By Andi Anderson
The 2026 Illinois Performance Tested (IPT) Bull Sale delivered exceptional results, setting a new all-time record for average sale prices and demonstrating the strong demand for reliable performance genetics in the cattle industry.
Held on February 19 at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield, the event featured 37 high‑quality lots with an impressive average price of $7,284.
According to IPT sale manager and University of Illinois Extension beef specialist Travis Meteer, the IPT sale continues to play a major role in supplying dependable bulls to cattle producers across the Midwest. “The IPT Bull sale is and continues to be one of the best sources for total performance genetics in the Midwest,” says Meteer. “During the past 58 years, the sale has sold 5,067 bulls valued at over $10 million.”
The multi‑breed sale included both older bulls and yearlings. The top‑selling bull was a yearling Angus named Evans Bandolier 51, which brought $15,000.
It was sold by Evans Angus of Virden, Illinois, to Bradshaw Brothers of Griggsville. Another Angus consigned by Evans Angus sold for $14,000, making it the second highest‑selling Angus animal of the day.
The high‑selling Simmental bull, consigned by Rincker Simmentals of Shelbyville, sold for $10,000 to Dean Nelson of Onieda. The top Polled Hereford bull came from Lowderman Cattle Company and brought $10,500.
Meteer emphasized the importance of investing in strong herd sires. “Bulls are a significant contributor to profit or loss in a cattle herd,” he says. “It’s crucial for cattle producers to have the IPT sale as a trusted source when looking to invest in a bull to strengthen their herd.”
The sale was supported by University of Illinois Extension, the Department of Animal Sciences, and numerous industry partners, including Axiota, Vita‑Ferm, ABS, Zoetis, Dearwester Grain, FerAppease, Sievers JCB, Illinois Angus Association, and Illinois Simmental Association.
Producers can review full sale results at IPTBullSale.com. Breeders interested in consigning animals for the 2027 sale must submit nominations by December 1, 2026.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-steveoehlenschlager
Categories: Illinois, Livestock