2025 Fort Worth Junior Grand Champion Steer Award winner revealed: Meet 'Alley Cat'
Grand champion steer announced at FW Stock Show
The judges say this year’s competition was stiff. They looked for a combination of physical features, genetics and a "wow factor."
FORT WORTH, Texas - Excitement is ramping up for the final days of the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo.
The Junior Grand Champion Steer Award was announced Friday, one of the highlights of the annual event.
What we know:
The 2025 grand champion steer is a silver American Cross named Alley Cat.
Its owner is 16-year-old Mattison Koepp, of La Vernia, Texas, near San Antonio.
"All year long. Hard work," she said.
The judges say this year’s competition was stiff. They looked for a combination of physical features, genetics and a "wow factor."
"You get on top of him. He’s got so much muscle. That is just amazing," said judge Mark Hogue. "And then when you step away, the hair texture, the prettiness, the lines and the silhouette he gives you is captivating."
Mattison and her family shared hugs and tears. As far as her secret sauce, she says the key is to just remain grounded and have fun.
"Just get him set up, lined. Get him where he needs to be, and just breathe and get ready," she said.
What's next:
Saturday morning is the junior sale of champions.
About 300 youngsters will sell their animals in an auction to raise money. Last year’s champion brought in nearly $400,000.
The Source: Information in this article comes from interviews conducted at Friday's events.