Livestock Judging Team Shatters Record in National Championship Win

Texas Tech University’s Livestock Judging Team was crowned national champion Nov. 18 at the 2008 North American International Livestock Exposition in Louisville. The team won by a 50-point margin, shattering the previous contest record by 11 points. Contestants showcased their knowledge of cattle, sheep and swine as well as their oral reasoning. Teams gathered from across the nation to compete for the title. Kansas State University and Texas A&M University clinched second and third overall team honors, respectively. Texas Tech boasted four of the top-10 individuals and the team claimed first place in the sheep, swine, performance and oral reasons divisions. They were second in the beef division. “It is an awesome feeling to work so hard all year long and win the big one,” said Bryan Bernhard, a team member and high individual overall. “Preparation pays dividends.” For the first time in school history, Texas Tech has won the contest for two consecutive years. “This repeat of a national championship is the result of having the best coach and the best students with a strong work ethic,” said Kevin Pond, chairman of the Department of Animal and Food Sciences. “This adds to the 23 previous national championships our departmental teams have won.” Bernhard was named to the All-American Livestock Judging Team based upon his academic record, leadership and livestock judging success. Teammates Judd Gardner and Chance Williams received honorable mention in this division. “This is an extremely intelligent group of kids who performed to near perfection,” said Coach Ryan Rathmann. “Today is just a milestone in their lives. They will continue to excel after they leave Texas Tech and have a huge impact in their respective jobs.”