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WORLD CONGRESS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18 ideas and genetics, and is a great way to renew old acquaintances.” At every World Congress he’s attended, Kubecka says international breeders are always interested in talk- ing about what U.S. breeders are doing with the breed. This was especially evident while attending the 2017 World Congress in South Africa. “If I was asked once, I was asked 100 times, ‘What are we doing with our cattle and what does the future hold in the United States for our cherry-red cattle?’” Kubecka has learned a great deal about the breed by attending five World Congresses over the last 40 years, and he is hopeful that U.S. breeders will take part in the 2019 event and demon- strate their dedication to the breed. “I strongly urge our fellow breeders from the United States to take part in as much of the 2019 World Congress as possible,” he says. “It is a great way to meet our fellow breeders from abroad, exchange ideas and discuss the future of the breed.” Although he hasn’t attended as many World Congresses as Kubecka, Kade Thigpen, ranch foreman, Hefte Ranch, Hondo, Texas, agrees the event is a valuable learning experience. “As a young producer, I have made it a priority to attend the World Congress so I can learn,” Thigpen says. “The experience and wisdom from the pro- ducers at this event offer value to young producers that is, in reality, invaluable.” In 2017, Thigpen attended his first World Congress in Bloemfontein, South Africa, along with his wife, Kelley, and Kubecka. One of the most valuable parts of the experience was meet- ing breeders from around the world who share the same passion for Santa

Gertrudis cattle. He also enjoyed learning how other countries develop and market cattle for their specific environments. Each country is unique in the way it promotes the breed to the commer- cial industry and makes genetic improvements. With a growing number of breeders recognizing the value of Santa Gertrudis, Thigpen says connect- ing with other breeders has never been more important. “It is so important, in my opinion, that we use each other’s strengths and grow

Attending the 1987 World Congress in Australia are, left to right, Gene Kubecka, Nancy Kubecka, Mark Sheeran, Kathy Wendt, Dan Wendt and Jane Wendt.

together to become a worldwide industry leader,” he says. “The World Congress is a great opportu- nity to show producers around the world what we have to offer, and how our cattle and genetics have improved.” Thigpen is excited to partici- pate in the 2019 event. “The 2019 Santa Gertrudis World Congress is going to be a great stepping stone for the future,” he says. “It’s a great place to learn and build last- ing relationships. The best part is that everyone there loves Santa Gertrudis cattle!” World Congress Details As part of the 2019 Congress, guests will tour Santa Gertrudis ranches, attend production sales and visit the State Fair of Texas, where they will watch the Santa Gertrudis show. The agenda also includes educational semi- nars. Topics of the seminars include developing genetic linkage with other countries and breed improvement tech- nologies. One seminar includes a Texas A&M International Beef Academy pro- gram, which will provide participants access to emerging technologies in cattle reproduction, nutrition, genetics, health and welfare related to all phases of beef production. Hefte says the 2019 Congress will include a balance of work and play. “We hope to provide a well-rounded experi- ence for our guests, with several fun spots on our agenda,” she says. Kubecka and Thigpen agree that meeting Santa Gertrudis breeders from around the world is a highlight of the World Congress. At the 2017 World Congress, Kubecka, left, and Thigpen, right, visit with Franke Koch, Kochbo Santas, Moorreesburg, South Africa.

Guests will have the opportunity to experience the Beau Rivage Hotel and Casino, Mobile, Ala.; several nights in New Orleans, La.; shopping in Dallas, Texas; and a night on the River Walk in San Antonio, Texas. The committee anticipates more than 300 breeders will participate in this event, including 150 international guests. Hefte says the No. 1 goal of the Congress is to demonstrate “what an amazing and adaptable breed of cattle Santa Gertrudis are, and how we can continue to improve the breed by utiliz- ing genetic technology, increased data collection and information sharing.” SGBI members have already expressed their enthusiasm for the event, which, Hefte says, is key to ensuring the congress is a great experi- ence for all participants. “The success of the 2019 World Congress will depend upon our members’ support and par- ticipation,” she says. “I hope everyone will join in and make the most of this unique and exciting event.” Gene Kubecka, right, visits with Rose Ross of Australia during the 1990 World Congress in South Africa.

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SANTA GERTRUDIS USA

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