Canadian Simmental Association to host world congress – Canadian Cattlemen

Simmental breeders from around the world are coming to Alberta for the 2024 World Simmental Fleckvieh Congress from July 29-August 4, 2024. 

The World Simmental Fleckvieh Federation meets biannually at congresses, which are held in a different country each time. It has been 18 years since Canada hosted the congress and the Canadian Simmental Association is thrilled to be hosting this prestigious event again. 

Hundreds of international and Canadian Simmental enthusiasts are expected to be in Alberta for the congress. “This is a great opportunity for Canadian Simmental breeders to showcase their cattle to the world,” says Shane Williams, Canadian Simmental Association president. “Simmental breeders and commercial cattle producers from across Canada and around the globe will see firsthand how the Simmental breed has evolved and prospered in Canada.” 

The Simmental breed is the second-most populous breed in the world, second only to Zebu-type cattle that are used in tropical climates. “We are proud of our breed’s history in Canada, and this is our chance to display how this breed has become an important part of the Canadian beef industry,” says Williams. “Canadian Simmental genetics have been exported to many countries around the world because Canadian Simmental cattle are known internationally for their great quality and genetics. This congress is an excellent opportunity for Simmental producers from around the world to come and see Canadian Simmental cattle for themselves.” 

The congress events will take place in Calgary, Olds and surrounding areas. These include cultural excursions that highlight points of interest for international guests, several farm tours to celebrate various aspects of the Simmental breed, a world-class sale hosted in Olds at the Bohrson Marketing Services facility, the Young Canadian Simmental Association National Classic show at Olds Regional Exhibition and a traditional rodeo event. 

2024 World Simmental Fleckvieh Congress information can be found at simmental.com or by contacting Bruce Holmquist directly at 403-250-5121 or [email protected]. 

In other news, Bruce Holmquist, general manager of the Canadian Simmental Association, had the privilege of judging the XXXIX Guadalajara Simmental National Exhibition 2023 show at the Central Oval of the Livestock Expo in Guadalajara, Mexico. The bull “Popeye” was named Grand Champion, coming from the ranch El Molino, located in Ixtlahuacán del Rio. The Reserve Champion bull was “Tule Regalo,” from Pablo Caro’s livestock farm.