Angus breeders and beef industry enthusiasts gathered in Fort Worth, Texas, for the 2024 Angus Convention, and three fortunate individuals left with prizes to help them expand their operations’ potential.

Working cattle will become a more efficient and low-stress task for Steve Knoll’s operation in Texas as he installs his new Priefert and Datamars Complete Cattle Handling System, valued at $42,000. Knoll says many of their current cattle handling facilities are outdated and were built by him and his dad more than 50 years ago.  

“Our operation is scattered across 200 miles, and we have several locations in need of better panels. Before now, we’ve just been making do,” Knolls says. 

The new corral system features a solid sweep with a straight, adjustable working alley, leading to a Priefert Model S04 Squeeze Chute. The setup is completed by a Tru-Test by Datamars complete weight and water management solution, electronic identification reader, and WaterWell™ 2 automatic waterer.  

“There’s actually a 50-year-old Priefert headgate at my dad’s place we’ve needed to replace for a while,” Knoll says. “We’re excited to be able to make upgrades to some of our locations that really need it.”

The second grand-prize giveaway winner was Debbie Denowh of Montana, who took home a John Deere 845M HVA Gator valued at $24,000. Denowh’s new John Deere 845M HVA Gator features a three-person cockpit, power steering, 54 hp, 2,000-pound (lb.) towing capacity, 1,000-lb. cargo box capacity and speeds up to 45 MPH.

The third winner, Lori Thomas of Oregon, received a Trans Ova service voucher valued at $5,000. The voucher will help cover one genetic preservation, an IVF (in vitro fertilization) cycle and up to five fresh implants into Trans Ova or client recipients and more.

“It’s quite exciting to win something like this,” Thomas says. “We do a lot of embryo transplant work on our operation, so it’s going to come in very handy. It’ll be put to good use, for sure.”  

Caitlyn Brandt, director of events and junior activities, says these giveaways would not be possible without the continued support of sponsors. 

“Thank you to Priefert, Datamars, John Deere and Trans Ova for their continued partnership in many of our events throughout the year,” Brandt says. “These special donations continually help make the Angus Convention a priceless experience for attendees.”