The World Livestock Auctioneer Championship (WLAC), presented by the Livestock Marketing Association (LMA) was held on Saturday, June 17 at Public Auction Yards in Billings, Mont. The American Hereford Association (AHA) caught up with newly appointed Reserve World Champion Auctioneer and Rookie of the Year, Cody Lowderman of Macomb, Ill., about his experience at the WLAC. Lander Nicodemus, AHA field staff and Midwestern Regional Champion, was also a qualifying semi-finalist at this years event.

Cody Lowderman – 2017 WLAC Res. Champion and Rookie of the Year – Courtesy of the Livestock Marketing Association

when did you or your family get started in the Hereford breed?

I grew up on a family operation of Hereford and commercial cattle as well as a family run auction business in Macomb, Ill. The Hereford’s originated from my mother’s side of the family. My parents received two Hereford cows as a wedding present from my mom’s father.

I was an active member of the National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) growing up. Many of the people I had the opportunity to meet in the Hereford breed have helped shape and guide me throughout my career. The networking and friendships gained throughout my year’s as a junior member are really priceless. There are many of those people who I work with in my profession today and others that have remained good friends. In many senses, it becomes a small world as you look back at how the dots have connected.

When/where did you get your start in auctioneering?

I grew up in the auction business. My father sold several seedstock sales, auction markets, as well as running a real estate and personal property auction firm. With the help of my parents, Jack and Sherry, along with brothers Monte and Brent, I have been able to be full time in the auction and cattle business for 13 years.

Cody Lowderman – 2017 WLAC Res. Champion and Rookie of the Year – Courtesy of the Livestock Marketing Association

What does the honor of being Reserve Champion and Rookie of the Year mean to you?

Being named Reserve World Champion and Rookie of the Year means a great deal to me. The WLAC is a platform showcasing the finest auction talent in the livestock industry. All of the 31 qualifiers were very capable of winning on any given day. I feel very fortunate and honored to have been as successful as I was in my first appearance in the contest.

Is there anything you’d like to tell a young member who’s aspiring to be an auctioneer?

I would say, find a mentor or two and associate yourself with good people. Be honest, hard working and humble. Jump at any opportunity you have to work the ring or sell part of a sale because you never know what door that might open up in the next chapter.

Lander Nicodemus – 2017 WLAC qualifying semi-finalist – Courtesy of the Livestock Marketing Association

For full results from the WLAC, click here.

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