Welcome back to Genetics & the Gavel, powered by American Cattlemen Media. Just ahead, we have Gale McKinney, he's the Owner of American Cattlemen Media, and he chats with Joe Pettit, the Owner of Stud Wagyu Auction and Kentucky Stud Wagyu. In this episode, Joe and Gale will dive into the Big Texas Sale, held at 6:30 PM CT on May 30th, 2026, at Billy Bob's in Fort Worth, Texas. 

Joe details the Big Texas Sale, which serves as both a premier Wagyu genetics event and part of the Texas Wagyu Association’s annual gathering. The 2026 sale marks the third year in Fort Worth and is held at Billy Bob’s, where a dedicated building can accommodate several hundred attendees. Cattle are sold from their home operations via photos, videos, and comprehensive genomic data, allowing consignors to offer elite genetics without transporting animals to town.

The offering includes approximately 60 females and 15 bulls, with the front end of the catalog featuring some of the highest-indexing, high-genomic heifers in North America. Many of these females are open and near flush age, giving buyers the opportunity to accelerate their genetic programs through embryo production. Several influential AI sires will also be available, including a semen straw from the top indexing genomic bull in North America.

Joe emphasizes the value of Wagyu genetics for both seedstock and commercial producers. He notes that when fullblood Wagyu bulls with strong pedigrees are crossed on conventional commercial cows, calves retain growth and appearance similar to the base herd while dramatically improving carcass quality, marbling, and overall grading. He also highlights the breed’s longevity, structural soundness, fertility, and docile temperament, describing Wagyu cattle as long-lasting and highly functional.

The conversation concludes with an overview of sale logistics and shipping, underscoring that sellers coordinate health paperwork and work with buyers to move cattle efficiently once the auction is complete.

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