International Texas Longhorn Association Celebrates 35 Years of Breed Preservation at 2025 Championship

The International Texas Longhorn Association (ITLA) will host its 2025 International Championship Show & Convention from October 7-12, 2025 at The Expo in Glen Rose, Texas, marking 35 years of excellence in preserving and promoting the Texas Longhorn breed. This milestone event brings together breeders, exhibitors, and enthusiasts from across the United States and abroad to celebrate the association's legacy while showcasing the future of this iconic cattle breed through world-class competitions and educational programming.

Founded in 1990, ITLA has evolved from a small member-driven registry into an international organization with thousands of members worldwide. The association's growth over three decades demonstrates the enduring appeal and cultural significance of the Texas Longhorn breed, which serves as a living symbol of Texas heritage and Western tradition. All events at The Expo are free and open to the public unless otherwise noted, ensuring broad accessibility to those interested in learning about breed preservation efforts.

The championship features multiple competitive shows including Non-Haltered, Futurity, Haltered, and Youth Shows with hundreds of entries from across the nation. Special events include the Call of the Horns Measuring Contest & Bull Bonanza, which spotlights legendary Longhorns, and the Elite Heifer Sale offering premier genetics to buyers. The Longhorn Legacy Live Auction on Thursday will feature premier items, travel packages, and Western trappings with Canadian auctioneer Gordon Musgrove presiding over the proceedings.

Educational seminars and vendor exhibits will provide valuable insights and resources for breeders and cattle enthusiasts, supporting the association's mission of breed preservation and improvement. The event blends tradition with Texas-style entertainment, including an Asleep at the Wheel – Riding High Tour concert at the Texas Amphitheater on October 10, with tickets priced at $38.85 on a first-come, first-served basis. Additional entertainment includes a Cowboy Poetry Contest throughout the event, celebrating the cultural traditions associated with the Texas Longhorn.

Glen Rose provides a fitting backdrop for the championship, with its rich heritage ranging from prehistoric dinosaur tracks to pioneer stories preserved in the County Museum. The town's historical significance and community character make it an ideal location for celebrating the iconic symbol of Texas culture. For more information about the association and its mission, visit https://ITLA.com. The 2025 championship represents not just a celebration of past achievements but a commitment to ensuring the Texas Longhorn breed continues to thrive for generations to come through education, competition, and community engagement.