RINGSIDE ISSUE 4

ISSUE FOUR

SEPTEMBER 2025

Th

hank-you.

A message from the girl behind the keyboard and camera of Seven D Media.

This summer has been a crazy, but beautiful and fulfilling season for me as a photographer. Although I am still catching up on editing, and the stress and guilt that comes with the workload is often overwhelming, there are many moments that remind me why I chose this as a career. And to be very honest, why it chose me.

I never really planned to be a photographer. The “plan” was actually to be a lawyer.

However, a few opportunities, an undergraduate degree, and a midlife crisis later, I found myself in the hog ring at the Nebraska State Fair. Something about all the doors opening at the right time, and the people who crossed my path, led me to believe this isn’t something I get to choose to do, but rather what I was chosen to do.

The past few months I experienced many different layers of the junior show world. I saw dreams come true, hearts be broken, friendships formed, hatred given, respect gained, and everything in between. Growing up showing, these layers were not as clear. Now, as a third party, they are far more evident. This is not to criticize, but rather share a realization I had; my role as a photographer is actually quite small, my role as a friend is much larger.

I have taken thousands of photos the last few months, congratulated many exhibitors, and captured so many wonderful memories. However, what stuck with me was the small interactions I had at the backdrop. I got to congratulate a boy on his first Summer Synergy scholarship that he celebrated without his immediate family, but rather rejoiced with his show family. I got to hug a girl and tell her that she deserved all the success she had, even if others told her she didn’t. I got to be the first person to give a young-man a high-five after being awarded his first belt buckle. I got to take a delegate’s last junior national backdrop of her junior career after 18 years of chasing this dream. I got to be there for it all. This is a role I do not take lightly, and a privilege I am honoured to have.

Thank you to all the shows and families that trusted me to capture their memories this summer. I can’t wait to see you all on the show road and in your picture pens this fall.

Welcome to the second issue of

This publication is a labour of love, produced by Seven D Media. Ringside Magazine is dedicated to the Canadian show industry, and aims to provide an additional form of media for producers, exhibitors, and supporters to enjoy.

We look forward to serving you through stories, show results, and the promotion of livestock operations, emerging genetics, and upcoming sales.

For advertising rates and opportunities, please email: info@ringsidemag.com

IN THIS ISSUE Generational Knowledge

How a commercial order buyer applies his real world experiences to selecting premium purebred genertics and successful show steers.

From Town to Tractor Seat

The story behind a Kentucky couples’ journey into agriculture, and how they set themselves up for success daily.

Cover Photo: Greta Pearson of Pearson Farms at the 2025 National Junior Gelbvieh Show. Photo by Seven D Media.

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Generational Knowledge A look into Shannon Eaton’s experiences as an order buyer, cattleman, and show ring enthusiast.

What do you get when you combine the mind of an order buyer, a passion for purebred cattle, and a desire for show ring success? One of the most well-rounded cattlemen in Canada; Shannon Eaton.

The Eaton family purchased, Arcola Stockyards in 1987, and later purchased Alameda’s auction mart in 1994, where Shannon got his start assisting in operating the stockyards as well as order buying. In 2006, Shannon, his wife, and their sons relocated to Lloydminster, SK where Shannon began to order buy cattle with Keith Weaver, a well-known buyer in the area. In 2011, Shannon and his wife, Kim bought Weaver’s contracts and began their own order buying company, Eaton Livestock.

As an order buyer, Shannon’s role includes attending live auctions daily across Northern Alberta and Saskatchewan, as well as purchasing cattle through online auctions to fulfill orders for customers across the country. Shannon will personally attend up to 6 sales per week during the busy season, and 4-5 sales weekly in the slower months. Eaton Livestock currently has two full-time cattle buyers, in addition to several commission buyers.

Shannon is a third-generation cattle buyer, nourishing relationships that stem back as far as the early 1970’s when Shannon’s father, Frank was facilitating cattle orders. Some of Shannon’s largest clientele belong to “feedlot alley” of southern Alberta, as well as Amish country in Eastern Canada. Shannon’s eldest son, Kosten has recently graduated from Lakeland College and has begun working in the Eaton Livestock office. He aims to learn more about the business side of the operation before potentially stepping into an order buying position.

The Eaton Family also owns and operates a registered cow-calf herd under the title Bar SK Cattle Company.

Bar SK is composed of approximately 100 head of Charolais and Simmentals cattle. However, in the last 6 years, the Eatons have shifted their focus primarily to Charolais genetics. Through the use of embryo transplant technology, Bar SK has been able to expand the size of their purebred calf crop, while utilizing commercial females as embryo recipients. This year they are anticipating 65 embryo calves to be born, 40 of which will have the same dam, PCC 19H. Affectionately known as Heather, 19H has allowed the Eaton family to exponentially grow their Charolais herd through producing several successful flushes.

PCC 19H, more commonly referred to as “Heather” is a family favorite, as well as an influential piece of the Bar SK program.

The Eaton Family of Bar SK Cattle Company.

Left to right: Kim, Keylen, Shannon, Kehler, & Kosten Eaton.

Photo by Ag Plus Designs

“I want to try to raise purebred cattle that can raise real world, commercial bulls.”, Shannon commented.

“That’s what I know I can sell in the commercial world as an order buyer. Cattle with lots of capacity, long bodied, and lots of body shape… As a family, that is what we are trying to raise in the purebred world.”

By combining his commercial cattleman career with his personal purebred endeavours, Shannon is able to bring a functional mindset and real-world perspective to the purebred side of the beef industry.

This fall, the Eaton family will exhibit a home-raised bull, Bar SK Strikeout 310L at several of the fall livestock shows. Walking rights to 310L are currently owned by Big Sky Cattle Company of Consort, AB. “I like the style of him because I can see him really working for ranchers. He moves extremely well, and his calves are going to have extra bone and lots of hair.”, mentioned Shannon. 310L is already qualified for the Canadian Western Agribition Beef Supreme show in Regina, SK this November.

In 2021, the Calgary Stampede Junior Steer Classic was held in Olds, AB due to Covid-19 restrictions. This year, Kehler Eaton was able to capture Grand Champion honours.

Growing up, Shannon and his family showed commercial steers, and he has since passed on the passion to his three sons. “It was different back in the 80’s when we were doing it, there wasn’t the clubby thing.” Many of the steers the Eaton’s exhibited at the Calgary Stampede Steer Classic were purchased through 4-H sales across Saskatchewan. As Shannon’s kids became more involved, they began sourcing and purchasing clubby steer calves with Calgary in mind.

Their first steer calf purchase came in 2011 from RJ Cattle Company of South Dakota. Although many high-quality steers the Eatons have exhibited have come from across the border, one of their most successful steers was purchased from a Canadian club calf breeder, Elldem Cattle Investments. Due to Covid-19, there was an uncertainty surrounding steer shows for the upcoming season. This unpredictability took a toll on prospect show steer prices during the fall sales. “I didn’t know if the steer was going to bring $2500 or $10,000. I didn’t know.”, Shannon commented. The Eaton family purchased their “Here I Am” sired steer from the 2020 November Gold Sale, and that steer went on to be named Grand Champion at the 2021 Calgary Stampede Junior Steer Classic. That year, the steer show was held in Olds, AB due to Covid-19 protocols.

The Eaton family’s most recent success was with a yellow steer, taking the second hole of the top five to be named Reserve Grand Champion at the 2024 Calgary Stampede Junior Steer Classic. Similarly, to 2011, this steer was raised and sold by Ryan Johnson of RJ Cattle Company. Shannon’s middle son, Kehler was on the halter for both the 2021 and 2024 wins. Kehler is currently attending Redlands Community College in El Reno, OK where he is a member of the livestock judging team.

Shannon would estimate he has been involved with 35-40 steers over his stampede steer career. “Over the last 17 years that we have been going, there are certain steers that stick out in my mind… We were fortunate enough to have one in 2021, the Matthew’s steer last year (2024), Dusty Howell had one in (2010), and Justin Morrison’s steer that he had in 2008, he was phenomenal.” Shannon noted that the steer Katie Serhienko exhibited in 2015 was also a very dominant steer.

Shannon and his son Kehler watching ringside as Keylen exhibits his steer in Lloydminster, SK.

Selecting steers at all stages of life is something Shannon has been successful at. When asked what he looks for in a prospect calf, he commented, “The structure on show steers is so very important. They can have all the pieces as a calf, but if they don’t move flawlessly as a calf, they aren’t going to get better, they are going to do nothing but get worse.”

Structure and mobility are traits Shannon puts a lot of emphasis on during the selection process as he believes, “What we can’t lose sight of is that it is not a carcass class, it is a market steer show…

I know people will say, ‘Well, they walked in the ring, that’s all that matters.’, and I used to be one of those (people), but I have changed; it is a market steer show.”

With the competitiveness of the Canadian show steer industry, Shannon feels judges are using soundness as a determining factor between similar steers. “There are so many (steers) that are so good, that a lot of times it comes down to who moves the best.”

Photo by GRP, supplied

by Howell Family

Shannon is very passionate about show steers and recognizes the following as some of the best & most dominant to compete in Canada: - 2008, exhibited by Justin Morrison - 2010, exhibited by Dusty Howell, raised by Travis Thompson, sold by Riley Chalack (picture above) - 2015, exhibited by Katie Serhienko, raised by RJ Cattle Co. - 2021, exhibited by Kehler Eaton, raised by Elldem Cattle Investments (picture on right) - 2024, exhibited by London Matthews, raised by Piller Show Cattle Photo by Shay, supplied by Elliot Family

Kehler recieving Reserve Champion honours under judges Riley & Denise LaFrentz at the 2024 Calgary Stampede Junior Steer Classic.

Over the years, Calgary steer champions have ranged in finished weights. However, as an order buyer and commercial cattleman, Shannon would prefer to see larger framed and adequately finished steers win. “For me personally, being in the other side of the industry that I am in, I don’t want to see a steer -in Canada- under 1400lbs win… In Canada, a steer weighing under 1400lbs right now, there is such a small percentage of feedlot cattle that are fat under 1400lbs… We can’t lose sight that we are still in Canada, and it is real world.” When Shannon is sourcing potential Calgary steers, he is typically looking for 700750lbs steers in September with the goal for them to continue to grow, and never go off feed. “The show steer, it’s a game, and it’s fun, but we cannot lose sight of the fact that it is still beef and it is still real world.”

Shannon advises any 4-H member to work towards getting their steer fat and having them ready for the day they need them ready. Shannon offered, “We like to feed our steers twice a day, and my rule of thumb is that you keep adding until they leave a little bit. Once they leave a little bit, back them off until they are just cleaning up all their feed.”

Photo by ShowChampions

As for advice for producers of all ages, Shannon commented, “If you are in doubt, ask somebody. In this industry, anybody is happy to give you an opinion.

They are not going to look at you and think you are stupid because you asked them a question or you asked their opinion…That is one thing I have always said in this industry, ‘never be scared to ask somebody else’s opinion’, whether you are selecting bulls or show steers.”

Shannon Eaton has made a name for himself across Canada as a successful order buyer, purebred Charolais breeder, and steer enthusiast. As a third-generation order buyer, he combines his commercial cattle ideals to raise functional purebred cattle that will positively impact a variety of operations. Alongside his wife and three sons, Shannon also shares a passion for show steers, having exhibited at the Calgary Stampede Steer Classic for 17 consecutive years. Despite his extensive resume, Shannon remains humble and encourages producers of all ages to continue to ask questions.

Alberta Junior Shorthorn Show July 3-5, 2025 Olds, AB

Grand Champion Purebred Female: Chelsey Trieber

Reserve Champion Purebred Female: Bronwyn Zwicker

Photographer: Seven D Media

Grand Champion Purebred Bull: Kenadee Pimm

Reserve Champion Purebred Bull: Harper Diegel

Grand Champion Shorthorn Plus Female: Evan Coleman

Reserve Champion Shorthorn Plus Female: Rhea Gunderson

Grand Champion Shorthorn Influence Female: Chelsey Trieber

Reserve Champion Shorthorn Influence Female: Kurtus Pierson

Grand Champion Shorthorn Influence Bull: Brynne Yoder

Grand Champion Shorthorn Influence Steer: Chelsey Trieber

Summer Synergy July 9-12, 2025 Olds, AB

Supreme Champion Purebred Female: Gracie Bohrson

Supreme Champion Commercial Female: Gentry Harvie

Photographer: Seven D Media

Grand Champion Jackpot Yearling Heifer: Brynne Yoder

Reserve Champion Jackpot Yearling Heifer: Riley Bohrson

Grand Champion Jackpot Bull Calf: Sadee Howell

Reserve Champion Jackpot Bull Calf: Paisley Robertson

Grand Champion Ellis Edge Supreme Heifer: Darren Walker

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Quebec Junior Beef Show July 11-13, 2025 Ayer’s Cliff, QC

Supreme Champion Female: River Morse

Supreme Champion Male: River Morse

Photographer: Krista Whalen Photography

Grand Champion Angus Female: Arthur Brissette

Reserve Champion Angus Female: Flavie Lafleur

Grand Champion AOB Female: Nathan Johnston

Reserve Champion AOB Female: William Campbell

Grand Champion Commercial Female: Meagan McConnell

Reserve Champion Commercial Female: Charlize Gaudette

Grand Champion Hereford Female: Mercedes Mastine

Reserve Champion Hereford Female: Blake Lodge

Grand Champion Simmental Female: River Morse

Reserve Champion Simmental Female: Evan Hartley

Grand Champion Angus Male: River Morse

Reserve Champion Angus Male: Arthur Brissette

Grand Champion Hereford Male: Cassandre Lafleur

Reserve Champion Hereford Male: Nathan Johnston

Grand Champion Simmental Male: River Morse

Reserve Champion Simmental Male: Alex Dougherty

Calgary Stampede Junior Steer Classic July 12, 2025 Calgary, AB

Grand Champion Steer: Reid Hunter

Reserve Champion Steer: Cooper Smyth

Photographer: ShowChampions

Calgary Stampede OH Steer Show July 12, 2025 Calgary, AB

Grand Champion OH Steer: Mia Mackie

Reserve Champion OH Steer: Tavianne Yoder

Photographer: ShowChampions

Western Elite Bred Heifer Invitational July 13, 2025 Calgary, AB

Grand Champion Female: Abby Rancier

Reserve Champion Female: Blake Fisk

Photographer: ShowChampions

Red Ribbon Beef Classic July 12-13, 2025 Erin, ON

Grand Champion Female (Ring A): Team Nostadt

Grand Champion Female (Ring B): River Point Cattle Co. & Xcel Livestock

Photographer: Innovation Media

Reserve Champion Female (Ring A): River Point Cattle Co. & Xcel Livestock

Reserve Champion Female (Ring B): Jackson Corner

3rd Overall Female (Ring A): Jackson Corner

3rd Overall Female (Ring B): Team Nostadt

4th Overall Female (Ring A): Susannah Sinclair

4th Overall Female (Ring B): Susannah Sinclair

5th Overall Female (Ring A): Tyler Burgomaster

5th Overall Female (Ring B): Tyler Burgomaster

CCYA National Conference July 17-19, 2025 Stettler, AB

Grand Champion Female: Indy Fowler

Reserve Champion Female: Haley Walgenbach

Photographer: Charolais Banner & Seven D Media

CJSA Shorthorn Showcase July 16-19, 2025 Lindsay, ON

Supreme Champion Female: Logan Hargrave

Supreme Champion Bull: Nicholas Dempsey

Photographer: Innovation Media

Grand Champion Shorthorn Plus Female: Isabella Forbes

Grand Champion Shorthorn Plus Bull: Joline Quinn

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Canadian Junior Hereford Bonanza July 22-25, 2025 Olds, AB

Supreme Champion Female: Tinley Harvie

Supreme Champion Bull: Jackson Lees

Photographer: Seven D Media

Grand Champion Polled Female: Tinley Harvie

Reserve Champion Polled Female: Emma Lees

Grand Champion Horned Female: Logan Scheirlinck

Reserve Champion Horned Female: Rebekah Passow

Grand Champion Polled Bull: Jackson Lees

Reserve Champion Polled Bull: Chance Altstadt

Grand Champion Horned Bull: Daphney Schaub

Reserve Champion Horned Bull: Logan Scheirlinck

Grand Champion Semen Donation: Chloe Wagner

Reserve Champion Semen Donation: Brynn Burkhardt

Grand Champion Heifer Lottery: Jackson Denschikoff

Reserve Champion Heifer Lottery: James Rand

Grand Champion Bred & Owned Female: Lyla Harvie

Reserve Champion Bred & Owned Female: Rebecca Hess

Grand Champion Bred & Owned Bull: Logan Scheirlinck

Reserve Champion Bred & Owned Bull: Tinley Harvie

Grand Champion Commercial Female: Brooklyn Van Sickle

Reserve Champion Commercial Female: Parker Springford

Grand Champion Market Steer: Laney Fenton

Reserve Champion Market Steer: Jordy Doenz

8 provinces & 1 state were represented at the 2025 Canadian Junior Hereford Bonanza held in Olds, AB.

Vermillion Fair July 24-26, 2025 Vermillion, AB

Grand Champion Steer: Cheyanne Symens

Reserve Champion Steer: Jorja Fox

Images provided.

Grand Champion Jackpot Heifer: Kenzie Westman

Reserve Champion Jackpot Heifer: Dalton Dorran

Grand Champion Junior Female: Dalton Dorran

Reserve Champion Junior Female: Shae Noble

Grand Champion Open Female: Kenzie Westman

Reserve Champion Open Female: Briar Blanchette

Grand Champion Bull: Ty-D Simmentals

Reserve Champion Bull: Green Valley Simmentals

YCSA National Classic July 24-27, 2025 Weyburn, SK

Grand Champion Purebred Female: Abby Rancier

Reserve Champion Purebred Female: Cody Carson

Photographer: Innovation Media

Grand Champion Purebred Bull: Cassidy Beres

Reserve Champion Purebred Bull: Brenna Fornwald

Grand Champion Commercial Female: Kade Rancier

Reserve Champion Commercial Female: Cozi Perrot

Grand Champion Commercial Bull: Alexia Brehaut

Champion Bred & Owned Female: Sadie Anwender

Canadian Junior Angus Showdown July 24-26, 2025 Stettler, AB

Open Division Grand Champion Female: Julius Wintereder

Owned Division Grand Champion Female: Kasey Adams

Photographer: Innovation Media

Open Division Reserve Champion Female: Joran Frey

Owned Division Reserve Champion Female: Riley Bohrson

Bred & Owned Division Grand Champion Female: Tavianne Yoder

Bred & Owned Division Reserve Champion Female: Wynton Brandl

Grand Champion Bull: Landon Brandl

Reserve Champion Bull: Joran Frey

Commercial Division Grand Champion Female: Sienna Bohrson

Commercial Division Reserve Champion Female: Paytin Hagel

Grand Champion Steer: Riley Bohrson

Reserve Champion Steer: Will Bradford

National Junior Red Angus Reserve Champion: Kylie Willms

Special Canadian Bred Champion Award: Tavianne Yoder

National Junior Red Angus Grand Champion: Kylie Willms

Canadian Junior Gelbvieh Show July 24-26, 2025 Swift Current, SK

Grand Champion Purebred Female: Cameron Davidson

Reserve Champion Purebred Female: Keston Hollman

Photographer: Seven D Media

Grand Champion Balancer Female: Elsa Larson

Reserve Champion Balancer Female: Colby Hollman

Grand Champion Bred & Owned Female: Bryce Hicks

Reserve Champion Bred & Owned Female: Kaden Hollman

MRPM Country Fest July 26-27, 2025 Maple Ridge, BC

Grand Champion Steer: Mirrah Webster

Reserve Champion Steer: Ashley Allen

Images provided.

Grand Champion Female: Kelty Brady

Reserve Champion Female: McKenna Webster

AYCSA Wildrose Classic July 30 - August 3, 2025 Stettler, AB

Grand Champion Purebred Female: Kade Rancier

Reserve Champion Purebred Female: Parker Pastryk

Photographer: Gilchrist Creative Studio & Seven D Media

Grand Champion Purebred Bull: Addision Charbonneau

Reserve Champion Purebred Bull: Coden Dolman

Grand Champion Commercial Female: Stella Mader

Reserve Champion Commercial Female: Riley Bohrson

Grand Champion Commercial Bull: Sarah Bowman

Reserve Champion Commercial Bull: Morgan Wilson

Manitoba Youth Beef Round-Up August 1-3, 2025 Neepawa, MB

Grand Champion Female: Bexley McIntosh

Reserve Champion Female: Brynn Steppler

Photographer: Prairie Pistol Designs

Grand Champion Steer: Cohen Canart

Reserve Champion Steer: Castleton Scott

Canadian Junior Limousin Impact Show August 6-9, 2025 Swift Current, SK

Grand Champion Purebred Female: Madisyn Robertson

Reserve Champion Purebred Female: Cole Bodell

Photographer: Gone West Media

Grand Champion Bull: Lexi Zwambag

Reserve Champion Bull: Leah Post

Grand Champion Percentage Female: Austin Porter

Grand Champion Percentage Bull: Vander Dyck

Grand Champion Market Animal: Austyn Kishkan

Reserve Champion Market Animal: Andie Kishkan

Grand Champion 100K Jackpot: Austin Porter

Reserve Champion 100K Jackpot: Caden Martin

Prince Albert Exhibition August 7-9, 2025 Prince Albert, SK

Supreme Champion Female: Maple M Cattle Co. & Bar H Land & Cattle

Supreme Champion Bull: Longview Cattle Co.

Photographer: Seven D Media

Little Lady Classic Champion: Kaylin Bartel

Little Lady Classic Reserve Champion: Arch Holdings

Grand Champion Prospect Steer: Arch Holdings

Reserve Champion Prospect Steer: Porters Simmentals

Grand Champion Steer: Jorja Fox

Reserve Champion Steer: Briar Blanchette

Princess Classic Grand Champion Heifer Calf: Arch Holdings

Princess Classic Reserve Champion Heifer Calf: T&S Farms

Lord of the Rings Grand Champion Bull Calf: Arch Holdings

Lord of the Rings Reserve Champion Bull Calf: Hall’s Cattle Co.

Dean Horn Memorial Grand Champion Bred Heifer: Kaylin Bartel

Dean Horn Memorial Reserve Champion Bred Heifer: Jack Archdekin

Through the support of the cattle community, “Benny The Steer” started the Danny Magowan Legacy Fund, in honor of Sara (Magowan) Archdekin's brother.

So far, they have donated over $16,000 dollars to Better Together SK to focus on Men's Mental Health. With your unwavering support this summer, Benny raised over $5000 extra to add to the fund in honor of Danny Magowan and Ryan Schemenaeur. bettertogethersk.ca - Connected Communities are Healthy Communities.

OYCSA Trillium Classic August 8-10, 2025 West Niagra, ON

Grand Champion Purebred Female: Josie Crawford

Grand Champion Commercial Female: Madison Either

Photographer: Innovation Media

Champion Bred & Owned Female: Heidi McFadden

Champion Bred & Owned Bull: River Morse

Grand Champion Purebred Bull: River Morse

Grand Champion Market Animal: Jordan Phillips

OJAA Double Feature August 8-10, 2025 West Niagra, ON

Grand Champion Female: Nicole Rau

Reserve Champion Female: Jackson Corner

Photographer: Innovation Media

Grand Champion Bred & Owned Female (Ring A): Emily Hartle

Grand Champion Bred & Owned Female (Ring B): Hope Pinkham Reserve Champion Bull (Ring A): Parker Ribey Reserve Champion Bull (Ring B): Hope Pinkham Grand Champion Commercial Female (Ring A): Peyton Hastings Grand Champion Commercial Female (Ring B): Greyson Kiebert

Grand Champion Bull: Calahan Findlay

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Alberta Junior Angus Association Show August 10-12, 2025 Bashaw, AB

Grand Champion Purebred Female: Kasey Adams

Reserve Champion Purebred Female: Paisley Robertson

Photographer: Ag Plus Designs

Grand Champion Commercial Female: Darren Walker

Reserve Champion Commercial Female: Abby Rancier

Canadian Junior National Heifer Show August 13-16, 2025 Bashaw, AB

UFA Youth Supreme Quest Champion: Kade Rancier

Lady Elaine Bracket Champion: Kordell Morrison

Photographer: Seven D Media

Grand Champion Junior Female: Kade Rancier

Reserve Champion Junior Female: Riley Bohrson

Grand Champion Open Female: Cameron Davidson

Reserve Champion Open Female: Kordell Morrison

Grand Champion Commercial Female: Jeenah Sobkow

Reserve Champion Commercial Female: Stella Mader

Grand Champion Bred & Owned Female: Mia Mackie

Reserve Champion Bred & Owned Female: Nevada Murray

Barrie Fair August 22-24, 2025 Thornton, ON

Supreme Champion Female, Grand Champion Angus Female: Premier Livestock & River Valley Polled Herefords

Supreme Champion Bull, Grand Champion Simmental Bull: Destiny Family Farms

Photographer: Sam Buschbeck Photography

Grand Champion Charolais Female: Premier Livestock & Abby Debus & Whiskey Hollow

Grand Champion Charolais Bull: Moyer Cattle Co.

Grand Champion Hereford Female: Elm-Lodge Polled Herefords

Grand Champion Hereford Bull: Medonte Highlands Polled Herefords

Grand Champion Shorthorn Female: Crawfdown Farms

Grand Champion Shorthorn Bull: Miller Cattle Co.

Grand Champion Speckle Park Female: Watson Land & Livestock

Grand Champion Speckle Park Bull: Raise The Bar Farms

Grand Champion Limousin Female: McConnell Livestock

Reserve Champion Limousin Bull: McConnell Livestock

Grand Champion Simmental Female: Rosalyn Grusnick

Grand Champion Angus Bull: Indian River Cattle Company

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Young Ranchman’s All Breed Livestock Show August 29-31, 2025 Swift Current, SK

Supreme Champion Female: Kordell Morrison

Reserve Champion Female: Sloane Hertz

Photographer: Golden Thread Livestock Imaging

Grand Champion Heifer Calf: Kordell Morrison

Reserve Champion Heifer Calf: Tristan Tober

Grand Champion Prospect Steer: Blake Fisk

Reserve Champion Prospect Steer: Rebecca Porter

Grand Champion Commercial Female: Curtis Hewitt

Reserve Champion Market Animal: Blake Fisk

3rd Overall Female: Taylor Makey

4th Overall Female: Emma Lees

5th Overall Female: Shelten Grabler

Paris Fair August 30, 2025 Paris, ON

Supreme Champion Female: River Point Cattle Co.

Supreme Champion Bull: Destiny Family Farms

Photographer: BJH Photography

Brome Fair August 29-September 1, 2025 Brome, QC

Supreme Champion Female: Kenneth Beerwort

Supreme Champion Bull: Kirk Stoddard

Photographer: Krista Whalen Photography

Interior Provincial Exhibition August 28-31, 2025 Armstrong, BC

Supreme Champion Female: Pinnacle View Limousin

Supreme Champion Bull: Pieschel Farms

Photographer: Seven D Media

Grand Champion Junior Purebred Female: Dylan Fuller

Grand Champion Junior Commercial Female: Aubree Higgins

Grand Champion Junior Purebred or Commercial Female: Mesa Slavens

Grand Champion Junior Steer: Chase Pincott

Stars of the Future Heifer Calf Champion: KT Ranches

Stars of the Future Bred Heifer Champion: Ogilvie Stock Ranch

Stars of the Future Cow-Calf Champion: Pinnacle View Limousin

Sires of Tomorrow Champion Bull: JT Livestock

Grand Champion Multi-Breed Female: Pinnacle View Limousin

Grand Champion Multi-Breed Bull: Pinnacle View Limousin

Grand Champion Hereford Female: Hirsche Herefords

Grand Champion Hereford Bull: Hirsche Herefords

Grand Champion Angus Female: KT Ranches

Grand Champion Angus Bull: JT Livestock

Grand Champion Simmental Female: KT Ranches

Grand Champion Simmental Bull: Pieschel Farms

Grand Champion Lowline Female: Outlaw Acres

Grand Champion Lowline Bull: Outlaw Acres

Grand Champion Open Steer: Aubree Higgins

Reserve Champion Open Steer: Chase Pincott

PCI Junior Royal Beef Challenge: Champion Steer: Garret Kline Champion Heifer: Elliot Caputo

AS GENUINE AS IT GETS!

15 OPEN HEIFERS

RJY

LAUREN 21N

RJY

GVR RANCH BOSS 52L X RJY COPPER LAUREN 16K

RJY

HANNAH 17N

EXOTIC GIRL 7N

RJY MERIT 54J X RJY EXOTIC CHAMPAGNE 1J

RJY

MADER WALK THE LINE 92J X RJY HANNAH 65K

QUEEN 36N

SILVER LAKE ROLEX117L X USM CAPACITY QUEEN 2L

3 STEER PROSPECTS

RJY

SIGNATURE JAZZ 37N

MCINTOSH KINGDOM 10K X RJY SIGNATURE JAZZ TIME 47J

RJY

CASEY 13N

KUNTZ LAW AND ORDER 47K X RJY CASEY 49L

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Renfrew Fair September 7, 2025 Renfrew, ON

Supreme Champion Female: Vos Vegas Farms & Brynn Currie

Supreme Champion Bull: Enright Farms

Images provided.

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From Town to Tractor Seat How the faces behind Pinkston Cattle Company chased their dreams into land ownership, cattle management, and hay production.

Image provided by Morgan Snellings Photography

The Pinkston cow herd strategically began in 2023 with the acquisition of 30 Angus influence cows from Stonegate Farms in Flemingsburg, KY. Colin and Lauryn continue to center their program around small-eared, black-hided cattle. The decision to calve their cows in the fall was inspired by the feeder market they accommodate. Typically, Colin and Lauryn will purchase backgrounding calves in December or January at 400-600lbs with intentions of selling them in the summer months at 900-1000lbs. “You have a better quality to choose from come December or January.”, Colin commented. He shared that he would prefer to purchase calves later, however, there is typically a larger demand in the spring, resulting in higher prices and a smaller selection to choose from. The number of calves they take on annually is influenced by the price and availability of calves, as well as, input costs such as grain and feed prices.

Through the lease of land, the Pinkstons have been able to produce approximately 700-1000 round bales and 10,00013,000 square bales annually. They will primarily market and sell this hay crop to horse owners in the area. The relationship with their landlords is extremely important to the Pinkston’s. They focus on developing the land they lease to make it as functional for their needs, while ensuring it is mutually beneficial for the landlord as well.

Image provided by Morgan Snellings Photography

Colin and Lauryn Pinkston own and operate Pinkston Cattle Company outside of Lexington, KY. Together they background 3-4 loads of calves per year, manage a fall calving, commercial program, in addition to making and marketing hay to local customers.

However, you may know them more personally from Lauryn’s Tik Toks that engages many different audiences, from long time cattlemen and women, to hobby farmers, to urban consumers. The content of her Tik Toks includes humorous video blogs live from the feed truck, sit down discussions, equipment operation commentary and so much more. Together they combine Lauryn’s outgoing personality and Colin’s agricultural endeavours to provide insight and encouragement to other young producers facing similar challenges and experiences.

Despite their personal growth and success in agriculture, both Lauryn and Colin grew up in towns, and were not directly involved in agriculture. Lauryn was raised riding horses, with her family having history in racehorses.

Whereas Colin dedicated much of his free time in middle school and high school in assisting his friends on tobacco farms in the area. Through this experience, Colin developed a passion for agriculture. “To me, that was the picture of a happy family; that resonated with me. They live here, they work here, and they seem to be happy.” Colin further commented that the infrastructure, routines, and comradery further drew him to this lifestyle. Colin also received mentorship from his own Great Uncle, Larry Lewis who was involved in tobacco farming, while maintaining a modest cow herd. Larry is also involved in commercial and residential real estate.

Lauryn shares her daily adventures online to her audience of over 191,000 followers via Tik Tok. To learn more about the Pinkston’s, find Lauryn online at the handle, “@jeterky” or follow the QR code provided.

“You always get that story of ‘If you have not inherited a farm and equipment, you won’t make it.’ I would think if you are passionate enough about it, then you will figure out your niche, and figure out how to make it work.”, shared Colin. “As a newer, young farmer who has taken advantage of the (cattle) markets, yes, we have made money, but not really, because we are building. Everything we have made (financially) has went back into the operation. The markets have been on our side, and that has helped with us getting started. But, what we have done is set ourselves up for when the market is not good.” Both Lauryn and Colin have off farm careers. Lauryn is involved in equine insurance, and Colin works at the local fire department. This additional income has allowed them to have a sense of stability and comfort in their finances. “I don’t have to work at the fire department to make ends meet but having that constant paycheck and having those benefits in this line of work is priceless.”, Colin concluded.

Recently, Colin and Lauryn acquired land of their own to “put roots down”, and further develop their operation.

“This is a dream come true for us. This changes the next hundred years of our lineage.”, Lauryn commented. “It truly is an opportunity that was at the wrong time, but we had to make it, and we (did) make it work.”, added Colin.

Colin & Lauryn Pinkston, -alongside their three dogs, Abby, Hux, & Leo- own and operate Pinkston Cattle Co. near Lexington, KY.

Image provided by Morgan Snellings Photography

After their wedding in October 2024, the couple was planning on building their first home. However, with this farm coming up for sale, those plans were paused, and Lauryn and Colin have transitioned into a smaller home; a sacrifice Lauryn was more than willing to make for the future of their farming operation. On August 27, 2025, she posted to Tik Tok, “Yesterday we became the grandparents that took the risk.”, referencing the contribution they have made to their children and grandchildren’s future in purchasing land that will be passed down for generations. “It is the biggest blessing. It is the second-best thing that has ever happened to me, the first one was marrying Lauryn.”, Colin mentioned.

Lauryn’s introduction to the farming lifestyle came when she began dating Colin. Her journey into the industry has been extremely transparent on social media. Lauryn frequently posted videos of herself walking through the pastures with calves, chatting to them and about them to the camera. This extra interaction with the cattle has resulted in quieter calves and an easier handling experience overall. “It has been a way for me to feel more involved.”, commented Lauryn. Many women who marry into agriculture (with no previous background), struggle to find their place and purpose within the farm. By documenting her experiences, Lauryn is providing other females on farms with the confidence and direction they need to feel included and valued on their own operations.

Although Lauryn and Colin are still young, they are extremely wise when it comes to the approach they take to farming. Colin shared some advice he would offer other young producers or those looking to get more involved in agriculture: 1. “Have an independent stream of income that allows you to save money to purchase a capital improvement of some sort.”

2. “Don’t jump in and buy a farm, lease ground. Leasing is a lot cheaper than owning, although it is not as satisfying.”

3. “Even though you are new, you can still have a plan and you can still educate yourself.”

4. “Finding a mentor of someone who has been in the game and has done something similar. Take their opinion with a grain of salt because (old farmers) do not like change and new ideas they usually have a negative side to it, but you may be onto something.”

5. “Start small so if you lost that money in two weeks, you are not going to ruin yourself.”

Image provided by Morgan Snellings Photography

More recently, Lauryn has furthered her skillset to include light equipment operation; beginning with the manual transmission feed truck and branching to include tractors and other pieces of equipment. One of Lauryn’s popular Tik Toks includes her commentary stating, “No one is more confident in their wife’s abilities than a husband who doesn’t have any other help.”, a phrase that many farming wives resonated with.

Lauryn has coined the term, “climb cringe mountain”, which encompasses the idea of embracing the discomfort in unfamiliar situations and experiences. This phrase can be relevant to social media, attending producer meetings, or even being confident when going to the auction barn.

“I have worked very hard to have that confidence, and I do things every day to make myself confident. Self-tanner, taking care of my hair, whitening my teeth, all the little things that make me feel confident.” Being a female in a room full of elderly cattle producers can be intimidating.

She has found that people enjoy sharing topics they are passionate about and advises others to find people who are willing and comfortable in answering your questions.

6. “Take pride in the farms you do lease. People pay attention to that.”

7. “Don’t be outworked.”

In an industry with so much uncertainty and unpredictability, Lauryn and Colin Pinkston have implemented many different methods to minimize risk, such as, having both background and replacement cattle, generating additional income through hay production and sales, as well as, maintaining off farm careers as secondary income. They have also been judicious when planning, researching, and budgeting major purchases. Lauryn shares these experiences globally through her Tik Tok account. Despite not having a background in farming, Lauryn’s contributions to their farm grow daily. By developing her confidence, asking questions, and having the support of her husband Colin, Lauryn is not only feeding calves, but also operating equipment and assisting Colin in daily tasks. With the recent acquisition of land, Lauryn and Colin are setting the future generations of Pinkstons up for successful in the agriculture industry; a dream come true. The Pinkston’s approach to their agricultural business is one with passion, thoughtful process, and hard work.