The Iowa 4-H Livestock Judging Team delivered an outstanding performance at the American Royal Livestock Judging Contest on Oct. 19, earning multiple top 10 finishes and placing fifth High Overall Team among some of the nation’s strongest competitors.

The contest, known for its high-quality livestock classes and rigorous evaluation standards, provided Iowa youth the opportunity to demonstrate their livestock selection skills, critical thinking and oral reasons proficiency. 

The team from Benton County qualified to represent Iowa 4-H at the 2025 Livestock Triathlon in the spring. The team consisted of Rylee Short, Makenna Burmeister, Jillian Hanson and Jack Hartkemeyer, and was coached by Mitchell Hanson and Robert Hanson. 

The Iowa 4-H team demonstrated a strong performance in the swine division, securing fourth place as the High Team. Leading the way were Rylee Short, placing ninth High Individual, and Makenna Burmeister, finishing 10th High Individual.

The momentum continued in the cattle division, where the team earned the second-highest team score, supported by Jillian Hanson’s 10th place high individual finish.

Their consistent success across all species added up, pushing the Iowa 4-H team to the fifth highest team overall, with Rylee Short, Jillian Hanson, and Makenna Burmeister all placing in the top third of the contest.

Youth shared reflections from their experience at the American Royal. 

“The most exciting part of the Kansas City trip would be having the opportunity to evaluate some of the highest quality classes in the country with teammates that I have grown up with,” said Jack Hartkemeyer.

For some, competing side by side with peers is what makes the experience meaningful. “The best part about competing alongside my teammates is seeing each of our unique strengths come together as we lean on each other and grow stronger as a team,” shared Makenna Burmeister.

Others reflected on the life skills gained through the 4-H livestock judging program. “Livestock judging has taught me how to make quick, educated decisions and support those decisions with oral reasons,” said Jillian Hanson. “Making decisions is a very important life skill and supporting my decisions with reasoning has helped me to develop a sense of credibility.”

For Rylee Short, the skills gained extend far beyond the contest. “I’ve learned to be confident by thinking through my choices. … Judging has taught me to pay attention to details, manage my time and stay calm under pressure. Most importantly, it has built my confidence and teamwork, which will help me in my future career and in everyday life.”

The American Royal is one of the nation’s premier youth livestock judging events, providing hands-on learning that aligns with Iowa 4-H’s commitment to building communication skills, leadership and agricultural literacy.