KANSAS CITY, Mo. — From October 19-25, Kansas City set the stage for an exciting and competitive showdown as young cattle producers from around the globe gathered for the Young Breeders Competition (YBC). This event, held in conjunction with the World Hereford Conference (WHC) and coordinated by the American Hereford Association (AHA), celebrated the best and brightest emerging talents in beef cattle production.
This year’s YBC welcomed 11 teams representing seven nations, including the USA, Australia, Canada, Denmark, Ireland, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. Participants engaged in a week filled with rigorous challenges that tested their knowledge and skills in areas crucial to the beef cattle industry, such as Hereford seedstock development and effective marketing strategies.
The competition kicked off at Kansas State University, where attendees had the chance to explore the state-of-the-art Bilbrey Family Events Center. Following this exhilarating start, teams made their way to the heart of Kansas City for the concluding events held alongside the illustrious American Royal livestock show. The grand finale took place in Hale Arena, featuring the highly anticipated showmanship and team fitting contests. This spectacular occasion was generously sponsored by Sullivan Supply and the American Royal.
Throughout the competition, teams had the opportunity to earn a collective total of over 6,000 points across various individual and team contests. Competitors were not only striving for points but also vying for coveted awards that included vinyl banners, exquisite handcrafted leather banners, stunning buckles, and other prizes that recognized outstanding teamwork and individual excellence.
The YBC was proudly sponsored by prominent organizations such as Merck Animal Health®, VitaFerm®, Sullivan Supply, the Kansas Department of Agriculture, and the American Royal. For those looking to dive deeper into the competition and discover more about the different modules, additional information can be found at WorldHerefordConference.com/ybc.
YBC Overall Champions:
In an impressive display of skill and teamwork, the Grand Champion Team was Team USA — Blue, featuring Blake Bruns from North Platte, Neb.; Jacob Johnson from Ruth, Miss.; Trevor Johnson from Centerville, S.D.; and Logan Topp from Grace City, N.D. This talented quartet demonstrated exceptional prowess throughout the week.
Claiming the title of Reserve Grand Champion Team was Team USA — Red, comprised of Ralston Braden from Kearney, Neb.; JW Cox from Flemingsburg, Ky.; Dylan Kottkamp from Clayton, Ind.; and Tar Tut from Bells, Texas. Their impressive performances throughout the competition certainly set a high standard.
The competition also highlighted individual achievements. The Grand Champion Individual award went to Jacob Johnson from Team USA — Blue, whose expertise and dedication shone brightly throughout the events. The Reserve Grand Champion Individual accolade was claimed by Dylan Kottkamp from Team USA — Red, further demonstrating the exceptional talent present.
YBC Meat Animal Evaluation Contest:
In this crucial segment, the Champion Team was once again Team USA — Blue, recognized for their outstanding analysis and strategies. Not to be overlooked, the Reserve Champion Team, Team Canada — National Selects, showcased their skills with members from Saskatchewan and Manitoba. The Champion Individual in this contest was Logan Topp from Team USA — Blue, while the Reserve Champion Individual title went to Emily Taylor hailing from Australia.
YBC Livestock Judging and Reasons Contest:
In a thrilling showdown, Team USA — Red emerged as the Champion Team, closely followed by Team USA — Blue as the Reserve Champion. Jacob Johnson from Team USA — Blue showcased exceptional knowledge to become the Champion Individual, with Tar Tut from Team USA — Red taking the Reserve spot.
YBC Industry Practicums Series:
In a testament to their versatility and adaptability, Team USA — Red clinched the Champion title, while Team USA — Blue followed as the Reserve Champion. This aspect of the competition emphasized real-world skills necessary for success in the beef cattle industry.
YBC Communications Challenge:
Effective communication is essential in any business, and Team USA — Red proved their prowess by securing the Champion Team title, with Team USA — Blue taking second place once again. This challenge reflects the importance of conveying ideas and messages clearly in the agricultural sector.
YBC Team Fitting Contest:
In a test of both skill and artistry, Team Australia claimed victory in the Team Fitting Contest, demonstrating their expertise in preparing livestock for show. Team Canada — National Selects took home the Reserve Champion honor, showcasing their craftsmanship and dedication.
YBC Showmanship Contest:
This highly anticipated contest saw Dylan Kottkamp from Team USA — Red rise to the occasion, earning the Champion Individual title, while his teammate Ralston Braden secured the Reserve Champion spot. Their skills in handling and showcasing cattle were truly impressive.
This competition not only equips young cattle producers with invaluable skills but also fosters international friendships, setting the stage for future generations of cattlemen and women. The camaraderie and shared experiences embody the spirit of a global agricultural community striving towards excellence.
–American Hereford Association