The Show Report | May 2025
The Official News of the ABBA
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The First Brahman Show
What started as a simple lunch meeting in January 1931 became the spark that ignited a legacy. At the Texas State Hotel, seven forward-thinking cattlemen gathered—unaware that their conversation would eventually give rise to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, a cultural and agricultural landmark.
Among the men was James W. Sartwelle, a trailblazer in the Brahman cattle industry, who would later earn the title “father of the Brahman breed.” Sartwelle’s leadership and vision played a crucial role in the creation of the first Houston Fat Stock Show. With persistence, he rallied support from Houston’s business community, securing the funds necessary to launch the inaugural event in 1932. The show was held in the old Democratic Convention Hall near Buffalo Bayou—now deep in the heart of downtown Houston.
Why We Show Cattle—Yesterday’s Tradition, Today’s Purpose
By Paul Maulsby, Executive Vice President, American Brahman Breeders Association
It’s a question that comes up often—sometimes in support, sometimes in debate—and it’s not unique to the Brahman breed or the American Brahman Breeders Association. In fact, every breed, every association, has had this same conversation at some point.
Like many aspects of a membership-driven organization, showing cattle means different things to different people. And as someone tasked with serving all our members, I’ve come to genuinely believe that every perspective—whether rooted in performance, phenotype, tradition, or progress —has value.
At first glance, the reason we show cattle might seem obvious—especially to those of us raised in the show ring. But behind the banners and buckles lies a deeper purpose that has long shaped breed improvement, marketing, and mentorship. For Brahman breeders, the show ring continues to serve as both a reflection of our past and a platform for our future
2025 AJBA All American
The AJBA All American is the premier event for junior Brahman exhibitors, held each summer and open to AJBA members from across the nation. This highly anticipated national show offers youth the chance to compete in leadership contests, showmanship, and cattle exhibitions—showcasing both bulls and females in their respective divisions.
The Bred-and-Owned Show highlights members who have bred and raised their own cattle, demonstrating their dedication, knowledge, and skill in producing top-quality Brahman genetics.
The F-1 Female Show allows exhibitors to present Golden Certified or Certified F-1 females. These entries must be certified through the ABBA F-1 Program Certificate Option, with certificates issued in the exhibitor’s name by May 1, 2025.
Entry packets are now available, and entries officially open May 1 through the Showman App https://showman.app/shows#/2025-ajba-all-american—brands-in-the-sand-54s3 . The entry packet includes a complete list of rules and guidelines to help you prepare.
Stay up to date and find all the latest information on our website and our FAQ page. We can’t wait to see you at the 2025 All American — “Brands in the Sand!”
Mr. Julio Suárez of Honduras Named International Cattleman of the Year Honoree
Miami, Florida – The 18th Annual Miami International Cattle Show, held April 25–27, 2025, in Miami, Florida, proudly announced its International Cattleman of the Year honoree: Mr. Julio Suárez of Honduras. A long-time member of the American Brahman Breeders Association (ABBA), Suárez was recognized for his decades of commitment to the promotion and development of the American Brahman breed on an international scale.
Show Results
Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show – Mercedes, Texas
Judge: Angel Eveline
Ángel Eveline, a distinguished Brahman cattle breeder and judge from Olancho, Honduras, has earned recognition for his expertise in evaluating both Red and Grey Brahman cattle. He has judged at national and international levels, including the National Brahman Show in Honduras, and is known for his balanced, practical approach in the ring. Eveline has also served on the board of directors for the American Brahman Breeders Association, contributing to the advancement of the breed through leadership and advocacy. His deep understanding of Brahman genetics and structure continues to make him a respected figure among breeders and exhibitors alike.
South Texas State Fair – Beaumont, Texas
Judge: Pasquale Swaner
Steven “Pasquale” Swaner Jr. is a respected Brahman cattle judge and lifelong cattleman, raised in the elite SRS Red Brahman program. The SRS herd is known for producing globally influential sires. Pasquale holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in animal science and works with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, supporting ag programs for both youth and producers. He began judging at age 20 and became one of the youngest to judge the National Brahman Show at 31. His judging experience spans the U.S., Mexico, Thailand, and Central and South America. He currently serves on the Executive Committee of the American Brahman Breeders Association.
Miami International Show – Miami, Florida
Judge: Randy Allgood
A respected cattleman and experienced evaluator, Allgood has judged major events including Fort Worth, San Antonio, and the State Fair of Texas. He and his daughter, Alexa Cordell, operate Allgood Show Cattle and Allgood Showmanship Clinics, both focused on quality cattle and youth development. A graduate of Tarleton State University and former ag teacher, Allgood has also held leadership roles on multiple breed association boards, supporting junior programs and industry advancement.
Upcoming Shows
Louisiana Jambalaya Classic – West Monroe, Louisiana
Open Judge: Mitch Thomas
Mitch Thomas of Raymondville, Texas, is a well-known cattle breeder and experienced judge. A graduate of Texas A&M University, Mitch and his family own and operate Thomas Charolais, a program recognized for producing numerous champions in the show ring. With deep roots in the livestock industry, Mitch brings years of knowledge and hands-on experience to the ring. He and his wife, Linda, have three daughters—Morgan, Lauren, and Logan.
Junior Judge: Logan Thomas
Logan Thomas comes from a strong livestock background rooted in Raymondville, Texas. She grew up working alongside her family at Thomas Charolais, a program known for raising top-quality cattle and producing numerous champions. A former member of the Texas A&M Livestock Judging Team, Logan brings a competitive judging background and practical experience from the show ring to the junior division. She is the daughter of Mitch and Linda Thomas and represents the next generation of excellence in the cattle industry.
Got an Upcoming Show, Sale, or Brahman Event?
We’re building the new ABBA Event Calendar and want to include your event!
Submit your show, sale, field day, or other Brahman-related gathering at https://americanbrahman.org/shows-and-events/submit-an-event/ to have it added.
Let’s keep the Brahman community connected and informed!
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News personalized to you
The American Brahman Breeders Association is excited to introduce four new email subscription options designed to keep you informed and engaged with the topics that matter most to you! Whether you’re passionate about show results, junior programs, F1 advantages, or international Brahman news, we’ve got you covered.
The Show Report – Stay up to date with the latest show results, highlights, and industry insights from Brahman events across the country.
The F1 Advantage – Learn more about the unmatched benefits of Brahman F1 cattle, market trends, and breeder success stories.
The AJBA Voice – A must-have for junior members and supporters, featuring upcoming events, leadership opportunities, and youth achievements.
The Brahman International Connection – Dive into global Brahman news, export opportunities, and international industry developments.