By Andi Anderson
Nominations are now being accepted for the 2025 Illinois Performance Tested (IPT) Bull Sale, scheduled for February 20 during the Illinois Beef Expo at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield.
The IPT Bull Sale offers breeders an opportunity to present their top-performing bulls in a live auction format, though the bulls will be shown on video rather than run through a traditional sale ring.
Breeders can nominate both halter-broke and docile, non-halter-broke bulls for the sale. All nominated bulls must adhere to strict guidelines regarding genetic conditions and health standards.
These requirements ensure that the bulls offered in the sale meet the highest standards for breeding potential and herd improvement.
To qualify for the sale, all bulls must have genomic-enhanced Expected Progeny Differences (EPDs). This essential genetic information is obtained by submitting tissue, blood, or hair samples to a breed-approved genetic testing laboratory.
Genomic-enhanced EPDs provide more accurate predictions of a bull’s future performance, reducing risk for buyers and improving their confidence in selecting animals for their herds.
Travis Mateer, the sale manager, emphasized that the IPT Bull Sale is known for providing buyers with detailed information about each bull’s genetic potential. "The bulls selling can be trusted more now than ever to sire true to their values," Mateer noted.
The Illinois Performance Tested Bull Sale remains a key event for those looking to improve their herds through strategic genetic selection.
Breeders interested in nominating bulls should submit their entries by December 1, ensuring that their animals are part of this prestigious sale that continues to set a high standard in the industry.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-steveoehlenschlager
Categories: Illinois, Business