HOUSTON – Three world records were set by buyers Saturday as they supported Texas FFA and 4-H members at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Junior Market Lamb and Goat Auction, rodeo officials said.
Exhibited by Kaleigh Lawson, 17, of Spring Branch, the grand champion junior market lamb sold for a world record of $261,000 to the Hildebrand Family, in memory of Ruth and Tommy Hildebrand, officials said.
Recommended Videos
"We think there's no better way to spend your philanthropy dollars than at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo," Hildebrand said.
Aspen Martin, 14, of Mason, exhibited the grand champion junior market goat, selling for a new world record of $171,000 to Skip Avara, Mary and Ken Hucherson, Melton Electric, and Pam and Archie Thompson, according to rodeo officials.
"The work ethic that is instilled in these young kids is amazing," said Mark Melton of Melton Electric. "I think [buying] is a fantastic way to give back to the community in Texas and to reward the hardworking youth in Texas."
The reserve grand champion junior market lamb was exhibited by Kaegan Edwards, 15, of Sudan. Rodeo officials said Mimi and Tom Dompier, Anne and Chris Richardson, Jennifer and Joe Van Matre, and Lynda and Jim Winne purchased the lamb for $135,000.
"I buy to further the education of our children. They are our next generation," said Winne.
Rodeo officials said the reserve grand champion junior market goat sold for a world record of $147,000 to Dean Law Firm, Michelle Iverson Jeffrey, KCEF Foundation and Pamela M. Logsdon CPA. The goat was exhibited by Cody Sells, 13, of Taylor.
"To give young adults the opportunity to get an education through the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is an honor and a pleasure," said Cookie Michael of the KCEF Foundation.