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howing steers has always been a huge
Dad said that the most successful partnership Brandon and RD ever had was a boar named Alley Cat and we knew if he lived up to the name, things would get real fun. My family has been very blessed with our success in the show ring, and the last two years have taught me that hard work truly does pay off. Our family has always shown American cattle, my Uncle Kyle won our first banner a long time ago with a Brangus steer that got kicked out into the ABC’s in San Antonio. My Aunt Tamara won a couple more with a Brangus and an ABC all raised by our good friend Glen Martin. Izzy Cardenas and Glen taught my dad how to see good cattle and started his passion for American cattle, the rest is history. We always knew that an American could win a major steer show and we are very happy that we were able to be a part of it! Our team did a great job getting him ready for the Champion Drive and we were very proud headed to the ring. When Dr. Hoge gave his grand drive speech it was hard not to be nervous. I can’t describe the feeling I had when he got off the mic and walked straight at me, I was very happy that Alley Cat stood still for the slap and didn’t run away! I was overcome with emotion because I was so happy for my Dad, Mom and brother, Mason because we have worked so hard as a family and winning was truly a dream come true for all of us. None of this could have been possible without the support of our family and friends. It is truly a team effort all year long. ●
part of my life for as long as I can remember. I have always loved everything about The Fort Worth Stock Show, and I never could have imagined that the last two years could be possible. Being selected Reserve Grand Champion last year was the greatest accomplishment I could ever dream of. Words
cannot describe how it felt this year when my steer, Alley Cat, was selected as the Grand Champion of the Show. My name is Mattison Koepp, and I’m a 16-year-old sophomore at La Vernia High School. I was born and raised in La Vernia, Texas, where my family has lived for six generations. Battle of the Cattle in Kerrville, Texas. I won showmanship that day and have been passionate about showing ever since. Watching my big brother Mason show and looking up to him helped me get where I am today. Cromwell Cattle Company has been a blessing to our family, and they have helped make this possible. We knew Alley Cat was special as soon as we got him into our barn. When Brent Cromwell brought him home from Brandon Horn and we found out Rory Duelm raised him, my dad knew right away what we needed to name him. I was 7 years old when I walked into the show ring for the first time for peewee showmanship at
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