The Angus breed has a history of trailblazers, innovators and change makers. Of course, as we all know, George Grant was the first trailblazer in American Angus history. Bringing Angus cattle to America to breed to Texas Longhorns was no small feat. Grant needed a clear vision and grit to conquer the journey to Victoria, Kan. Flash forward to the present day, I can only imagine what he would think of the breed he brought to America with only a dream. 

In our own barns, our children dream of hanging a big purple banner and feeling the rush of that champion slap. They work for hours getting the hair worked just right, practicing feet placement and feeding just the right amount all to be competitive in the showring. They too have their hearts set on paving their own way and capturing a moment that would have never been possible without George Grant’s original dream. 

When they grow up, they aim to pass that down to the next generation to continue the tradition and love for the breed that raised them. Parents strive to create a path for their children where there may have been no path originally. They give all they can to see the stars in their child’s eyes when they timidly grab onto the halter for the first time. 

That moment is the spark that lights the fire that blazes a new trail. A person never forgets the first show heifer they ever had. Those first calves leave a mark on a person’s soul. That mark is evidence of a prevailing passion and a path that has been lit by generations before who paved the way.

This is one of the reasons the American Angus Auxiliary is so inspiring. Our goal is to support juniors and their goals through scholarships, contests and other events. This ensures juniors may be well rounded individuals when they take their step into the world and pursue their dreams.