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Submitted by Gwen Martin

Goodwell, Okla. — The 100 head of beef bulls consigned to the 57th Annual OPSU Bull Test were weighed Saturday, Nov. 8, 2008, after 28 days of the 112-day test. Compensatory gains were evident over this period with an average daily gain (ADG) of 5.5 lbs. At the end of the test, measurements will be made on the frame size, scrotal circumference, semen characteristics, fat thickness, rib eye area, and marbling in the rib eye. Expected progeny differences (EPD) will be computed on most of the bulls for calving ease, weaning weight, yearling weight and milk production on their heifer offspring. This performance data is available for the producer’s evaluation of their cattle and for use by prospective buyers in their bull selection.

The top end of these bulls will be consigned to the 57th Annual OPSU Performance Tested Bull Sale. This sale is set for Monday, Feb. 23, 2009, at 1 p.m. (CST) in the England Activity Building, University Farm, Goodwell, Okla. The bulls are being cared for by OPSU student employees Jami Eder, Sharon Springs, Kansas; Shane Lyons, Enid, Okla.; Mick Bogenhagen, Cheyenne Wells, Colo.; Ryan Irvin, Mutual, Okla.; and Alecia Havens, Greenfield, Iowa.

In the junior age division, the top pen of bulls with an ADG of 5.81 lbs., is consigned by B&M Angus of Edmond, Okla. Larry Wilson of Manchester, Okla. has the second place pen at 5.62 lbs. These three Angus bulls are sired by Rutledge Direction 563. In third place at 5.50 lbs. is Phil Light’s pen of four Angus of Turpin, Okla. with three sires represented; Morgan Direction III 9901, Mytty In Focus, and GAR 1407 New Design 5022.

In the senior age division, a Rutledge Angus pen of Stillwater, Okla. leads the way with an ADG of 7.19 lbs. Sires represented are GAR Solution and GAR Retail Product. Another Rutledge pen of three Angus, sons of GAR Retail Product, is in third place with an ADG of 6.94 lbs. In second place, with an ADG of 6.98 lbs., is a pen of three Angus consigned by M&S Cattle Co. of Dover, Okla. Sires represented are SA Neutron 377 and Rito 616 of 4B20 6807.

Those interested in following the performance of the bulls through the test can contact Gwen Martin, Animal Science Department, OPSU (580) 349-1500 to be placed on the mailing list to receive the performance reports.