Kansas State University claimed both the team and individual titles at the 119th National Collegiate Livestock Judging contest, held on Tuesday at the North American Livestock Exposition in Louisville, Kentucky. Senior Jacob Klaudt from Beulah, North Dakota, won the individual title with 964 points. K-State’s team earned 4,770 points, edging out Oklahoma State, the three-time defending champions, who scored 4,763.

K-State’s success was driven by consistent performances, with Klaudt leading the way and teammates Cole Murphy, Logan Buhrman, Kyla Mennen, and Ty Knodle finishing in the top 15. Coach Payton Dahmer praised the team’s consistency and depth, noting that all five members placed among the top 15. Klaudt, who excelled in sheep/goat judging and finished in the top 10 for cattle and swine, credited his success to years of dedication and focused preparation.

This victory marks K-State’s 16th national championship in livestock judging. In addition, K-State seniors Kylie Schakel, Bailey Lavender, and Quinna Molden received the All-American Livestock Judging award for academic and community achievements.