August 2026 Gelbvieh World

GELBVIEH

SUPREME BALANCER FEMALE OWNED SHOW

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36th Annual Judd Ranch Gelbvieh, Balancer® & Red Angus

Cow Power Female Sale

Saturday, October 10 • 12:00 noon • Pomona, Kansas

One hour SW of Kansas City • Free Trucking in U.S. on Purchases of $30,000+

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Judd Ranch first-calf bull pair

When you see a Judd Ranch female or bull, it’s their eye appeal that draws the first comment. Then, as you study each animal, you notice their functional and convenience traits. And when you read their pedigrees and performance figures, it becomes obvious that Judd Ranch animals give you more—and why Judd Ranch was honored as the No. 1 owner and breeder of AGA Dams of Merit, Dams of Distinction for 21 of the past 28 years, 1998-2025. If you’re needing a strong herdsire, breed-defining females or embryos featuring the top genetics in the breed, give us a call and let’s discuss your needs. Please save these dates: October 10, second Saturday in October, Judd Ranch 36th Annual Cow Power Female Sale, and March 6, first Saturday in March, Judd Ranch 49th Gelbvieh, Balancer® and Red Angus Bull Sale.

“The Complete Package” • Calving Ease • Growth • Carcass • Fertility

From the Corner Office by Harold Bertz

Junior Connection by Teagan Butterfield

CHAMPIONS WITHOUT LIMITS

By Megan Underwood, M.S.

By Megan Underwood, M.S.

10. INFO EXCHANGE

12. 2026-2027 AMERICAN GELBVIEH JUNIOR ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS ELECTION

22. 2026 AGJA THE GOOD LIFE JUNIOR CLASSIC CONTEST RESULTS

29. 2026 AGJA THE GOOD LIFE JUNIOR CLASSIC SHOW RESULTS

44. CREATIVE WRITING WINNERS

48. LOWE WINS TONY HAYEK MEMORIAL AWARD

49. BAKER CHOSEN AS THE 2026-2027 AGJA AMBASSADOR

49. SEPTEMBER FARMS RECOGNIZED AS THE 2026 HONORARY FRIEND OF THE AGJA

60. EVENTS OF INTEREST

ASSOCIATION STAFF

HAROLD BERTZ EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR haroldb@gelbvieh.org

TOM STRAHM COMMERCIAL MARKETING DIRECTOR tom@gelbvieh.org

WESS ANGLIN COMMERCIAL MARKETING SPECIALIST wess@gelbvieh.org

MALERIE MARKLEY GELBVIEH MEDIA PRODUCTIONS COORDINATOR malerie@gelbvieh.org

MARTHA MOENNING MEMBER & YOUTH ACTIVITIES COORDINATOR martha@gelbvieh.org

MEGAN UNDERWOOD, M.S. COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR meganu@gelbvieh.org

SARAH MUMM PERFORMANCE PROGRAMS COORDINATOR sarah@gelbvieh.org

WAYDE PICKINPAUGH, M.S. DNA SERVICES COORDINATOR wayde@gelbvieh.org

MARGO MCKENDREE OFFICE MANAGER margo@gelbvieh.org

SHIANNA OCKEN REGISTRY COORDINATOR shianna@gelbvieh.org

CAMILLE HENNERBERG REGISTRY/DNA SERVICES SPECIALIST camille@gelbvieh.org

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

DAN WARNER, PRESIDENT BEAVER CITY, NEB. • 308.962.6511 dan@warnerbeef.com

STUART JARVIS, VICE PRESIDENT PHILLIPSBURG, KAN. • 785.543.8120 bararrow@ruraltel.net

GREGG HARTMAN, TREASURER

PUEBLO, COLO. • 719.821.4762 grhartman@hotmail.com

BRENT OVERMILLER, SECRETARY

SMITH CENTER, KAN. • 785.282.0485 brento4532@hotmail.com

DIRECTORS

GREG “BUBBA” ANDERSON MARION, N.C. • 828.442.6869 grega1983@live.com

DAVID LARSON CLEARBROOK, MINN. • 218.766.3323 david.larson.lrl@gmail.com

ZACK BUTLER MILTON, TENN. • 615.308.8628 butlercreek1952@aol.com

DALTON BENNETT RED HOUSE, VA. • 434.664.7946 dalton@knollcrestfarm.com

JOHN SHEARER CANTON, KAN. • 620.654.6507 circle_s@hometelco.net

TROY FORBES DE SMET, S.D. • 605.530.4764 forbes_gelbvieh@hotmail.com

GARY CARLISLE REDMOND, UTAH. • 435.979.0020 garyc@carlislex.com

JUSTIN TAUBENHEIM AMHERST, NEB. • 308.293.0692 j_tauby5@hotmail.com

JOSH PHILLIPS LATHROP, MO. • 816.914.6053 jphillips@aol.com MARK STOCK WAUKON, IOWA. •

wammb@aol.com

IFROM THE CORNER OFFICE

THE GOOD LIFE

by Harold Bertz, Executive Director

t is easy to be passionate about Gelbvieh cattle. This breed is quietly earning a favored position in the beef industry through hard work and diligent cattle breeding. If you ever doubt this or question your passion for Gelbvieh cattle, I propose you attend an American Gelbvieh Junior Association (AGJA) Junior Classic. I look forward to attending this event each year to “recharge my batteries.” This year 197 juniors from 17 states and Canada participated. It was easy to become passionate about our breed as I watched these future Gelbvieh breeders participate in contests, show cattle and become friends at the 2026 AGJA The Good Life Junior Classic, in Grand Island, Neb.

The cattle were impressive! 209 head were paraded before judge Matt Copeland on Thursday for the Balancer® Owned Female Show, and the Gelbvieh Bred and Owned Bull and Female shows. 183 head were evaluated by judge Chris Mullinix on Friday during the Gelbviehinfluenced Market Show, Gelbvieh Owned Female Show, and the Balancer Bred and Owned Bull and Female shows. This was the first time the bred and owned shows were held on separate days from their respective owned shows and it was a wonderful showcase of the acumen of our junior members in creating incredible breeding pieces for their future operations. The amount of time and effort spent creating all these animals, caring for them and presenting them on this stage is a tribute to the work ethic of our junior members and their families.

There were 1,098 entries in the 13 contests over the course of the event. This was an amazing participation rate, and AGJA members are to be commended on the quality of their work and the talents

they shared. 138 members participated in the Quiz Bowl competition, 146 in Livestock Judging, 41 in the Poster contest, 50 in Photography, 38 in Creative Writing, 28 in the Video Contest, 131 in Team Fitting, 45 in Graphic Design, 31 in Ag Podcast, 34 in Prepared Speaking, 104 in Sales Talk, and 131 in Skill-A-Thon. The Showmanship contest highlighted 181 extremely talented AGJA members. Maybe the most exciting thing were the 38 Peewee Showmanship participants that were not yet eight years old. The future is bright for the AGJA!

Hadlee Ketcherside, AGJA Ambassador, organized a first ever event as her service project, Champions Without Limits. What a great event that paired some amazing individuals with disabilities with experienced AGJA showmen to exhibit a heifer at the AGJA The Good Life Junior Classic. Congratulations to everyone involved in this AGJA Junior Classic first!

A special thanks to all the individuals necessary to make this event such a huge success. The Gelbvieh Association In Nebraska was a wonderful host in a great facility in Grand Island. The weather also cooperated and provided the last cool week of summer. Thanks also to all the breeders and state affiliates that

sponsored meals, awards and activities, your sponsorship is critical and appreciated!

The 2026 AGJA The Good Life Junior Classic is in the books, but it will be remembered for a long time. The friendships made and skills developed will be valuable to AGJA members for a lifetime. As an adult, the same statement can be made, I treasure the friendships and skills gathered during the event. Again, I highly recommend attending an AGJA Junior Classic if you never have or if it has been a few years since you have. You will leave the event with positive energy and optimism for the future of the Gelbvieh breed. Gelbvieh is on the move, and it was wildly apparent in Grand Island! I look forward to seeing you down the road. F

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EVIEW FROM THE BOARD GELBVIEH IS THE GOOD LIFE

by Dan Warner, AGA President

ach year the American Gelbvieh Junior Association (AGJA) comes together for a busy week of fellowship and competitions that extend well beyond the cattle, and this year did not disappoint. I would like to thank my fellow Gelbvieh Association In Nebraska (GAIN) members for all their work that went into hosting this year’s event. Attendees certainly experienced the good life.

The AGJA board of directors and Martha Moenning, AGA member and youth activities coordinator, deserve the highest praise for the way the event was conducted. The amount of organization and the level of preparedness was impressive to witness from the sidelines. Well done team!

I believe it is important to take stock as a membership of how important the AGJA is to our membership. If there would not have been an AGJA, I assure you that there would not be a Warner Beef Genetics today. The number of operations within our breed that would be similar are astounding, truly an example of pull through membership growth driven by our junior association. Additionally, the retention of talented individuals that have grown up in the AGJA that now serve in various capacities is a credit to the commitment and the loyalty of our membership.

The week spent in Grand Island showed that Gelbvieh really is the good life. Watching the AGJA members start new friendships, challenging themselves in new competitions, and achieving their

goals throughout the week, shows just how high-quality AGJA members truly are. Seeing the number of supporters in the stands and ringside during the shows is exciting because the juniors have such a large support system and speaks volumes to just how great the Gelbvieh family truly is.

The Gelbvieh breed is in a great position within the industry and is poised to solidify a strong market share because of the many years of a strong junior program. Our future is bright because of the young people associated with great cattle. I look forward to the future of our breed and can’t wait to see everyone in South Dakota for the 2027 AGJA Primetime Junior Classic next summer. F

A WEEK TO REMEMBER AT THE 2026 AGJA THE GOOD LIFE JUNIOR CLASSIC

by Teagan Butterfield

The 2026 American Gelbvieh Junior Association (AGJA) The Good Life Junior Classic in Grand Island, Nebraska, was truly a week to remember. From the first trailer pulling into the fairgrounds to the final banners being awarded, exhibitors, families, and volunteers enjoyed an incredible week filled with outstanding cattle, meaningful competition, and memories that will last a lifetime. Beautiful weather, positive attitudes, and strong participation combined to make this year’s event one of the best yet.

One of the week’s greatest blessings was the weather. Timely rain showers kept temperatures comfortable, settled the dust, and left Grand Island looking lush and green. Instead of battling excessive heat, exhibitors enjoyed cool mornings and pleasant evenings while caring for their cattle and preparing for competition. The ideal conditions made long days in the barns and show ring even more enjoyable.

The quality of cattle on display was exceptional. Every class was filled with depth and competitiveness, making the judges’ decisions anything but easy. More importantly, the cattle worked

well throughout the week, reflecting the countless hours exhibitors dedicated to preparing them. From first-time showmen to seasoned competitors, every junior should be proud of the effort they invested and the cattle they brought to Grand Island.

While the cattle show was certainly a highlight, the 2026 AGJA The Good Life Junior Classic offered much more than time in the show ring. Junior members challenged themselves in contests that tested their knowledge, leadership, and communication skills. Through judging, public speaking, quiz bowl, sales talk, photography, and other competitions, participants demonstrated confidence, determination, and a willingness to grow. These experiences continue to prepare young people for success both within the cattle industry and beyond.

The same commitment was evident throughout the barns. Exhibitors spent long days caring for their cattle, lending a helping hand to fellow competitors, and celebrating one another’s accomplishments. Whether earning a championship banner or simply reaching a personal goal, sportsmanship remained at the heart of the event. Families,

volunteers, and junior members worked together to create an atmosphere where everyone felt welcomed, encouraged, and supported.

As the 2026 AGJA The Good Life Junior Classic came to a close, trailers left Grand Island carrying much more than cattle. They carried new friendships, valuable lessons, renewed confidence, and memories that will be cherished for years to come. The outstanding cattle, hardworking exhibitors, dedicated volunteers, and supportive families all played an important role in making this year’s event such a success.

Looking ahead, the future of the Gelbvieh breed has never looked brighter. Watching our junior members work hard, embrace new challenges, and support one another gives us tremendous confidence in the next generation of leaders. Events like the 2026 AGJA The Good Life Junior classic are about far more than competition – they strengthen our association, develop leadership, and build lifelong friendships. As we look forward to the opportunities ahead, there is no doubt that the future of the Gelbvieh family is in capable hands. F

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INFORMATION EXCHANGE

THANK YOU, NEBRASKA, FOR HOSTING JUNIOR CLASSIC!

The American Gelbvieh Association (AGA) and American Gelbvieh Junior Association (AGJA) would like to thank the Gelbvieh Association In Nebraska (GAIN) and the Junior Gelbvieh Association In Nebraska (Jr. Gain) for all their hard work in serving as the host state for the 2026 AGJA The Good Life Junior Classic. The associations’ leadership and volunteers created an amazing event for AGJA members and their families to attend!

THANK YOU, JUNIOR CLASSIC INTERNS!

The AGA and AGJA would like to send a big thank you to the three 2026 AGJA The Good Life Junior Classic interns! The interns were Laykin Little, Bells, Texas; Mikayla McDonald, Perry, Georgia; and Zoe Vanrijn, Kingston, Mich. Additionally, we cannot thank Sidnie Saville, AGA summer intern, enough for all her excellent work leading up to and during the AGJA The Good Life Junior Classic. Thank you to our interns for making the junior classic the successful week it was for all in attendance!

NOMINATIONS FOR AGA HALL OF FAME, BREEDER OF THE YEAR AND COMMERCIAL PRODUCER OF THE YEAR ARE OPEN

Nomination applications for the AGA Hall of Fame, Breeder of the Year and Commercial Producer of the Year are available at Gelbvieh.org/membership/coming-events/convention-2. Applications are due September 15, 2026, and can be mailed to the AGA office or emailed to info@gelbvieh.org. Awards will be presented to the selected recipients during the awards banquet at the AGA National Convention held January 8-12, 2027, in Denver, Colo.

AGA ANNUAL CONVENTION REGISTRATION OPENS AUGUST 15

Registration for the AGA Annual Convention will open August 15, 2026, on Gelbvieh.org. The convention will be held January 8-12, 2027, in Denver, Colo. Plan to register before November 1, 2026, for early registration pricing.

DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTIONS AVAILABLE

FOCUSED ON THE FUTURE BULL SALE

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2026

75+ GELBVIEH | BALANCER | RED ANGUS | ANGUS BULLS SELL! INCLUDING ELITE AGE-ADVANTAGE HERD SIRE PROSPECTS

BULLS ARE OUR BUSINESS.

The AGA offers digital-only subscriptions of Gelbvieh World and The Profit Picture. If you currently receive these AGA publications and would prefer to read them exclusively on your mobile device, tablet or computer, contact the AGA office at 303-465-2333 or email info@gelbvieh.org to change your subscription type. Please make sure that there is a current email address listed on your account to receive the digital subscription.

DISCOVER THE COW POWER IN YOUR HERD!

The Cow Power Female Genotyping Project is a collaborative effort between the American Gelbvieh Association (AGA), American Gelbvieh Foundation (AGF), and Neogen aimed at increasing the number of genotyped females and associated phenotypic data in the AGA herdbook. Expanding this dataset strengthens the accuracy and predictive power of EPDs for Gelbvieh and Balancer® cattle.

Members who participate in the project will submit DNA samples to the AGA on all untested females to achieve testing on at least 90% of their current active cow inventory. Participants in the project are eligible for a research price of $20 per female for the GGP-100k genomic test. This includes GE-EPDs, parent verification, with the option of additional add on tests. To receive this pricing, all samples must be submitted through the AGA office as part of the organized project—independent submissions do not qualify.

Additionally, participants who electronically submit mature weights and body condition scores on at least 90% of their active cow inventory will receive a one-time $4 per head rebate, bringing the cost to $16 per head.

For less than the cost of a standard parentage test, this project offers a cost-effective way to better understand and unlock the genetic potential within your cow herd. To enroll in the Cow Power Project, contact Sarah Mumm, AGA performance programs coordinator, at sarah@gelbvieh.org.

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ColesBend Cattle 1st Annual Production Sale Friday, November 13, 2026 At the Farm - Smith’s Grove, Kentucky

65 Lots Sell

Gelbvieh, Balancer and Angus Bulls

Gelbvieh and Balancer Females

Commercial Bred Heifer Groups

Coles Bend Cattle Production Sale

Our first annual production sale will feature bulls and females out of our top donors and production females sired by our elite AI sire battery with a variety of pedigree combinations. The offering is very unique in quality that features calving ease, performance, carcass genetics and strong profit indexes. Selling breeding age Gelbvieh, Balancer and Angus bulls, Gelbvieh and Balancer females and groups of black, black baldie and red commerical bred heifers.

Mike jones (270) 670-7588 mike.jones@kandmservicesky.com Trent Jones (270) 590-5266 colesbendcattle@gmail.com MMS-Chris Mitchell (334) 695-1371

Sire:

2026-2027 American Gelbvieh Junior Association BOARD OF DIRECTORS ELECTION

The American Gelbvieh Junior Association (AGJA) board of directors is comprised of nine AGJA members. Directors serve two-year terms and are eligible to serve two full terms. Directors must be 16 years of age but must not have reached their 20th birthday as of January 1 of the current election year.

The AGJA welcomes the following new members to the 20262027 AGJA board of directors, Clara Belle Bishop, daughter of Andy and Meagan Bishop of Coxs Creek, Ky.; Kinley Metts, daughter of Kelly Metts and Kelly James of Paragould, Ark.; and Kate Strackeljahn, daughter of Sylvia Skouby of Saint James, Mo. Teagan Butterfield, daughter of Dave and Jackie Butterfield of Atkinson, Neb., was re-elected to a second two-year term on the board.

Additional members serving the second year of their current term are Cody Brown, son of Jason and Lori Brown of Dwight, Kan.; Madalyn Johnson, daughter of Jason and Rebecca Johnson of Judsonia, Ark.; Corbin Lowe, son of Scott and Dana Lowe of Winfield, Kan.; Lincoln Martin, son of Eric and Holly

Martin of Bucklin, Kan.; and Justine Pope, daughter of Jeff and Jeanna Pope of Ravenna, Neb.

The newly elected AGJA board of directors meets after the conclusion of the AGJA Annual Meeting to elect executive committee members to serve in leadership positions for the upcoming year. Teagan Butterfield was elected as president. Lincoln Martin was elected as vice president. Justine Pope was elected as vice president of leadership development. Madalyn Johnson was elected as secretary. Corbin Lowe was elected as the treasurer.

Retiring board members of the 2025-2026 AGJA board of directors included Isabel Lowe, daughter of Raymond and Melissa Lowe of Adrian, Mo.; Braxton Murray, son of Matthew and Andrea Murray of Kingfisher, Okla.; and Gentry Warner, daughter of Dan and Kate Warner of Arapahoe, Neb. The AGJA thanks all three of them for their service and commitment to the AGJA and its members during their time served on the AGJA board of directors. F

2026-2027 American Gelbvieh Junior Association board of directors (l to r): Madalyn Johnson, Judsonia, Ark.; Kate Strackeljahn, Saint James, Mo.; Clara Belle Bishop, Coxs Creek, Ky.; Lincoln Martin, Bucklin, Kan.; Cody Brown, Dwight, Kan.; Corbin Lowe, Winfield, Kan.; Tegan Butterfield, Atkinson, Neb.; Justine Pope, Ravenna, Neb.; and Kinley Metts, Paragould, Ark

1st Annual AGJA Edition

Gelbvieh ON ICE

Gelbvieh and Balancer Genetics Sale - Live Auction

All proceeds donated to AGJA for 2026 Junior Classic

2026 Donors and Buyers

Coles Bend Cattle

Mike and Trent Jones

Eddie Burkes Auctioneer

Grace March

Dirt Road Prints

Butler Creek Farms

Circle S Ranch

Covington Gelbvieh

Cranview Farms

Dobson Ranch

Shelly Heimer

Burgess Cattle

Larson’s Lost River

Livestock

Lincoln Gelbvieh

Johnson Cattle Co

Thank You!

to our 2026 Genetic Donors and Buyers

2026 Donors and Buyers

Ertel Cattle Co

J & K Gelbvieh Farm

Hermes Cattle

McCarty Cattle Co

McIntosh Brothers

Kevin and Shari Mohl

Plateau Gelbvieh

Red Ridge Gelbvieh

Rippe Gelbvieh

S & S Gelbvieh

TJB Gelbvieh

Warner Beef Genetics

Cleland Cattle Co

Jason Joice

Post Rock Cattle Co

Chambers Farms

CH AMPIONSWithout limits

By Megan Underwood, M.S.

Each year the American Gelbvieh Junior Association (AGJA) Ambassador is tasked with the creation of a service project with a mission to help those involved in the AGJA or in local communities. For Hadlee Ketcherside, 2025-2026 AGJA Ambassador, she wanted to create a project that gave individuals with disabilities the opportunity to experience something new thus, Champions Without Limits was created.

Champions Without Limits was a showmanship contest held during the 2026 AGJA The Good Life Junior Classic in Grand Island, Nebraska. AGJA members were paired with local youth with disabilities who face the challenge of finding inclusive livestock focused experiences to participate in. Ketcherside had an overwhelming number of AGJA members wanting to serve as mentors, allowing each Champions Without Limits participant to have multiple mentors during their showmanship

experience. While finding the showmen became a small challenge along the way, Ketcherside was able to work with Erica Johnson and Kari Valentine, both local to Grand Island, to find her six showmen.

“I wanted to give others an opportunity that they may not have. I also wanted to give everyone involved in the show lots of memories and an opportunity to experience something new, not only the showmen but the AGJA members who volunteered,” said Ketcherside.

When the showmen stepped into the ring, the arena was filled with bystanders at awe of what they were watching. Eyes were opened to reveal experiences many often take for granted, is something that the showmen could only ever dream of. The showmen’s faces were filled with smiles, especially when they were handed their belt buckle to commemorate their experience. Witnessing the first ever Champions Without Limits show will be a memory no one forgets and will be

a memory made each year at the AGJA Junior Classic as Ketcherside plans to make it an annual experience.

“I would like to thank all the sponsors who donated and the volunteers who helped the show run smoothly. I want to thank Martha Moenning, American Gelbvieh Association (AGA) member and youth activities director, Harold Bertz, AGA executive director, and the AGJA board of directors for making sure the show went along as planned. Thank you to the families who supported from the stands, as well. Your encouragement means a lot to me and the showmen,” Ketcherside acknowledged. “My last thank you goes to my parents. Thank you for inspiring me to shoot big for things like these. Thank you for always supporting my dreams and encouraging me to put my best self forward. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without, you, so I will forever be grateful.” F

Banners don’t happen by chance. They start with the cattle you believe in and the goals you’re building toward. At Trans Ova, we work alongside you to multiply the genetics that shape your program and carry your legacy forward. Are you ready for what’s next?

By Megan Underwood, M.S.

Stepping foot into Fonner Park in Grand Island, Nebraska, for the 2026 American Gelbvieh Junior Association (AGJA) The Good Life Junior Classic was the start of Jessie Lowe’s final AGJA Junior Classic. Lowe arrived in Grand Island with the goal to be crowned the Grand Champion Senior Showman, win the Senior Team Fitting Contest with her teammate and younger sister, Isabel, finish in the top five of the All-Around Exhibitor contest, and her largest goal of the week was to show a heifer that would earn the title of Grand Champion Bred and Owned Gelbvieh Female. Not only did Lowe achieve every one of these goals, but she also even surprised herself with all that she was able to accomplish at her last AGJA Junior Classic.

Lowe’s big goals were not won during the week in Grand Island; they were won through the work started all the way back in 2013. That spring, Lowe’s parents purchased her first Gelbvieh show heifer. She was only eight years old and still remembers how excited she was to welcome home her heifer, Sweetheart. The following year, she stepped foot into the showring at her first AGJA Junior Classic, with the goal of winning her showmanship division to which she was crowned the Grand Champion Junior Showman. Thus, inspiring her to chase the same accomplishment at each AGJA Junior Classic that followed and she finally earned the title once more at her last AGJA Junior Classic and walked out of the ring as the Grand Champion Senior Showman.

“Being named the Grand Champion Junior Showman at my first AGJA Junior Classic inspired me to chase that same accomplishment at every AGJA Junior Classic that followed. Although I came close several times over the years, I never stopped working toward the goal of winning showmanship just one more time before my junior career came to an end,” Lowe said. “It took 12 AGJA Junior Classics but earning that showmanship title at my last AGJA Junior Classic made the journey even more meaningful.”

After accomplishing her goal to win showmanship on Wednesday, Lowe stepped back into the ring on Thursday for the inaugural Gelbvieh Bred and Owned Female Show held separately from the Gelbvieh Owned Female Show at the AGJA Junior Classic. The greatest goal she had all week was to show a heifer that would win the title of Grand Champion Bred and Owned Gelbvieh

Female. During the championship drive, she received the honors of Grand Champion Bred and Owned Gelbvieh Female, Reserve Grand Champion Bred and Owned Gelbvieh Female, and Fourth Overall Bred and Owned Gelbvieh Female. Achieving an incredible feat of raising three of the top five bred and owned Gelbvieh females at the 2026 AGJA The Good Life Junior Classic.

This dream began at the 2020 AGJA Route 66 Junior Classic with her heifer, 3L Skylar, who was selected as the Grand Champion Bred and Owned Gelbvieh Female.

“With this title came the Tony Hayek Memorial Award, it was an honor to be awarded such a meaningful memorial that stood for everything he believed in for the bred and owned show,” Lowe expressed.

3L Skylar stepped back into the ring as a cow/calf pair at the 2023 AGJA Great Dakota Junior Classic where she was once again named the Grand Champion Gelbvieh Bred and Owned Female and walked away as the Fifth Overall Gelbvieh Female. Thus, leading to the decision to flush her and becoming a foundation female at 3L Gelbvieh. For her last AGJA Junior Classic, Lowe decided to build her entire show string around her genetics. 3L Skylar stepped into the ring as a cow/calf pair once again and was crowned the Reserve Grand Champion Bred and Owned Gelbvieh Female alongside two of her daughters who received the titles of Grand Champion and Fourth Overall Bred and Owned Gelbvieh Females, a testament to the quality of progeny she produces.

“A success like this took years of planning, hard work, critiquing, dedication, and many adjustments that all seemed to finally come together. What made this feeling even more special is that the success was traced back to 3L Skylar. Seeing her and her daughters in the final drive and compete at such a level created a proud moment for me, because it validated the breeding decisions I have made over the years,” Lowe stated.

On Friday, Lowe still had one more goal she wanted to achieve during her last time showing at an AGJA Junior Classic – placing a female into the top five owned Gelbvieh females. She led her heifers into the ring through classes, divisions, and ultimately to the championship drive where her Grand Champion Bred and Owned Gelbvieh Female once again received the championship slap and was crowned the Grand Champion Owned Gelbvieh Female.

Lowe walked out of the showring for the final time at an AGJA Junior Classic and all she could feel was thankful. She knows success is never guaranteed, especially with the incredible quality of cattle exhibited each year. To accomplish every goal, she did at her last AGJA Junior Classic was truly an honor however, she’s just getting started. While her time as a junior is over, she plans to continue growing 3L Gelbvieh and produce cattle that are competitive in the showring while remaining functional and valuable for the beef industry.

“More than anything, I hope to provide junior exhibitors with the same opportunities I was fortunate enough to have,” Lowe said. “There is no greater compliment than seeing a junior succeed

with a heifer that came from your program, and I hope to experience that many times in the years ahead.”

Lowe encourages her fellow junior members to enjoy and trust the process. Success doesn’t happen overnight, especially not in the bred and owned show. The success is built on years of planning, thoughtful breeding decisions, evaluating your herd, and learning from both the successful and disappointing moments. She wants juniors to always remember, every calf teaches you something, whether it ends up in the final drive or not.

“Every accomplishment at this year’s AGJA Junior Classic was the result of years of hard work, long days in the barn, breeding decisions, and the constant support of my family. While the banners and awards were incredibly special, what they truly represented was the journey it took to get there,” Lowe remarked.

Lowe truly experienced a grand finale at her final AGJA Junior Classic while reaching the many goals she had set for herself. While the buckles and banners are exciting, she says the best part was doing it all with her parents and sister by her side. F

382HeadofCattle

JUNIOR AG PODCAST

1. Johnny Pope, Ravenna, Neb.

2. Trey Sickler, Gladstone, N.D.

3. Kole Brooks, Bennet, Neb.

4. Turner Taubenheim, Amherst, Neb.

5. Lawton Geppert, Highmore, S.D.

6. Cogan Schilling, Goodland, Kan.

7. Callaway Taubenheim, Amherst, Neb.

INTERMEDIATE

AG PODCAST

1. Jadyn Petersile, Rush Center, Kan.

2. Grant Walahoski, Overton, Neb.

3. Kylee Sickler, Gladstone, N.D.

4. Owen Spencer, Pierre, S.D.

5. Mallory Mahoney, Robertsdale, Ala.

6. Karson Brooks, Bennet, Neb.

7. Megan Walahoski, Overton, Neb.

8. Kole Maxwell, Larned, Kan.

9. Addison Maxwell, Larned, Kan.

10. Brenlee Alber, Guide Rock, Neb.

INTERMEDIATE CREATIVE WRITING

1. Kylee Sickler, Gladstone, N.D.

2. Grant Walahoski, Overton, Neb.

3. Megan Walahoski, Overton, Neb.

4. Jett Baker, Stuart, Okla.

5. Brenlee Alber, Guide Rock, Neb.

6. Paige Walahoski, Overton, Neb.

7. Lillian Shobe, Wyandotte, Okla.

8. Mallory Mahoney, Robertsdale, Ala.

9. Addison Maxwell, Larned, Kan.

10. Owen Spencer, Pierre, S.D.

SENIOR CREATIVE WRITING

1. Jaylea Pope, Ravenna, Neb.

2. Jessie Lowe, Adrian, Mo.

3. Lara Rittenhouse, New Carlisle, Ohio

4. Kaisha Alber, Guide Rock, Neb.

5. Abbiegail Shobe, Wyandotte, Okla.

6. Clara Belle Bishop, Coxs Creek, Ky.

7. Brayton Cibula, Clutier, Iowa

8. Drew Stock, Waukon, Iowa

SENIOR AG PODCAST

1. Clara Belle Bishop, Coxs Creek, Ky.

2. Jaylea Pope, Ravenna, Neb.

3. Lara Rittenhouse, New Carlisle, Ohio

4. Drew Stock, Waukon, Iowa

5. Jessie Lowe, Adrian, Mo.

6. Kaisha Alber, Guide Rock, Neb.

7. Brayton Cibula, Clutier, Iowa

8. Colt Herbeniuk, Hudson Bay, Saskatchewan, Canada

JUNIOR GRAPHIC DESIGN

1. Calleigh Struck, Humboldt, S.D.

2. Lawton Geppert, Highmore, S.D.

3. Turner Taubenheim, Amherst, Neb.

4. Callaway Taubenheim, Amherst, Neb.

5. Grayson Kraus, Burr, Neb.

6. Trey Sickler, Gladstone, N.D.

7. Kole Brooks, Bennet, Neb.

8. Margaret Sperfslage, Winthrop, Iowa

9. Cogan Schilling, Goodland, Kan.

10. Johnny Pope, Ravenna, Neb.

CONTEST RESULTS

JUNIOR CREATIVE WRITING

1. Kole Brooks, Bennet, Neb.

2. Lawton Geppert, Highmore, S.D.

3. Callaway Taubenheim, Amherst, Neb.

4. Turner Taubenheim, Amherst, Neb.

5. Margaret Sperfslage, Winthrop, Iowa

6. Cogan Schilling, Goodland, Kan.

INTERMEDIATE GRAPHIC DESIGN

1. Owen Spencer, Pierre, S.D.

2. Jett Baker, Stuart, Okla.

3. Brennyn Mickey, Aurora, Neb.

4. Bailey Sullivan, Robertsdale, Ala.

5. Grant Walahoski, Overton, Neb.

6. Brenlee Alber, Guide Rock, Neb.

7. Lillian Shobe, Wyandotte, Okla.

8. Mallory Mahoney, Robertsdale, Ala.

9. Beau Gotschall, Stuart, Neb.

10. Addy Winter-Shearer, Hillsboro, Kan.

CONTEST RESULTS

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGN

1. Jaylea Pope, Ravenna, Neb.

2. Jessie Lowe, Adrian, Mo.

3. Allissa Martin, Oregon, Ill.

4. Abbiegail Shobe, Wyandotte, Okla.

5. Kaisha Alber, Guide Rock, Neb.

6. Gentry Warner, Arapahoe, Neb.

7. Drew Stock, Waukon, Iowa

8. Brayton Cibula, Clutier, Iowa

9. Trinity Dreckshage, Shelbyville, Mo.

10. Clara Belle Bishop, Coxs Creek, Ky.

JUNIOR PHOTO

1. Grayson Kraus, Burr, Neb.

2. Calleigh Struck, Humboldt, S.D.

3. Kole Brooks, Bennet, Neb.

4. Cogan Schilling, Goodland, Kan.

5. Calleigh Struck, Humboldt, S.D.

6. Calleigh Struck, Humboldt, S.D.

7. Lawton Geppert, Highmore, S.D.

8. Trey Sickler, Gladstone, N.D.

9. Turner Taubenheim, Amherst, Neb.

10. Tillman Derossett, Glasgow, Ky.

JUNIOR

INDIVIDUAL JUDGING

1. Colt Swindler, Braymer, Mo.

2. Kade Mayer, Paxico, Kan.

3. Krisa Overmiller, Smith Center, Kan.

4. Brylee Mickey, Aurora, Neb.

5. Kole Brooks, Bennet, Neb.

6. Saige Blubaugh, Burrton, Kan.

7. Alyvia Starr, Stapleton, Neb.

8. Duke Swindler, Braymer, Mo.

9. Trey Sickler, Gladstone, N.D.

10. Anna Altman, Worthington, Minn.

INTERMEDIATE PHOTO

1. Mallory Mahoney, Robertsdale, Ala.

2. Owen Spencer, Pierre, S.D.

3. Owen Spencer, Pierre, S.D.

4. Paige Walahoski, Overton, Neb.

5. Lilly Knicely, Norwich, Ohio

6. Kylee Sickler, Gladstone, N.D.

7. Grant Walahoski, Overton, Neb.

8. Shawna Cibula, Clutier, Iowa

9. Beau Gotschall, Stuart, Neb.

10. Libby Knicely, Norwich, Ohio

INTERMEDIATE INDIVIDUAL JUDGING

1. Owen Spencer, Pierre, S.D.

2. Brenlee Alber, Guide Rock, Neb.

3. Jett Baker, Stuart, Okla.

4. Lacy Judd, Pomona, Kan.

5. Paige Walahoski, Overton, Neb.

6. Lily Helms, Holbrook, Neb.

7. Kaycee Brown, Dwight, Kan.

8. Megan Walahoski, Overton, Neb.

9. Addison Maxwell, Larned, Kan.

10. Olivia Maddox, Chickamauga, Ga.

SENIOR PHOTO

1. Gentry Warner, Arapahoe, Neb.

2. Gentry Warner, Arapahoe, Neb.

3. Gentry Warner, Arapahoe, Neb.

4. Jaylea Pope, Ravenna, Neb.

5. Drew Stock, Waukon, Iowa

6. Cody Brown, Dwight, Kan.

7. Brayton Cibula, Clutier, Iowa

8. Brayton Cibula, Clutier, Iowa

9. Brayton Cibula, Clutier, Iowa

10. Lilyan March, Greentop, Mo.

SENIOR NDIVIDUAL JUDGING

1. Jaylea Pope, Ravenna, Neb.

2. Lincoln Martin, Bucklin, Kan.

3. Ella Hoeltzel, Olsburg, Kan.

4. Gabrielle Tebo, Idaville, Ind.

5. Kaisha Alber, Guide Rock, Neb.

6. Allisa Martin, Oregon, Ill.

7. Kendra Simon, Conway, Ark.

8. Clara Belle Bishop, Coxs Creek, Ky.

9. Drew Stock, Waukon, Iowa

10. Isabel Lowe, Adrian, Mo.

JUNIOR POSTER

1. Margaret Sperfslage, Winthrop, Iowa

2. Lawton Geppert, Highmore, S.D.

3. Kole Brooks, Bennet, Neb.

4. Madeline Mayer, Paxico, Kan.

5. Cogan Schilling, Goodland, Kan.

6. Morgan Fawcett, Ree Heights, S.D.

7. Brylee Mickey, Aurora, Neb.

8. Jasper McCoy, Carthage, Mo.

9. Trey Sickler, Gladstone, N.D.

10. Tillman Derossett, Glasgow, Ky.

INTERMEDIATE POSTER

1. Grant Walahoski, Overton, Neb.

2. Claire Sperfslage, Winthrop, Iowa

3. Paige Walahoski, Overton, Neb.

4. Mallory Mahoney, Robertsdale, Ala.

5. Alaina Winter-Shearer, Hillsboro, Kan.

6. Addy Winter-Shearer, Hillsboro, Kan.

7. Owen Spencer, Pierre, S.D.

8. Olivia Maddox, Chickamauga, Ga.

9. Wyatt Sperfslage, Winthrop, Iowa

10. Bailey Sullivan, Robertsdale, Ala.

SENIOR PREPARED SPEAKING

1. Jaylea Pope, Ravenna, Neb.

2. Kaisha Alber, Guide Rock, Neb.

3. Jessie Lowe, Adrian, Mo.

4. Lara Rittenhouse, New Carlisle, Ohio

5. Madalyn Johnson, Judsonia, Ark.

6. Brayton Cibula, Clutier, Iowa

7. Drew Stock, Waukon, Iowa

8. Abbiegail Shobe, Wyandotte, Okla.

9. Clara Belle Bishop, Coxs Creek, Ky.

10. Colt Herbeniuk, Hudson Bay, Saskatchewan, Canada

SENIOR POSTER

1. Abbiegail Shobe, Wyandotte, Okla.

2. Brayton Cibula, Clutier, Iowa

3. Gentry Warner, Arapahoe, Neb.

4. Jessie Lowe, Adrian, Mo.

5. Kaisha Alber, Guide Rock, Neb.

6. Jaylea Pope, Ravenna, Neb.

7. Drew Stock, Waukon, Iowa

8. Colt Herbeniuk, Hudson Bay, Saskatchewan, Canada

JUNIOR QUIZ BOWL TEAM

Champion Team

Anna Altman, Worthington, Minn.

Brant Altman, Worthington, Minn.

Sawyer Larson, Clearbrook, Minn.

Trey Sickler, Gladstone, N.D.

JUNIOR PREPARED SPEAKING

1. Kole Brooks, Bennet, Neb.

2. Johnny Pope, Ravenna, Neb.

3. Cogan Schilling, Goodland, Kan.

4. Callaway Taubenheim, Amherst, Neb.

5. Turner Taubenheim, Amherst, Neb.

6. Lawton Geppert, Highmore, S.D.

CONTEST RESULTS

INTERMEDIATE PREPARED SPEAKING

1. Paige Walahoski, Overton, Neb.

2. Owen Spencer, Pierre, S.D.

3. Mallory Mahoney, Robertsdale, Ala.

4. Megan Walahoski, Overton, Neb.

5. Allie Perry, Onaga, Kan.

6. Lexi Rittenhouse, New Carlisle, Ohio

7. Hadlee Ketcherside, Cuba, Mo.

8. Brennyn Mickey, Aurora, Neb.

9. Karson Brooks, Bennet, Neb.

10. Jadyn Petersile, Rush Center, Kan.

JUNIOR QUIZ BOWL TEAM

Reserve Team

Saige Blubaugh, Burrton, Kan.

Cutter Ladner, Argonia, Kan.

Kade Mayer, Paxico, Kan.

Cogan Schilling, Goodland, Kan.

INTERMEDIATE QUIZ BOWL TEAM

Champion Team

Kaycee Brown, Dwight, Kan.

Hadlee Ketcherside, Cuba, Mo.

Addy Winter-Shearer, Hillsboro, Kan.

Alaina Winter-Shearer, Hillsboro, Kan.

CONTEST RESULTS

INTERMEDIATE QUIZ BOWL TEAM

Reserve Team

Emma Hackbart, Milford, Neb. Genevieve Kramer, Hubbard, Neb. Jadyn Thompson, Ord, Neb. Paige Walahoski, Overton, Neb.

SENIOR QUIZ BOWL TEAM

Champion Team

Jaylea Pope, Ravenna, Neb.

Kale Taubenheim, Amherst, Neb.

Parker Walahoski, Overton, Neb.

Spencer Walahoski, Overton, Neb.

SENIOR QUIZ BOWL TEAM

Reserve Team

Madalyn Johnson, Judsonia, Ark. Kinley Metts, Paragould, Ark. Kendra Simon, Conway, Ark. Henry Stewart, Judsonia, Ark.

JUNIOR SALES TALK

1. Kole Brooks, Bennet, Neb.

2. Trey Sickler, Gladstone, N.D.

3. Brylee Mickey, Aurora, Neb.

4. Grayson Kraus, Burr, Neb.

5. Blair Buehler, Fairbury, Neb.

6. Colt Swindler, Braymer, Mo.

7. Kade Mayer, Paxico, Kan.

8. Cogan Schilling, Goodland, Kan.

9. Johnny Pope, Ravenna, Neb.

10. Duke Swindler, Braymer, Mo.

INTERMEDIATE SALES TALK

1. Kylee Sicker, Gladstone, N.D.

2. Owen Spencer, Pierre, S.D.

3. Shawna Cibula, Clutier, Iowa

4. Paxton Blubaugh, Burrton, Kan.

5. Emerson Sickler, Gladstone, N.D.

6. Addison Maxwell, Larned, Kan.

7. Bailey Sullivan, Robertsdale, Ala.

8. Hadlee Ketcherside, Cuba, Mo.

9. Jadyn Petersile, Rush Center, Kan.

10. Addy Winter-Shearer, Hillsboro, Kan.

SENIOR SALES TALK

1. Justine Pope, Ravenna, Neb.

2. Lily Judd, Pomona, Kan.

3. Jessie Lowe, Adrian, Mo.

4. Gage Swindler, Braymer, Mo.

5. Jaylea Pope, Ravenna, Neb.

6. Drew Stock, Waukon, Iowa

7. Brayton Cibula, Clutier, Iowa

8. Teagan Butterfield, Atkinson, Neb.

9. Kale Taubenheim, Amherst, Neb.

10. Ella Hoeltzel, Olsburg, Kan.

JUNIOR SHOWMANSHIP

1. Cogan Schilling, Goodland, Kan.

2. Anna Altman, Worthington, Minn.

3. Blair Buehler, Fairbury, Neb.

4. Brant Altman, Worthington, Minn.

5. Tillman Derossett, Glasgow, Ky.

6. Brylee Mickey, Aurora, Neb.

7. Grayson Kraus, Burr, Neb.

8. Kole Brooks, Bennet, Neb.

9. Margaret Sperfslage, Winthrop, Iowa

10. Turner Taubenheim, Amherst, Neb.

INTERMEDIATE SHOWMANSHIP

1. Easton Bose, Orleans, Neb.

2. Elsie Stutzman, Saint Marys, Kan.

3. Kaycee Brown, Dwight, Kan.

4. Olivia Maddox, Chickamauga, Ga.

5. Jett Baker, Stuart, Okla.

6. Allie Perry, Onaga, Kan.

7. Eric Larson, Clearbrook, Minn.

8. Owen Spencer, Pierre, S.D.

9. Braylen Schaeffer, Hagerstown, Ind.

10. Brenlee Alber, Guide Rock, Neb.

SENIOR SHOWMANSHIP

1. Jessie Lowe, Adrian, Mo.

2. Spencer Walahoski, Overton, Neb.

3. Braxton Murray, Kingfisher, Okla.

4. Cameron Nowack, Bland, Mo.

5. Gabrielle Tebo, Idaville, Ind.

6. Ella Hoeltzel, Olsburg, Kan.

7. Kyra Moore, Fountain Run, Ky.

8. Kaisha Alber, Guide Rock, Neb.

9. Kinleigh Ekhoff, Aurora, Neb.

10. Breckon Murray, Kingfisher, Okla.

JUNIOR/ INTERMEDIATE TEAM FITTING

Champion Team

Jett Baker, Stuart, Okla.

Lincoln Brannon, Stuart, Okla.

Tuner Taubenheim, Amherst, Neb.

JUNIOR TEAM JUDGING

Champion Team

Kole Brooks, Bennet, Neb.

Blair Buehler, Fairbury, Neb.

Grayson Kraus, Burr, Neb.

Brylee Mickey, Aurora, Neb..

JUNIOR SKILL-A-THON

1. Kade Mayer, Paxico, Kan.

2. Johnny Pope, Ravenna, Neb.

3. Lawton Geppert, Highmore, S.D.

3. Brylee Mickey, Aurora, Neb.

3. Grayson Kraus, Burr, Neb.

6. Cutter Ladner, Argonia, Kan.

7. Turner Taubenheim, Amherst, Neb.

8. Kole Brooks, Bennet, Neb.

9. Trey Sickler, Gladstone, N.D.

10. Cogan Schilling, Goodland, Kan.

JUNIOR/ INTERMEDIATE TEAM FITTING

Reserve Team

Brenlee Alber, Guide Rock, Neb.

Easton Bose, Orleans, Neb.

Blair Buehler, Fairbury, Neb.

JUNIOR TEAM JUDGING

Reserve Team

Anna Altman, Worthington, Minn.

Brant Altman, Worthing, Minn.

Sawyer Larson, Clearbrook, Minn.

Trey Sickler, Gladstone, N.D..

INTERMEDIATE SKILL-A-THON

1. Claire Sperfslage, Winthrop, Iowa

2. Brantley Sperfslage, Winthrop, Iowa

3. Wyatt Sperfslage, Winthrop, Iowa

4. Addy Winter-Shearer, Hillsboro, Kan.

5. Ava Dagger, Cable, Ohio

6. Kaycee Brown, Dwight, Kan.

7. Shawna Cibula, Clutier, Iowa

8. Hadlee Ketcherside, Cuba, Mo.

9. Grant Walahoski, Overton, Neb.

10. Mallory Mahoney, Robertsdale, Ala.

SENIOR TEAM FITTING

Champion Team

Isabel Lowe, Adrian, Mo.

Jessie Lowe, Adrian, Mo.

INTERMEDIATE TEAM JUDGING

Champion Team

Brenlee Alber, Guide Rock, Neb.

Abby Helms, Holbrook, Neb.

Lily Helms, Holbrook, Neb.

Brennyn Mickey, Aurora, Neb.

SENIOR SKILL-A-THON

1. Jaylea Pope, Ravenna, Neb.

2. Drew Stock, Waukon, Iowa

3. Spencer Walahoski, Overton, Neb.

4. Parker Walahoski, Overton, Neb.

5. Lara Rittenhouse, New Carlisle, Ohio

6. Brayton Cibula, Clutier, Iowa

7. Lincoln Martin, Bucklin, Kan.

8. Owen Sauer, Lewiston, Minn.

9. Jessie Lowe, Adrian, Mo.

10. Kale Taubenheim, Amherst, Neb.

SENIOR TEAM FITTING

Reserve Team

Braxton Murray, Kingfisher, Okla.

Breckon Murray, Kingfisher, Okla.

INTERMEDIATE TEAM JUDGING

Reserve Team

Elizabeth Bamesberger, Hampton, Neb.

Genevieve Kramer, Hubbard, Neb.

Jadyn Thompson, Ord, Neb.

Paige Walahoski, Overton, Neb.

CONTEST RESULTS

SENIOR TEAM JUDGING

Champion Team

Isabel Lowe, Adrian, Mo.

Jessie Lowe, Adrian, Mo.

Lincoln Martin, Bucklin, Kan.

Gabrielle Tebo, Idaville, Ind.

SENIOR TEAM JUDGING

Reserve Team

Jaylea Pope, Ravenna, Neb.

Justine Pope, Ravenna, Neb.

Kale Taubenheim, Amherst, Neb.

Spencer Walahoski, Overton, Neb.

SENIOR VIDEO

1. Jaylea Pope, Ravenna, Neb.

2. Brayton Cibula, Clutier, Iowa

3. Jessie Lowe, Adrian, Mo.

4. Colt Herbeniuk, Hudson Bay, Saskatchewan, Canada

5. Clara Belle Bishop, Coxs Creek, Ky.

6. Kaisha Alber, Guide Rock, Neb.

ALL-AROUND EXHIBITORS

1. Kole Brooks, Bennet, Neb.

2. Owen Spencer, Pierre, S.D.

3. Jaylea Pope, Ravenna, Neb.

4. Cogan Schilling, Goodland, Kan.

5. Jessie Lowe, Adrian, Mo.

6. Turner Taubenheim, Amherst, Neb.

7. Hadlee Ketcherside, Cuba, Mo.

8. Johnny Pope, Ravenna, Neb.

9. Brylee Mickey, Aurora, Neb.

10. Kaisha Alber, Guide Rock, Neb.

JUNIOR VIDEO

1. Kole Brooks, Bennet, Neb.

2. Trey Sickler, Gladstone, N.D.

3. Cogan Schilling, Goodland, Kan.

4. Turner Taubenheim, Amherst, Neb.

5. Johnny Pope, Ravenna, Neb.

6. Lawton Geppert, Highmore, S.D.

7. Callaway Taubenheim, Amherst, Neb.

MOST POP CAN TABS COLLECTED

1. Kansas

2. Nebraska

3. South Dakota

INTERMEDIATE VIDEO

1. Paige Walahoski, Overton, Neb.

2. Addison Maxwell, Larned, Kan.

3. Owen Spencer, Pierre, S.D.

4. Grant Walahoski, Overton, Neb.

5. Mallory Mahoney, Robertsdale, Ala.

6. Megan Walahoski, Overton, Neb.

7. Grayson Maxwell, Larned, Kan.

8. Jaydn Petersile, Rush Center, Kan.

9. Hadlee Ketcherside, Cuba, Mo.

10. Kole Maxwell, Larned, Kan.

STATE HERDSMANSHIP

States With 10 Head or Less

Champion – Illinois

STATE HERDSMANSHIP

States With 10 Head or Less Reserve – Indiana

STATE CHALLENGE CUP

States With 11 or More Members

Participating

Champion – Nebraska Reserve – Kansas

STATE HERDSMANSHIP

States With 11 Head or More Champion – Oklahoma

ROOKIE OF THE YEAR

Cogan Schilling, Goodland, Kan.

STATE HERDSMANSHIP

States With 11 Head or More Reserve – Ohio

STATE CHALLENGE CUP

States With 10 or Less Members

Participating Champion – South Dakota Reserve – Oklahoma

RETIRING AGJA MEMBERS

Molly Anderson, Marion, N.C.

Jayden Carrier, Hermosa, S.D.

Alexis Ceroll, Sisseton, S.D.

Elizabeth Chambers, Charlotte, Iowa

Lily Judd, Pomona, Kan.

Jessie Lowe, Adrian, Mo.

Sadie Morris, Batesville, Miss.

Jaylea Pope, Ravenna, Neb.

Leo Rieke, Kansas City, Kan.

Kaylee Starbuck, Burns, Ore.

Annalee Starr, Stapleton, Neb

Grace Steenbergen, Cheyenne, Wyo.

Drew Stock, Waukon, Iowa

Davi Lynn Thompson, Campbellsville, Ky.

Spencer Walahoski, Overton, Neb.

Gentry Warner, Arapahoe, Neb.

Lilly Weber, Lamar, Mo.

Montana Wilson, Worthington, Minn.

Bailee Worley, Black Mountain, N.C.

Jarrett Viles, Bolivar, Mo.

Results by Megan Underwood, M.S

Photos by Next Level Images

CHAMPIONS SELECTED AT THE 2026 AGJA THE GOOD LIFE JUNIOR CLASSIC NATIONAL BALANCER® OWNED FEMALE SHOW

Champions were selected at the 2026 American Gelbvieh Junior Association (AGJA) The Good Life Junior Classic National Balancer® Owned Female Show on Thursday, June 25, 2026, in Grand Island, Nebraska. Exhibitors welcomed judge Matt Copeland of Amistad, N.M., to evaluate 152 Balancer owned female entries.

GRAND CHAMPION BALANCER FEMALE

CHAMPION SPRING YEARLING HEIFER

BSSC BCFG Simply Irresistable 5037N

Braylen Schaeffer, Hagerstown, Ind.

Sire: Rose MC Encore 0463

THIRD OVERALL

BALANCER FEMALE

CHAMPION COW/CALF PAIR, CHAMPION YOUNG COW/CALF PAIR

MDR Mindy 411M

Thompson Phelps, Paragould, Ark.

Sire: MDR Stoney Larue 1572J ET

RESERVE CHAMPION

YOUNG COW/CALF PAIR

BCFG Butlers Ms Margo 549M1

Kyra Moore, Fountain Run, Ky.

Sire: RAAB Johnny 91J

FOURTH OVERALL

BALANCER FEMALE

RESERVE CHAMPION

SENIOR HEIFER CALF

SAMG Ms. Nightshade 652N

Sam Gravely, Mount Juliet, Tenn.

Sire: Deer Valley Growth Fund

RESERVE CHAMPION

AGED COW/CALF PAIR

RROG OVER Hot Topic 096H

Krisa Overmiller, Smith Center, Kan.

Sire: Schillings R&L Classified 4191

RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION BALANCER FEMALE

CHAMPION SENIOR HEIFER CALF

T Bar S Ms 1448N

Gabrielle Tebo, Idaville, Ind.

Sire: JGPG Pit Boss 205K ET

FIFTH OVERALL BALANCER FEMALE CHAMPION SENIOR FEMALE

BCFG Butlers Ms Maysie M28 ET

Alexandria Raab, Markle, Ind.

Sire: BCFG Butlers General Lee J207 ET

CHAMPION JUNIOR HEIFER CALF

CIBB Ms Mac Daddy 622P

Brayton Cibula, Clutier, Iowa

Sire: CIBS Mac Daddy 4962MT

RESERVE CHAMPION COW/CALF PAIR

CHAMPION AGED COW/CALF PAIR

EGL Ms Lou H070 ET

Turner Taubenheim, Amherst, Neb.

Sire: EGL Doc Holliday D100 ET

RESERVE CHAMPION JUNIOR HEIFER CALF

TAU Ms. Rise 601P ET

Kale Taubenheim, Amherst, Neb.

Sire: Stellpflug Hoffman RiseAbove 2008

CHAMPION INTERMEDIATE YEARLING HEIFER

WLSS Nutella 837N

Kaisha Alber, Guide Rock, Neb.

Sire: XXB Battle Cry 116E

RESERVE CHAMPION

SENIOR FEMALE

TJB Velvet 978G 495M ET

Olivia Maddox, Chickamauga, Ga.

Sire: TJB TAYD Acuna 214K ET

RESERVE CHAMPION SPRING YEARLING HEIFER

SEPT Sheza Bombshell 542N ET Cogan Schilling, Goodland, Kan.

Sire: STAG Good Times 201 ET

CLASS 1: YOUNG COW/ CALF PAIRS

Born March 1, 2024, to April 30, 2024

1. GHGF Monica 31M, Tillman Derossett, Glasgow, Ky., Sired by GHGF Cracker Jack G310; 2. JTCW Magnolia 910M, Madeline Mayer, Paxico, Kan., Sired by JTCW Prairie Rattler 7K, 3. SEPT What Comes Next M407, Elizabeth Bamesberger, Hampton, Neb., Sired by MDR First Step 7549E.

CLASS 2: YOUNG COW/ CALF PAIRS

Born March 1, 2024, to April 30, 2024

1. MDR Mindy 411M, Thompson Phelps, Paragould, Ark., Sired by MDR Stoney Larue 1572J ET; 2. BCFG Butlers Ms Margo 549M1, Kyra Moore,

RESERVE CHAMPION INTERMEDIATE YEARLING HEIFER

GHGF Navi 321N

Tillman Derossett, Glasgow, Ky.

Sire: GHGF Dr J J898

Fountain Run, Ky., Sired by RAAB Johnny 91J; 3. BUTR Shootout On The Prairie 320M, Teagan Butterfield, Atkinson, Neb., Sired by JRI Prairie Fire 634F310.

CLASS 3: YOUNG COW/ CALF PAIRS

Born January 1, 2024, to February 28, 2024

1. KBRO Ladys Honor 2427M, Kade Mayer, Paxico, Kan., Sired by CBRO Honor 2103J; 2. SVVG Tango M415, Owen Sauer, Lewiston, Minn., Sired by XXB Battle Cry 116E; 3. TAU Ms. Growth Fund 424M ET, Kale Taubenheim, Amherst, Neb., Sired by Deer Valley Growth Fund.

CLASS 4: YOUNG COW/ CALF PAIRS

Born January 1, 2023, to December 31, 2023

1. XXB Miss Thelma 901, Easton Bose, Orleans, Neb., Sired by XXB Block Party 514H.

CLASS 5: AGED COW/ CALF PAIRS

Born 2022 or earlier

1. EGL Ms Lou H070 ET, Turner Taubenheim, Amherst, Neb., Sired by EGL Doc Holliday D100 ET; 2. RROG OVER Hot Topic 096H, Krisa Overmiller, Smith Center, Kan., Sired by Schillings R&L Classified 4191; 3. DMC Jackie 143J5, Henry Stewart, Judsonia, Ark., Sired by EGL EGL Lifeline B101.

CHAMPION WINTER YEARLING HEIFER

JTCW WNCC Nova 127N

Ella Hoeltzel, Olsburg, Kan.

Sire: PVF Blacklist 7077

CLASS 7: JUNIOR HEIFER CALF

Born March 1, 2026, to April 30, 2026

1. PHG Miss Zula P26, Emerson Sickler, Gladstone, N.D., Sired by Basin True Grit 1021.

CLASS 8: JUNIOR HEIFER CALF

Born January 1, 2026, to February 28, 2026

1. CIBB Ms Mac Daddy 622P, Brayton Cibula, Clutier, Iowa, Sired by CIBS Mac Daddy 4962M; 2. TAU Ms. Rise 601P ET, Kale Taubenheim, Amherst, Neb., Sired by Stellpflug Hoffman RiseAbove 2008; 3. KADE Piper 2427P, Kade Mayer, Paxico, Kan., Sired by XXB Big Shooter 604J ET.

CLASS 10: SENIOR HEIFER CALF

Born November 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025

1. BCFG Butlers Ms Nakita 386N, Brock Knicely, Norwich, Ohio, Sired by BCFG Butlers General Lee J207 ET; 2. SEPT Gucci Black N530, Jace Bottger, Hubbard, Neb., Sired by PVF Blacklist 7077; 3. RFFF Luna 270N001, Rocklyn Funk, Norwich, Ohio; Sired by JRI Rawhide 253L384.

CLASS 11: SENIOR HEIFER CALF

Born October 1, 2025, to October 31, 2025

1. TGV T Bar S Ms 1448N, Gabrielle Tebo, Idaville, Ind., Sired by JGPG Pit Boss 205K ET; 2. VLK Neon N5025,

RESERVE CHAMPION WINTER YEARLING HEIFER

BCFG Butlers Ms Nellie N1341 ET Cogan Schilling, Goodland, Kan.

Sire: PVF Blacklist 7077

Lawton Geppert, Highmore, S.D., Sired by TR Growth Fund 2073K; 3. SEPT Marvelous Mrs Maisel N528, Emma Hackbart, Milford, Neb., Sired by PVF Marvel 9185.

CLASS 12: SENIOR HEIFER CALF

Born September 1, 2025, to September 30, 2025

1. SAMG Ms. Nightshade 652N, Sam Gravely, Mount Juliet, Tenn., Sired by Deer Valley Growth Fund; 2. CRLL Natasha’s Time 5850N ET, Jacie Carroll, Raymore, Mo., Sired by STAG Good Times 201 ET; 3. BCFG Butlers Ms Nalani 150N, Brooke Knicely, Norwich, Ohio, Sired by BCFG Butlers General Hatton 702J ET.

CLASS 13: SENIOR HEIFER CALF

Born September 1, 2025, to September 30, 2025

1. JNCC Eloise 570N, Cameron Nowack, Bland, Mo., Sired by PVF Blacklist 7077; 2. TJB Vickie Vale 292K 5104N ET, Olivia Maddox, Chickamauga, Ga., Sired by GHGF Landon L706; 3. VOS After Party 448N ET, Weston Voss, Bruning, Neb., Sired by STAG Good Times 201 ET.

CLASS 15: INTERMEDIATE YEARLING HEIFER

Born July 1, 2025, to August 31, 2025

1. JRI Ms Lainey 207N3110, Lily Judd, Pomona, Kan., Sired by JRI Rawhide 253L384; 2. TJB Veronica 515C 575N,

Ava Dagger, Cable, Ohio, Sired by TJB TAYD Acuna 214K ET; 3. JKAB JETT Ms Nola N814, Jett Baker, Stuart, Okla., Sired by BCFG Butlers Bismarck 512Z.

CLASS 16: INTERMEDIATE YEARLING HEIFER

Born May 1, 2025, to June 30, 2025

1. KDVC Luna 031N, Kelsey Viebrock, Stover, Mo., Sired by CRLL JNCC Empire 0983H ET; 2. KMAX Cherry 1N, Kole Maxwell, Larned, Kan., Sired by New Haven Resilient K135; 3. ELC Ms. Cherry 16N, Camden Cooper, Larned, Kan., Sired by GRU Mr Gunfight 711J.

CLASS 17: INTERMEDIATE YEARLING HEIFER

Born May 1, 2025, to June 30, 2025

1. WLSS Nutella 837N, Kaisha Alber, Guide Rock, Neb., Sired by XXB Battle Cry 116E; 2. GHGF Navi 321N, Tillman Derossett, Glasgow, Ky., Sired by GHGF Dr J J898; 3. VOS SEPT Song Bird N521, Leah Voss, Bruning, Neb., Sired by XXB Block Party 514H.

CLASS 19: SPRING YEARLING HEIFER

Born April 1, 2025, to April 30, 2025 1. LALD Ms. Shootout 002N, Alyvia Starr, Stapleton, Neb., Sired by XXB Big Shooter 604J; 2. DLW Ms Anissa 716N, Weston Voss, Bruning, Neb., Sired by GDV T Bar S Casino 115G ET; 3. LARA Party Girl 421N, Lara Rittenhouse, New Carlisle, Ohio, Sired by GDV T Bar S Casino 115G ET.

CLASS 20: SPRING YEARLING HEIFER

Born April 1, 2025, to April 30, 2025 1. Butlers Ms Neveah 549N, Clara Belle Bishop, Coxs Creek, Ky., Sired by TJB Rebel Yell 804F ET; 2. MGA Cow Girl 529N, Lincoln Martin, Bucklin, Kan., Sired by MGA Rock Star 318L; 3. AERC Kings Galena 110N, Paxton Blubaugh, Burrton, Kan., Sired by GRU Kingpin 716K.

CLASS 21: SPRING YEARLING HEIFER

Born March 1, 2025, to March 31, 2025

1. BARB Rose In Paradise 5300N ET, Owen Spencer, Pierre, S.D., Sired by BABR Reform 1302H; 2. TLRR Carrie Anne N8F, Ethan Pipins, Bluejacket, Okla., Sired by TLGC X102 Hille K219; 3. MGA Pocahontas Jane 514N, Kylee Sickler, Gladstone, N.D., Sired by SCC SCH 24 Karat 838.

CLASS

22: SPRING YEARLING HEIFER

Born March 1, 2025, to March 31, 2025

1. BSSC BCFG Simply Irresistable 5037N, Braylen Schaeffer, Hagerstown, Ind., Sired by Rose MC Encore 0463; 2. GHGF Nia 10N1 ET, Cole Langston, Cleveland, N.C., Sired by Colburn Primo 5153; 3. Butlers Ms Nola 13N, Alexandria Raab, Markle, Ind., Sired by PVF Blacklist 7077.

CLASS 23: SPRING YEARLING HEIFER

Born March 1, 2025, to March 31, 2025

1. SEPT Sheza Bombshell 542N ET, Cogan Schilling, Goodland, Kan., Sired by STAG Good Times 201 ET; 2. LVL Bonnie Bell N30 ET, Tobby Voss, Bruning, Neb., Sired by Collison Alpha 028; 3. SEPT My Fair Lady 547N ET, Megan Walahoski, Overton, Neb., Sired by STAG Good Times 201 ET.

CLASS 26: WINTER YEARLING HEIFER

Born February 1, 2025, to February 28, 2025

1. JTCW WNCC Nova 127N, Ella Hoeltzel, Olsburg, Kan., Sired by PVF Blacklist 7077; 2. VLK Navy N505, Lawton Geppert, Highmore, S.D., Sired by CTR Net Return 0700H ET; 3. RAAB Miss Nellie 224N, Aubrey Landrum, Huntington, Ind., Sired by GHGF Cracker Jack G310.

CLASS 27: WINTER YEARLING HEIFER

Born February 1, 2025, to February 28, 2025

1. HTFB Hilltops Naturally Sweet N511, Jasper McCoy, Carthage, Mo., Sired by DLW TPG Frontrunner 2510F; 2. BABR Scarlett 5340N, Owen Spencer, Pierre, S.D., Sired by Rojas TR Chivas 17109; 3. DLW Ms Elba 5302N ET, Brigham Robinson, Arapahoe, Neb., Sired by STAG Good Times 201 ET.

CLASS 28: WINTER YEARLING HEIFER

Born February 1, 2025, to February 28, 2025

1. BCFG Butlers Ms Naomi 207N ET, Luke Barnett, Woodlawn, Tenn., Sired by PVF Blacklist 7077; 2. XXB Lebanon 520N, Kole Brooks, Bennet, Neb., Sired by XXB Block Party 514H; 3. BOSE Jade N701, Easton Bose, Orleans, Neb., Sired by XXB Big Shooter 604J ET.

CLASS 30: WINTER YEARLING HEIFER

Born January 1, 2025, to January 31, 2025

1. BCFG Butlers Ms Nellie N1341 ET, Cogan Schilling, Goodland, Kan., Sired by PVF Blacklist 7077; 2. GHGF Natali 25N1 ET, Joey Todd, Willard, Mo., Sired by Colburn Primo 5153; 3. CCRK Liberty 5202N, Drew Stock, Waukon, Iowa, Sired by BNWZ Specialty 1146.

CLASS 32: SENIOR FEMALE

Born December 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024

1. GDTB Journey’s First Lady M121, Kinley Metts, Paragould, Ark., Sired by MDR First Step 7549E; 2. SEPT Rumor Has It M423, Genevieve Kramer, Hubbard, Neb., Sired by KARR Rumfelt’s Prime Time H96G; 3. GCRK LHC Sweet Caroline 4145M, Molly Anderson, Marion, N.C., Sired by TAU Night Shift 69H.

CLASS

33: SENIOR FEMALE

Born September 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024

1. BCFG Butlers Ms Maysie M28 ET, Alexandria Raab, Markle, Ind., Sired by BCFG Butlers General Lee J207 ET; 2. JNCC Mirabelle 456M, Cameron Nowack, Bland, Mo., Sired by PVF Blacklist 7077; 3. TJB Anissa J341 4137M, Gentry Warner, Arapahoe, Neb., Sired by TJB Rebel Yell 804F ET.

HEIFER

CLASS 24: SPRING YEARLING

Born March 1, 2025, to March 31, 2025

1. PHG Miss Daina N34, Eric Larson, Clearbrook, Minn., Sired by Sadler Hemisphere 2528; 2. BREK Norma N22 ET, Breckon Murray, Kingfisher, Okla., Sired by Colburn Primo 5153; 3. HOJ Luna N502, Rhett Hojer, Miller, S.D., Sired by S A V Brilliance 8077.

CLASS 29: WINTER YEARLING HEIFER

Born January 1, 2025, to January 31, 2025

1. SEPT Soule Sister N560 ET, Jadyn Thompson, Ord, Neb., Sired by S A V Brilliance 8077; 2. SEPT Hellcat Melania N507, Paige Walahoski, Overton, Neb., Sired by BABR On Rush 3000L ET; 3. BARG Sweet Emotion 542N, Lillian Helms, Holbrook, Neb., Sired by GRU Grand Plan 744G.

CLASS

34: SENIOR FEMALE

Born May 1, 2024, to August 30, 2024

1. TJB Velvet 978G 495M ET, Olivia Maddox, Chickamauga, Ga., Sired by TJB TAYD Acuna 214K ET.

CHAMPIONS SELECTED AT THE INAUGURAL 2026 AGJA THE GOOD LIFE JUNIOR CLASSIC NATIONAL GELBVIEH BRED AND OWNED FEMALE SHOW

Champions were selected at the inaugural 2026 American Gelbvieh Junior Association (AGJA) The Good Life Junior Classic National Gelbvieh Bred and Owned Female Show on Thursday, June 25. 2026, in Grand Island, Nebraska. Exhibitors welcomed judge Matt Copeland of Amistad, N.M., to evaluate 39 Gelbvieh bred and owned female entries.

GRAND CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED GELBVIEH FEMALE

CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED WINTER YEARLING HEIFER

LLLJ 3L Rose 14N3 ET

Jessie Lowe, Adrian, Mo.

Sire: JRI General Patton 213B97ET

FOURTH OVERALL BRED AND OWNED GELBVIEH FEMALE CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED SPRING YEARLING HEIFER

LLLJ 3L Plum ET

Jessie Lowe, Adrian, Mo.

Sire: GHGF Cow Town D536

RESERVE CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED JUNIOR HEIFER CALF

LLLI 3L Anna 4P4

Isabel Lowe, Adrian, Mo.

Sire: BABR 9300G

RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED

GELBVIEH FEMALE

CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED COW/CALF PAIR

CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED AGED COW/CALF PAIR

LLLJ 3L Skylar 14H1

Jessie Lowe, Adrian, Mo.

Sire: LWHF Reflection 116C ET

FIFTH OVERALL BRED AND OWNED GELBVIEH FEMALE

CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED

JUNIOR HEIFER CALF

PMTD Pandora 653P

Tillman Derossett, Glasgow, Ky.

Sire: DBRG Kickstart 2202K

CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED SENIOR HEIFER CALF

DMC Jacqueline 143N92

Madalyn Johnson, Judsonia, Ark.

Sire: DMC Martin’s Patton 20K

THIRD OVERALL BRED AND OWNED GELBVIEH FEMALE

RESERVE BRED AND OWNED WINTER YEARLING HEIFER

SKYA Nyx 5015N

Allissa Martin, Oregon, Ill.

Sire: GHGF Cow Town D536

RESERVE BRED AND OWNED COW/CALF PAIR

CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED YOUNG/COW CALF PAIR

CMWF Miss Prodigy 4119M

Caden Wagner, New Concord, Ohio

Sire: TJB Dominic 844F

RESERVE CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED SPRING YEARLING HEIFER

BREG 101N Ms Diamond

Brennan Anderson, Ash Grove, Mo.

Sire: LLLI 3L Power Down 33J18

Results by Megan Underwood, M.S Photos by Next Level Images

RESERVE CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED SENIOR HEIFER CALF

CRLL Emma Darling 5935N ET

Jacie Diane Carroll, Raymore, Mo.

Sire: JRI Prairie Fire 634F310

CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED INTERMEDIATE YEARLING HEIFER

CRLL JNCC Emberlynn 5109N ET

Jacie Diane Carroll, Raymore, Mo.

Sire: JRI Prairie Fire 634F310

RESERVE CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED INTERMEDIATE YEARLING HEIFER

JKAB JETT Ms Nadia 602N

Jett Baker, Stuart, Okla.

Sire: DLW TPG Frontrunner 2510F

CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED SENIOR FEMALE

JNCC Madonna CTJ 4474M ET Cameron Nowack, Bland, Mo.

Sire: GRU Grand Plan 744G

RESERVE CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED SENIOR FEMALE

JRI Ms Paradise 270M456 ET Levi Judd, Pomona, Kan.

Sire: JRI General Patton 213B97 ET

CLASS 1: BRED AND OWNED COW/CALF PAIR

Born January 1, 2023, to April 30, 2023

1. CMWF Miss Prodigy 4119M, Caden Wagner, New Concord, Ohio, Sired by TJB Dominic 844F.

CLASS 2: BRED AND OWNED COW/CALF PAIR

Born in 2022 or Older

1. LLLJ Skylar 14H1, Jessie Lowe, Adrian, Mo., Sired by LWHF Reflection 116C ET.

CLASS 4: BRED AND OWNED JUNIOR HEIFER CALF

Born March 1, 2026, to April 30, 2026

1. PMTD Penelope 631P, Tillman Derossett, Glasgow, Ky., Sired by GRU Grand Plan 744G.

CLASS 5: BRED AND OWNED JUNIOR HEIFER CALF

Born January 1, 2026, to February 28, 2026

1. PMTD Pandora 653P, Tillman Derossett, Glasgow, Ky., Sired by DBRG Kickstart 2202K; 2. LLLI 3L Anna 4P4, Isabel Lowe, Adrian, Mo., Sired by BABR 9300G; 3. LLLJ Pepper 14P8, Jessie Lowe, Adrian, Mo., Sired by GRU Grand Plan 744G.

CLASS 7: BRED AND OWNED SENIOR HEIFER CALF

Born November 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025 1. DMC Jacqueline 143N92, Madalyn Johnson, Judsonia, Ark., Sired by DMC Martin’s Patton 20K; 2. KARS 5159 ET, Karson Brooks, Bennet, Neb., Sired by DCSF Post Rock Power Built 37B8.

CLASS 8: BRED AND OWNED SENIOR HEIFER CALF

Born September 1, 2025, to October 31, 2025

1. CRLL Emma Darling 5935N ET, Jacie Carroll, Raymore, Mo., Sired by JRI Prairie Fire 634F310; 2. KARS Prarie Ember 938N, Karson Brooks, Bennet, Neb., Sired by JRI Prairie Fire 634F310; 3. CMSP Tiny Diamon N1, Chloe Sprague, Altoona, Iowa, Sired by SLC SLC Viper 7E.

CLASS 10: BRED AND OWNED INTERMEDIATE YEARLING HEIFER

Born July 1, 2025, to August 30, 2025

1. ELC Ms. Nora 010N, Camden Cooper, Larned, Kan., Sired by FHG Flying H Big Chief 26H.

CLASS 11: BRED AND OWNED INTERMEDIATE YEARLING HEIFER

Born May 1, 2025, to June 30, 2025

1. CRLL JNCC Emberlynn 5109N ET, Jacie Carroll, Raymore, Mo., Sired by JRI Prairie Fire 634F310; 2. JKAB JETT Ms Nadia, Jett Baker, Stuart, Okla., Sired by DLW TPG Frontrunner 2510F; 3. JNCC Ophelia CTJ 5820N ET, Cameron Nowack, Bland, Mo., Sired by BNC Ascendance K318.

CLASS 13: BRED AND OWNED SPRING YEARLING HEIFER

Born March 1, 2025, to April 30, 2025

1. LLLJ 3L Plum 14N9 ET, Jessie Lowe, Adrian, Mo., Sired by GHGF Cow Town D536; 2. BREG 101N Ms Diamond, Brennan Anderson, Ash Grove, Mo., Sired by LLLI 3L Power Down 22J18; 3. BUTR Equalizer’s

Little Lou 507N, Teagan Butterfield, Atkinson, Neb., Sired by HTFM Mr Equalizer E711.

CLASS 15: BRED AND OWNED WINTER YEARLING HEIFER

Born February 1, 2025, to February 28, 2025

1. SKYA Nyx 5015N, Allissa Martin, Oregon, Ill., Sired by GHGF Cow Town D536; 2. JNCC Nadia 513N, Cameron Nowack, Bland, Mo., Sired by CRLL JNCC Empire 0983H ET; 3. GHSC Miss Mollie N552, Colt Swindler, Braymer, Mo., Sired by GHSC E-Trade GK56.

CLASS 16: BRED AND OWNED WINTER YEARLING HEIFER

Born January 1, 2025, to January 31, 2025

1. LLLJ 3L Rose 14N3 ET, Jessie Lowe, Adrian, Mo., Sired by JRI General Patton 213B97 ET; 2. KAKK Nicki Minaj, Khloe Viebrock, Stover, Mo., Sired by DLW TPG Frontrunner 2510F; 3. BUTR Gingerling 290N, Teagan Butterfield, Atkinson, Neb., Sired by JRI Prairie Fire 634F310.

CLASS 18: BRED AND OWNED SENIOR FEMALE

Born September 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024

1. JNCC Madonna CTJ 4474M ET, Cameron Nowack, Bland, Mo., Sired by GRU Grand Plan 744G; 2. SAMG Ms. Molly 569M, Sam Gravely, Mount Juliet, Tenn., Sired by GHGF Man O’ War F835; 3. HMKG Ms Delilah 129M, Hadlee Ketcherside, Cuba, Mo., Sired by DDGR Stellar 124J.

CLASS 19: BRED AND OWNED SENIOR FEMALE

Born July 1, 2024, to August 30, 2024

1. JRI Ms Paradise 270M456 ET, Levi Judd, Pomona, Kan., Sired by JRI General Patton 213B97 ET.

CLASS 20: BRED AND OWNED SENIOR FEMALE

Born May 1, 2024, to June 30, 2024

1. MALM KTLN Reba 73M, Mallory Mahoney, Robertsdale, Ala., Sired by CIRS 326H.

CHAMPIONS SELECTED AT THE 2026 AGJA THE GOOD LIFE JUNIOR CLASSIC NATIONAL GELBVIEH BRED AND OWNED BULL SHOW

Champions were selected at the 2026 American Gelbvieh Junior Association (AGJA) The Good Life Junior Classic National Gelbvieh Bred and Owned Bull Show on Thursday, June 25. 2026, in Grand Island, Nebraska. Exhibitors welcomed judge Matt Copeland of Amistad, N.M., to evaluate 11 Gelbvieh bred and owned bull entries.

GRAND CHAMPION GELBVIEH BRED AND OWNED BULL

CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED SENIOR BULL CALF

SAMG Noble 669N

Sam Gravely, Mount Juliet, Tenn.

Sire: JRI Cimarron 213K65 ET

CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED JUNIOR BULL CALF

HILK Polo 2400P

Kyra Moore, Fountain Run, Ky.

Sire: FMGF Blue’s Impact 001X

RESERVE CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED INTERMEDIATE YEARLING BULL

JNCC Pancho CTJ 5302N ET

Cameron Nowack, Bland, Mo.

Sire: BNC Ascendance K318

RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION GELBVIEH BRED AND OWNED BULL

CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED SENIOR YEARLING BULL

GHSC Bic Mac M71

Gage Swindler, Braymer, Mo.

Sire: GHSC E-Trade GK56

RESERVE CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED SENIOR BULL CALF

KBRO SEPT Stockyards 2585N

Kaycee Brown, Dwight, Kan.

Sire: GHGF Cow Town D536

CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED JUNIOR YEARLING BULL

MARH E-Trade’s Trump Card Colt 51N

Lilyan March, Greentop, Mo.

Sire: GHSC E-Trade GK56

CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED INTERMEDIATE YEARLING BULL

JKAB JETT Lead Off 522N, Jett Baker, Stuart, Okla.

Sire: DLW TPG Frontrunner 2510F

RESERVE CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED JUNIOR BULL CALF

CMWF Phoenix 41196107P

Caden Wagner, New Concord, Ohio

Sire: JRI Rawhide 253L384

CLASS 1: BRED AND OWNED JUNIOR BULL CALF

Born March 1, 2026, to April 30, 2026

1. HILK Polo 2400P, Kyra Moore, Fountain Run, Ky.,

Sired by FMGF Blue’s Impact 001X.

Results by Megan Underwood, M.S

Photos by Next Level Images

CLASS 2: BRED AND OWNED JUNIOR BULL CALF

Born January 1, 2026, to February 28, 2026

1. CMWF Phoenix 41196107P, Caden Wagner, New Concord, Ohio, Sired by JRI Rawhide 253L384; 2. BUTR Front Shot 602P, Teagan Butterfield, Atkinson, Neb., Sired by DLW TPG Frontrunner 2510F.

CLASS 4: BRED AND OWNED SENIOR BULL CALF

Born November 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025

1. KBRO SEPT Stockyards 2585N, Kaycee Brown, Dwight, Kan., Sired by GHGF Cow Town D536.

CLASS 5: BRED AND OWNED SENIOR BULL CALF

Born September 1, 2025, to October 31, 2025

1. SAMG Noble 669N, Sam Gravely, Mount Juliet, Tenn., Sired by JRI Cimarron 213K65 ET.

CLASS 7: BRED AND OWNED INTERMEDIATE YEARLING BULL

Born July 1, 2025, to August 30, 2025

1. KKKG Triple K Neanderthal D2KN, Joseph Tollett, Basehor, Kan., Sired by JRI In Demand 254F839 ET.

CLASS 8: BRED AND OWNED INTERMEDIATE YEARLING BULL

Born May 1, 2025, to June 30, 2025

1. JKAB JETT Lead Off 522N, Jett Baker, Stuart, Okla., Sired by DLW TPG Frontrunner 2510F; 2. JNCC Pancho CTJ 5302N ET, Cameron Nowack, Bland, Mo., Sired by BNC Ascendance K318; 3. TFLP JX Legacy 514N, Leighton Tinney, Mora, Mo., Sired by TFLP Jinks 137J.

CLASS 10: BRED AND OWNED JUNIOR YEARLING BULL

Born January 1, 2025, to April 30, 2025

1. MARH E-Trade’s Trump Card Colt 51N, Lilyan March, Greentop, Mo., Sired by GHSC E-Trade GK56.

CLASS 12: BRED AND OWNED SENIOR YEARLING BULL

Born May 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024

1. GHSC Big Mac M71, Gage Swindler, Braymer, Mo., Sired by GHSC E-Trade GK56.

GELBVIEH-INFLUENCED MARKET SHOW CHAMPIONS SELECTED AT THE 2026 AGJA THE GOOD LIFE JUNIOR CLASSIC

Gelbvieh-influenced Market Show Champions were selected at the 2026 American Gelbvieh Junior Association (AGJA) The Good Life Junior Classic on Friday, June 26, 2026, in Grand Island, Nebraska. Exhibitors welcomed judge Chris Mullinix of Manhattan, Kan., to evaluate five feeder heifers, six market heifers, four prospect steers, and 14 market steers.

GRAND CHAMPION FEEDER HEIFER

Bo Nowack, Bland, Mo., 470 pounds

GRAND CHAMPION MARKET HEIFER

Anna Altman, Worthington, Minn., 1,228 pounds

SUPREME MARKET ANIMAL GRAND CHAMPION

MARKET STEER

Kale Taubenheim, Amherst, Neb., 1,360 pounds

RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION FEEDER HEIFER

Lilyan March, Greentop, Mo., 704 pounds

RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION PROSPECT STEER

Lincoln Brannon, Stuart, Okla., 554 pounds

RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION MARKET STEER

Ava Larson, Clearbrook, Minn., 1,450 pounds

Results by Megan Underwood, M.S Photos by Next Level Images

RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION MARKET HEIFER

Avarie Hightower La Cynge, Kan. 1,176 pounds

GRAND CHAMPION PROSPECT STEER

Joseph Tollett Basehor, Kan. 942 pounds

CLASS 1: FEEDER HEIFERS

Weighing 300-500 pounds

1. Bo Nowack, Bland, Mo., 470 pounds; 2. Brant Altman, Worthington, Minn., 468 pounds; 3. Lincoln Brannon, Stuart, Okla., 386 pounds.

CLASS 2: FEEDER HEIFERS

Weighing 700-900 pounds

1. Lilyan March, Greentop, Mo., 704 pounds; 2. Lilly Shobe, Wyandotte, Okla., 826 pounds.

CLASS 3: MARKET HEIFERS

Weighing 1,100-1,199 pounds

1. Avarie Hightower, La Cynge, Kan., 1,176 pounds; 2. Mallory Mahoney, Robertsdale, Ala., 1,162 pounds; 3. Lincoln Brannon, Stuart, Okla., 1,104 pounds.

CLASS 4: MARKET HEIFERS

Weighing 1,200-1,299 pounds

1. Anna Altman, Worthington, Minn., 1,228 pounds; 2. Cash Pitts, Fort Scott, Kan., 1,276 pounds.

CLASS 5: PROSPECT STEERS

Weighing 400-600 pounds

1. Lincoln Brannon, Stuart, Okla., 554 pounds; 2. Lincoln Brannon, Stuart, Okla., 580 pounds; 3. Abbie Shobe, Wyandotte, Okla., 440 pounds.

CLASS 6: PROSPECT STEERS

Weighing 900-999 pounds

1. Jospeh Tollett, Basehor, Kan., 942 pounds.

CLASS 7: MARKET STEERS

Weighing 1,000-1,299 pounds

1. Saige Blubaugh, Burrton, Kan., 1,278 pounds; 2. Montana Wilson, Worthington, Minn., 1,220 pounds; 3. Hailey Heinje, Wilmot, S.D., 1,094 pounds.

MARKET SHOW

CLASS 8: MARKET STEERS

Weighing 1,300-1,399 pounds

1. Kale Taubenheim, Amherst, Neb., 1,360 pounds; 2. Emma Larson, Clearbrook, Minn., 1,346 pounds; 3. Brylee Mickey, Aurora, Neb., 1,348 pounds.

CLASS 9: MARKET STEERS

Weighing 1,400-1,599 pounds

1. Ava Larson, Clearbrook, Minn., 1,450 pounds; 2. Jett Baker, Stuart, Okla., 1,568 pounds; 3. Jace Bottger, Hubbard, Neb., 1,430 pounds.

CHAMPIONS SELECTED AT THE 2026 AGJA THE GOOD LIFE JUNIOR CLASSIC NATIONAL GELBVIEH OWNED FEMALE SHOW

Champions were selected at the 2026 American Gelbvieh Junior Association (AGJA) The Good Life Junior Classic National Gelbvieh Owned Female Show on Friday, June 26, 2026, in Grand Island, Nebraska. Exhibitors welcomed judge Chris Mullinix of Manhattan, Kan., to evaluate 84 Gelbvieh owned female entries.

GRAND CHAMPION GELBVIEH FEMALE CHAMPION WINTER YEARLING HEIFER

LLLJ 3L Rose 14N3 ET

Jessie Lowe, Adrian, Mo.

Sire: JRI General Patton 213B97 ET

RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION GELBVIEH FEMALE CHAMPION COW/CALF PAIR, CHAMPION YOUNG COW/CALF PAIR

MDR Clara Allen 415M

Corbin Lowe, Winfield, Kan.

Sire: MDR First Step 7549

Results by Megan Underwood, M.S Photos by Next Level Images

GELBVIEH OWNED FEMALE SHOW

THIRD OVERALL GELBVIEH FEMALE, CHAMPION SENIOR HEIFER CALF

CRLL JNCC Emma 5153N ET

Cameron Nowack, Bland, Mo.

Sire: GHGF Cow Town D536

CHAMPION JUNIOR HEIFER CALF

PMTD Pandora 653P

Tillman Derossett, Glasgow, Ky.

Sire: DBRG Kickstart 2202K

RESERVE CHAMPION SPRING YEARLING HEIFER

SEPT Kali 541N ET

Blair Buehler, Fairbury, Neb.

Sire: GHGF Man O’ War F825

FOURTH OVERALL GELBVIEH FEMALE, RESERVE SENIOR HEIFER CALF

BCFG Butlers Ms Nyla 534N4

Ava Dagger, Cable, Ohio

Sire: BCFG Butlers 726K

CHAMPION INTERMEDIATE YEARLING HEIFER

TJB Vanessa 4101C 595N

Olivia Maddox, Chickamauga, Ga.

Sire: RWG RWG Seminole Wind 9430 ET

FIFTH OVERALL GELBVIEH FEMALE

RESERVE WINTER YEARLING HEIFER

SKYA Nyx 5015N

Allissa Martin, Oregon, Ill.

Sire: GHGF Cow Town D536

CHAMPION SPRING YEARLING HEIFER

BCFG Butlers Ms Nova N207 ET

Kade Mayer, Paxico, Kan.

Sire: GHGF Man O’ War F825

CHAMPION SENIOR FEMALE

JNCC Madonna CTJ 4474M ET

Cameron Nowack, Bland, Mo.

Sire: GRU Grand Plan 744G

RESERVE CHAMPION SENIOR FEMALE

TJB Anissa 806F 423M ET

Olivia Maddox, Chickamauga, Ga.

Sire: RWG RWG Seminole Wind 9430 ET

RESERVE CHAMPION COW/CALF PAIR

RESERVE CHAMPION YOUNG/COW CALF PAIR

LRSF Jo-Leen M148

Dylan Larson, Clearbrook, Minn.

Sire: JKGF All American J109

CHAMPION AGED COW/CALF PAIR

LLLJ 3L Skylar 14H1

Jessie Lowe, Adrian, Mo.

Sire: LWHF Reflection 116C ET

RESERVE CHAMPION JUNIOR HEIFER CALF

LLLI 3L Anna 4P4

Isabel Lowe, Adrian, Mo. Sire: BABR 9300G

RESERVE CHAMPION INTERMEDIATE YEARLING HEIFER

JRI 207N336 ET Lily Judd, Pomona, Kan.

Sire: JRI General Patton 213B97 ET

CLASS 1: YOUNG COW/CALF PAIRS

Born January 1, 2024, to April 30, 2024

1. MDR Clara Allen 415M, Corbin Lowe, Winfield, Kan., Sired by MDR First Step 7549E; 2. LRSF Jo-Leen M148, Dylan Larson, Clearbrook, Minn., Sired by JKGF All American J109; 3. CMWF Miss Prodigy 4119M, Caden Wagner, New Concord, Ohio, Sired by TJB Dominic 844F.

CLASS 2: YOUNG COW/CALF PAIRS

Born January 1, 2023, to December 31, 2023

1. SEPT Red Velvet Martini L328, Beau Gotschall, Stuart, Neb., Sired by BABR 9300G; 2. JRI Ms Perfect Sense 285L410, Kaycee Brown, Dwight, Kan., Sired by JRI General Patton 213B97 ET.

CLASS 4: AGED COW/ CALF PAIRS

Born in 2022 or Older

1. LLLJ 3L Skylar 14H1, Jessie, Lowe, Adrian, Mo., Sired by LWHF Reflection 116C ET.

CLASS 7: JUNIOR

HEIFER CALF

Born March 1, 2026, to April 30, 2026

1. PMTD Penelope 631P, Tillman

Derossett, Glasgow, Ky., Sired by GRU Grand Plan 744G; 2. PHG Classic Glow P84, Kylee Sickler, Gladstone, N.D., Sired by PHG Game On L48.

CLASS 8: JUNIOR HEIFER CALF

Born January 1, 2026, to February 28, 2026

1. PMTD Pandora 653P, Tillman

Derossett, Glasgow, Ky., Sired by DBRG Kickstart 2202K; 2. LLLI 3L Anna 4P4, Isabel Lowe, Adrian, Mo., Sired by BABR 9300G; 3. LLLJ 3L Pepper 14P8, Jessie Lowe, Adrian, Mo., Sired by GRU Grand Plan 744G.

CLASS 10: SENIOR HEIFER CALF

Born November 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025

1. DMC Jacqueline 143N92, Madalyn Johnson, Judsonia, Ark., Sired by DMC Martin’s Patton 20K; 2. JNCC Queen Rikki 5104N, Kole Brooks, Bennet, Neb., Sired by CRLL JNCC Empire 0983H ET.

CLASS 11: SENIOR HEIFER CALF

Born October 1, 2025, to October 30, 2025

1. HOJ Sweet Pea N556, Rhett Hojer, Miller, S.D., Sired by BNC Replay K241; 2. KVEE Nila 581N ET, Libby Knicely, Norwich, Ohio, Sired by HDG Hillsdown Finnegan 4F; 3. REGC Miss Nicky N25, Regan Clines, Springfield, Mo., Sired by JSWF Jiggles Top Brass H41 ET.

CLASS 12: SENIOR HEIFER CALF

Born September 1, 2025, to September 30, 2025

1. CRLL JNCC Emma 5153N ET, Cameron Nowack, Bland, Mo., Sired by GHGF Cow Town D536; 2. BCFG Butlers Ms Nyla 534N4, Ava Dagger, Cable, Ohio, Sired by BCFG Butlers 726K; 3. MDR Lady Di Am N11, Kendra Simon, Conway, Ark., Sired by MDR Kaw Liga 2789K ET.

CLASS 14: INTERMEDIATE YEARLING HEIFER

Born July 1, 2025, to August 31, 2025

1. TJB Vanessa 4101C 595N, Olivia Maddox, Chickamauga, Ga., Sired by RWG RWG Seminole Wind 9430 ET; 2. JRI 207N336 ET, Lily Judd, Pomona, Kan., Sired by JRI General Patton 213B97 ET; 3. JRI 253N389 ET, Ella Hoeltzel, Olsburg, Kan., Sired by JRI General Patton 213B97 ET.

CLASS 15: INTERMEDIATE YEARLING HEIFER

Born May 1, 2025, to June 30, 2025 1. JNCC Ophelia CTJ 5820N ET, Cameron Nowack, Bland, Mo., Sired by BNC Ascendance K318; 2. CRLL JNCC Emberlynn 5109N ET, Jacie Diane Carroll, Raymore, Mo., Sired by JRI Prairie Fire 634F310; 3. WNCC Nefertiti 131N, Madeline Mayer, Paxico, Kan., Sired by JTCW Prairie Rattler 7K.

CLASS 17: SPRING YEARLING HEIFER

Born April 1, 2025, to April 30, 2025 1. HOJ Vaeda N526, Rhett Hojer, Miller, S.D., Sired by BNC Replay K241; 2. BABR Miss Bea 5335N, Beau Gotschall, Stuart, Neb., Sired by FLAD Fladeland John Wayne 36J; 3. JMR Nora HMR 573N, Eva Petrick, Elgin, N.D., Sired by KHR KHR 07J Red Tuxedo 07J.

GELBVIEH OWNED FEMALE SHOW

CLASS 18: SPRING YEARLING HEIFER

Born March 1, 2025, to March 31, 2025

1. LLLJ 3L Plum 14N9 ET, Jessie Lowe, Adrian, Mo., Sired by GHGF Cow Town D536; 2. GDX Paula 544N, Cameron Nowack, Bland, Mo., Sired by FHG Flying H 80A/40A 79E ET; 3. CIRS 915N, Addy Winter-Shearer, Hillsboro, Kan., Sired by DDGR Lobo 5J.

CLASS 19: SPRING YEARLING

HEIFER

Born March 1, 2025, to March 31, 2025

1. BCFG Butlers Ms Nova N207 ET, Kade Mayer, Paxico, Kan., Sired by GHGF Man O’ War F825; 2. SEPT Kali 541N ET, Blair Buehler, Fairbury, Neb., Sired by GHGF Man O’ War F825; 3. GDX 532N, Morgan Fawcett, Ree Heights, S.D., Sired by BNC Ascendance K318.

CLASS 21: WINTER YEARLING

HEIFER

Born February 1, 2025, to February 28, 2025

1. SKYA Nyx 5015N, Allissa Martin, Oregon, Ill., Sired by GHGF Cow Town D536; 2. BCFG Butlers Ms Norma Jean N534 ET, Pate Parsons, Leavenworth, Kan., Sired by JRI General Patton 213B97 ET; 3. JNCC Nadia 513N, Cameron Nowack, Bland, Mo., Sired by CRLL JNCC Empire 0983H ET.

CLASS 22: WINTER YEARLING HEIFER

Born January 1, 2025, to January 31, 2025

1. LLLJ 3L Rose 14N3 ET, Jessie Lowe, Adrian, Mo., Sired by JRI General Patton 213B97 ET; 2. BUTR Gingerling 290N, Teagan Butterfield, Atkinson, Neb., Sired by JRI Prairie Fire 634F310; 3. MDR Princess 507N, Kylee Sickler, Gladstone, N.D., Sired by GHGF Cracker Jack G310.

GELBVIEH OWNED FEMALE SHOW

CLASS 24:

SENIOR FEMALE

Born November 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024

1. BCFG Butlers Ms Megan 503M, Allissa Martin, Oregon, Ill., Sired by BCFG Butlers 135K; 2. LHC 4132M ET, Molly Anderson, Marion, N.C., Sired by TAU Rush 110H ET.

CLASS 25:

SENIOR FEMALE

Born September 1, 2024, to October 31, 2024

1. JNCC Madonna CTJ 4474M ET, Cameron Nowack, Bland, Mo., Sired by GRU Grand Plan 744G; 2. JRI Ms Pepper 017M5, Lily Judd, Pomona, Kan., Sired by JRI Pinnacle Peak 254K497; 3. SAMG Ms. Molly 569M, Sam Gravely, Mount Juliet, Tenn., Sired by GHGF Man O’ War F825.

CLASS 26:

SENIOR FEMALE

Born July 1, 2024, to August 31, 2024

1. TJB Anissa 806F 423M ET, Olivia Maddox, Chickamauga, Ga., Sired by RWG RWG Seminole Wind 9430 ET; 2. TJB Anissa 6132E 487M ET, Ava Dagger, Cable, Ohio; 3. JRI Ms Paradise 270M456 ET, Levi Judd, Pomona, Kan., Sired by JRI General Patton 213B97 ET.

CLASS 27:

SENIOR FEMALE

Born May 1, 2024, to June 30, 2024

1. MALM KTLN Reba 73M, Mallory Mahoney, Robertsdale, Ala., Sired by CIRS 326H.

CHAMPIONS SELECTED AT THE INAUGURAL 2026

AGJA THE GOOD LIFE JUNIOR CLASSIC NATIONAL BALANCER® BRED AND OWNED FEMALE SHOW

Champions were selected at the inaugural 2026 American Gelbvieh Junior Association (AGJA) The Good Life Junior Classic National Balancer® Bred and Owned Female Show on Friday, June 26, 2026, in Grand Island, Nebraska. Exhibitors welcomed judge Chris Mullinix of Manhattan, Kan., to evaluate 39 Balancer bred and owned female entries.

GRAND CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED BALANCER FEMALE

CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED SENIOR HEIFER CALF

SAMG Ms. Nightshade 652N

Sam Gravely, Mount Juliet, Tenn. Sire: Deer Valley Growth Fund

THIRD OVERALL BRED AND OWNED BALANCER FEMALE

CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED WINTER YEARLING HEIFER

CCRK Liberty 5202N

Drew Stock, Waukon, Iowa

Sire: BNWZ Specialty 1146

RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED BALANCER FEMALE

CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED SPRING YEARLING HEIFER

BSSC BCFG Simply Irresistable 5037N Braylen Schaeffer, Hagerstown, Ind.

Sire: Rose MC Encore 0463

FOURTH OVERALL BRED AND OWNED BALANCER FEMALE

RESERVE CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED SENIOR HEIFER CALF

SAMG Ms. Norah 669N

Sam Gravely, Mount Juliet, Tenn. Sire: Connealy Craftsman 070R

Results by Megan Underwood, M.S

Photos by Next Level Images

FIFTH OVERALL BRED AND OWNED BALANCER FEMALE

CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED COW/CALF PAIR

BUTR Shootout On The Prairie 320M

Teagan Butterfield, Atkinson, Neb.

Sire: JRI Prairie Fire 634F310

CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED SENIOR FEMALE

JNCC Madonna CTJ 4474M ET

Cameron Nowack, Bland, Mo.

Sire: GRU Grand Plan 744G

RESERVE CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED COW/CALF PAIR

RIES Karen 41M

Kailin Riessland, Pleasanton, Neb.

Sire: Tehama Patriarch F028

CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED

JUNIOR HEIFER CALF

SCIB Ms Naz 613P

Shawna Cibula, Clutier, Iowa

Sire: SVVG SVVG Nazareth M404

RESERVE CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED JUNIOR HEIFER CALF

CIBB Ms Mac Daddy 622P

Brayton Cibula, Clutier, Iowa

Sire: CIBS Mac Daddy 4962M

CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED INTERMEDIATE YEARLING HEIFER

JKAB JETT Ms Nola N814

Jett Baker, Stuart, Okla.

Sire: BCFG Butlers Bismarck 512Z

RESERVE CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED INTERMEDIATE YEARLING HEIFER

WLSS Nutella 837N

Kaisha Alber, Guide Rock, Neb.

Sire: XXB Battle Cry 116E

RESERVE CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED WINTER YEARLING HEIFER

DLW Ms Matron 505N

Kallan Warner, Arapahoe, Neb.

Sire: DLW TPG Kessinger 1009K ET

RESERVE CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED SENIOR FEMALE

KAKK Jade 007M

Khloe Viebrock, Stover, Mo.

Sire: KDVC Goose 035L

CLASS 1: BRED AND OWNED COW/CALF PAIRS

Born January 1, 2023, to April 30, 2024

1. BUTR Shootout On The Prairie 320M, Teagan Butterfield, Atkinson, Neb., Sired by JRI Prairie Fire 634F310; 2. REIS Karen 41M, Kailin Riessland, Pleasanton, Neb., Sired by Tehama Patriarch F028.

CLASS 3: BRED AND OWNED JUNIOR HEIFER CALF

Born March 1, 2026, to April 30, 2026

1. BOSE Ginger Spice, Easton Bose, Orleans, Neb., Sired by HTFG Hilltops Hawkeye H064.

BALANCER® BRED AND OWNED FEMALE SHOW

RESERVE CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED SPRING YEARLING HEIFER

BREK Norma N22 ET

Breckon Murray, Kingfisher, Okla.

Sire: Colburn Primo 5153

CLASS 4: BRED AND OWNED JUNIOR HEIFER CALF

Born January 1, 2026, to February 28, 2026

1. SCIB Ms Naz 613P, Shawna Cibula, Clutier, Iowa, Sired by SVVG SVVG Nazareth M404; 2. CIBB Ms Mac Daddy 622P, Brayton Cibula, Clutier, Iowa, Sired by CIBS Mac Daddy 4962M; 3. KADE Piper 2427P, Kade Mayer, Paxico, Kan., Sired by XXB Big Shooter 604J ET.

CLASS 6: BRED AND OWNED SENIOR HEIFER CALF

Born November 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025

1. SAMG Ms. Norah 669N, Sam Gravely, Mount Juliet, Tenn., Sired by Connealy Craftsman 070R; 2. HMKG T Bar S Ms Dolly 1187N, Hadlee Ketcherside, Cuba, Mo., Sired by RED Blairs Bingo 581B.

CLASS 7: BRED AND OWNED SENIOR HEIFER CALF

Born September 1, 2025, to October 31, 2025

1. SAMG Ms. Nightshade 652N, Sam Gravely, Mount Juliet, Tenn., Sired by Deer Valley Growth Fund; 2. VLK Neon N5025, Lawton Geppert, Highmore, S.D., Sired by TR Growth Fund 2073K; 3. JNCC Eloise 570N, Cameron Nowack, Bland, Mo., Sired by PVF Blacklist 7077.

CLASS 9: BRED AND OWNED INTERMEDIATE YEARLING HEIFER

Born July 1, 2025, to August 31, 2025

1. JKAB JETT Ms Nola N814, Jett Baker, Stuart, Okla., Sired by BCFG Butlers Bismarck 512Z; 2. JRI Ms Lainey 207N3110, Lily Judd, Pomona, Kan., Sired by JRI Rawhide 253L384; 3. SPW Prada 003N, Spencer Walahoski, Overton, Neb., Sired by SEPT Paranormal J1131 ET.

CLASS 10: BRED AND OWNED INTERMEDIATE YEARLING HEIFER

Born May 1, 2025, to June 30, 2025

1. WLSS Nutella 837N, Kaisha Alber, Guide Rock, Neb., Sired by XXB Battle Cry 116E; 2. ELC Ms. Ness 02N, Camden Cooper, Larned, Kan., Sired by ELC Mr. High Road 52J; 3. KMAX Cherry 1N, Kole Maxwell, Larned, Kan., Sired by New Haven Resilient K135.

CLASS 12: BRED AND OWNED SPRING YEARLING HEIFER

Born April 1, 2025, to April 30, 2025

1. LARA Party Girl 421N, Lara Rittenhouse, New Carlisle, Ohio, Sired by GDV T Bar S Casino 115G

ET; 2. AERC Kings Galena 110N, Paxton Blubaugh, Burrton, Kan., Sired by GRU Kingpin 716K; 3. TFLP Ellie J 421N, Leighton Tinney, Mora, Mo., Sired by TFLP Jinks 137J.

CLASS 13: BRED AND OWNED SPRING YEARLING HEIFER

Born March 1, 2025, to March 31, 2025 1. BSSC BCFG Simply Irresistable 5037N, Braylen Schaeffer, Hagerstown, Ind., Sired by Rose MC Encore 0463; 2. BREK Norma N22 ET, Breckon Murray, Kingfisher, Okla., Sired by Colburn Primo 5153; 3. SBKS Kings Encounter 329N, Saige Blubaugh, Burrton, Kan., Sired by GRU Kingpin 716K.

CLASS 15: BRED AND OWNED WINTER YEARLING HEIFER

Born February 1, 2025, to February 28, 2025

1. DLW Ms Matron 505N, Kallan Warner, Arapahoe, Neb., Sired by DLW TPG Kessinger 1009K ET; 2. BOSE Jade N701, Easton Bose, Orleans, Neb., Sired by XXB Big Shooter 604J ET; 3. ABJG 113N Ms Charlotte, Brittany Anderson, Ash Grove, Mo., Sired by LLLI 3L Power Down 33J18.

CLASS 16: BRED AND OWNED WINTER YEARLING HEIFER

Born January 1, 2025, to January 31, 2025

1. CCRK Liberty 5202N, Drew Stock, Waukon, Iowa, Sired by BNWZ Specialty 1146; 2. KVEE Nellie 539N, Braxton Knicely, Norwich, Ohio, Sired by Stellpflug Hoffman RiseAbove 2008; 3. FHG Flying H Ms Just N Time 97N, Abigail Helms, Holbrook, Neb., Sired by GRU Just N Time 714J.

CLASS 18: BRED AND OWNED SENIOR FEMALE

Born November 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024 1. GCRK LHC Sweet Caroline 4145M, Molly Anderson, Marion, N.C., Sired by TAU Night Shift 69H.

CLASS 19: BRED AND OWNED SENIOR FEMALE

Born September 1, 2024, to October 31, 2024 1. JNCC Mirabelle 456M, Cameron Nowack, Bland, Mo., Sired by PVF Blacklist 7077; 2. KAKK Jade 007M, Khloe Viebrock, Stover, Mo., Sire: KDVC Goose 035L.

CHAMPIONS SELECTED AT THE 2026 AGJA THE GOOD LIFE JUNIOR CLASSIC NATIONAL BALANCER® BRED AND OWNED BULL SHOW

Champions were selected at the 2026 American Gelbvieh Junior Association (AGJA) The Good Life Junior Classic National Balancer® Bred and Owned Bull Show on Friday, June 26, 2026, in Grand Island, Nebraska. Exhibitors welcomed judge Chris Mullinix of Manhattan, Kan., to evaluate 27 Balancer bred and owned bull entries.

GRAND CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED BALANCER BULL

CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED JUNIOR YEARLING BULL

LRIT Hush Money N410

Lexi Rittenhouse, New Carlisle, Ohio

Sire: TJB Rebel Yell 804F ET

RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED BALANCER BULL

RESERVE BRED AND OWNED JUNIOR YEARLING BULL

MDR Downtown 5755N ET

Kyson Thiel, Kaw City, Okla.

Sire: MDR Stoney Larue 1572J ET

Results by Megan Underwood, M.S Photos by Next Level Images

BALANCER® BRED AND OWNED BULL SHOW

CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED JUNIOR BULL CALF

TPGC Black Ice P04

Thompson Phelps, Paragould, Ark.

Sire: Coleman Below Zero 2106

RESERVE CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED SENIOR BULL CALF

CMYB Pistol’s Loaded 56N

Cole Youngblood, Columbus, Kan.

Sire: PVF Blacklist 7077

CLASS 1: BRED AND OWNED JUNIOR BULL CALF

Born March 1, 2026, to April 30, 2026

1. DMC Heaven Passing Thru 143P31, Henry Stewart, Judsonia, Ark., Sired by JRI Rawhide 253L384; 2. KRE Legend P18, Kinleigh Ekhoff, Aurora, Neb., Sired by KRE Magnum M14; 3. EBAM Boone P613, Elizabeth Bamesberger, Hampton, Neb., Sired by BTBR BTBR Krater 2305 ET.

CLASS 2: BRED AND OWNED JUNIOR BULL CALF

Born January 1, 2026, to February 28, 2026

1. TPGC Black Ice P04, Thompson Phelps, Paragould, Ark., Sired by Coleman Below Zero 2106; 2. SVVG Two Step P602, Owen Sauer, Lewiston, Minn., Sired by TAU Night Shift 69H.

CLASS 4: BRED AND OWNED SENIOR BULL CALF

Born November 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025

1. LLLI 3L Montego 14N18, Isabel Lowe, Adrian, Mo., Sired by JLEA Tops Down 914G; 2. CMYB Pistol’s Loaded 56N, Cole Youngblood, Columbus, Kan.,

RESERVE CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED JUNIOR BULL CALF

SVVG Two Step P602

Owen Sauer, Lewiston, Minn.

Sire: TAU Night Shift 69H

CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED INTERMEDIATE YEARLING BULL

CRLL JNCC Firewalker 5052N ET

Jacie Carroll, Raymore, Mo.

Sire: JRI Prairie Fire 634F310

Sired by PVF Blacklist 7077; 3. KVEE Norman 547N, Betsy Knicely, Norwich, Ohio, Sired by CTR Ringgold 9700G ET.

CLASS 5: BRED AND OWNED SENIOR BULL CALF

Born September 1, 2025, to October 31, 2025

1. KKWG Uncle Troy 3519N, Kallan Warner, Arapahoe, Neb., Sired by DLW Kearney 845K; 2. JLEA Platinum Play 547N, Jaylea Pope, Ravenna, Neb., Sired by JGPG Pit Boss 205K ET; 3. KARS SEPT Phoenix 115N, Karson Brooks, Bennet, Neb., Sired by JCP Fireman 677J.

CLASS 7: BRED AND OWNED INTERMEDIATE YEARLING BULL

Born May 1, 2025, to August 31, 2025

1. CRLL JNCC Firewalker 5052N ET, Jacie Carroll, Raymore, Mo., Sired by JRI Prairie Fire 634F310; 2. KDVC Ginkgo Stardust 028N, Kelsey Viebrock, Stover, Mo., Sired by Quaker Hull Black Bandolier 1C25; 3. CCJB SEPT Armani N525, Connor Blubaugh, Burrton, Kan., Sired by MDR First Step 7549E.

CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED SENIOR BULL CALF

LLLI 3L Montego 14N18

Isabel Lowe, Adrian, Mo.

Sire: JLEA Tops Down 914G

RESERVE CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED INTERMEDIATE YEARLING BULL

KDVC Ginkgo Stardust 028N

Kelsey Viebrock, Stover, Mo.

Sire: Quaker Hill Black Bandoiler 1C25

CLASS 9: BRED AND OWNED JUNIOR YEARLING BULL

Born March 1, 2025, to April 30, 2025

1. LRIT Hush Money N410, Lexi Rittenhouse, New Carlisle, Ohio, Sired by TJB Rebel Yell 804F ET; 2. MDR Downtown 5755N ET, Kyson Thiel, Kaw City, Okla., Sired by MDR Stoney Larue 1572J ET; 3. NSTR Jese Novocaine N99, Nate Struck, Hartford, S.D., Sired by DLW TPG Headline 1018H ET.

CLASS 10: BRED AND OWNED JUNIOR YEARLING BULL

Born January 1, 2025, to February 28, 2025

1. CBRO Nebraska 2529N, Cody Brown, Dwight, Kan., Sired by XXB Nebraska 924J; 2. GHSC Moe Town N80, Gage Swindler, Braymer, Mo., Sired by GHSC E-Trade GK56; 3. JKCQ Newt 338N, Kolton Phillips, Cole Camp, Mo., Sired by SKYC Skys Encore 7086E.

CREATIVE WRITING WINNERS

Each year, American Gelbvieh Junior Association (AGJA) members are offered the opportunity to compete in a creative writing contest to showcase both their writing skills and passion for the beef industry. The winners of this contest are published in this issue to highlight both their writing skills and subject knowledge.

Juniors were asked to imagine the following scenario: You were just given a $100,000 grant to start your own Gelbvieh and Balancer® herd. What will your purchases be? What are your selection criteria for purchasing bulls or females? Explain how you will manage your herd to make it profitable.

Intermediates were challenged to keep beef at the center of the plate with the topic: The United States Department of Health and Human Services along with the United States Department of Agriculture released new Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 20252030. The guidelines emphasize prioritizing protein at every meal. How will these new guidelines continue to keep beef at the center of the plate and how do you forsee these new dietary guidelines influencing the beef market?

Seniors were given the following prompt: The United States Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC) released new data stating that Gelbvieh-influenced females are the only Bos taurus females to have a maternal weaning weight advantage. This advantage equals an additional 22.7 pounds per calf at weaning. How can you use this data along with previous USMARC data to solidify Gelbvieh as the maternal breed of choice?

JUNIOR DIVISION CHAMPION

Kole Brooks, Bennet, Neb.

Imagine a beautiful sunset stretching across the horizon, with 15 dark red Gelbvieh and Balancer® standing calmy on a lush green hill, each with a healthy calf by her side. The grass moves slightly in the breeze, and the herd looks peaceful but strong. This is how I picture my herd if I had $100,000 to invest.

If I were given $100,000, I would begin by carefully selecting a mix of Gelbvieh and Balancer cattle. One thing I would be very specific about is color – I would want them all to be dark red to keep a consistent and eye-catching herd. I would also make sure that all the cows I purchase are already bred and expected to calve in either the spring or the fall. This would help me manage my workload better and give me a steady flow of calves throughout the year. In addition, I would aim for cattle that are moderate in size, not too small but not overly large, since extremely large cattle can be harder to maintain and feed.

Before buying any cattle, I would focus heavily on genetics and maternal traits. Strong genetics are the foundation of a successful herd. Important traits I would look for include fertility, longevity, docility, carcass quality, and udder quality, Fertility ensures consistent calf crops, while longevity means the cows will stay productive for many years. Docility is important

for safety and ease of handling, and good carcass quality helps increase the value of the calves. Gelbvieh and Balancer cattle are known for these traits, which is why I would choose them for my herd.

Since I would only be starting with around 15 cows, I would use artificial insemination (A.I.) instead of owning a bull. This is a cost-effective way to access top-quality genetics. I would choose semen from proven red bulls that have strong calving ease, low birth weights, and high weaning weights. This helps ensure that calves are born safely but still grow quickly and efficiently. I would likely purchase around 30 straws of semen, which should last me one to two breeding seasons.

As for the calves, I would have a clear plan. I would keep a few steers for meat to support my family. The remaining bull calves, if they have good genetics and structure, could be sold as breeding bulls. For the heifers, I would keep most of them to grow my herd over time, while possibly selling one or two for extra income.

Overall, this is how I would invest $100,000 into building a strong, high-quality herd of Gelbvieh and Balancer cattle that could grow and succeed for years to come. F

CREATIVE WRITING WINNERS

INTERMEDIATE DIVISION CHAMPION

MAKING BEEF THE MAIN COURSE

Kylee

Sickler, Gladstone, N.D.

The battle for the dinner table has officially begun, and beef is fighting to remain in the spotlight. With the newly released dietary guidelines for 2025 through 2030, many key points need to be addressed. Among these are the necessity of making protein the centerpiece of every meal, reducing carbohydrates, consuming nutrient-dense foods, and incorporating more vegetables into our daily diets. By adding these changes into our meal plans, many different outcomes may come to be in the beef market. Beef prices could decrease to align with the rest of the market, remain stable, or possibly even rise due to shifting supply and demand. With these updated dietary guidelines, beef has become an even bigger player in the great food war.

Protein is found in many things, ranging from yogurt and cheese all the way to tomahawk steaks and beef roast. Knowing this, it is essential that products within the beef market are able to adjust and compete with other forms of healthy nutrients to stay the main course, all while still being the deliciously filling and healthy option it is. Beef currently plays a large role in the dinners of many American families, and, when compared to many other protein options, happens to be one of the most expensive. On average, a pound of beef costs almost $2.50 to $3.00 more when compared to that of a pound of chicken or pork. (Federal Reserve Economic Data) Keeping this in mind, people will often choose the less costly option when it comes to selecting food options, especially if there is that big of a difference between prices.

The ground beef market in America is currently averaging around $6.70 per pound, (Federal Reserve Economic Data) which is a bit of a disadvantage, especially for lower income families and larger families with hungry kids that never seem to stop eating. When deciding what to make for dinner, nine times out of ten, the less expensive, also protein filled option will win the vote of the consumer. While many producers throughout America are enjoying historically record high prices of feeder calves and market animals, the biggest threat to the beef market is the affordability of cattle products to the consumer. While this is unfortunate to the producers; it is the hard truth of

inflation and supply and demand. There are however, some solutions to this problem.

Some ways that the beef market could stay more competitive would be to use better breeding, feeding, pasture management, and efficiency to allow for more cattle to reach market per year. Each year, increased amounts of land get bought out and replaced by housing developments, shopping malls, solar farms, oil wells, data centers, and many other non-agricultural reasons. Because of this, many producers need to find ways to allow for the same, or even more, head of cattle to reach the market.

With less land available, decisions need to be made. One of the biggest decisions producers have to make is the amount of feed provided per animal. Due to the ever-decreasing land and pasture average, producers must be able to feed the same amount of people with less resources and grazing land available. By using sustainable beef practices, producers may be able to wean more overall pounds of beef per acre, with more animals, but at a lighter weight. If producers would make the choice to utilize Gelbvieh cattle. Which allows for a more efficient, more compact female that can still produce more weaned pounds of calf. (MARC Data) then pastures will have less stress on them and production can be more efficient. This would not only be a win for the producer, but for the environment as a whole. In conclusion, the beef industry will very often be more costly than your average price of other forms of protein, but affordability could be greatly improved through more sustainable breeding, feeding, pasture management, and efficiency, Through doing these things, the beef market can continue to flourish and bring satisfaction to the consumers, especially when turned into a delicious home cooked meal. In the great food war, the winner won’t be the protein with the best ratings and highest prices; it will be the one that families can afford to bring home for daily meals and will be the product worth choosing. F

CREATIVE WRITING WINNERS

SENIOR DIVISION CHAMPION

GELBVIEH AS THE MATERNAL BREED OF CHOICE: EVALUATING USMARC RESEARCH FINDINGS

Jaylea Pope, Ravenna, Neb.

The beef cattle industry continues to place increasing emphasis on maternal efficiency, profitability, and sustainability within commercial cow/calf operations. Producers are seeking females capable of consistently weaning heavy calves while maintaining moderate mature size, reproductive efficiency, and manageable input costs. Recent research released by the United States Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC) further strengthens the position of Gelbvieh cattle as a leading maternal breed. The newest findings revealed that Gelbvieh-influenced females are the only Bos taurus females to demonstrate a maternal weaning weight advantage, producing calves that averaged an additional 22.7 pounds at weaning (Judd Ranch, 2025). When combined with decades of previous USMARC research regarding fertility, milk production, heterosis, efficiency, and moderate cow size, these results provide strong evidence that Gelbvieh cattle should be considered the maternal breed or choice for modern beef production systems.

The economic significance of a 22.7-pound weaning weight advantage is substantial within commercial cow/calf operations. Because calves are commonly marketed on a per-pound basis, heavier weaning weights directly increase revenue potential for producers. The USMARC findings suggested that this additional weight is largely attributed to the superior maternal milking ability of Gelbvieh females (Judd Ranch, 2025). Gelbvieh cattle consistently rank among the top breeds for maternal milk production, which contributes to improved calf growth from birth through weaning. Previous research evaluating genetic relationships between maternal milk production and weaning gain further supports the importance of milk production in improving calf performance (Miller & Wilton, 1999).

One of the most impactful aspects of the recent USMARC findings is that Gelbvieh females achieved greater weaning

performance while also reducing mature cow size. According to the report, Gelbvieh-sired females had the lowest mature cow weight among breeds evaluated, averaging approximately 1,382 pounds at five years of age (Judd Ranch, 2025). This finding is especially important because mature cow size has become a growing concern within the beef industry. Larger cows require increased feed intake and greater maintenance energy, resulting in higher animal production costs. As feed and land prices continue to rise, producers are increasingly focused on biological efficiency rather than simply maximizing frame size ore growth. Gelbvieh females appear to offer an ideal balance by maintaining moderate mature size while simultaneously weaning heavier calves.

The relationship between moderate cow size and production efficiency has become a major topic of discussion throughout the cattle industry. Producers increasingly recognize that efficiency is not determined solely by calf size but rather by the proportion of calf weight weaned relative to cow maintenance requirements. Industry discussions among cattle producers emphasize the importance of cows capable of weaning a high percentage of their body weight without excessive feed costs. Gelbvieh females align closely with these goals because they combine moderate size with strong maternal performance. Smaller-framed cows that maintain productivity are often more efficient grazers and require fewer winter feed resources, improving overall profitability within commercial operations. With growing concerns of drought and wildfires across the Midwest, local livestock markets are moving increasingly large numbers of cows and pairs due to the lack of grass in many areas. This only increases the demand for efficiency among producers just trying to stay afloat.

In addition to milk production and efficiency, fertility remains one of the most economically important maternal traits in beef cattle production. Open cows generate no revenue, making reproductive success essential for profitability. Historical USMARC Germplasm Evaluation studies have consistently demonstrated that Gelbvieh females exhibit favorable reproductive characteristics, including earlier puberty and strong maternal productivity (Judd Ranch, 2025). Earlier-maturing females often enter production sooner and maintain greater lifetime productivity. Moderate mature size

CREATIVE WRITING WINNERS

may also positively influence fertility because cos with lower maintenance requirements can more easily maintain body condition during lactation and return to estrus after calving. These factors contribute to improved longevity and reduced replacement costs within commercial cow herds.

Another critical factor supporting Gelbvieh as the maternal breed of choice is the breed’s value within crossbreeding systems. Heterosis, or hybrid vigor, has long been recognized as one of the most effective tools for improving fertility, calf survival, longevity, and overall productivity in commercial beef operations. Research from the USMARC Germplasm Evaluation Program demonstrated the economic benefits of crossbreeding systems involving Continental and British breeds (Akanno et al., 2015). Gelbvieh genetics are particularly valuable in these systems because they contribute both maternal and growth traits without excessively increasing mature cow size. This combination allows producers to capture the benefits of heterosis while maintaining efficient, productive females within the herd.

Calving ease is another essential component of maternal performance. Historically, some Continental breeds experienced criticism for increased calving difficulty due to heavier birth weights. However, USMARC research evaluating calving difficulty and birth weight found that Gelbvieh-sired calves ranked among the least likely to require assistance at birth compared with several other Continental breeds (Nunez-Domingues et al., 2016). Modern Gelbvieh breeders have continued selecting for calving ease alongside growth and maternal traits, making the breed increasingly attractive for commercial producers developing replacement females. This combination of calving ease, maternal ability, and growth contributes to the breed’s practical value within commercial production systems.

The beef industry is increasingly focused on long-term sustainability and efficient resource utilization. Rising feed costs, environmental concerns, and limited grazing resources are pushing producers toward cattle that maximize output while minimizing inputs. Gelbvieh cattle fit this trend exceptionally well because they emphasize biological efficiency rather than extreme mature size. The ability of Gelbvieh females to wean

heavier calves from smaller, more efficient cows represents a major advantage for sustainable beef production systems. As the industry continues prioritizing efficiency, fertility, and profitability, the maternal strengths of Gelbvieh cattle are likely to become even more valuable.

Ultimately, the newest USMARC findings reinforce decades of previous research supporting Gelbvieh cattle as one of the most complete maternal packages available to the beef industry. Their ability to combine superior milk production, heavier weaning weights, moderate mature size, fertility, calving ease, and efficiency provides commercial producers with an economically advantageous and sustainable maternal option. The additional 22.7 pounds at weaning serves as measurable evidence of the breed’s maternal superiority and profitability. By integrating the newest USMARC data with historical research findings, Gelbvieh cattle can confidently be promoted at the maternal breed of choice for modern commercial beef production systems. Now all that is left is to spread the word! F

References

Akanno, E. C., Plastow, G. S., Fitzsimmons, C., Miller, S. P., Baron, V. S., Ominski, K. H., & Basarab, J. A. (2015). Estimation of breed-specific heterosis effects for birth, weaning, and yearling weight in cattle. Journal of Animal Science, 93(1), 46–60. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25568356/ Judd Ranch. (2025). USMARC research highlights Gelbvieh maternal strength. https://media.cdn.yoga/judd/assets/media/files/1390.pdf

Miller, S. P., & Wilton, J. W. (1999). Genetic relationships among direct and maternal components of milk yield and maternal weaning gain in a multibreed beef herd. Journal of Animal Science, 77(5), 1155–1161. https:// pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10340582/ Nunez-Dominguez, R., Cundiff, L. V., Wheeler, T. L., & Gregory, K. E. (2016). Breed effects and genetic parameter estimates for calving difficulty and birth weight in a multibreed population. Journal of Animal Science, 94(5), 1857–1864. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27285683/

AWARDS

LOWE WINS TONY HAYEK MEMORIAL AWARD

By Megan Underwood, M.S.

Each year the Tony Hayek Memorial Award is presented at the American Gelbvieh Junior Association (AGJA) Junior Classic to the exhibitor of the Grand Champion Bred and Owned Gelbvieh Female. This year’s recipient at the 2026 AGJA The Good Life Junior Classic held in Grand Island, Nebraska, was Jessie Lowe of Adrian, Mo.

The Tony Hayek Memorial was established over 20 years ago. Hayek loved cattle, kids and having a good time. The AGJA Junior Classic was his family’s vacation every year. Hayek’s children Tina, Stan, Shellina, and Janelle, were all active in the AGJA. Three of the four have chosen to continue with their own herds (Cib’s Gelbvieh, Herink Gelbvieh and Taubenheim Gelbvieh). Hayek’s influence in the breed lives on through his kids and grandkids as they participate in many shows and other Gelbvieh activities.

“My grandpa, Tony Hayek, was passionate about the Gelbvieh breed and the junior Gelbvieh programs. We thank the AGJA for continuing his memory with the Tony Hayek Memorial

Award which is presented to the Grand Champion Bred and Owned Gelbvieh Female each year,” said Brayton Cibula.

Hayek was passionate about Gelbvieh cattle and knew the breed’s future was in the hands of the younger generations. He found great joy in teaching the youth about the Gelbvieh breed and helping them with their livestock projects. He loved watching his kids exhibit cattle, but he always wanted them to understand the skills that are needed outside of the show ring to breed quality cattle. Showing cattle takes a great deal of skill but competing in the bred and owned division takes that skills to a much higher level. It is for that reason the bred and owned show was always one of his favorites.

Congratulations to Jessie Lowe on achieving the Grand Champion Bred and Owned Gelbvieh Female honor. Hayek would be very proud of your dedication to breeding outstanding Gelbvieh genetics.

AWARDS

BAKER CHOSEN AS THE 2026-2027 AGJA AMBASSADOR

By Megan Underwood, M.S.

Thank you to Hadlee Ketcherside of Cuba, Mo., for her outstanding service as the 2025-2026 American Gelbvieh Junior Association (AGJA) Ambassador. Over the past year, Ketcherside has represented the AGJA with integrity, passion, and commitment. She has worked to promote the Gelbvieh breed, support junior members, and completed a meaningful service project “Champions Without Limits.” The AGJA is grateful for her dedication and leadership throughout her year of service. Now, the AGJA proudly welcomes Jett Baker of Stuart, Okla., as the 2026-2027 AGJA Ambassador.

This year, the AGJA Ambassador selection process included the submission of a written application, completing an interview, and giving a speech at the AGJA Annual Meeting. A panel of judges evaluated all components, and Baker rose to the top of this year’s selection process.

“Being an AGJA Ambassador would be an honor because I would get to represent a breed that has already taught me so much. I would enjoy helping younger kids get involved, promoting the Gelbvieh breed, and sharing my excitement for agriculture with others. I am excited to continue growing my cattle program, improving my embryo program, and learning more about the beef industry in the future,” said Baker.

The AGJA Ambassador Program is designed to recognize and empower youth leaders who exemplify a passion for the Gelbvieh breed and a commitment to its future. As Ambassador, Baker will represent the AGJA at events throughout the year – from local and regional shows to national gatherings.

The AGJA looks forward to Baker’s year of service and leadership. Congratulations, Jett Baker on being selected as the 2026-2027 AGJA Ambassador!

SEPTEMBER FARMS RECOGNIZED AS THE 2026 HONORARY FRIEND OF THE AGJA

By Megan Underwood, M.S.

Each year the American Gelbvieh Junior Association (AGJA) awards an Honorary Friend of the AGJA. The recipients of this award are families and individuals who go above and beyond to help the youth of our organization. This year’s recipient is September Farms operated by Tom Murphy and Gerry Lancaster. September Farms located in Franklin, Neb., was recognized as the Honorary Friend of the AGJA at the 2026 AGJA The Good Life Junior Classic awards banquet, which was held on Friday, June 26, 2026, in Grand Island, Neb.

Tom and Gerry have spent years helping AGJA members find success – not only in the show ring, but in life. They have encouraged AGJA members to work hard, dream big, and continue growing their own operations. Their support has never been about recognition or spotlight, but about giving opportunities to others and helping the next generation succeed.

“There are very few people who can say they have influenced both the cattle industry and the lives of so many junior members the way these individuals have. Their commitment to excellence and willingness to give back is something that deserves to be celebrated,” said Teagan Butterfield, 2026-2027 AGJA President. F

THANK YOU SPONSORS!

3L Gelbvieh

American Gelbvieh Foundation

Andy Sperfslage

Barwick Gelbvieh

Black Hawk Cattle Company

Butterfield Gelbvieh

Cactus Jack’s

Chris Mitchell

Marketing Service

Circle S Ranch

CJ & L Livestock

Dana Stewart

DIAMOND LAZY

4 GENETICS

Dobson Ranch

Donna Moenning

Earl May Garden Center

Essential Feeds

Farm Bureau

The Wolf Agency

Fawcett Ranch

Flying H Genetics

GAIN

Haala Denim

Heartland Bank

Influence Ministries

Iowa Junior Gelbvieh Association

Jared Petersilie

JC Cattle Company

Jennifer Rickford

J-K Cattle

Joe Kendrick

Judd Ranch

Kansas Gelbvieh Association

KC Youngblood

Kicking Horse Ranch

Kinleigh Eckhoff

Lance Isaacson

Locust Hill Cattle Company

Lucky Cross Ranch

Marcia Helm

Mark Hopfer

Marshall Land Brokers & Auctioneers

Martin Cattle Company

Mary Moenning

Mississippi Junior Gelbvieh Association

Missouri Junior Gelbvieh Association

Mitchell Equipment

Nebraska Bull Service

Northern Lights Junior Gelbvieh Association

Nowack Cattle Company

Oklahoma Gelbvieh Association

Overmiller Gelbvieh

Post Rock Cattle Company

Pro Hart Seedstock

RK3 Farms

Sara’s

Sasha Rittenhouse

Sasse’s Diamond S Genetics

Sauer Valley View Farms

SC Online Sales

Scott Lowe

September Farms

Steinkruger Farms

T Bar S

Taubenheim Gelbvieh

Teddy Ladner

Tennessee Gelbvieh

Junior Association

Tom Strahm

Trans Ova

Triple K Gelbvieh

Twisted Stitch

Two Sisters and A Barn

University of Nebraska College of Technology

Agriculture

UNL Institute of Agriculture & Natural Resources

Warner Beef Genetics

Wolf Gelbvieh

Thank You! n Y

The AGJA is incredibly grateful to Prairie Hills Gelbvieh for generously donating the High All-Around Heifer for the 2026 AGJA Good Life Junior Classic. Your generosity helps us recognize an exceptional junior while investing in the future of the Gelbvieh breed and the next generation of leaders in the beef industry.

Thank you for your continued support of our youth and for helping make the 2026 Good Life Junior Classic a success!

hornsandthorns@netins.net (319)

& Nancy Holste 3113 260th Street Clarinda, Iowa 51632 712-370-2088• 712-303-0263 tripleh1@unitedwb.coop

Mulroy 785-640-6401 Mayetta, KS tim@blackgoldinc.biz

620.654.6507 (John Cell)

John & Carla Shearer Annual Production Sale 1st Saturday in April 2815 Navajo Rd. • Canton, Kan. 67428 circle_s@hometelco.net

620.654.6731 (Johnny Cell)

3041 E. Hwy. 284, Barnard, KS 67418

Bill Clark: 785.792.6244

Leland Clark: 785.792.6208

Leland Clark: 785.392.0888 Office: 785.792.6244

Fax: 785.792.6250

Kyle Cavalli: 785-531-1947

Email: prcc@twinvalley.net

H: (913) 724-4105 www.triplekgelbvieh.com e-mail: knappa@swbell.net

BREEDERS CORNER

“Gelbvieh since 1973”

Kathleen Rankin Jim Bjorkman 1285 Nine Mile Rd. 406-937-4815 Oilmont, MT 59466 krankin@northerntel.net 406-460-0535 www.kickinghorseranch.com

NEBRASKA

Private Treaty Bull & Heifer Sales • Orchard, Neb. Val Livingston • www.88ranch.com • 402-655-2288

OKLAHOMA

VIRGINIA

ADVERTISING INDEX

EVENTS OF INTEREST

OCTOBER 2026

OCT. 1 Canadian Western Agribition Entry Deadline, Regina, Saskatchewan.

OCT. 3 TKW Gelbvieh & Sunset Ridge Farms Gelbvieh & Balancer Bull & Female Sale, Farmington, Mo.

OCT. 10 Judd Ranch 36th Annual Cow Power Female Sale, Pomona, Kan.

OCT. 17 Seedstock Plus Fall Bull & Female Sale, Carthage, Mo.

OCT. 23 T Bar S Focused on the Future Bull Sale, Billings, Mo.

OCT. 29 Gelbvieh-Cross Calf Sale Heartland Livestock Swift Current, Saskatchewan

OCT. 30 Gelbvieh-Cross Calf Sale, Medicine Hat Feeding Company, Medicine Hat, Alberta

NOVEMBER 2026

NOV. 5-8 Farmfair InternationalNational Gelbvieh Show, Edmonton, Alberta

NOV. 7 Seedstock Plus Red Reward Fall Edition Bull & Female Sale, Osceola, Mo.

NOV. 7 TJB Gelbvieh Annual Bull Sale, Chickamauga, Ga.

NOV. 13 Coles Bend Cattle 1st Annual Production Sale, Smith’s Grove, Ky.

NOV. 14 Davidson Gelbvieh & Lonesome Dove Ranch Select Heifer Sale, Ponteix, Saskatchewan

NOV. 23-28 Canadian Western Agribition, Gelbvieh Show, Regina, Saskatchewan

NOV. 28 Boys from the South Bull Sale, Lebanon, Tenn.

DECEMBER 2026

DEC. 4 Knoll Crest Farm Total Performance Bull Sale, Red House, Va.

DEC. 15 Warner Beef Genetics Genetic Opportunities Female Sale, Arapahoe, Neb.

DEC. 19 13th Annual CJ&L Livestock Bull Sale, Hermosa, S.D.

JANUARY 2027

JAN. 13 Warner Beef Genetics Maternal Merit in the Yards Sale, Denver, Colo.

FEBRUARY 2027

FEB. 4 Black Hills Stock Show Gelbvieh & Balancer Show/Sale, Rapid City, S.D.

FEB. 13 J & K Gelbvieh 18th Annual Genetic Power Sale, Springfield, Mo.

FEB. 13 Prairie Hills Gelbvieh Annual Bull Sale, Gladstone, N.D.

FEB. 18 Gustin’s Diamond D Gelbvieh Annual Production Sale, Medina, N.D.

FEB. 19 Lazy TV Ranch 46th Annual Production Sale, Selby, N.D.

FEB. 25 Plateau Gelbvieh Bull Sale, Brush, Colo.

FEB. 26 35th Annual Pot of Gold Bull Sale, Montrose, Colo.

FEB. 27 Larson’s Lost River Livestock 17th Annual Production Sale, Clearbrook, Minn.

FEB. 27 Post Rock Cattle Company Cowman’s Kind Bull and Female Sale, Barnard, Kan.

FEB. 27 Seedstock Plus North Missouri Bull Sale, Kingsville, Mo.

MARCH 2027

MARCH 5 Warner Beef Genetics Genetic Investment Bull Sale, Arapahoe, Neb.

MARCH 5 Davidson Gelbvieh & Lonesome Dove Ranch 38th Annual Bull Sale, Ponteix, Saskatchewan

MARCH 6 Judd Ranch 49th Gelbvieh, Balancer and Red Angus Bull Sale, Pomona, Kan.

MARCH 8 Seedstock Plus Arkansas Bull Sale, Hope, Ark.

MARCH 9 Bar Arrow Cattle Co. 37th Annual Production Sale, Phillipsburg, Kan.

MARCH 13 Seedstock Plus Red Reward Bull & Female Sale, Osceola, Mo.

MARCH 13 Hilltop Farms Annual Gelbvieh/Balancer Bull & Female Sale, Carthage, Mo.

MARCH 19 Southwest Iowa Bull & Female Sale, Creston, Iowa

MARCH 27 Seedstock Plus South Missouri Bull & Female Sale, Carthage, Mo.

APRIL 2027

APRIL 10 Knoll Crest Farm Spring Bull & Female Sale, Red House, Va.

Visit the online version of Upcoming Events at Gelbvieh.org for additional dates of upcoming sales and more information on each event.

Editor’s Note: If you have a sale or event information for this listing, please email the information to meganu@gelbvieh.org. This includes tours, expos, field days and other Gelbvieh events.

to all exhibitors at Junior Nationals

Warner Beef Genetics is passionate about supporting the youth of our industry and breed. We are proud of the e orts of all juniors for taking the extras steps to prepare and compete. Our future is bright with youth that are involved in agriculture, the beef industry and the Gelbvieh breed.