January 2025 NEBRASKA CATTLEMAN 19 of 1915 due to a national outbreak of hoof and mouth disease, and 2021 due to restrictions from COVID-19. A Lifetime of Memories Kristian Rennert of Elm Creek knows the ins and outs of the NWSS like the back of his hand. Growing up, his stepdad was one of the livestock announcers for the shows. “I am 47 and I have made it to 45 National Westerns,” Rennert says. “The year that they canceled because of COVID-19 restrictions and then this last year when it was so dang cold are the only two I’ve ever missed.” Growing up, Rennert participated in the Catch-A-Calf program and showed registered Tarentaise, where he brought home five national champion banners and a pile of reserve champion banners. He’s worked the sale ring, as well as judged some of the cattle shows. He has many fond memories of the NWSS: being in the Yards with the cattle during snowstorms and the year that he and his best friend decided to take 24 head of cattle to the Hill. All of these life experiences have led to countless friendships that will last a lifetime. “The connections you gain when you’re there are probably the most invaluable,” Rennert explains. “You get to meet people from all over the country and even the world – Canada, Australia, South America, all over. The connections and the networking that happens there, and the opportunity to meet Kristian Rennert of Elm Creek brought home a pile of grand and reserve champion banners over his many years of showing at the NWSS. Kristian Rennert of Elm Creek grew up in Colorado and has many fond memories from going to the Stock Show every year. CONTINUED ON PAGE 20 people from all across the world who have similar interests, feelings and ways of thinking that you do, is a great experience. Networking is such an important part of it, and that’s
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