55
on the Shorthorn breed towards the end of their show careers. Following their graduation from college, Brian, Randy along with Tyler’s grandfather decided to try to make a living raising Purebred cattle. They purchased a few herds and several cattle within their means from respected breeders from across the country to establish their base. When Tyler started showing, he was not successful. Tyler explained, “We watched who was winning, what they were doing and did what they were doing.” From age 8 to 18, Cates Farms had no herdsman and was strictly family operated. Tyler focused on the show barn by himself. It was not until Tyler left for school that Cates Farms hired a herdsman. In 1993, Cates Farms raised the
bull Trump. According to Tyler, “Trump single handedly put us on the map.” Although they sold him to their neighbor for $7,800, they were allowed to use the bull themselves whenever they needed as their neighbor only had three cows. Trump’s influence on the genetics and success of Cates Farms was monumental. He has sired more National Champions than any other bull in the Shorthorn breed and has been Sire of the Year seven times. That same year, Tyler’s freshman year of College, the Cates exhibited their first National Champion in Louisville with CF Caramel 550. Following that win, success became synonymous with the Cates name for years to come. Although he originally planned to
M A R C
When two people with strong passions join forces, good things happen. That is the case for Tyler and Cortney Cates. Tyler Cates is a third generation Shorthorn breeder. His grandfather, Rex Cates, started Cates Farm as a multi-diverse livestock and row crop farm in the late 70s. Tyler’s Dad, Brian Cates, and Uncle, Randy Cates, showed in 4-H and settled
H / A P R I L 20 25
ST
Powered by FlippingBook