The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo set a new record Saturday as the Grand Champion Junior Market Steer sold for $1.5 million, highlighting the extraordinary support of donors at the 2026 Junior Market Steer Auction.
Donors filled the Sales Pavilion at NRG Arena to support exhibitors and invest in the future of Texas youth. The annual auction generated record-breaking bids that will directly fund scholarships and educational opportunities across the state.
Jason Williams, chairman of the Steer Auction Committee, welcomed attendees and emphasized the impact of donor support. “Breaking records is a lot of fun. As of today, we have purchase commitments totaling $9.6 million,” Williams said.
Auctioneer Glenn Beckendorff led the sale, energizing the crowd and encouraging competitive bidding throughout the morning. “These are the kids who are going to be the leaders of the future,” Beckendorff said.
Mason Grady of Johnson County 4-H raised the Grand Champion steer, Zinger, which sold for a new Rodeo record $1.5 million to Trinity River Land & Cattle Co. Grady is a five-time exhibitor at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, and his family has participated in the event for more than two decades. When asked which moment carried more pressure, a fourth-and-one situation or the Grand Champion drive, Grady pointed to the significance of the achievement. “You can have a lot of fourth-and-ones in your career, but you only have a few of these,” Grady said.
Stephen Kolek, representing Trinity River Land & Cattle Co., said the group was proud to support youth through the auction. “We are proud of what we can do to support young students’ futures,” Kolek said.
Jett Hale of Miami FFA earned Reserve Grand Champion honors with his steer, Ryan, which set a Rodeo record, selling for $750,000. Hale, a repeat top exhibitor, said the moment remains just as meaningful. “It doesn’t get old at all,” Hale said. “This experience is incredible.” Hale expressed gratitude to donors and the broader Rodeo community. “It’s incredible to see everybody supporting us,” Hale said. “We’d like to thank each and every one of you.”
The generous donors on the Reserve Grand Champion lot were Laura and Steve McNear; Lisa and Chris Cunningham; and Barbara and Don Jordan.
2026 Junior Market Steer Champions:
- Grand Champion Market Steer
- 2026 – $1,500,000
- 2024 – $1,000,000
- Reserve Grand Champion Market Steer
- 2026 – $750,000
- 2025 – $690,000