HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo set a new record on Saturday with the Grand Champion Junior Steer selling for $1.5 million.
The Grand Champion steer, Zinger, was raised by Mason Grady of John County 4-H. Grady is a five-time exhibitor at the Houston rodeo, with his family participating 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 that!”
Zinger was sold for a new Rodeo record of $1.5 million to Trinity River Land & Cattle Company. Stephen Kolek, who represented Trinity River Land & Cattle Co., said the group was proud to support youth through the livestock auction.
“We are proud of what we can do to support young students’ futures,” Kolek said.
The Grand Champion steer, named Zinger, was sold for a record-breaking $1.5 million at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
The Reserve Grand Champion steer also set a new record for RodeoHouston on Saturday. The steer, named Ryan, was raised by Jett Hale of Miami FFA and was sold for $750,000.
Hale, repeat top exhibitor at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, said the moment was just as meaningful as previous years.
“It doesn’t get old at all,” Hale said. “This experience is incredible.”
The donors on the Reserve Grand Champion lot were Laura and Steve McNear, Lisa and Chris Cunningham, and Barbara and Don Jordan.
Since its beginning in 1932, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo has committed more than $660 million to the youth of Texas and education through its various auctions and events.
“It’s incredible to see everybody supporting us,” Hale said, expressing gratitude to donors and the broader Rodeo community. “We’d like to thank each and every one of you.”
The Reserve Grand Champion steer, Ryan, set its own record, selling at $750,000 at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
Copyright © 2026 KTRK-TV. All Rights Reserved.