On the morning of Sunday, April 6, more than 190 heifers and their exhibitors competed for the title of 2025 Grand Champion Breeding Beef exhibitor. This year, that honor went to Riley Kerr of Montgomery FFA.

“It’s an indescribable feeling,” Kerr shared. “I was a little nervous because I didn’t know what the outcome would be.”

When Kerr stepped into the ring, she brought more than just a show stick and halter to lead her calf, she brought the quiet confidence and composure of a well seasoned showman. Her journey in the livestock industry began five years ago alongside her father and sister, raising their own show cattle. What started as a family project quickly led to life lessons Kerr will carry with her for life.

“Showing animals has taught me that failure is sometimes part of the process,” Kerr said. “But if you keep pushing forward, success will come.”

2025 marked Kerr’s final appearance as a Montgomery County Fair Exhibitor, as she is a graduating senior. She credits her achievements to the unwavering support of her family, friends and mentors who helped her every step of the way. After graduation, Kerr will be heading to Lubbock to pursue her dream of becoming a Texas Tech Red Raider where she will major in Animal Science.

Our 2025 Reserve Champion Breeding Beef Exhibitor was Loryn Gates of Willis FFA. With seven years of showmanship under her belt, Gates is no stranger to the whirlwind of emotions that come with stepping into the show ring. But nothing could compare to the unforgettable moment she shook the judge’s hand, securing her title as reserve champion.

“It feels amazing to win reserve,” Gates said. “I’ve been working toward this for a long time.”

Gates’ said her career in the livestock show world has been fueled by the unwavering support and encouragement of her family and closest friends. 

“My parents have been an extreme help throughout this journey as well as all the people within our show group,” Gates shared. “They are all so supporting and you can confide in them no matter what. Win or lose they are going to be here to support you.”

As she prepares to enter her senior year, Gates is already looking ahead to her final season in the ring. In addition to continuing her service on the MCFA Jr. Committee, she plans to breed her heifer this summer and return to the 2026 Montgomery County Fair and Rodeo with a cow-calf pair and a few more exciting projects.

It is evident to all that the Montgomery County Fair and Rodeo is more than just a competition, it is a celebration of hard work, resilience and community. For champions like Kerr and Gates, the titles are meaningful, but it’s the lessons learned and the memories made that will stay with them far beyond the fairgrounds.