by Cecillia Newby
Growing Up Simmental:
One of my favorite questions that I am asked is “Why Simmental?” As a kid, I would simply answer, “Because that is what my family raises,” but now, that answer means so much more.
As a third-generation Simmental breeder, it is important to me to know the history behind our operation. In the early 1970s, my grandfather began breeding Simmental cattle. He and a close friend began hosting a sale with their offspring and quickly found a breed that they loved. My grandpa’s passion for the Simmental breed is evident as he continues to stand strong to his roots and has been raising this breed for five decades. He has passed on his love for Simmental cattle to my father and me as we all three continue to strive and better our Simmental herds. Some of my favorite memories are working cattle with some of the most influential people in my life.
In addition to the strong roots of raising this breed, Simmental cattle have been a strong part of my life. My father enjoyed traveling to competitions to show cattle and participate in the educational contests at the state, regional, and national levels. Like him, some of my favorite times of the year are when we load up the trailer and hit the road to the next show. Not only do I enjoy showing cattle in the ring, but I also love participating in the educational contests. From public speaking and sales talk to quizzes and interviews, all of these areas allow me to grow and sharpen my skills as a leader and a person. These areas always challenge and excite me to learn more about this breed and the incredibly talented people involved with it. However, the most influential part of my experience with the Simmental breed is the friendships I have built throughout the years. Whether it is joking and teasing each other on the walk to tieouts at the end of a long day, having a conversation about what answers are right or wrong at the stalls after a quiz, or helping each other fit cattle before we head to the show ring, these friendships and relationships grow and flourish because of youth organizations like the AJSA that allow members to connect with others who have the same passions. It doesn’t matter if you come from a multigenerational Simmental ranch or are new to the breed. This organization provides many opportunities, like the National Classic, the IGS Summit, and Fall Focus, that allow members to learn and grow in the Simmental breed. Everyone has the opportunity to gain unique experiences and grow in the cattle industry. These experiences and the relationships that we build along the way show that we will always Stand Strong Simmental.
