DENVER, CO (January 27, 2026) — Forty‑five students wandered through the bison pens at the National Western Stock Show in Denver late last week, studying the animals closely and jotting down notes before stepping in front of a panel of seasoned bison rancher-judges to defend their selections. The students were competing in the annual Larry Higgins Bison Judging Contest, hosted by the Rocky Mountain Bison Association and the National Bison Association.
When the snow settled and the competition wrapped up, Delaney McGowen of Eastern Wyoming College earned the top collegiate ranking. Teigen Derner of Laramie County 4‑H won the senior high division, and Lucy Hester of West Grand Elementary/Middle School claimed top honors in the junior division. The Eastern Wyoming College team of Cort Bannan, Rebecca Gardner, Delaney McGowen, and Anthony Quick secured the top team award.
Ava Roundy of Eastern Wyoming College placed second in the collegiate division. In the senior division, Hudson Wright of Laramie County 4‑H took second, followed by Brylee Snell of Laramie County 4‑H in third. In the junior division, Spencer Bohnenkamp of Mountain Grove placed second, and Lilyko Suzuki of Bibber Creek placed third. Rounding out the team rankings, the Eastern Wyoming College group of Ellen Hartman, Ava Roundy, Athena Swinart, and Conley Hogland earned second place, with the Laramie County 4‑H team of Hudson Wright, Walter Martinz, Allis Martinz, and Teigen Derner finishing third.
The top three junior competitors received plaques, while senior and collegiate top finishers were awarded plaques and scholarships. The National Bison Association extends its gratitude to the scholarship sponsors: Twin Brook Farm, Canadian River Bison, Texoma Bison Company, National Buffalo Foundation, Rocky Mountain Bison Association, and Rocky Mountain Natural Meats. Collaboration across the bison industry ensures that knowledge and passion for bison are passed on to the next generation.
John Graves, President of the Rocky Mountain Bison Association and event organizer, shared, “This year’s Junior Judging event was fantastic, and the participants had a wonderful time despite the cold and snow. The GTSS animals were some of the highest‑quality we’ve had, making judging quite a challenge—but one the kids rose to. GTSS Judge Dr. Gerald Parsons helped select the classes and added a few challenging animals to really test the students. Overall, the kids performed well in the live animal placings. Over the years, participants have continued to improve their oral reasons, and this year was no exception, with very thorough and convincing presentations. We look forward to continuing to grow participation in this event.”
The Junior Judging competition is held annually at the National Western Stock Show and is organized by the National Bison Association and the Rocky Mountain Bison Association, which together represent more than 1,200 members across all 50 states and 10 foreign countries.