EWC Wins Larry Higgins Bison Junior Judging Contest

Eastern Wyoming College’s Livestock Judging Team has earned the title of Overall Champion Team at the prestigious Larry Higgins Bison Junior Judging Contest, held in Denver, Colorado during the Gold Trophy Bison Show and Sale at the National Western Stock Show.

The victorious team was comprised of four Lancers Kort Bannan, Lusk, Wyoming, Cannon Cook, Greybull, Wyoming, Delaney McGowan, Harrisburg, Nebraska, and Jordan Spall, Castle Rock, Colorado. Additional EWC Students that competed include Courtney Dumont, Wheatland, Wyoming, Ellen Hartman, New Prague, Minnesota, Anthony Quick, Cheyenne, Wyoming, and Brandon Winslow, Burns, Wyoming.

“This victory is a testament to the hard work and determination of our students. Their commitment to excellence and their ability to perform at such a high level in a competitive environment is truly commendable,” EWC Livestock Judging Team coach Dr. Georgia A Younglove said. “We are honored to represent Eastern Wyoming College and grateful for the support of our community.”

In addition to the team’s overall success, individual members also saw individual success. McGowan was named High Individual in the collegiate division earning a $1,500 scholarship from the National Bison Foundation. Bannan secured second High Individual in the collegiate division to earn a $1,200 scholarship from the Rocky Mountain Bison Association (RMBA).

“The students’ exceptional performance in the contest underscores the strength of our livestock judging program and the college’s commitment to fostering excellence in all fields of agricultural education,” Younglove added.

The Larry Higgins Bison Junior Judging Contest is one of the premier events in bison judging, attracting teams from across the country. The contest provides an invaluable opportunity for students to apply and showcase their skills in evaluating livestock and making informed decisions—essential competencies for future leaders in agriculture. The event is hosted annually by the National Bison Association and the RMBA.