Throughout the past year, discussions surrounding Red Angus carcass quality and rail performance have remained at the forefront for Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) members and industry stakeholders. Across the breed, producers recognize the exceptional traits Red Angus cattle possess, positioning them for success in today's value-driven beef industry.

The Red Angus GridMaster Awards showcase Red Angus-influenced cattle that have achieved carcass excellence while recognizing the producers and feeders who utilize superior Red Angus genetics, sound management, and strategic marketing practices.

Red Angus or Red Angus-influenced cattle enrolled in one of RAAA's value-added programs—the Angus Access Program or Allied Access—are eligible for the Red Angus GridMaster Award. Eligible cattle must have been harvested between July 1, 2025, and Sept. 1, 2026, and marketed on a grid basis. Both conventionally fed and naturally fed cattle qualify.

To be eligible, conventionally fed cattle must be marketed in groups of at least 30 head, achieve a minimum of 90% Choice and Prime, have no more than 20% Yield Grades 4 and 5, and attain a minimum grid score of 100. Naturally fed cattle must also be marketed in groups of 30 head or more, achieve at least 90% Choice and Prime, have no more than 25% Yield Grades 4 and 5, and attain a minimum grid score of 100.

RAAA will recognize 2026 Red Angus GridMaster Award recipients in the Red Angus Magazine and honor them during the 73rd National Red Angus Convention, Sept. 11–15, in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

To apply for a 2026 Red Angus GridMaster Award, submit harvest data to Cory Peters, Commercial Marketing Specialist, at cory@redangus.org.

For additional information, contact Cory at 402-418-2351 or visit redangus.org/marketing/gridmaster/.