Below Phillips shows his bred-andowned heifer calf to the Reserve Commercial Champion title at the 2016 Young Ranchman's show. ©© Grant Rolston Photography
Right The same heifer captures the Grand Champion Prospect Heifer banner at Farmfair International in a highly competitive show. ©© ShowChampions
Kord raised out of his very first 4-H project brought him success in and out of the show ring. “That 4-H project was good to me,” Phillips explains. “I have bred her to both purebred and club calf bulls over the years. She really allowed me to experiment and grow.” In the spring of 2017, Clyde won the steer show at Making Champions, judged by Kirk Stierwalt. “I have learned a lot from Kirk at clinics over the years, and it was really neat to win a show with an animal I bred that was judged by him,” expresses Kord. Success is driven by continued learning and experience in Kord’s eyes. With his sights set on a post secondary education in Agri Business, Phillips knows his journey to play a vital role in his family farm does not stop at the success of his show animals. “I am interested in a few different schools.” Phillips begins. “I’d like to attend Lakeland College in Vermillion, or potentially somewhere in the States.” Kord’s Uncle whom lives in Texas introduced him to
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the campus at Texas A&M during a family vacation. “I am also interested in Kansas State University, or potentially somewhere in Iowa.” Although his sights are set high, all roads lead home for the young producer. His aspirations to return to the family farm link closely with his current lifestyle. “Everything I do on the farm on a daily basis, prepares me for the future,” Kord explains. “Living on the farm provides me with the opportunity to spend time outdoors, and learn important skills, like Public Speaking through 4-H.” Kord was a member of 4-H 7 years. Through his commitment to the organization, he was recently able to achieve his Gold Medallion for participation at a Club and District levels. “I am not currently in 4-H this year due to the time commitments that school and hockey both demand, but I do value my time spent in 4-H.” In true Charolais fashion, Kord’s favorite show has historically been the CCYA Junior Show. “I’ve met my best friends
Top Stock Magazine / Spring 2018