We do not profess to be a “show cattle” oriented program/herd, but the result of focusing on sound structured, fertile, feminine fronted females with lots of volume and capacity has resulted in a record seldom seen at the National Junior Angus level –especially from a family owned and run operation. The past three years have seen our family win three national titles at the National Junior Angus Show, a feat almost unheard of. All of these animals were bred, raised and shown by our family. The duet of John and Emily McCurry are quite a team!

What tops this off is that Andy missed the first two National championships! He was headed home to check on the ranch and missed the 2003 and the 2004 championship drive. All he got was a phone call and a photograph to commemorate the events! However, he did stick around in 2005 to see Emily’s Bred-and-owned Bull win the 2005 NJAS. And… to top it off Emily was named “Premier Junior Breeder” of the 2005 NJAS. A grand finale for Emily’s last year as a Junior Angus exhibitor!

Cattle are just part of the equation at Marands Angus. Andy & Mary McCurry are firm believers in being involved in organizations and giving back to their community and this belief has been passed on to their children. The Junior Angus program, at the state and national level, has provided a foundation to raise their children, John and Emily. Life skill sets can be honed and perfected through numerous competitions and events –both individually and as team members. Logical thinking, creativity, time management, multi-tasking (just try and juggle showing 13 head of cattle at a Jr show and participate in 13 different contests – all in one week!)– all serve to develop individuals who are prepared for life by experiencing it to its fullest. We thank the Junior Angus program for helping us raise our children!

2002 National Junior Angus Association board of directors. John McCurry
(front right) served as membership director.