading to

his involvement in the 4-H program. Today, the respected clinician ranches at Leedey, Oklahoma, with his wife Juli, daughter Kyra and son Ky. The Stierwalts run about 150 head on around 4,500 acres, with a breeding program focused predominantly on club calf genetics and some Herefords. They calve in both spring and fall, and are kept busy by offering a variety of services, such as clipping, hoof trimming and photography.

“We kind of do it all here,” says Stierwalt. When he’s not working hard at home, Stierwalt hosts his much sought-after clinics across the United States and Canada, and has partnered with companies such as Weaver Leather to develop a full line of stock show products.

Not only does the stock show industry provide the basis of Stierwalt’s career, it also gives youth the opportunity to develop their skills both in the show ring and in life in general. “We always promote how good it is for the kids, but these are extremely good family environments, so it’s good for the family as well,” he says. “It teaches the kids how to deal with success and how to deal

role model FOR A GENERATION

WORDS BY PIPER WHELAN

For young show cattle enthusiasts throughout North America, Stierwalt embodies what can be achieved through hard work and constant self-improvement.

Top Stock Magazine / Summer 2016

017

with disappointment, and I think that sets us up for the game of life,” he continues. “At the end of the day it’s how we cope with those different situations that makes us a better person.”

Another lesson young people learn through showing livestock, Stierwalt explains, is how to be flexible in working towards their goals, especially when one’s objectives with a particular animal may change throughout the show season. “One of my favourite sayings is, ‘hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.’ I think [showing livestock] teaches these kids that you have to put something in to get something out. It’s a lot of work, but if you love it and it’s a passion of yours, I think you’re going to see a tremendous amount of good come out of it.”

Not surprisingly, then, Stierwalt is a passionate supporter of both 4-H and the Future Farmers of America, and praises how these programs allow youth to explore a variety of opportunities in the agriculture industry. “Showing is just one part of the ag business, and I think everybody has to find their niche in life, and there’s a lot to offer in the agriculture world,” he says. “There’s something there for about everyone.”

His passion for encouraging and teaching youth in agriculture is most evident in his clinics. As

"You've got to try to outwork your competition and try to out-manage them. You can put a good calf in a bad home and its not going to work."

Above Judge Stierwalt congratulates Triniti Scott on her Reserve Champion Steer at the 2015 National Western. ©© ShowChampions

Left Top & Bottom The Stierwalts are the only family to win Grand Champion in two species in the same year, with Ky winning Champion Steer and Kyra winning Champion Lamb in 2009. © ShowChampions

018

Top Stock Magazine / Summer 2016

stated on his website, Stierwalt’s clinics are designed to help “people of all ages acquire the skills needed to put the competitive edge on their side.” His aim is to provide hands-on learning and knowledge about the industry that will prove useful in the show ring and beyond.

Clipping, showmanship, feeding, general management, and show-day grooming are just some of the topics addressed.

Stierwalt’s approach is to find solutions

for an individual animal’s specific problems, as, he stresses, there is no one-size-fits-all way to fit an animal, and each animal requires different techniques in preparing for show day.

Having hosted clinics for almost three decades, Stierwalt relishes the chance to mentor many young people and watch them develop their skills by working with cattle. “What’s fun for me is observing a kid who’s got a natural ability — a God-given talent — and they don’t even know they have it,” he explains. “It’s rewarding to be able to just give them some direction and some guidance, and, for me, that part is rewarding because they amaze me with what they can do.”

While the show ring has always been a place for tough competition, some may note that in recent years, the competition in junior shows particularly

is increasingly fierce. With high-priced show calves and an endless quest to find the next big thing, it may seem daunting for youth without big budgets for show animals to make it to the champion class, especially if they are relatively new to the game.

However, Stierwalt doesn’t see this as a disadvantage if you have the proper preparation. He is confident that with work and determination, a first-time showman can become a real contender. “You’ve got to try to outwork your competition and try to outmanage them. You can put a good calf in a bad home and it’s not going to work,” he states. In order to see the best in an animal, he states, proper management and nutrition are the vital elements. “I think the grooming part seals the deal, but you can’t get there without the other first, and I know this because we

Top Stock Magazine / Summer 2016

019

Above The Reserve Champion Hereford steer, bred by Stierwalts, at the 2015 Fort Worth stock show – one of the largest steer shows in North America. ©© Peri Hughes

have won major shows with inexpensive cattle,” he says. “I know they can because we’ve done it before.”

The key to this, says Stierwalt, comes in everyday preparation. “It’s not the big amount of work that you do right before the show; it’s the little bit of work that you do all the time. Nutrition and management are going to be the key components to get the full genetic potential out of that animal,” he says. “The work starts when you first purchase or wean the calf.”

By spending each day working with livestock, Stierwalt developed his skills to become a respected judge with a good eye for cattle. “We judge every day,” he explains, referring to the calls he makes each day in working with his herd — selecting cattle, making breeding plans, and choosing the next great show prospects. To become a skilled judge, he says, you need to practice often and spend as much time as possible looking at cattle. This kind of practice and attention also extends to an exhibitor’s everyday preparation, he continues — critically looking at your showmanship, grooming, feeding, and management techniques on a regular basis is the key to self improvement.

When asked what he considers to be his most significant accomplishment, Stierwalt cites two major aspects of his life. The first relates to his career. “I’m thankful to be able to do what I get to do.

020

That’s probably one of the biggest things that I’m proud of accomplishing, that I actually love what I do,” he explains.

“Every day I wake up and I’m excited about what I get to do.”

The second aspect is his pride in his family’s accomplishments in the show ring. “I’ve enjoyed all the success that our family has had, because winning is not easy. It’s hard, and we’ve been fortunate, and I’m thankful for that,” he says. One major accomplishment, he notes, is that his son Ky has won the Market Steer Shows at all three Majors — the American Royal Top Stock Magazine / Summer 2016

Above and Right Stierwalt's list of judging credentials include such notable shows as the American Royal, the National Western Stock Show, the Iowa State Fair, The North American International Livestock Exposition, the World Beef Expo, the Illinois Beef Expo. His career as a clinican spills over into his work as a judge, where it is clear he aims to use his time behind the microphone as a teaching experience for youth. ©© Legacy Livestock Photography

“I’m thankful to be able to do what I get to do. That’s probably one of the biggest things that I’m proud of accomplishing. Every day I wake up and I’m excited about what I get to do.” in Kansas City, Missouri, the National Western Stock Show in Denver, Colorado, and the North American in Louisville, Kentucky. “Nobody’s ever won all three — he was the first one,” Stierwalt proudly states. Another major win he’s eager to talk about is one special year in Denver, when Kyra won the Grand Champion Lamb and Ky won the Grand Champion Steer. “I don’t think any family’s had two grands in two species at one show.”

As for future achievements, Stierwalt aims to stay committed to his clients and the industry, and to continue producing cattle to be proud of. “In the clinics, we try to keep people updated on all the latest, whether it’s technique or product or anything that’s evolved around the industry,” he explains. “We do a lot of consulting (on feeding and management), and we want to continue to do that.”

Stierwalt’s commitment to the industry is part of a larger effort to support youth agriculture programs. This, he explains, is the responsibility of everyone in the agriculture industry. “These things are not only generational, they are 100-plus yearold programs that are still going, and my goal is … to keep doing what we do, keep campaigning and promoting it, because it’s up to us to keep these programs going.”

Stierwalt has built a satisfying career upon this belief, and, naturally, has a solid answer when asked what he would do for a living if he wasn’t in this line of work.

“I’m glad I don’t have to worry about that, knock on wood,” he laughs. “I don’t know what I’d do because this is all I know.”

Top Stock Magazine / Summer 2016

021

FAVOURITE SHOW JUDGED The National Western would be one of my favourites, just because of the whole history behind that show. I like those kinds of deals. Some of those historical shows are pretty cool. I’m excited about the Agribition getting some new facilities and keeping that going — that’s pretty cool … To me, that’s all powerful stuff.”

ALL TIME FAVOURITE ANIMAL The steer that my son won the National Western with. I liked him. He was a special calf. You have good calves and then you have special ones, and that’s always fun to have that. He would be one that I consider to be special.”

ROLE MODELS GROWING UP & HOW THEY AFFECTED YOU My mom and dad would be first and foremost, and my grandad. My family, just because I didn’t live on a farm. I was pretty much raised in town, and my grandad had a farm, that’s where I kept my cattle.

Growing up, they were probably my first ones. There’s some different guys through the channels that I’ve had. There have been people placed in my life along the way that have kept me going … I just kept trying to get better. I did a lot of watching, I asked lots of questions, and I was never satisfied.

That’s basically the way I was structured in growing up.”

Top Left Kirk with family Kyra, Juli and Ky (l to r) © Legacy Livestock Photography Bottom Giving the Champions nod at the 2015 National Western Steer Show © ShowChampions 022

Top Stock Magazine / Summer 2016

FAVOURITE SHOW DAY TIP I think the biggest thing is you have to know is that all these cattle are built a little bit differently, and … you’ve got to figure out how to walk, set up, and present that animal to its best advantage. When we’re showing them, I like cattle to be walked into their stance; that’s one thing that I think is a natural way to make cattle look good. I think it’s easy, and that’s what I like, as far as on show day.”

WORDS OF ADVICE FOR JUNIORS All these cattle have a different make, and don’t give up … There are some cattle that are late bloomers and early bloomers, and don’t get down on cattle early, because there’s a lot of season left. A bit of care and management can kind of change the game, and stay in it for the long haul, and keep trying to figure out what your cattle need... They all have their pluses and minuses. We’ve got to focus on what we need to do, whether it’s from a grooming standpoint or a whether it’s from a management standpoint or a feeding standpoint, on how to make that calf the best it can be. In the clinics, we promote that you’ve got to build a toolbox for each one of these cattle, and the set of tools you use on this one might not be the set of tools you use on that one. I think you’ve got to be able to change it up and to spot what you need to do, and usually things don’t happen fast, so a lot of times you’ve got to be patient with your changes and see how the cattle respond. The other thing is the cattle have to help you a bit, and some will and some won’t.”

WHAT WILL YOU BE LOOKING FOR ON SHOW DAY I don’t really buy into one thing. I’m kind of a package kind of a guy, and I like balance, but I also like it combined with eye appeal. I like cattle that have structural soundness and are functional from the ground up.”

Top Right Judging at the 2016 Making Champions clinic and show © Vintage Studios Top Stock Magazine / Summer 2016

023

BW

WW

YW

MM

ce

0.7

75

129

38

14

BW

WW

MM

ced

1.5

6 8 . 9 116.9 1 9 . 7

YW

8.7

H

ave you ever wanted to judge a class of steers, market hogs or lambs in a competition at some of the most prestigious livestock exhibitions in North American? For students who compete on collegiate livestock judging teams in the United States, this dream is a reality, one that allows them to travel, make new connections and gain valuable experience in evaluating livestock while pursuing a post-secondary education. If this seems like a far-off goal, we have the guide to help you start down this road yourself. Here, we meet three young Canadians who have competed on the collegiate judging circuit, and they share insight into livestock judging success.

Jack Oattes of Cobden, Ontario, grew up on his family’s beef operation. “We run purebred Charolais cattle and just recently got into a small number of Simmental cattle,” he says. Throughout his youth, Jack showed across Canada and in the United States, and worked for different operations. “I lived for it. I loved being involved in the cattle business, and that has broadened since being exposed to it further in the States.”

Jack first considered studying and judging in the U.S. while in high school. “I realized there was an avenue through which I could broaden my horizons and make connections and meet people, so I jumped on it. I’d say it’s been one of the best decisions of my life — to attend college and university in the United States and compete in livestock judging.” He spent two years at Blinn College in Brenham, Texas, before transferring to a senior college. “I really respected some of the coaches that were there at the time, so I thought

that was the place to go,” he explains. “I wanted to go somewhere that would be really competitive in the national contests and that would help me to grow an understanding of the other species of livestock while I was there.”

This spring, Jack graduated from Kansas State University in Manhattan, Kansas, with a degree in Animal Science. “This coming fall, I plan to attend the University of Illinois. I’m going there to get my master’s degree in Animal Science in Beef Cattle Nutrition,” he says. While working on his next degree, Jack will also work as the University’s livestock judging team coach.

While Jack was developing his passion for the beef industry in Ontario and beyond, Riley and Cody-ray Lafrentz were following a similar path on the other side of the country. The brothers from Beinfait, Saskatchewan, grew up on their family’s cattle operation, where they pursued success in the show ring. “My family owns and operates Wheatland Cattle Company, a purebred Simmental and Angus operation, and we run about 200 purebred cows and a handful of Angus cows,” says Riley. The Lafrentz family has been very successful on the show circuit, with many Agribition champions over the years, including the Premier Breeder and Exhibitor titles.

They also exhibited the Reserve Champion Steer at the Calgary Stampede Steer Classic two years ago, and in 2015, they set a Canadian record for the highestselling Simmental bull.

judg LIVESTOCK

Honing their skills in stiff competition, three Canadian stockmen describe their experience on a collegiate

026

Top Stock Magazine / Summer 2016

WORDS BY PIPER WHELAN

"I realized there was an avenue through which I could broaden my horizons and make connections and meet people, so I jumped on it. I'd say its been one of the best decisions of my life."

Oattes judging at the 2015 American Royal, Kansas City, MO. ŠŠ ShowChampions.

ging team Top Stock Magazine / Summer 2016

027

Riley explored the idea going to college in the U.S. after talking to Lance Leachman of Big Gully Farm. Leachman knew Hutchinson college’s current livestock judging coach, Ben Williams, from his time at Kansas State. “I got in contact with Ben, and I was able to make that work and go down on a livestock judging scholarship and be part of the team,” he explains. He spent two years at Hutchinson, graduating with an associate’s degree in Animal Science before continuing his education at a senior college. Cody-ray, who is a year younger than Riley, was also intrigued by being part of a livestock judging team at an American school. He, too, set his sights on Hutchinson, going down to be a member of the judging team, and just finished his freshman year this spring.

Above Collegiate judging competitions require students to analyze multiple species, which can be steep learning curve for Canadian judges. ©© ShowChampions

028

During your freshman year at a junior college, Riley explains, students generally compete in six to eight contests. This is in preparation for your sophomore year, where you can compete at six national contests — the American Royal in Kansas City, Missouri; the North American International Livestock Exposition in Louisville, Kentucky; the National Western Stock Show in Denver, Colorado; the Fort Worth Stock Show in Fort Worth, Texas; the San Antonio Stock Show in San Antonio, Texas; and the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo in Houston, Texas.

In Riley’s sophomore year, the Hutchinson team was the reserve champion junior college team at Kansas City, third at Louisville, fourth at Denver, the champion team at Fort Worth, and fourth in Houston.

As an individual, Riley was the high individual overall at Kansas City, third overall at Louisville, second in beef cattle at Denver, second overall at Fort Worth with top rankings in horses, cattle and hogs, and third overall at Houston. He was also awarded the second pick in the All-American Award that year, a title that awards the top-15 students based on their judging and academics successes.

Top Stock Magazine / Summer 2016

"[The coaches] have seen livestock from day one, and they're just so good at describing them and breaking them down. They get into detail and notice a lot of things you may not look at. They teach you the little things to pick up on."

• Riley Lafrentz

Jack did well with the Blinn team at a number of major competitions, taking the team championships at Denver and Fort Worth, as well as reserve championships at San Antonio and Houston. “My real success came in senior college. For the entire time I was in the United States, it seemed like the contest that everyone really talked about — the really important one — was the National Championship at the North American in Louisville.

That’s competition that was a goal of mine from the start” he explains. In his senior year, Jack won the high individual overall honours at Louisville. “That was my biggest accomplishment for sure. I was pretty proud of that.” He also has the added distinction of being the first Canadian to win the collegiate judging at Louisville since 1925. He also won the F.W. Bell Award, and honour given to the outstanding member of Kansas State’s judging team. Jack had many other individual successes and topten finishes on the Kansas State team, and is proud of how the team stood in major competitions. “Our team was also the high

Above Cody-ray Lafrentz, (back row, 4th from right) with the Hutchinson judging team. ©© Hutchinson Community College

Left Cody-ray at work — Livestock evaluation is crucial to every good fit job. ©© Brianna Bathery

Top Stock Magazine / Summer 2016

029

Above Riley Lafrentz, front left, was named the High Individual Overall award at the Houston Livestock show. ©© ShowChampions

Top Right Competition is fierce at the collegiate level, but judging competitions give students the chance to travel across the country to hone their skills. ©© ShowChampions

Top Right Riley makes notes on a class at the American Royal. ©© American Royal

030

team at the American Royal at Kansas City, and we were never out of the top four in any contest while at K-State. It was a really consistent group of guys we judged with there,” he continues.

After graduating from Hutchinson, Riley transferred to Kansas State to finish his bachelor’s degree, where he and Jack became judging teammates. In his first year judging on the Kansas State team, Riley explains, their season begins with the National Western Stock Show in

Top Stock Magazine / Summer 2016

Denver and finishes in Louisville. In Denver, Riley was the 11th high individual overall. The large team was divided for the Texas majors, with Riley going to Houston, where he was the High Individual Overall.

When Riley heads back to school this fall for his senior year, the team will begin preparing for the competitions at Kansas City and Louisville.

Cody-ray, who returns to Hutchinson as a sophomore this fall, placed well in a number of competitions in his first year

at college, including the Aksarben Stock Show in Omaha, Nebraska. “Cody was actually the high individual at Aksarben, and he was the high individual in beef cattle,” his brother explains. “The other contest they went to was in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and he was the fourth high individual.” While he only competed in a handful of judging contests this past school year, everything was in preparation for this fall, where he’ll have the opportunity to judge at the national competitions with the Hutchinson team.

Jack and both Lafrentz brothers recommend competing on a judging team while studying in the U.S. “There are a

lot of opportunities down there, and we have a lot of talent to offer with the youth in Canada. I hope there are more people who would look at pursuing an education in livestock judging along with their academics,” says Jack.

The coaches, Riley says, are especially skilled in teaching students what to look for in livestock. “They’ve seen livestock from day one, and they’re just so good at describing them and breaking them down.” Structure is something he’s noticed plays a bigger role in American judging contests. “They get into detail and notice a lot of things you may not look at. They teach you the little things to pick up on.”

Competing on a judging team can enhance a young person’s evaluation skills, something helpful when they set out on their own in the industry. “I definitely honed my selection skills to begin with, but I look at livestock breeding and cattle breeding a little differently as far as the breeding system you can put into place.

It’s all about making the next great one,” Jack explains. This will help, he states, with “making the next generation better with improved selection ability and with a better eye for cattle. You can find where your strengths and weaknesses are and

"We'll stop in at different operations to practice along the way. It's given me and my teammates the opportunity to go places we might not have been able to go to if it wasn't for livestock judging."

• Riley Lafrentz

Top Stock Magazine / Summer 2016

031

"I definitely honed my selection skills to begin with, but I look at livestock breeding a little differently as far as the breeding system you can put into place. It's all about making the next great one."

• Jack Oattes

play those up in order to really maximize what you can get out of your cattle.”

The benefits of this experience extend into other aspects of life. “The people that you meet and compete against might become some of your best friends that you continue keep in touch with,” says Riley. “Sometimes we’ll leave up to a week in advance [for a competition] if we have to travel a long way to get there, and we do preparation on the way

there. We’ll stop in at different operations to practice along the way. It’s given me and my teammates the opportunity to go to places we might not have been able to go to if it wasn’t for livestock judging,” he continues.

Above Jack Oattes (front, middle) along with his team in 2015, were the first Kansas state team to win the American Royal Judging Contest at the American Royal since 1999.

© ShowChampions

is a FAMILY PROJECT. PUREBRED ANGUS, SHORTHORNS + SIMMENTAL

CATTLE FOR SALE AT ALL TIMES. VISITORS ALWAYS WELCOME.

RK CATTLE CO Sandy Reid 519.588.7560 Sandy Reid and Family

032

7647 Wellington County Rd. 10, RR#1 Moorefield, ON N0G 2K0 office 1.800.440.2694 email rkcattleco@gmail.com www.rkcattle.ca

Top Stock Magazine / Summer 2016

how to make it

pigs, sheep and goats, and occasionally horses. While many Canadian juniors are quite practiced in judging cattle, they may not have had as much exposure to the other species. “It was definitely a steep learning curve with respect to the other species. I had to catch on quick, but luckily I was around people who were well respected in those other species — kids that were on my junior college team at Blinn and then at K-State. These people really knew a lot about those different industries — and I had the chance to learn from them,” says Jack.

on a COLLEGIATE

judging team

Prepare Yourself as Much as Possible Take every opportunity to learn as much as you can. “Involve yourself in as many activities as you possibly can, as far as just going to different shows and learning from different people,” says Jack. “Also, if you’re looking at a college, make sure it’s the right fit for you. I know Blinn was a really good avenue for me. I visited while I was in high school and I knew immediately that it was where I wanted to attend.”

Riley encourages juniors to look into attending a short summer judging camp hosted by a college with a respected judging program. His teammates will be on hand to help at the camps hosted by the Kansas State judging program this summer. “[Our coach will] bring in a handful of other coaches from the area that will work with these kids for three days, working on the basics and filling them in on what they need to look for across all four species. That way, they don’t feel so nervous about it when they come back.” Riley and Cody-ray are considering hosting their own judging camp at home in Saskatchewan in the future, to help prepare Canadian juniors who are interested in joining a college judging team.

Do the Necessary Paperwork and Exams A student visa is required for all Canadians studying in the U.S, and it’s crucial to apply for it early, as it can take some time to be processed. As well, many American colleges and universities require applicants to write the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) or American College Testing (ACT) exam in high school, as applications require a prospective student’s SAT or ACT score. “When I

applied for Hutch, you could either do the ACT or the SAT, and I chose to do the SAT,” says Riley.

“Being able to learn all the terminology that they use and then give a set of reasons, it takes time to be able to adapt to that, and it’s certainly different,” says Riley.

“You’re looking for a lot of the same traits you’d look for in a market animal, whether it’s a steer or a market hog, or whether it’s a breeding gilt or breeding heifer.”

Look into Scholarships for Judging

Balance Judging with Academics

Many schools with judging programs provide full scholarships for students who plan to attend the school with the intention of competing on the judging team. “I went there knowing I would be on the judging team. I received a full scholarship to go, so that was really a big part of my decision,” says Jack.

“Your academics have to meet a minimum requirement in order to keep your scholarship and to be a part of the team, and they drill that into you pretty hard,” Riley explains. Throughout the semester, students are expected to check in with their grades so the coaches know their GPA is high enough to stay on the team.

It is helpful, he notes, that teammates are often in the same program and can help each other with their schoolwork. “With some of our harder classes, there might be 10 of us in that class, so it’s not like you’re just one person in there on your own trying to figure it out.”

Consider the Junior College Route By judging for two years at a junior college, you can get more experience before transferring to a university to complete a bachelor’s degree. “Going through the junior college gives you another year or two of eligibility that you can spend judging and listening to some different opinions before you judge at the senior college level,” Jack explains. “The two years that I spent at Blinn really helped to prepare me for the future and what I would embark upon at K-State.”

Prepare for a Learning Curve Judging competitions include beef cattle, Top Stock Magazine / Summer 2016

Jack attributes good time management and hard work to his academic success while on the judging team. “You have to learn some time-management skills, and that’s something that livestock judging teaches you that as well. You’re on the road, constantly it seems, so you’re always having to get caught up on homework and get your classwork out of the way,” he explains.

033

regina spring show

FEB 25 - 28 » REGINA, SASKATCHEWAN Photos: Rural Route Creations (a division of Dorran Marketing Inc).

Reserve Champion Steer Brayden Schmidt

Grand Champion Steer Emily Geisel

Reserve Champion Heifer, Champion Commercial Preslie Schmidt

Grand Champion Heifer, Champion Angus Kodie Doetzel

Reserve Angus

Reserve Commercial

Champion Charolais

Champion Hereford

Champion Interbreed

Champion Red Angus

Champion Shorthorn

Reserve Charolais

Reserve Hereford

Reserve Interbreed

Reserve Red Angus

Reserve Shorthorn

Mason Beck

Halle Vermeulen 034

Michelle Hordos

Kylee Dixon

Casie Brokenshire

Angus Smyth

Dean Bennett

Cody Cockburn

Lauren Blair

Top Stock Magazine / Show Results

Baxter Blair

Rylan Knupp

Dustin Spencer

gmack

MARCH 5 + 6 » LLOYDMINSTER, ALBERTA Photos: Grant Rolston Photography Ltd.

Grand Champion Open Steer Kord Phillips

Grand Champion Junior Steer Madison Sibbald

Grand Champion Open Heifer Ty-D Livestock

Grand Champion Junior Heifer Lexi Wirsta

Reserve Open Steer, Reserve Junior Steer Trinity Martin

Champion Simmental Sadie Anwender

Reserve Open Heifer

Kelsey Knott, 4K Land & Cattle Company

Reserve Junior Heifer Jennifer Jones

Reserve Simmental

Cooper Brokenshire Top Stock Magazine / Show Results

035

london junior beef expo

MARCH 19 + 20 » LONDON, ONTARIO Photos: Barn Girls Photography

3rd Overall, Champ Crossbred Clay Howe

Champion Breeding Female & Angus Jenna Mattatall

4th Overall, Reserve Angus Kade Earley

5th Overall, Reseve Crossbred Whitney Ball

Reserve Champion Breeding Female & Champion Hereford Maggi Murray

Champion Charolais

Champion Galloway

Champion Limousin

Champion Maine-Anjou

Reserve Charolais

Reserve Galloway

Reserve Limousin

Reserve Maine-Anjou

Dylan Black

Victoria McEldon 036

Shelby McIlwraith

Shelby McIlwraith

Megan Priddle

Abbey Gibson

Ashley Higgins

Brittney Weber

Top Stock Magazine / Show Results

Champion Mainetainer Jordan Phillips

Reserve Maintainer

Cole MacPherson

london junior beef expo

MARCH 19 + 20 » LONDON, ONTARIO Photos: Barn Girls Photography

3rd Overall Market Animal Kade Earley

Champion Market Animal Samantha McNeil

4th Overall Market Animal Scott Barfett

5th Overall Market Animal Braeden Weppler

Reserve Champion Market Animal Emily Duenk

Champion Shorthorn Layton Chamberlain

Champion ShorthornPlus Ashley Higgins

Champion Simmental Kade Earley

Champion Percentage Simmental Amanda Scott

Champion Speckle Park Brooklyn Metcalfe

Reserve Percentage Simmental Samantha

McNeil

Reserve Speckle Park Mac Watson

Reserve Shorthorn Jacob Bott

Reserve ShorthornPlus Reegan Sawyer

Reserve Simmental Kade Earley

Reserve Hereford Daniel Barfett

Top Stock Magazine / Show Results

037

chinook jr stock show

MARCH 30 » CLARESHOLM, ALBERTA Photos: Grant Rolston Photography Ltd.

Reserve Champion Steer Cassidy Wise

Grand Champion Steer Bailey Wauters

Reserve Champion Purebred Heifer Reegan

McLeod

Grand Champion Purebred Heifer Garrett Lundago

Reserve Champion Commercial Heifer Jacey Massey

Champion Junior Showmanship Hailey Sibbald Reserve Junior Showmanship Justin Leeson Champion Int Showmanship Jacey Massey Reserve Int Showmanship Jett Jones Champion Senior Showmanship Kathryn Dolliver Reserve Senior Showmanship Jill McLerie

Grand Champion Commercial Heifer Jade Sibbald 038

Top Stock Magazine / Show Results

prospect 2000

APRIL 3 » KAMLOOPS, BC Photos: Grant Rolston Photography Ltd.

Champion Jackpot Steer, Champion Youth Steer Paige Thompson

Reserve Jackpot Steer, Reserve Youth Steer Mathew Erichuk

Reserve Jackpot Heifer Allison Speller

Photos: Prairieland Park

Luke Webb

Reserve Youth Heifer Mathew Mcgillivray

saskatchewan beef expo

APRIL 9 » SASKATOON, SK

Grand Champion Steer

Champion Jackpot Heifer, Champion Youth Heifer Amanda

McGillivray

Reserve Champion Steer Waylon Blacklock

Grand Champion Heifer Emily Froelich

Top Stock Magazine / Show Results

Reserve Champion Heifer Kylie Willms

039

making champions

APRIL 10 » LACOMBE, ALBERTA Photos: Vintage Studios: Jenna Donnelly

Reserve Champion Heifer Jacey Massey

Grand Champion Steer Kailey Brandl

Reserve Champion Steer Jacey Massey

Grand Champion Heifer Riley Pashulka

Top 5 Steers (no particular order) Devon Scott, Kailey Brandl, Kord Phillips, Jacey Massey, Tell Calvert with judge Kirk Stierwalt 040

Top Stock Magazine / Show Results

APRIL 16 » OLDS, ALBERTA Photos: Kim Matthews

canada's richest youth show Grand Champion Steer Toby Noble

Grand Champion Heifer Riley Pashulka

Reserve Champion Steer Paige Thompson

Reserve Champion Heifer Toby Noble Top Stock Magazine / Show Results

041

olds spring classic

APRIL 17 » OLDS, ALBERTA Photos: Grant Rolston Photography Ltd.

Reserve Open Steer Lilly Howell

Champion Open Steer Toby Noble

Reserve Junior Steer Jacey Massey

Champion Junior Steer Bailey Wauters

Reserve Open Heifer Jacey Massey

Champion Open Heifer Cottage Lake / Boss Cattle 042

Top Stock Magazine / Show Results

olds spring classic

APRIL 17 » OLDS, ALBERTA Photos: Grant Rolston Photography Ltd.

Reserve Junior Heifer Toby Noble

Champion Junior Heifer Hailey Sibbald

manitoba winter fair

APRIL 1 » BRANDON, MB Photos: Jay-Dean Smyth

Reserve Jackpot Heifer Levi Rimke

Champion Jackpot Heifer Justin Carvey Champion Market Steer

Reserve Junior Prospect Steer

Champ Boys & Girls Calf Feeding Competition Justin Cavey

Reserve Market Steer

Champion Open Prospect Steer

Reserve Boys & Girls Calf Feeding Competition Cindy Jack

Champion Junior Prospect Steer

Reserve Open Prospect Steer

Dallas Johnston

Justin Williamson Nolan Glover

Katie Folconer Nolan Glover

Emily Sebastian

Top Stock Magazine / Show Results

043

island spring beef show

APR 29 - MAY 1 » VANCOUVER ISLAND, BC Photos: Erin Campbell

Reserve Champion Steer Brandon Koch

Grand Champion Steer Paige Thompson

Reserve Champion Heifer Paige Thompson

1st Year Showmanship

Peyton Haslam (1st), Owen Henchen (2nd)

Grand Champion Female Cailyn Campbell

Junior Showmanship

Int Showmanship

Sr & Supreme Showmanship Paige Thompson

Junior Fitting Cardel Dick

Team Fitting Cailyn Campbell,

Reserve Jr Showmanship

Res Int Showmanship

Res Sr & Res Supreme Showmanship Cailyn Campbell

Int Fitting Joel Robinson

Reserve Team Fitting

Makenna Reimer

William Martin 044

Brooklyn Nielsen

Sydney Brown

(1st), Makenna Reimer (2nd)

(1st), Lexi Robinson (2nd)

Top Stock Magazine / Show Results

Will Guarasci, Peyton Haslam

Billy Paul, Jace Webster, Makenna Reimer

MAY 7 » WELDON, SASKATCHEWAN Photos: Colleen and Myles Hansen

Grand Champion Steer Tristen Franc

weldon junior show

Grand Champion Heifer Brittany Hunt

EARLY FALL ISSUE BOOKING DEADLINE

July 25, 2016 Reserve Champion Steer Alex Manson

Reserve Champion Heifer Megan Hunt

Top Stock Magazine / Show Results

045

se club calf cruz

MAY 14 » WEYBURN, SASKATCHEWAN Photos: Carla Fellner

Grand Champion Heifer Cooper Brokenshire

Grand Champion Steer Heather Leblanc

EARLY FALL ISSUE BOOKING DEADLINE

July 25, 2016 Reserve Champion Steer Toby Noble

Reserve Champion Heifer Carson Liebreich

L E T U S G E T Y O U

4th Annual Sale

ONEcloser STEP to

NOVEMBER 12 • 2016

SUCCESS Watch for calves in our 2016 sale sired by Who Made Who, I Believe, Renegade Blues, Chore Boy, Walks Alone, Pretty Snazzy, Dub Step, Choppin Wood, and Bandwagon

Walking herd sires Next of Kin and Phillips Black Jack

who made who x halle berry

ARCH

HOLDINGS 046

Ryan, Sara & Jack Archdekin Speers, SK 306.246.9992 archholdings@hotmail.com

Canadian Semen Reps

Top Stock Magazine / Show Results

Visitors Always welcme

lord of the ring

MAY 15 » ESTEVAN, SASKATCHEWAN Photos: Royalty Images Shelby King

Reserve Champion Steer Toby Noble

Grand Champion Steer Emily Geisel

Reserve Champion Heifer Carson Liebreich

Grand Champion Heifer Lincoln Schmidt

2015 AGRIBITION

show results

CORRECTION FROM MARCH ISSUE

Top Stock Magazine / Show Results

Junior Beef Extreme All Breeds Champion Female Nolan Blair

047

ufa country classic

MAY 29 » JOSEPHBURG, ALBERTA Photos: Grant Rolston Photography Ltd.

Reserve Open Steer Jacey Massey, New Trend Cattle

Champion Open Steer Lilly Howell, Fairland Cattle

Reserve Open Heifer Halley Adams, Ter-Ron Farms

Reserve Open Heifer Shallaine Daley, Southpaw Cattle Company

Reserve Junior Female Jade Sibbald

Grand Champion Junior Female Kailey Brandl 048

Top Stock Magazine / Show Results

MAY 29 » JOSEPHBURG, ALBERTA Photos: Grant Rolston Photography Ltd.

ufa country classic

Reserve Junior Steer Kailey Brandl

Champion Junior Steer Jaxon Payne

bruno lion's jackpot

JUNE 4 » BRUNO, SK Photos: Dawn Dust

Grand Champion Steer Andie Hadway, Maguire Blair & Brayden

Schmidt

Reserve Champion Steer Maguire Blair

Grand Champion Heifer Kylie Willms

Reserve Champion Heifer Brittany Hunt Top Stock Magazine / Show Results

049

heartland classic

JUNE 11 » STETTLER, ALBERTA Photos: Christine Boake Photography

Reserve Champion Steer Sadee Howell

Grand Champion Steer Toby Noble

Reserve Purebred Heifer Lexi Dietrich

Champion Purebred Heifer Kasey Adams

Reserve Commercial Heifer Trinity Martin

Champion Purebred Heifer Cache McLerie 050

Top Stock Magazine / Show Results

acme ag society steer show

JUNE 18 » ACME, ALBERTA Photos: Christine Boake Photography

Reserve Champion Steer Megan McLeod

Grand Champion Steer Toby Noble, Andie Hadway

SHOW RESULTS LISTED FREE

Attention Event Organizers! We will run your show results for free! Simply email your results and high resolution pictures of your champions to info@topstockmagazine.com

Top Stock Magazine / Show Results

051

Crossing Creek Cattle CLUB CALVES & CLIINICS

052

Top Stock Magazine / Summer 2016

WORDS BY PIPER WHELAN

“You have the opportunity to meet different people along the way, have a good time and promote your breed. I met so many people that I either bought animals from or asked advice from along the way.”

054

• Bailey McConnell on breed junior shows

Top Stock Magazine / Summer 2016

With a 15-year show career under her belt, McConnell speaks on

calling FINDING HER

IN THE SHOW RING

B

ailey McConnell has had a diverse upbringing in the agriculture world.

The 21-year-old cattle enthusiast was raised around a variety of livestock, shaping her after-school activities and her dreams for the future. “My sister and I grew up around both beef and dairy cattle.

My mom was the one who had the beef and my dad had the dairy herd,” she explains.

“We have showed both, and my sister still shows dairy heifers. I like showing both, but I just prefer showing beef.”

The McConnell family farms at Kincardine, Ontario, where they run Dunrovin Acres, a dairy farm, and McConnell Livestock, their beef operation.

“We have about 65 registered Brown Swiss cows, and then we have about 75,000 broilers chickens,” McConnell explains.

“We have about 700 acres of cash crop, and then a few riding horses and old retired Thoroughbred horses.” Their small beef herd consists of purebred Limousin and commercial cattle.

“When I started showing cattle, my mom had a herd of purebred Limousin cows and that's how I started into showing breeding females,” says McConnell. “My mom had showed steers throughout her 4-H career and I wanted to show a steer one year and have never looked back.” While she has always been a fan of showing steers, she is also building her own herd through show female purchases. “Our herd is a work-

in-progress and our motto around here is ‘quality before quantity.’ It all takes time,” she continues. “We may not purchase show heifers every year, but when we attend prospect sales and purebred sales and we see one that we like, we may purchase her.”

Over her 15-year show career, McConnell has claimed championships at local, county and provincial shows, in addition to national titles at junior breed shows.

“One of our favourite wins was way back in 2003 in London at the Canadian Junior Limousin Conference, where we had the Champion Heifer Calf. At the next Canadian Junior Limousin Conference that was held in Ontario in 2007, we exhibited the Champion Overall Market Animal,” she says. “In 2008, I was Reserve Overall Show-person at Junior Beef Expo in London.” Together, McConnell and her sister won their 4-H steer show five years in a row, and had the champion steer at the 2012 National Angus Junior Showdown in Lindsay, ON. At the 2012 Royal Winter Fair, they raised the Champion Market Heifer in the Queen’s Guineas Show.

“Last year, at Youth Forum in Markham, ON, I was lucky enough to be selected as the Champion Show-person, and also exhibited the Champion Market Animal as well as the Reserve Overall Female.”

McConnell has travelled across Canada and the United States to exhibit cattle.

Top Stock Magazine / Summer 2016

055

"Our herd is a work-inprogress and our motto around here is quality before quantity. It all takes time."

• Bailey McConnell

Below McConnell showing at the 2015 London Junior Beef Expo ©© Barn Girls Photography

“One of my favourite parts is getting experience with cattle and travelling the places that you do,” she says. A regular at Ontario’s most famous livestock exhibition, McConnell considers the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in Toronto to be one of the shows that she most looks forward to each year. This January, she added another historic show to her list of favourites when she headed to the National Western Stock Show in Denver, Colorado, with a steer and heifer in tow.

“National Western is probably one of my all-time favourite shows as well. It’s hard to beat those two,” she says.

The heifer that McConnell showed in Denver this year, a Shorthorn Plus female 056

called Shorty Get Down, is one of her most treasured show animals. “She’s definitely near and dear to my heart,” she says. This heifer was bred by Brad Miller of Miller Livestock at Kerwood, ON. “I was asked to show her for him,” says McConnell. “We like to show another animal besides our Queen’s Guineas Steer and I had never shown a heifer as my 4-H project, so when the opportunity came, I decided to take it.” This heifer was sold to an operation in Ohio after the National Western, and McConnell says that she “earned a spot on the mantle in my house.”

It was with this special heifer in Toronto’s storied show ring last November that McConnell achieved what she considers to Top Stock Magazine / Summer 2016

be one of her most memorable successes, taking top honours in showmanship at the Royal’s National Junior Beef Heifer Show.

“That was my first year showing at the heifer show,” she explains. “I’ve exhibited at the Royal for many, many years. I usually took my steers to the Queen’s Guineas show, but my steer wasn’t quite ready this year.”

the practice of showing two animals as a pair. “We’re totally not used to having another person that we have to be in sync with. I found that kind of neat because you’re not just worrying about yourself and your animal and the other people around you, but you also have a partner to focus on as well,” she says. “It was such a neat experience.”

By winning Grand Champion Showman, McConnell was in the running for a place on the Canadian team headed to the 2016 National Young Show Stars competition in England. The team is selected from the top three intermediate and senior showmen in the National Junior Beef Heifer Show, and after an essay component to the selection, McConnell was chosen for the team. Along with teammates Alexa Avelar of East Garafraxa, ON, and Megan Foubert of Kemptville, ON, McConnell travelled to England in late March for this competition. Team Canada competed against 17 other beef teams, putting their skills to the test by adapting to the grooming and showmanship techniques used in British beef shows. One of the biggest differences, McConnell notes, was

This is just one of the many experiences over the years that have allowed McConnell to develop and use her teamwork skills. She considers teamwork to be one of the most vital lessons she’s learned by working with livestock. “I could not have done anything or gone anywhere … without the success I’ve had through teamwork with my mom, my dad and my sister, and also my friends that I’ve made along the way,” she says. To be able to compete at a high level, McConnell recognizes the role that her many mentors have played in her life. This is primarily her parents, as well as close neighbours and friends who have taught her much and made a difference throughout her show career. “I can always count on having all my mentors help me. No matter where

Top Stock Magazine / Summer 2016

Left top, bottom and above McConnell and Shorty Get Down were an unstoppable team, claiming the Overall Showmanship title at the 2015 Royal as well as many other championships. ©© Grant Rolston Photography (left) and ShowChampions (above)

057

©© Barn Girls Photography

comes for taking over the family farm.

I’m glad I went to school for agriculture to better understand and learn the industry,” she explains.

"I like being criticized and learning from what I've been told to do better... not just in the cattle industry, but in life in general."

• Bailey McConnell ©© Juanita Elmhirst

I am or whose cattle I’m showing, they can lend a helping hand.” Another skill she considers to be very valuable is the ability to use constructive criticism for self-development. “I like being criticized and learning from what I’ve been told to do better and expanding from what I’ve learned along the way to make myself better — not just in the cattle industry, but in life in general.”

She plans to focus her future on agriculture, and to carry on her family’s name in the business. “One day I hope 058

to take over the family farm, and keep showing cattle … and get our name out there for our purebred [cattle],” she says proudly. “For our herd, we are hoping right now to produce show contenders as well as replacement females, but leaning more towards the show females.”

McConnell, who studied agriculture at the University of Guelph’s Ridgetown Campus, now works full time on the family farm. “[My education] has absolutely helped me around the farm and it has and will definitely come in handy when the day Top Stock Magazine / Summer 2016

Everything McConnell has worked at in exhibiting cattle has helped to prepare her for this future. One of the things that has taken her further on this path is competing in junior Limousin and Angus shows, which was particularly important to her growing up. Exhibiting cattle in junior breed shows, she believes, is instrumental in developing a passion for agriculture and planning for a future in the beef industry, as she is. “You have the opportunity to meet different people along the way, have a good time and promote your breed,” she states. “I met so many people that I either bought animals from or asked advice from along the way.” And the best advice she’s received while on this journey? “It is to never give up. Through the ups and downs in the show industry, never give up!”

Maine - Anjou

“The Maine Advantage”

“Supporting youth, our future industry leaders!”

Synergy - July 11-17, 2016 Westerner Days Fair & Exposition - July 20-24, 2016

Canadian Maine-Anjou Association 5160 Skyline Way N.E. Calgary, AB T2E 6V1 Phone: 403-291-7077 email: cmaa@maine-anjou.ca www.maine-anjou.ca facebook.com/CanadianMaine-AnjouAssociation

Bid-Off Sale

October 1

OPEN HOUSE + SOCIAL View the cattle and enjoy our sale hospitality!

Lazy RC Angus

G2 Cattle Co

Maplehurst Farms

Russ 306.859.7726

Benji 306.421.0421

Tim 204.871.0996

Schlacter Simmentals

Blairs West Land & Cattle

Regan 306.231.9758

Maguire 306.365.7799

find us on the web www.topstockmagazine.com

SEPTEMBER SEPT

10

SEPT

11

SEPT

17

SEPT

18

SEPT

21

SEPT

24

SEPT

24

SEPT

24

UPCOMING SHOWS + EVENTS

Shadybrook Shorthorns "Maternal Excellence" Sale

SEPT

25

West Brome, QC

Miller Show Cattle Online Steer & Heifer Sale

SEPT 30

-

OCT 2

Cremona, AB

Wise Maine Anjou Ranch Open House

OCT

08

Irricana, AB

Rocky Coulee Steer & Heifer Sale

OCT

14

Airdrie, AB

Rasmuson Cattle Steer & Heifer Sale

OCT

29

Midale, SK

Dun-Rite "Brothers from Different Mothers" Sale

NOV

12

Bentley, AB

Hiller Hay Farm "Colours of Fall" Steer & Heifer Sale

NOV

19

Calmar, AB

Lone Star Angus / Rock Star Cattle "Backdrop Bound" Sale

show results

2015 LLOYDMINSTER STOCKADE ROUND-UP

JULY

Sylvan Lake, AB

13-16

"Take the Lead" Steer & Heifer Sale

JULY

Hepburn, SK

Horner & Rawluk "Back to Class" Sale

17

JULY

Red Deer

JULY

Vibank, SK

20-24

Lazy MC & SSS Red Angus Cowgirls Sale

JULY

Calgary, AB

21-24

"November Gold" Steer & Heifer Sale

JULY

Saskatoon, SK

21-24

Dun-Rite Stock & Stables "Leading Ladies"

JULY

Online only

28-30 JULY

29-31 JULY

29-31 2-6

AUG

9-13

Champion Speckle Park Female

Ravenworth Cattle

AUG

17-20 AUG

20-20 AUG

20-20 SEPT 30

-

Ravenworth Cattle

Calgary, AB

Red Deer, AB

AUG

Reserve Speckle Park Bull

Calgary Stampede Junior Steer Classic

Lone Pine Cattle "Hereford Harvest Sale"

Morinville, AB

Johner Stock Farm, H&S Land & Cattle

Lloydminster, AB

Minnedosa, MB

Crossing Creek Cattle Steer & Heifer Sale

Champion Speckle Park Bull

Lloydminster Colonial Days

20-24 Westerner Days

OMISSIONS FROM MARCH ISSUE (SORRY!)

062

UPCOMING SHOWS + EVENTS

Reserve Speckle Park Female Riverhill Farm

Top Stock Magazine / Summer 2016

OCT 2

Canadian National Junior Shorthorn Show Red Deer, AB

Young Canadian Simmental National Classic Lloydminster, AB

Maple-Ridge/Pitt Meadows Countryfest Maple Ridge, BC

Canadian National Junior Angus Showdown Truro, NS

Canadian National Junior Limousin Show Lloydminster, AB

Manitoba Youth Round-up Neepawa, MB

Prince Albert Exhibition Summer Fair Prince Albert, SK

Canadian National Junior Hereford Bonanza Olds, AB

Canadian National Junior All-Breeds Show Bashaw, AB

RK Show Supplies Stock Show University Lindsay, ON

Interior Provincial Exhibition Armstrong, BC

Olds Fall Classic Olds, AB

RASMUSON CATTLE ONLINE SALE

sept

hosted by SCONLINESALES.COM

21

Congratulations Toby Noble for your success with the steer you purchased from us in last years sale as Lot 4!

Grand Champion Steer at Canada’s Richest Youth Show • Olds Spring Classic • Jr Steer Bashaw Spring Roundup • Hillmond Achievement Day • Lloydminster 4-H Expo • Stettler Heartland Classic Jr Show • Acme Jackpot Show Reserve Steer at Weyburn Club Calf Cruze • Estevan Lord of the Rings

SOLD AS LOT 4 IN LAST YEAR’S SALE!

FULL SIBS TO THIS MANY TIMES CHAMPION SELL!

TYSON, CHANTAL, BRYLAN & EVERLEIGH RASMUSON ET & AI SIRED CALVES BY MONOPOLY, THRILLER, ITALLION STALLION AND WTW WATCH FOR UPDATES ON RASMUSON CATTLE FACEBOOK AND TWITTER

MIDALE, SK, CANADA (only 7.5 hrs from Ree Heights/Highmore, SD)

TYSON’S CELL: 1.306.458.7544

www.facebook.com/topstockmagazine

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Arch Holdings Club Cattle

46

Horner Cattle

Blairs West Land & Cattle

61

Janssen Cattle Co.

Canadian Maine-Anjou Association

60

53 9

Rawluk Livestock

53

RK Cattle Co

32

JT Livestock Ltd.

59

RK Animal Supplies

15

Chinook Junior Stock Show

12

Lazy RC Angus

61

Rocky Coulee Ranch

3

Crossing Creek Cattle

52

Lazy MC Angus

45

Rock Star Cattle

Davis-Rairdan

65

Lone Pine Cattle Services

14

Schlacter Simmentals

Dorran Marketing Inc.

47

Lucky Springs Farms

13

Shadybrook Shorthorns

Dun-Rite Stock And Stables

10

Maplehurst Farms

61

Spady Farms

G2 Cattle

61

Masterfeeds

64

SSS Red Angus

45

Genex

25

Miller Show Cattle

6

The Cliffs Farm

61

Grand Valley Fortifiers

52

Nu-Haven Cattle

11

Townsend Show Cattle

IFC

Greenwood Limousin & Angus

61

Olds Regional Exhibition

24

UFA Junior Steer Classic

BC

High Country Cattle Services

11

Piwarski Show Cattle

61

Wise Maine Anjou Ranch

51

Hiller Hay Farms

11

Rasmuson Cattle

63

IFC 61 IBC 8

“Masterfeeds supplies a consistent product that puts you in the winner’s circle... and a sales team that feels like family!”

Denise Lafrentz, Wheatland Cattle Company, Saskatchewan

“Masterfeeds is the only brand we trust when getting our cattle ready. It just works.”

Chase Miller, Miller Show Cattle, Alberta

HIGH ENERGY DIETS THAT WORK TOWARDS THE BIG DAY. ShowStopper rations are formulated to supply increasingly more energy dense diets as animals work towards the big day – putting on pounds efficiently until you are ready to maintain the show day target weight. Masterfeeds textured show rations contain a blend of rolled grains, pelleted protein, beet pulp, yeast, high levels of vitamins and chelated minerals.

Formulated with natural and artificial flavors to enhance intake.

Nutrition Programs des

064

Top Stock Magazine / Summer 2016

Mastereeds Supreme Beef Show Champion, The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair 2014 NJW 73S W18 Downhome 21ZET, Lyons Polled Herefords, Dalmuir Farms, Ned & Jan Ward

signed to help Canadian Cattlemen achieve performance and profits.

Top Stock Magazine / Summer 2016

065

S hadybrooK

M a t e r n a l

e x c e l l e n c e

P R O D U C T I O N S A L E on S AT U R D AY S E P T E M B E R 1 0 , 2 0 1 6

SBF HOT SHOT 88A

2015 Canadian National Champion Bull!

His Get & Service will be a feature in the Maternal Excellence Production Sale!

Calving Ease with style, depth and quality!

Sired by the proven Hot Commodity

SBF GOLDEN 81A

$10,000 top selling bred heifer from the 2014 Decades of Excellence Sale to Horseshoe Creek Farms. She was purchased carrying HC Cruiser 59C, sired by Hot Shot, the $16,000 top seller in the 2016 Sun Country Bull Sale!

SBF ISOBEL 25A & SHADYBROOK ISOBELLA 57C 2015 Canadian National Champion Female! Isobella 57C is sired by Hot Shot!

SBF ISABELLA 8Y

SBF Isabella 8Y, purchased at $4,750 by Cates Farms in the 2012 Decades of Excellence sale. She & her heifer calf totaled $31,500 in the 2015 Cates Farms Production Sale.

www.shadybrook.ca Laurence Pathy Lloyd Wright, Manager • Kevin Dempsey, Herdsman 19 Soles Road, West Brome, Quebec, CAN p 450.263.7137 f 450.263.8621 e shadybrookshorthorns@gmail.com Sale management by Sears Marketing Services … 970.396.7521 … alan.sears@aksears.com

Your

OppOrtunity

TO OWN FEMALES FROM THE HEART OF A PROGRAM THAT HAS PRODUCED

Top Sellers & National Champions

SBF GOLD MAID 70X

2015 Reserve Champion Female, Canadian Western Agribition The $20,000 top seller from our 2014 Decades of Excellence Sale purchased by Dixon Farms, AB. with calf at side, DF Sweetgrass 9-C, sired by Waukaru Patent 8161.

SUTHERLAND JANET 42W

The dam of SBF WHR Janet 65Z, who was the $7,750 selling open heifer to John Elliot, Scotland from our 2012 Decades of Excellence Sale. Janet 65Z is the dam of HC Bedrock 73B, the $14,000 second-high selling bull in the 2016 Sun Country Bull Sale.

SBF PERFECT MILLIE 23X

POPLAR LANE CHAMPAGNE 63A

2013 Calf Champion Female, Royal Winter Fair.

2011 Canadian National Champion Female.

Sold for $17,500 for one-half interest to Cyclone Trace The $28,500 top seller from our 2013 ‘Power Of Cattle Company, IA in the 2014 Decades of Excellence Excellence’ Online Sale, to Poplar Lane Farms, ON. Sale. One of the most prized donors at Shadybrook & Cyclone Trace.

www.shadybrook.ca Laurence Pathy Lloyd Wright, Manager • Kevin Dempsey, Herdsman 19 Soles Road, West Brome, Quebec, CAN p 450.263.7137 f 450.263.8621 e shadybrookshorthorns@gmail.com Sale management by Sears Marketing Services … 970.396.7521 … alan.sears@aksears.com

2017 Junior Steer Classic show will be oriented to youth competitors 9 - 21 years. This is part of the Stampede’s commitment to developing our next generation of agriculture advocates.

From the class winners, one will be crowned Grand Champion Steer and earn $12,000 in scholarships and $5,000 in prize money. 2017 marks the 34th Anniversary of the Junior Steer Classic.

For more information, please visit us at calgarystampede.com/ag.