UNITED IN HEREFORD WELCOME
TO THE U.S.A.
On behalf of the American Hereford Association (AHA) and National Junior Hereford Association, we couldn’t be more excited to welcome young Hereford cattlemen and women from around the globe to the World Hereford Conference Young Breeders Competition (YBC). Team USA was proud to be part of the first YBC during the 2020 New Zealand World Hereford Conference and we are honored to host you on U.S. soil for the second historic event.
This year’s competition features 11 teams from seven countries. As you flip through the pages of this program guide, you will meet each of the teams and the young Hereford breeders who will be vying for champion honors and their countries bragging rights.
This is a unique opportunity for the best of the best from across the continents to compete in a range of real-world competitions related to day-to-day beef cattle production and Hereford seedstock production and marketing. Whether you love to judge livestock, have an interest in the carcass side of the industry or have a passion for showing Herefords, this contest has something for you.
We’re thrilled to bring this world-class event to a land grant university like Kansas State University (K-State). As a special highlight, competitors will be among the first to experience K-State’s new Bilbrey Family Events Center. After our time at K-State, teams head to Kansas City for the final leg of competition at the American Royal Livestock Show that began as a Hereford show back in 1899. This year’s American Royal is truly special and the Young Breeders Competition will be part of history as the nation’s oldest livestock show celebrates its final event in the iconic West Bottoms, home to the Kansas City Stockyards from 1871 to 1991. Next fall, the tradition continues in a brandnew home, marking an exciting new chapter on fresh soil.
Join me in thanking industry leaders and partners, Merck Animal Health®, VitaFerm, Sullivan Supply and the Kansas Department of Agriculture who have come together to bring this premier event to life. Together we welcome you and will be cheering you on from the sidelines as you compete, learn and lead the Hereford breed to new heights. Let the competition begin.
Regards,
Amy Cowan Director of Youth Activities & Foundation American Hereford Association
ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW
ABOUT THE
Competition
industry practicums & Hereford Bowl | 1,250 points
This module is made up of three parts, plus the results of the Hereford Bowl, with the scores of each added up to the total score for the practicum portion. Scores for all of these aspects will be delivered as a team.
1. Herd Health & Animal Handling presented by Merck Animal Health
2. Cattle Scoring Practicum
• A cattle scoring contest gives participants the chance to evaluate and score individual cattle on specific phenotype traits.
3. Nutrition Challenge presented by VitaFerm
• This division will challenge teams to be familiar with the nutrition and feed side of the industry.
• Experts from VitaFerm will be scoring the challenge which will consist of multiple choice and short answer questions asked.
4. Hereford Bowl — This portion is made up of two parts, a 50-question test and buzzer round for the top four teams of the test.
• The preliminary round will consist of a 50 question multiple choice test. All team members must take the test. The four teams with the highest combined team scores will compete in the buzzer rounds.
• Buzzer Match 1 is a single elimination bracket consisting of two rounds. The bracket will start with the 1st place team competing against the 4th, followed by the 2nd place team against the 3rd place team.
In the 10 question round, first to buzz may answer the question. The eight-question round consists of one-on-one questions, matching Chair 1 of the 1st place team against Chair 1 of the 4th place team and so on.
• The Final Buzzer Match will consist of three rounds. Round 1 and 2 will operate the same as Buzzer Match 1. Round 3, the Final Jeopardy Round, allows teams to work together to answer the final jeopardy question.
Teams may wager as many or as few points as they have earned up to now.
− Teams will write down the answer and the correct answer will earn the points risked, with a wrong answer deducting the points risked. Highest end score wins.
Meat Animal Evaluation | 1,300 points
With the same structure as a live cattle evaluation contest, this contest will be virtual, based off of videos featuring Hereford steers. The following day, the meat evaluation portion of this module will commence at the Kansas State University Meat Lab.
1. During the virtual cattle evaluation portion teams will evaluate composition, making carcass predictions, pricing and/or profitabilty ranks.
2. During the meats judging portion, there will be two sets of questions, no reasons.
Livestock Judging Competition | 1,600 points
Participants will be asked to evaluate classes of cattle and different species of livestock based on industry standards of soundness, muscle, structure, performance values and overall quality.
1. Six classes will be judged, followed by two sets of oral reasons.
2. There will be a minimum of 20 minutes of prep time allowed before each set of oral reasons.
Communications challenge | 500 points
Teams will be asked to work together on a presentation about Hereford genetics and the beef industry, that they will present Wednesday, Oct. 22.
1. Teams will be given all the information they need for this presentation on Monday, Oct. 20. Teams are encouraged to use any down time or off-time to work together on their research and presentation.
2. Presentations will be given to a panel of judges, along with the rest of the competitors in the Young Breeders Competition.
3. Laptop computers will be provided to each team for research and presentation.
4. A screen will also be provided to display any part of the presentation.
Team Fitting Contest | 750 points
Teams will be asked to work together to fit a Hereford heifer provided by a selected American Royal Hereford exhibitor.
1. 40 minutes will be allocated to fit heifer and after time is up, one team member will parade their animal before the judges. Judges will make comments and announce the winners.
2. Teams will be partnered with a Hereford exhibitor at the American Royal who will provide heifer for this portion of the contest. This will also provide an opportunity for networking as teams assist exhibitors as they prepare for exhibition.
3. Fitting equipment will be provided by host exhibitor and supplies will be provided by Sullivan Supply. No double blowers or lights will be allowed in this competition.
Showmanship Contest | 750 points
All members of the team will compete with their placing added into their teams score.
1. No outside assistance will be allowed during the competition.
2. If an animal gets loose from the showman three times they will be excused from the ring.
3. Selected contestants will advance out of their respective heats toward the semifinals and then onto the final round where champion and reserve champion will be selected.
See Page 22 for a complete list of awards offered in each division.
Sunday, Oct.
Time Event Description Location
2:30 p.m. Young Breeders Competition (YBC) Teams Check-In
3:30 p.m. Welcome Mixer led by Emma Ballinger and Lauren Gatz, NJHA Board of Directors
4 p.m. Depart for Kansas State University (K-State)
Hilton KC Airport, Wyandot Room
Hilton KC Airport, Wyandot Room
6 p.m. Check-in at the Holiday Inn at the Campus Holiday Inn
7 p.m. Dinner and Welcome from Dan Moser, K-State Interim Dean, College of Agriculture K-State Alumni Center
Monday, Oct. 20, 2025
6:30 a.m. Breakfast Buffet Available Holiday Inn
7:15 a.m. Depart Hotel Holiday Inn
7:30 a.m. Hereford Bowl Written Test Stout Center
8:15 a.m. Virtual Cattle Evaluation, steers donated from HRC Feed Yards LLC Stout Center
9 a.m. Industry Practicums Bilbrey Family Event Center
Noon Lunch Stout Center
12:30p.m. Livestock Judging Contest & Oral Reasons Bilbrey Family Event Center
5:15 p.m. Depart Stanley Stout Center
5:30 p.m. Tour at K-State Athletics Vanier Family Football Complex
7 p.m. Team Photos, Dinner and guest speaker Justin McKee, The Cowboy Channel Shamrock South Endzone | Bill Snyder Stadium
Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2025
6:30 a.m. Breakfast Buffet Available Holiday Inn
7:30 a.m. Depart Hotel Holiday Inn
8 a.m. Tour National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility NBAF
9 a.m. Depart NBAF for K-State Stocker Unit
9:30 a.m. Tour K-State Stocker Unit with Dale Blasi Stocker Unit
11:15 a.m. Hereford Bowl Buzzer Round Stout Center
Noon Lunch Stanley Stout Center
12:45p.m. Depart Stanley Stout Center
1 p.m. Meat Evaluation Contest K-State Meat Lab
3:30 p.m. Depart K-State Meat Lab
4:30 p.m. Tour of Spring Hill Herefords Spring Hill Herefords
6 p.m. Dinner at the Round Barn with guest speakers, Angie Denton, Drovers and Jarrod Gillig, Cargill Spring Hill Herefords
2025 competition SCHEDULE
Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2025
7 a.m. Breakfast Buffet Available Holiday Inn
8:45 a.m. Depart Hotel Holiday Inn
9 a.m. Communications Challenge Presentations Stout Center Noon Lunch Stout Center
1 p.m. Depart Manhattan, Kan.
3:30 p.m. Check-in at World Hereford Conference hotel Kansas City Marriott
5:15 p.m. Depart Hotel
6 p.m. The Welcome Beef Festival AHA Headquarters
Thursday, Oct. 23, 2025
7 a.m. Continental Breakfast and Trade Show Opens Basie Foyer | Marriott
8 a.m. World Hereford Conference Educational Sessions Basie Ballroom | Marriott
10:30 a.m. Depart for the American Royal Complex
11 a.m. Sullivan Supply Educational Clinic American Royal
12:30p.m. Young Breeders Pizza Luncheon American Royal
1 p.m. Team Fitting & Showmanship heifer assignments American Royal | Wagstaff
3 p.m. Depart for The Chosen Sale
5 p.m. Jensen Ranch’s The Chosen Sale Louisburg, Kan.
Friday, Oct. 24, 2025
7 a.m. Continental Breakfast and Trade Show Opens Basie Foyer | Marriott
7:30 a.m. Depart for the American Royal Complex
11 a.m. Return to the Kansas City Marriott Downtown Noon Shaping the Breed’s Future Luncheon presented by VitaFerm Basie Ballroom| Marriott
2 - 4 p.m. World Hereford Conference Educational Sessions Basie Ballroom | Marriott
5:15 p.m. Depart for Arrowhead Stadium
6 p.m. Global Celebratory Gala Arrowhead Stadium
SATURDAY, Oct. 25, 2025
7 a.m. Breakfast Buffet Basie Ballroom | Marriott
8 a.m. AHA Annual Membership Meeting Basie Ballroom | Marriott
11 a.m. Depart for the American Royal
1 p.m. Young Breeders Competition Fitting and Showmanship presented by Sullivan Supply American Royal | Hale Arena
2 p.m. American Royal National Junior Hereford Show American Royal | Hale Arena
6 p.m. Young Breeders Competition Awards Ceremony American Royal | Wagstaff
6:30 p.m. Ladies of the Royal International Edition Sale American Royal | Wagstaff
YOUR GUIDE TO EXPLORE.
HOTEL
MANHATTAN, KAN.
HOLIDAY INN AT THE CAMPUS
1641 Anderson Ave., Manhattan, KS 665202
+1 (785) 539-7531
KANSAS CITY, MO
KANSAS CITY MARRIOTT DOWNTOWN
200 West 12th St., Kansas City, MO 64105
+1 (816)421-6800
All contestants were emailed their hotel accommodation confirmation numbers prior to the event. Please refer to that list for details.
thank you hotel sponsor
Kansas Department of Agriculture has generously sponsored the hotels for the Young Breeders Competition while we are in Manhattan, Kan.
STAFF CONTACTS
AMY COWAN | +1 (816) 810-5279
Director of Youth Activities & Foundation
American Hereford Association
BAILEY CLANTON | +1 (913) 449-4699
National Shows Coordinator & Youth Activities Assistant
American Hereford Association
CHLOÉ DURIAN | +1 (530) 524-0268
Associate Director of Youth Marketing & Education
American Hereford Association
CLAIRE NORRIS | +1 (785) 727-3646
Youth Activities Intern
American Hereford Association
All staff members can be reached via WhatsApp during the tour.
HEALTH & SAFETY
Dial 911 in an emergency. Local hospitals and urgent care clinics are available, and pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens often have extended hours.
Language
English is the common language in the United States of America.
Currency
The U.S. dollar (USD, $) is the official currency. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted. ATMs will be available in the cities.
ELECTRICITY
Standard U.S. voltage is 120V with a frequency of 60Hz. Power outlets use Type A and B plugs (two flat prongs, sometimes with a round grounding pin). Travelers may need an adapter or converter.
Dress & Attire
For your comfort and safety, closed-toed shoes are encouraged during all competition. Fall weather in this region can be cool and unpredictable, so we recommend dressing in layers and bringing a jacket.
TRANSPORTATION
All transportation will be provided by chartered buses. Please remain with your assigned group and board the bus at the designated times and locations listed in your itinerary. When exploring on your own, rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft, as well as taxis, are available in most urban areas.
KANSAS CITY
Hereford House Independence
19721 E Jackson Dr. Independence, MO 64057
+1 (816) 795-9200 | herefordhouse.com
Hereford House Shawnee
17244 Midland Dr. Shawnee, KS 66217
+1 (913) 268-8000 | herefordhouse.com
The Majestic
931 Broadway Blvd. Kansas City, MO 64105
+1 (816) 221-1888 | majestickc.com
Mr. Brews Taphouse
8021 Metcalf, KS 66024
+1 (913) 602-8628 | mrbrewstaphouse.com
Pierpont’s
30 West Pershing Rd. Kansas City, MO 64108
+1 (816) 221-5111 | pierponts.com
These are just a few favorite spots, with plenty more to discover. Some places take reservations, and in the U.S. it’s normal to add a tip (18–20%) plus sales tax to your bill.
11 TEAMS, 7 COUNTRIES.
meet THETeams
Team Australia
Tabby Cross
Tabby Cross, Indigo Valley, VIC, is a vibrant voice in the Australian beef industry, combining practical experience, academic knowledge, and a clear passion for the Hereford breed. Raised on her family’s cattle property in North East Victoria, Tabby now runs her own stud herd TJC Cattle Company alongside her family’s beef cattle operation. She holds a bachelor of agriculture from Charles Sturt University and works full-time as the Administration supervisor at the Barnawartha Saleyards, which processes over 120,000 head of cattle annually. With her energetic approach, commitment to lifelong learning, and dedication to breed promotion, Tabby brings a valuable blend of industry insight and enthusiasm to the 2025 World Hereford Conference Youth Team.
Lochie McLauchlan
Lochie McLauchlan, Camperdown, Victoria, has a strong foundation in both commercial operations and national-level showing. Raised on his family’s farm, Lochie has been involved in calving and managing a 70-cow herd alongside his parents from a young age. He currently works full-time on a large-scale cattle property and has recently purchased his own land to trade commercial cattle. Lochie’s dedication to the industry has taken him across North America, where he traveled under the 2024 Mathew George Young Stockman Award. He brings strong leadership, a practical skill set, and a commitment to breed promotion to the 2025 World Hereford Conference Youth Team.
Emily Taylor
Emily Taylor, Quipolly, NSW, is a passionate young leader in Australia’s beef industry with a strong focus on genetics, carcass performance, and breed education. Emily is currently in her third year of a bachelor of rural science at the University of New England and aspires to a career in animal nutrition or genetics. She founded Eclipse Poll Herefords in 2018, marketing and selling bulls through the Dubbo National Poll Hereford Show and Sale with a focus on commercial relevance. A lifelong advocate for Hereford genetics, Emily grew up on her family’s commercial beef operation, where the breed’s fertility, longevity, and crossbreeding performance stood out. An accomplished young judge and educator, she brings curiosity, leadership, and a desire to support the next generation to the 2025 World Hereford Conference Youth Team.
William Van Gend
William van Gend, O’Connell, NSW, is a dedicated young herdsman with a strong foundation in both commercial and stud cattle operations. William works full-time at Llandillo Poll Herefords, managing the show and sale barn and contributing to the daily care and presentation of Hereford cattle. After graduating from St Stanislaus’ College, William launched his own stud, Broken Bow Poll Herefords, with a current focus on building his herd. Calm, capable, and deeply committed to the Hereford breed, William brings hands-on experience, global perspective, and steady professionalism to the 2025 World Hereford Conference Youth Team.
Team Blue USA
Blake Bruns
Blake Bruns, North Platte, Neb., is a 2025 graduate of Kansas State University (K-State), where he earned a bachelor’s degree in animal sciences and industry. He currently works for National Beef as a cattle buyer trainee, viewing his role as a bridge between producers and the packing industry, serving as a voice for the value of Hereford genetics. Bruns brings extensive experience in both show and production cattle management, along with strong skills in carcass and livestock evaluation. He was a member of both the 2024 national champion livestock judging team and the national champion meat animal evaluation team at K-State. His passion for the beef industry is matched by his commitment to supporting the next generation of agricultural leaders.
Jacob Johnson
Jacob Johnson, Ruth, Miss., is a 2023 graduate of Kansas State University (K-State), where he earned a bachelor’s degree in animal sciences and industry. He now serves as an area sales manager for Premier Select Sires while also assisting with his family’s beef processing business, Genesis 31 Beef Processing. In 2022, Johnson was a member of the national champion meat animal evaluation team at K-State and competed on the livestock judging team, concluding his collegiate judging career as an All-American. He brings wellrounded experience across the beef industry, from the showring and Hereford genetics to marketing and public speaking.
Trevor Johnson
Trevor Johnson, Centerville, S.D., is a 2024 graduate of K-State with a bachelor’s degree in agribusiness. He currently works at Johnke Farms and serves as an independent contractor for both IMI Global, auditing in eastern South Dakota, and the American Hereford Association (AHA) as a commercial marketing representative. Passionate about developing future leaders in agriculture, Johnson co-founded the Evolving Ag Leaders Coalition. A peer group of 10 young men from seven states focused on growing their operations and becoming strong, forward-thinking industry leaders. In 2023, he was a member of the national champion meat animal evaluation team at K-State and previously competed on the livestock judging team at Butler Community College. Johnson brings well-rounded experience to the table, spanning the showring, animal health, nutrition, handling, breeding, marketing and public speaking.
Logan Topp
Logan Topp, Grace City, N.D., is a 2025 graduate of K-State, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in animal sciences and industry. Following graduation, he returned to his family’s operation, Topp Herefords, where he now plays a key role in both management and ownership. A member of the 2024 national champion livestock judging team and the national champion meat animal evaluation team at K-State, Topp brings experience in cattle handling, livestock evaluation, marketing and Hereford genetics. His approach is grounded in strategic thinking, attention to detail and a commitment to continuous improvement, always with the goal of adding value for the families who rely on their genetics.
Team Red USA
Ralston Braden
Ralston Braden, Kearney, Neb., is a 2022 graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL), where she earned a bachelor’s degree in animal science and agribusiness. While at UNL, she was a member of the university’s livestock judging team, further sharpening her evaluation and communication skills. She currently works for Merck Animal Health as a rancher success specialist for SenseHub Vence. A fourth-generation Hereford breeder, Braden brings extensive experience in cattle showing, animal health, livestock evaluation, cattle handling and public speaking. She was an active member of the National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA), retiring as the vice chairman on the NJHA board of directors.
JW Cox
JW Cox, Flemingsburg, Ky., graduated from Western Kentucky University with a degree in animal science and now attends the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, pursuing a doctorate in veterinary medicine. Growing up exhibiting cattle, Cox brings extensive experience in fitting, clipping and showing livestock, along with strong marketing and public speaking skills developed through selling his cattle. His knowledge of animal health practices has grown significantly during his time in veterinary school. Cox also served as chairman of the NJHA board of directors. He is actively involved in the American Association of Bovine Practitioners, the Kentucky Veterinary Medical Association student chapter and the Society for Theriogenology.
Dylan Kottkamp
Dylan Kottkamp, Clayton, Ind., is currently a graduate student at Oklahoma State University (OSU), pursuing a master’s degree in international agriculture. In 2023, at the Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE), Kottkamp was named the junior herdsman of the year and senior showmanship champion. Those achievements, along with others, exemplify his skills in fitting, showing, marketing and public speaking. He has worked for some of the largest cattle producers in the United States, helping run nearly 800 head through the sale ring, gaining hands-on experience in everything from sale preparation to daily ranch work. He currently serves as the prospective student services graduate teaching assistant for the OSU Ferguson College of Agriculture.
Tar Tut
Tar Tut, Bells, Texas, is a 2023 graduate of Texas A&M University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in agricultural communications and journalism. He now works as a territory manager in the ruminant business unit at Merck Animal Health, where he combines his passion for livestock production with industry-leading animal health solutions. Tut is a former chairman of the NJHA board of directors and also served on the National Junior Red Angus Association board, bringing years of leadership to youth in the cattle industry. He competed on livestock judging teams at both Butler Community College and Texas A&M, later coaching the Texas 4-H reserve national champion team. As a multiple-time top 10 showman at the JNHE, he’s known for his strong skills in fitting, clipping, handling and presenting cattle.
Canada
Emma Cross
Emma Cross, Camrose County, Alta., owns and operates Sundance Herefords, where she markets 2-year-old Hereford bulls both privately and through consignment sales across the province. She has been actively involved in the cattle industry, exhibiting cattle at major shows including Bonanza, Farmfair and the Alberta Hereford Showcase. A graduate of the University of Saskatchewan with a degree in animal science, Cross earned the Governor General’s Silver Medal for achieving the highest academic average among all undergraduate students in her class. She serves as the director of communications for the Canadian Hereford Association, the stakeholder engagement social media coordinator for the Canadian Cattle Association and a communications specialist for Verified Beef Production Plus.
Brandon Fraser
Brandon Fraser, Rocky View County, Alta., is a graduate research assistant at K-State, where he is pursuing a master’s of science in animal science with a focus on ruminant nutrition and reproductive physiology. Raised on a purebred Hereford operation, he remains actively involved in his family’s cattle herd. Throughout his youth, Fraser was engaged in 4-H and held leadership roles with both the Alberta Junior Hereford Association and the CJHA. He began his collegiate career at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College on a livestock judging scholarship before transferring to K-State, where he competed as a member of the livestock judging team and the national champion meat animal evaluation team.
Megan Nicholas
Megan Nicholas, Milestone, Sask., and her family own and operate McCoy Cattle Company, where they run 300 purebred Hereford and commercial cows. She graduated in 2024 from the University of Saskatchewan with a bachelor’s in education. While at university, she was an active member of the livestock judging team, serving terms as vice president and president. Nicholas also dedicated three years to the Canadian Junior Hereford Association (CJHA), including serving as president in 2024, and spent 15 years as a member of the Milestone 4-H Beef Club. She is currently employed as a mathematics and science teacher in southern Saskatchewan.
Matthew Trefiak
Matthew Trefiak, Edgerton, Alta., helps manage his family’s multi-generational seedstock operation, MJT Cattle Company, boasting 500 head of Hereford, black Angus and Charolais genetics. His family’s involvement in the Hereford breed dates back to 1945, and he has continued that legacy by successfully exhibiting cattle across Canada, earning multiple national and world champion titles. A 2019 Rebanks Family Loran Scholar, Trefiak earned his bachelor’s degree in agriculture, majoring in animal science at the University of Saskatchewan. Trefiak is passionate about connecting with industry members worldwide, fostering relationships and exploring new opportunities in genetics and the beef industry.
Team Red Coats
Team National Selects Canada
Codee Kopelchuk
Codee Kopelchuk, Canora, Sask., and her family operate PK Herefords and Angus, raising and marketing purebred horned Hereford and Red Angus seedstock. After graduating high school, she pursued further education in the United States, earning an associate of science in agriculture from Hutchinson Community College. She is currently completing her degree in animal science with a specialization in production management at South Dakota State University. Throughout her college career, Kopelchuk has been actively involved in livestock judging at both institutions, a passion that inspired her to continue her studies abroad. She views this opportunity as a privilege to showcase the quality and dedication of Canadian cattle producers while continuing to promote the industry that has shaped her life.
Emma Lees
Emma Lees, Arcola, Sask., recently graduated from the University of Saskatchewan with a bachelor of commerce degree, majoring in human resources. She and her family operate Glenlees Farm, raising purebred Hereford cattle alongside a small commercial herd. Growing up, she was actively involved in the CJHA and 4-H Canada, where her passion for cattle developed. Lees currently serves as the president of the CJHA and looks forward to representing the Canadian Hereford Association at the Young Breeders Competition.
Levi Rimke
Levi Rimke, Oaklake, Man., was raised on a purebred Hereford operation, where he remains actively involved in the growth of the herd’s AI and ET programs. Growing up, he was an active 4-H member and held leadership roles with both the Manitoba Junior Hereford Association and the CJHA, serving as a past president. Rimke graduated from Olds College with a diploma in agricultural management and later from the World Wide College of Auctioneering in Des Moines, Iowa. Rimke looks forward to connecting with fellow cattle enthusiasts from around the world.
Daniel Schuepbach
Daniel Schuepbach, Claresholm, Alta., is a third-generation Hereford breeder, who grew up on his family’s purebred operation, Lilybrook Herefords Inc. He recently completed a bachelor’s of science in agriculture, majoring in animal science, at the University of Saskatchewan’s College of Agriculture and Bioresources. Following graduation, he returned to the family farm, where he plays an integral role in daily operations. Throughout his youth, Schuepbach was actively involved in the CJHA, benefiting from programs such as the Heifer Lottery and Semen Donation to expand his herd. In 2022 and 2023, he represented Alberta as a provincial delegate on the CJHA board and served as president in his final year.
Colin Burke
Colin Burke, Kinnegad, Co., Westmeath, is currently in his third year studying agricultural science at University College Dublin, specializing in animal science. This autumn, he is honored to be studying at Iowa State University through the International Exchange Program. Deeply involved in his family’s farm, which was established in 1968 by his grandparents, Burke developed a strong interest in beef cattle from an early age. At just 13, he founded his own pedigree Hereford herd by purchasing a foundation heifer—a decision that ignited his passion for animal breeding and livestock management. This dedication has now led to the honor of representing the Irish Hereford Breed Society at the World Hereford Conference.
Patrick Farrell
Patrick Farrell, Athlone, Co. Westmeath, is a third-generation Hereford breeder proudly continuing his family tradition. The Cave Hill herd, established by his father in 1980, has since become a well-regarded name in Irish Herefords. Farming has always been central to Farrell’s life, leading him to study agriculture and environmental science at Atlantic Technological University in Galway. Since graduating in 2023, he has been working as an agricultural advisor, supporting beef and sheep farmers while remaining actively involved with his family’s herd.
Jack Larkin
Jack Larkin, Tullamore, Co. Offaly, is deeply passionate about agriculture and livestock breeding. In 2022, he established the Corndarragh Hereford Herd with the purchase of his foundation heifer and has since been dedicated to developing a herd that reflects the qualities and standards of the Irish Hereford breed. In addition to his pedigree herd, he is actively involved in the daily management of his family’s 70-cow, spring-calving dairy operation. Having recently completed his Leaving Certificate, Larkin plans to pursue a degree in agricultural science. Honored to represent the Irish Hereford Breed Society at the World Hereford Conference, he looks forward to connecting with breeders and industry leaders from around the globe, learning new skills and showcasing the strength of Irish Herefords on the international stage.
Catherine Smyth
Catherine Smyth, Navan, Co. Meath, runs the Ardmulchan Hereford herd alongside her father, Phil. The herd was established in 1933 by her grandfather, Thomas, and has remained focused on producing solid cattle with strong breed character. Their bulls are marketed primarily to local dairy herds, while they also finish a number of HEX stock, aiming to breed pedigrees well-suited for commercial farmers. Smyth has been passionate about Herefords from a very young age and continues to play an active role in the herd’s development. She studied sustainable agriculture at Dundalk Institute of Technology/Ballyhaise Agricultural College. She also works off-farm in the agricultural industry.
Ireland
Sarah Armstrong Sarah armstrong
Team White
Sarah Armstrong, Arva, Co. Cavan, is a sustainable agriculture graduate of Dundalk Institute of Technology/Ballyhaise Agricultural College. She comes from a suckler beef background and has also gained international experience working on large-scale dairy farms in both America and New Zealand, as well as serving as a college lecturer. Armstrong is currently completing a PhD with University College Dublin, based at Teagasc Grange, where her research focuses on evaluating lifetime enteric methane emissions from suckler beef herds. Her project aims to quantify total lifetime methane emissions while also assessing management strategies to reduce them, including pasture type, silage quality, feeding regimes and animal genetics. At home, she remains involved in the management of her family’s herd, which consists of both spring-and fall-calving suckler cows, and a small number of pedigree Hereford, Limousin and Charolais cattle.
Mark Hyland
Mark Hyland, Carrigallen, Co. Leitrim, is a third-generation Hereford breeder in his family’s herd, Hillock Herefords, established in 1950. He comes from a suckler farming background, with the herd primarily consisting of Limousin cows, while also rearing Angus and Hereford calves sourced from the dairy sector. Hyland is entering his final year of studies in sustainable agriculture at Dundalk Institute of Technology and Ballyhaise Agricultural College. Passionate about breeding high-quality Hereford cattle, he has focused on selecting top genetics and has actively competed in both local and national shows since 2016.
Sarah Murray
Sarah Murray, Moate, Co. Westmeath, recently completed a bachelor’s of business (Honors) in agriculture. She has been actively involved on her family’s farm from a young age, working with both pedigree Herefords and commercial suckler cows. Over the years, her passion for the Hereford breed has grown through hands-on experience in breeding and showing cattle at both local and national levels. Murray is honored to represent Ireland at the World Hereford Conference Young Breeders Competition, viewing it as a unique opportunity to engage with like-minded young farmers from across the globe. She looks forward to broadening her knowledge of Hereford genetics, breeding strategies and international agricultural systems.
John O’Dwyer
John O’Dwyer, Nenagh, North Tipperary, runs a dairy calf-to-beef system alongside his family, who also maintain a small number of pedigree Hereford cows under the Scarragh Hereford prefix. He became involved with Herefords in 2016 when he received his first heifer as a Christmas gift, sparking his passion for the breed. Each year, O’Dwyer focuses on improving the quality of calves through the careful selection of AI sires, with the goal of producing animals capable of earning red rosettes in the showring. After completing his Leaving Certificate in 2024, he began studying agricultural science at University College Cork, where he has now completed his first year.
United Kingdom
William Awan William Awan
Hereford Cattle Society
William Awan, Bath, Somerset, owns and manages the Midford Polled Hereford herd, running 15–20 pedigree cows that are sold and shown across the country. Alongside the farm, he works full time for Arla Foods as the customer agriculture manager for Organic and McDonald’s. Although not from a farming background, his passion for agriculture began when he received two cows for his eighth birthday and the herd has continued to grow ever since. Motivated by this passion, Awan studied at Harper Adams University, graduating with an honors degree in agriculture with animal science.
Ethan Brook
Ethan Brook, Mynach, Hengoed, is a dedicated member of the agricultural community, currently working with Premier Cattle Services while also operating his own livestock contracting business. Although not from a farming background, his passion for agriculture began at a young age with a love for machinery, which led him to work on a local farm. He later gained valuable experience at Bowendu Herefords, where he was involved in preparing and showing cattle, contributing to numerous breed and interbreed championships at agricultural shows. This experience further fueled his enthusiasm for quality livestock and professional stock presentation, ultimately leading him to establish his own contracting business. Outside of work, Brook is an active member of Young Farmers Clubs.
Cara Doggett
Cara Doggett, Carlisle, Cumbria, is originally from a small town in New Zealand, where her family raised both beef and dairy cattle. Since moving to the UK in 2022, she has established Maxwell Polled Herefords, beginning with the purchase of Coley 1 Mink from the renowned Coley Herefords herd. A well-known freelance cattle fitter, Doggett travels across the UK preparing cattle for shows and sales, combining elite stockmanship with a keen eye for presentation. She is currently based at Linn’s Dairy in Dumfries, where 680 cows are managed through an intensive eight-week calving season, while she continues to balance her professional commitments with her show preparation work.
Iona Smith
Iona Smith, Turnberry, Ayrshire, is from a pedigree beef and sheep farm and the team captain. She graduated from Scotland’s Rural College in 2022 with an honors degree in rural business management and now works with Blackhall & Powis, contributing to renewable projects across the UK. In 2020, she established her own pedigree Shorthorn herd, which runs alongside her family’s Aberdeen Angus and Herefords, bred under the well-known Milovaig prefix for more than 30 years. Smith is also the current chair of Women in Agriculture Scotland, a role she is proud about and an organization she is passionate to lead.
The Danish Vikings Denmark
Sofie Brydsø
Sofie Brydsø, Varde, Vestjylland, lives with her parents and siblings while in her final year at Varde Gymnasium, where she will graduate in 2025. At home, she and her father run a hobby farm with both Highland cattle and Herefords. She first entered the showring at age 9 at the Ribe Show, sparking a passion for cattle and exhibiting that has only grown. At 13, she purchased her first Hereford with her confirmation money; her herd has expanded to 14 head. Since 2019, Brydsø has exhibited Herefords at numerous shows. After graduation she plans to spend a year working on a dairy farm before pursuing her goal of studying to become a cattle veterinarian.
Natasja Jakobsen
Natasja Jakobsen, Auning, Midtjylland, graduated in 2021 as an EUX-farmer from Asmildkloster Agricultural School/Viborg Gymnasium. She currently works as a team leader at Gl Estrup Manor Museum and as a substitute at a residential facility for individuals with acquired brain injuries. In her spare time, Jakobsen operates a hobby farm with her father and grandfather, managing 40 head of Hereford cattle and 150 hectares of crops. Beyond her professional and farming commitments, she serves on the board and organizing team for the Agricultural Fair at Gl Estrup, where she is responsible for coordinating stand sales, ticketing and event logistics. She is also active in LandboUngdom, where she contributes to tractor pulling events during the summer.
Maria Nygaard Jensen
Maria Nygaard Jensen, Horsens, Midtjylland, is currently studying agricultural technology in Aarhus, specializing in cattle, with the goal of pursuing a career as an advisor or consultant in agriculture. She holds a high school diploma from Horsens Gymnasium and an agricultural degree from Bygholm Agricultural School. Since 2015, she has been actively involved in exhibiting Herefords, which has deepened her passion for the breed and the cattle industry.
Peter Oleson
Peter Højris Olesen, Alligaabro, Djursland, grew up with Hereford cattle in his father’s herd, Højris Hereford, currently consisting of eight cows. He has been involved with the breed for as long as he can remember, contributing to daily work on the farm and exhibiting cattle at shows such as Roskilde, Bregentved and the Autumn Show. For the past two years, he has also assisted Moeskær Polled Hereford in exhibiting animals at the National Show. In 2024, Olesen completed his degree as a production manager at Agricultural School Zealand, where he graduated as an EUX-farmer. He now works as herd manager at Fredenslund v. Arne Porse on Djursland, overseeing a conventional dairy herd of about 300 Jersey cows and youngstock, where Hereford genetics are also utilized.
United Kingdom
Matthew Fearon Matthew Fearon
Matthew Fearon, Keswick, Cumbria, developed his interest in working with cattle on his family’s farm in the Lake District, where he gained early experience preparing pedigree cattle for shows and sales alongside his grandfather’s Limousin herd. After earning a diploma in agriculture from Newton Rigg College, he furthered his skills working with pedigree Limousins and fell-going sheep flocks. In November 2024, he and his partner Ruby took on a National Trust tenancy, where they manage a flock of hefted Cheviot and Herdwick ewes and plan to establish a Luing cattle herd, aiming to finish stock on a pasture-based system with outwintering where possible. In 2024, he represented the UK at the World Young Shepherd Competition in France, where he finished 5th overall.
Lottie Hill
Lottie Hill, Shepton Mallet, Somerset, and her family run the Quaish Pedigree Limousin herd alongside commercial show cattle and pedigree Beltex sheep. From an early age, she developed a passion for competition, excelling in beef showmanship and qualifying for Young Stockperson of the Year in 2018. An active member of Somerset Young Farmers Club (YFC), Hill has held leadership roles at club, group and county levels. In 2024 she was Somerset YFC’s county rally chairman and livestock show chairman, organizing competitions for more than 1,000 members. Among her achievements, she has won the senior live beef category at the English Winter Fair and was recently named Somerset YFC’s Senior Member of the Year. Since completing a business course in 2020, Hill has worked for Genus ABS in the southwest.
Sean Mitchell
Sean Mitchell, Carlisle, Cumbria, is the third generation on his family’s farm. The operation includes 160 Holstein/Friesians, 40 pedigree beef cattle consisting of Charolais, Limousin, Belted Galloway and Blondes, along with 600 pedigree and commercial ewes. In addition to farming, Mitchell runs his own cattle dressing and livery service for shows and sales across the UK, working with six main clients and attending many of the country’s major events. He has celebrated notable successes, including Charolais champion at the Royal Welsh Show in 2023, Blonde champion at the Great Yorkshire Show in 2024 and multiple interbreed wins at local shows.
Isla Soutter
Isla Soutter, Ashby De La Zouch, Leicestershire, is originally from the Lake District and now lives on a pedigree Hereford farm. She grew up with Limousin and commercial cattle before moving into Herefords in 2016, when her family joined the Normanton herd. Soutter studied agriculture with animal science at Harper Adams University, completing her placement year with McDonald’s UK in their poultry and egg division. In 2022, she was nominated for Agricultural Student of the Year in both the British Farming Awards and Farmers Weekly Awards. She now works as an agriculture manager with ABP Food Group, on their integrated program.
Team New Zealand
Niamh Barnett Niamh Barnett
Niamh Barnett, Southland, grew up on an East Coast sheep and beef station and is proud to be the sixth generation in a family of passionate breeders. She has been actively involved with NZ Herefords and Hereford Youth for more than 10 years, with the breed playing a central role throughout her life and career. Barnett holds a bachelor’s of agriculture from Lincoln University and also studied abroad at Wageningen University and Research in the Netherlands. She now works as a rural relationship manager with ASB Bank in Southland, New Zealand, where she provides capital and financial services to farmers. Her long-standing involvement with Herefords has deepened her knowledge of stud stock and genetics while helping her build connections with breeders and enthusiasts worldwide.
Ella McWilliam
Ella McWilliam, Gisborne, has worked as a shepherd on Pihitia Station on the East Coast of New Zealand, for the past year and a half. The farm is a sheep and beef breeding and finishing operation. Prior to this role, she completed the Growing Future Farmers cadetship, which placed her at Wairere Station, a prominent sheep stud in the Wairarapa. McWilliam grew up on her family’s sheep and beef breeding property, which includes Te Taumata Genetics, their multi-generational polled Hereford stud. She has always had a strong passion for farming and the Hereford breed, and she is proud to continue her family’s legacy.
Georgia Moody
Georgia Moody, Feilding, Manawatu, grew up in the Manawatu region where her passion for agriculture, beef breeding and genetics was shaped by her family’s strong farming background and her involvement in youth competitions throughout school. She graduated in 2024 from Lincoln University with a bachelor’s of agricultural science and has since relocated to regional New South Wales, Australia, where she works as a broadacre agronomist. In this role, she supports farmers in making informed decisions to improve crop performance while balancing both financial and environmental sustainability. Moody has been actively involved with Herefords for several years, with youth competitions across New Zealand and Australia playing a key role in building her skills and industry connections.
Joel Steele
Joel Steele, Taranaki, was born and raised on the west coast of New Zealand where his family breeds Hereford cattle under the stud prefix Otoki Herefords. Over the years, he has worked for several cattle studs and now serves as a shepherd at Matapiro Station in Hawke’s Bay, an operation focused on lamb finishing and cattle feedlotting. Passionate about the Hereford breed, Steele has been an active member of NZ Hereford Youth since 2017, a program that has allowed him to compete in shows, develop his judging skills and exhibit both his own cattle and those of other breeders.
CHAMPIONS TODAY. LEADERS TOMORROW.
MEAT ANIMAL EVALUATION
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LIVESTOCK JUDGING & REASONS
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COMMUNICATIONS CHALLENGE
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INDUSTRY PRACTICUM SERIES
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TEAM FITTING
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SHOWMANSHIP
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OVERALL TEAM
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OVERALL INDIVIDUAL
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SNAPSHOTS FROM the competition
Relive the highlights from the tours, World Hereford Conference and Young Breeders Conference. All photos will be available free of charge at
GIVE A ROUND OF APPLAUSE
thank youHosts
We’re proud to be recognized as one of the nation’s top ag schools. It’s not something we seek out. It’s an outgrowth of our dedication to advancing the science of agriculture and the art of teaching. Our faculty truly care about students, colleagues and the world we serve. Every day, we put our hands and minds together to work on better ways to achieve sustainability, feed billions, build agribusinesses and improve lives with thoughtful, well-researched use of plants, animals, numbers and words.
K-State is proud to serve as a host for the World Hereford Conference and Young Breeders Competition, warmly welcoming international guests to Manhattan, Kan. For the first time, the Bilbrey Family Event Center will open its doors to a global audience, giving visitors a firsthand look at all the university has to offer. We’re privileged to showcase Wildcat pride, hospitality and spirit, on a global scale.
A Kansas City tradition since 1899, the American Royal is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization whose mission is to be the nation’s leader for food and agriculture education, events and engagement. Originally beginning as the National Hereford Show, the American Royal has evolved into a comprehensive season of food and agriculture events and engagements with yearlong impact.
Building upon its rich history as a Kansas City asset, the American Royal now offers a wide range of high-quality experiences that reach nearly half a million youth and adults annually.
The American Royal is honored to help host the World Hereford Conference and Young Breeders Competition, and proudly welcomes international guests to Kansas City to experience the Royal firsthand.
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2025 | YOUNG BREEDERS COMPETITION