The University of Wisconsin–Madison dairy cattle judging team earned first place overall at the Southwestern Intercollegiate Dairy Cattle Judging Contest held in Fort Worth, Texas.
Competing against top programs from across the country, UW–Madison finished ahead of Iowa State University in second and Michigan State University in third to secure the team title.
The Badgers delivered a strong performance across categories, placing first in oral reasons and Jerseys, third in Holsteins, and fifth in Brown Swiss.
The team was led by Jenna Gries, who claimed first place overall individually while also placing in the top five across all breed categories and oral reasons.
“The Fort Worth contest was such a fun way to wrap up a successful judging season and collegiate career,” Gries said. “It’s been very special getting to judge with my best friends. We always wanted to do well for the benefit of the team, not ourselves.”
Other team members also contributed to the win. Sara Kronberg placed tenth overall and third in Jerseys. Clarissa Ulness finished twelfth overall and third in Brown Swiss. Lauren Breunig placed thirteenth overall, sixth in oral reasons, and first in Jerseys.
Gries said the experience was about more than results and reflected on her time with the team.
“I am so grateful for my team, our coaches, and all of the lessons and memories gained from the last three years on the UW–Madison judging team,” she said.
With consistent performances across individuals and breeds, UW–Madison secured a strong finish to close out the judging season.