For Kyndal Reitzenstein, it was a fluke that got her into livestock judging and a blessing that brought her full circle back to her roots in Weld County, CO.
Raised in the eastern Colorado town of Kersey, Kyndal grew up on a family cattle operation with deep roots in both production agriculture and animal science with her father a veterinarian. Kyndal spent her youth with her brother showing cattle, horses and pigs in Weld County’s 4-H program. Ironically, Kyndal didn’t seek judging out on her own.
“My parents made me do it,” she laughed while telling WLJ the story. “I couldn’t even decide what to order at a restaurant, so they figured judging would help me be more decisive.”
What began as a reluctant endeavor quickly turned into a life-defining pursuit.
After high school, she enrolled at Redlands Community College in Oklahoma, where she joined the livestock judging team. That experience led her to Oklahoma State University (OSU), where she earned bachelor’s degrees in animal science and ag communications. She stayed at OSU for her master’s degree, assisting livestock judging coach Blake Bloomberg, a mentor who would leave a lasting impact on her approach to coaching and professionalism.
Her path came full circle when she returned home to Colorado to coach the livestock judging team at Colorado State University (CSU). For three years, she led teams and taught livestock judging, passing on not just technical knowledge but the broader life skills that judging can impart.
“It’s not just about placing animals,” she explained. “It’s about building confidence, learning how to speak clearly, how to think critically and be professional. These are skills you carry into any career.”
Indeed, those skills translated seamlessly when she left CSU to work as the U.S. executive sales representative for Saskatoon Colostrum.
“I wouldn’t be in this position without the people I met through judging,” Kyndal said. “It’s about relationships—whether it’s in the industry, selling cattle or just presenting yourself professionally.”
Lessons beyond the ring
Kyndal credits her coaches throughout her career, not just for teaching her the art of judging, but for instilling broader values. Steve Gabel in Weld County, Clay Elliott and Brandon Callis at Redlands and Bloomberg at OSU were all instrumental in her development. “All the coaches I’ve had were great coaches—but even better mentors,” she said. “I still go to them for advice today.”
She emphasized that livestock judging prepares students for real-world decisions in livestock production. “You’ve got to keep a production mindset. It’s not just about picking winners—it’s about improving genetics and putting food on the table.”
Judging, she adds, is also about perspective. “It teaches you to see the bigger picture. For steers, it’s about carcass quality. For breeding animals, it’s about making the next generation better.”
These values, Kyndal said, are what she tries to instill through mentorship that often lasts long after formal coaching ends. Today, Kyndal continues mentoring FFA students and youth exhibitors, helping them select cattle and prepare for shows. “If I wasn’t involved in livestock judging, I don’t know where I’d be today,” she said. “It’s that impactful.”
Judging the NWSS
In 2025, Kyndal achieved one of her lifelong goals: judging the steer show at the National Western Stock Show (NWSS) in Denver—a show she had grown up attending and idolizing.
“My goal as a kid was always to either win Denver or judge it,” she said. “I didn’t think I’d ever get the call to judge, so when I did, I was overwhelmed. It was an honor.”
Judging the final show on the historic hill before its relocation made the experience even more meaningful.
“It was emotional,” she admitted. “I prepared for it mentally for months. It wasn’t just a show, it was a culmination of years of work, dreams and connection to home.”
She’ll return in 2026 to judge the first steer show in the new facility, an honor she describes as bittersweet. “I grew up in that arena. It’s hard to say goodbye, but I’m excited for what’s ahead.” Though she didn’t change her judging criteria for Denver, the emotional weight of the day required special mental preparation. “It was taxing. I had to stay composed and keep my emotions in check,” she said. “It was special, and it hit home a little harder than most shows.”
When asked how she prepares for shows today, Kyndal said the approach has evolved. “Early on, I was nervous. Now, I truly enjoy it. I focus on getting good sleep, eating well, and appreciating the livestock and the exhibitors. It’s about recognizing the hard work those kids and families put in.”
And the livestock itself is changing. “The industry is constantly evolving. Breeders are doing incredible work. You go to a show and think, ‘That’s the best one I’ve ever seen,’ and next year, it’s even better. Styles shift, but fundamentals—like structure, muscle, and function—never change.”
Advice for next generation
Kyndal’s advice for those just starting: “It might seem scary at first, especially if you’re shy or not confident,” she said. “But it’s the best thing I ever invested my time in. Judging helped me grow in every way—professionally and personally. You’ll meet people who share your passion, travel to amazing places, and learn things that go far beyond the ring.”
She encourages newcomers to stick with it and trust the process. “It’s like joining a sports team—you might be nervous at first, but then you’re surrounded by kids who love the same things you do. You get to travel, meet great people and see some of the best livestock in the country.”
For Kyndal, judging livestock isn’t just about evaluating animals—it’s about shaping people. It’s a craft, a community, and a calling she’ll continue to champion for years to come. “I just want to help kids see what’s possible,” she said. “Because for me, livestock judging opened every door I’ve walked through.” — Charles Wallace, WLJ contributing editor
