North American International Livestock Exposition Celebrates Successful 49th Show

The North American International Livestock Exposition (NAILE) wrapped up its annual show at the Kentucky Exposition Center, ending a two-week run filled with top livestock competition and the North American Championship Rodeo. NAILE drew more than 23,000 entries with exhibitors from 48 states and Canada. The North American Championship Rodeo, held in conjunction with NAILE, saw sell-out crowds with record-breaking attendance for all three nights of the show.

“Welcoming so many exhibitors, both old and new friends, from across the country is always a wonderful experience. We’ve watched the best in class in countless breeds and species walk across the green shavings. The level of competition is unrivaled in the livestock industry thanks to the hardworking exhibitors who make this show possible each year. With the 50th show on the horizon, we’re excited for the bright future of both the North American International Livestock Exposition and the agribusiness industry,” said David S. Beck, President and CEO of Kentucky Venues.

NAILE is where the best of the livestock industry and the future of agribusiness come together. Many important events take place in NAILE, including: livestock competitions, national contests, the Saddle and Sirloin Portrait Gallery induction, and more.

North American Championship Rodeo: Weekend Sell-Out and Record Breaking Attendance

The Great Lakes Circuit Finals Rodeo saw the highest attendance in 10 years with more than 32,000 tickets distributed for fans to enjoy the three nights of competition in Freedom Hall. Ticket sales increased by more than 17% over 2021’s record-breaking show, with Thursday seeing a 25% and Friday a 30% increase in sales.

Induction Ceremony for the Saddle and Sirloin Club Portrait Collection

The Saddle and Sirloin Club Portrait Collection is an agricultural hall of fame that resides at the Kentucky Exposition Center. Each year a new member is inducted and their portrait unveiled.

Darrell Anderson of West Lafayette, Indiana is the 2022 inductee into the Saddle and Sirloin Club. Anderson has served the livestock industry in many ways: as a breed secretary, chief executive officer, judge, auctioneer, breeder, and has impacted thousands of lives of people in multiple breeds and species. In addition, he hired and mentored an entire generation of interns and staff, who are now serving in influential leadership roles, impacting animal agriculture, creating a lasting legacy, and serving the industry.