Grand Champion Junior Market Steer sells for record $1.5 million at 2026 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) – The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo set a new record Saturday with a Grand Champion Junior Steer selling for $1.5 million.

Mason Grady of John County 4-H raised the grand champion steer, Zinger. Grady is a five-time exhibitor at the Houston Rodeo, with his family involved in the event for more than two decades.

When asked if he got any sleep the night before after being crowned grand champion, Grady replied: “Practically none! I mean, how can you sleep after something as amazing as this!”

Zinger sold for a new rodeo record $1.5 million to Trinity River Land And the livestock company. Steven Kulick, who represented Trinity River Land The Livestock and Livestock Company said the group is proud to support the youth through the livestock auction.

“We are proud of what we can do to support the future of young students,” Kulik said.

The reserve grand champion steer also set a new rodeo record in Houston on Saturday. The bull, named Ryan, was bred by Jett Hale of Miami FFA and sold for $750,000.

Hill, who has repeated as top exhibitor at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, said this moment was as meaningful as previous years.

“It doesn’t get old at all,” Hill said. “This experience is incredible.”

Donors to the Grand Reserve group are Laura and Steve McNair, Lisa and Chris Cunningham, and Barbara and Don Jordan.

Since its inception in 1932, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo has allocated more than $660 million to Texas youth and education through its various auctions and events.

“It’s incredible to see everyone supporting us,” Hill said, expressing his gratitude to donors and the broader rodeo community. “We would like to thank each and every one of you.”