They shone as brightly as the summer sun and all those good geldings - trusty, true, and ready to ride - continued their reign at Billings Livestock Commission’s “Summer Special Catalog Sale” June 26-27. The blockbuster sale weekend saw a grand total of 1,037 head of horses with the top sale horse commanding $9,600, followed by $7,200, and $6,500.

Final sales figures show 381 buyers registered, 225 purchasing horses, 116 buying two or more.

Handsome and handy, call him the "total package" - Hip 251 took home the weekend's top sale honors with a $9,600 price tag. "Mr Bo Quixote" an 01 AQHA Sorrel Gelding by Cowtown Peppy and out of a Doc Quixote bred dam was offered by Dallas Aschoff, Maupin, OR and had been shown reining, hauled to High School Rodeos heading, heeling, and breakaway, and seen ranch use, too.

Red roan, roped on both in and out of the arena, packed flags, started on barrels, and picked up rodeos, Hip 23 “Tucker Star Chex” a 2003 AQHA gelding was a one-man-show.

Offered by Brian Tubbs, Filer, ID, the choice gelding was sired by HR Dry Star Chex and out of a Sugar Bars bred mare and sold for $5,750 to W. Teddy Crowley, Chinook, MT.

Used at the stockyards, ridden by the grandkids, and an all-around using gelding , Hip 423 “Easy Silver Bond” a 2004 AQHA Gray Gelding by Silver Tip 045 was offered by Dean and Betty Brainard, Shepherd, MT.

Selling Sunday afternoon, the gentle, sharp-dressed gray fellow brought $4,800 and sold to Walter Holder, Powell, WY.

Top five horses averaged $7,100, top ten brought $6,045, top 20 came in at $4,915, top 50 overall $3,678, top 100 averaged $2,805.

The loose trade got after it as the top five averaged $1,780, top ten brought $1,575, top 20 came in at $1,302, top 50 brought $934, with the top 100 averaging $699.

Billings Livestock’s next sale event will be July 24-25.

Already rockin’ with a solid line-up of first-class horses, the annual “Mid-Summer” Catalog Sale – featuring cutting and cowbred horses – is two full days of horse sales and previews.

All classes of horses will sell, including finished horses and prospects for ranch, roping, arena, cutting, or recreation.

Designed to allow the sellers an opportunity to showcase their consignments and at the same time, giving the buyer an honest, professional opportunity to assess the horses, Friday’s special preview of cutting horses on cattle will begin at 5 p.m. in the BLS Arena.

Saturday’s preview begins at 9 a.m. with another look at the cutters on cattle, followed by the saddle and ride horse demonstrations, with calf horses and team roping horses showing at 11 a.m. Catalog Sale Time is 12 Noon each day. Loose horses sell at 9 a.m. on Sunday morning.

500 plus catalog horses are expected with a catalog closing date of Monday, July 5. Billings Livestock is a federally licensed and bonded facility and offers all classes and kinds of horses. For more information, contact Bill or Jann Parker, BLS Sale Managers at 406-670-0773/406-855-1947. www.billingslivestock.com

Sale Report for May 22-23

North, south, east and west, they came in from big country, feedyards, and family ranches, and honest-to-goodness, working-class ranch horses enjoyed their own big weekend at Billings Livestock’s annual “Cow Country Classic” catalog sale May 22-23.

Friday‘s “Best of the Remuda” ranch horse competition spotlighted 48 head in a judged competition that crowned Hip 41 “Freds Quick Sand” a 2003 AQHA Bay mare raised, owned, and shown by Justin Lawrence, Alzada, MT the 2010 Champion Ranch Horse.

Straight up in the bridle, the good mare by Sir Fred Von Freckle and out of a Dos General daughter came with NRCHA earnings , AQHA points and brought $7,300.

A market fueled by real cowhorses saw a 95% completed sale percentage - only 44 head of the weekend’s 823 horses were “no-saled” or passed out by the seller.

The top five averaged $7,580.

A bona-fide good gelding, Hip 81 “Rosco Bob” a 2005 AQHA Red Dun gelding sired by Abrakadabracre and out of The Peppy Widow by Peponita earned Reserve Champion Ranch Horse honors in addition to being the weekend’s top sale horse bringing a final bid of $8,500 from Sonja Cuffe, Pleasanton, CA.

Offered by Turner Performance Horses, Victor, MT and shown by Chad Turner, the fancy, quiet fellow came with NCHA earnings, a solid ranch resume, and had been started heeling and breakaway in the arena.

Keith Munns, Rexburg, ID offered his personal mount, Hip 122 “Go Zan Eyed Parr” a 2003 AQHA Bay Roan gelding x Shi Bars Payday a big, strong, extra gentle gelding that had been used for general ranch work, trail ridden, and ridden in the arena.

Julie Hunsinger, Drexel, MO purchased the 16 hand, 1400 lb mega-gelding for $8000.

With a double dose of gentle, Hip 145 “Smoke A Splash” a 2002 AQHA Grullo Gelding had been roped on, ranched on, and spent many miles in the mountains.

Consigned by RMO Horses, Heber, UT, the “same today and tomorrow” type gelding brought $6000 and sold to Jeff Harwood, Marion, MI.

Same song with the same verse - older, educated, and honest - the horses in demand continue to be the trustworthy kind with an occupation, while younger horses with little or no riding and horses in poor condition continue to see a softened demand.

Ranch and using geldings brought from $950 to $8,500.

Sale averages include the top five at $7,580; top ten brought $6,680; Top 20 at $5,717; Top 50 brought $4,299, and the top 100 averaged $3,263.

In the loose horse division - as is, where is, how is - the day's top horse brought $1,600 with the top five averaging $1,100, top ten averaged $975, top 20 brought $806; Top 50 at $643; And the top 100 averaged $506.

Billings Livestock’s “Summer Special Catalog Sale” is set for June 26-27and will feature “Team Sorting” horses in addition to a special session of “Buckskins”.

All classes and types of horses will sell, from prospects, mares, stallions, to finished horses.

Cattle will be available to show the penning, sorting, and cutting horses in addition to rope horses beginning at 9 a.m. on Saturday morning.

To consign or request a catalog, contact Bill and Jann Parker, Billings Livestock Horse Sale Managers at 406-245-4151 or see it a all at www.billingslivestock.com

Sale Report for April 24-25

Fit, finished, and all sporting documented arena credentials - a barrel horse, a reiner, a cutter, a reined cowhorse, and a rope horse - packed the top five seller positions at Billings Livestock Commission’s three-day “February Special Catalog Sale” February 26-27-28.

Officially backed by money won, points earned, or awards recieved, the horses carried resumes that included NBHA, NRHA, NCHA, NRCHA, or AQHA achievements - and - included four stallions and a gelding that averaged a $24,000 sale ticket.

Lots of people, good horses, and a first-class preview welcomed a total of 929 head of horses and 759 registered buyers - with 367 individuals actually purchasing one or more horses, and 100 buyers buying two or more head.

Friday’s HorsePalace Arena preview saw six full hours of barrels, poles, cutting, riding, and roping, offering sale-goers a first-hand, up-close look at the weekend’s consignments.

Offered by Kirk’s Rocking K Ranch, Celina, TX Hip 392 “Sweeter Than Pepto” a 2003 AQHA Chestnut Stallion earned top sale honors selling to the 7P Ranch, High River, Alberta, for a final bid of $40,000.

Extra fancy and full of charisma, the stallion came with royal genetics - sired by Peptoboonsmal and out of the $744,000 producing mare, Sweet Lil Lena - made the NRCHA money earner a full brother to Pepto Taz and Sweet Lil Pepto.

Hip 257 “Clays Little Lena” a 2000 AQHA Sorrel Stallion by Smart Little Lena and out of Clays Little Peppy came with $56,000 in NCHA earnings.

Consigned by Black Rock Ranch, LLC, Harrison, ID the proven stallion brought $20,000.

Backed by 148 AQHA points, a Superior in heading and heeling, and three top ten AQHA World Show appearances, Hip 284 “PG Dun Gun” a 98 AQHA Gray stallion by Playgun was the roping business.

Shown calf roping and heeling in the pre-sale preview, the ready-to-rodeo stallion sold to T Bone Cattle Co., Marwayne, Alberta for $20,000.

He’s absolutely stunning and Hip 343 “Hesa Smart Chic” a 95 AQHA/APHA Stallion by Smart Chic O’lena had NRHA earnings of $50,877.

Already siring winners in excess of $150,000 NRHA, the complete package was offered by Kirk’s Rockin K Ranch, Celina, TX and sold to Jeff and Jessie Beckley, Cranbrook, British Columbia.

Hip 353X “I Smoke Peppy Cowboy” a 2003 AQHA sorrel gelding x Teninos Peppy Cowboy came consigned by Jill Houck, North Branch, MN.

The 1D barrel horse had earned money at the Big Bang Futurity, MBRA Derby, MN Lakes Derby, JJ Classic Derby, NRF Derby, was a NRF Tour Go-Around Winner, and would run hard every time.

The top-end barrel horse brought $20,000 and sold to Drew and Shayna Williams, Redlands, CA.

Bunches of good horses - and stepped up demand for them - pushed the sale averages on the top end.

The top five averaged $24,000; top ten brought $20,100; top 20 brought $16,510; top 50 averaged $7,242; and the top 100 brought $5,891.

Loose horses had a good weekend at BLS as the top five averaged $1,220, top ten brought $1,107; top 20 at $983; top 50 at $714; and the top 100 brought $518.

Billings Livestock’s next sale event will be the “Spring Special Catalog Sale” March 27-28 and will feature the annual “Outfitters, Guest, Dude Ranch and Trail Horse” offering in addition to a special session of “Roans Only”. All classes of horses will sell, in addition to a big selection of mules.

An indoor preview of the barrel horses, cutters, saddle horses, and rope horses is scheduled for Friday, March 26 at 1 p.m.

Rope, ride, ranch, or recreate - at Billings Livestock we're proud to be America's Cowhorse Powerhouse! Find your fit, color, and kind - we've sold over 88,299 head in 129 sales since 1998!

The 2010 Billings Livestock horse sale season officially kicked off January 23 as BLS Horse Sales welcomed 298 head to their only one-day sale of the year , the annual “Winter Special Catalog Sale” and “Cabin Fever Tack Sale”.

Taking home top sale honors in the horse department was Hip 138 “QC’s Peppy Hickata” a 2005 AQHA Bay gelding x Hickata x Doc’s Hickory and out of a Lenata Doc granddaughter.

Offered by Jenna Grumann, Minot, ND, the big, fancy, and extra-broke gelding sold to William Jolley, Wansutter, WY for $5,000.

Working cowboy Joe Fox, Hysham, MT consigned Hip 98 “Gunning For Aramis” a 2005 AQHA Sorrel Gelding x Spanish Gunner.

Ridden by Joe for three summers on the Froze To Death Grazing District and ridden in the feedlot in the winter months, the honest, gentle, gelding brought $2,700 and sold to Butch Allen, Augusta, MT.

Harold and Tana Gertner, Crossfield, Alberta offered six head from their proven program featuring color, quality, and proven genetics.

Hip 105 “HT Conchos Blue Show” a 2006 AQHA Blue Roan Mare x Slo Hand Roan was out of a Show Bar Bob daughter.

Well started and good -to-get-along with, the good boned, solid made mare brought $2,500 and sold to Charles Carter, Loveland, CO.

The “Cabin Fever Tack Sale” saw a 1910 - 1920’s horsehair hitched , Deer Lodge, Montana prison-made, headstall fetch $2,500.

Selling in excellent condition, the mainly black and white colored headstall, reins, and noseband combo sold to Bud Fay, Gillette, WY.

Sale averages include the top five at $2,920; top ten averaged $2,490, top 20 at $2,105; and the top 50 at $1,386.

Loose horses saw a bump in value as the top loose horse of the day brought $1,000 and the top five averaged $820; top ten $690; Top 20 at $564 and the top 50 averaged $440.

Billings Livestock’s “February Catalog Sale” will feature an expanded three-day sale format February 26-27-28.

The sale weekend is highlighted by a special, limited session of “Sons and Daughters” of Champions and Money Earners in addition to the NFR Session. All classes of horses will sell.

A preview of the rope horses, cutting horses, barrel horses, and saddle horses is set for Friday, February 26 at 11 a.m. at the Horse Palace Arena. Rope horses, calf horses, and cutting horses will all preview on cattle.

Catalogs will be available on-line Thursday, February 18 with hard copy catalogs mailed on Friday, February 19.

Arena prospects, real ranch horses, honest teams, and broke mares with credible earnings - filled the top twenty sellers listing at Billings Livestock Commission Company’s Holiday Special Catalog Sale November 28-29.

Sure-shot ranch horses headlined the weekend’s offering where 817 head of horses were bought and sold over the two days.

Blue skies, sunshine, and warmer weather welcomed sale goers as horses had the opportunity to preview twice - on Friday indoors and again on Saturday morning in the BLS Arena.

Shown both days heeling, Hip 208 “Allstar Hildy” a 2003 AQHA Sorrel gelding x Mr Peppy Docz and out of a daughter of Doc Cuero was offered by Paje Zervas, Victor, MT.

The ranch used, big stopping, bald faced gelding brought $5,200 and sold to Tim Moulett, Huntley, MT.

Started heeling ,breakaway , and calf roping, Hip 62 “Smart Lil Son” a 2004 AQHA Sorrel gelding offered by Zane Ford, Heppner, OR was super gentle and came with NCHA earnings.

Sired by Smart Lil Highbrow, the good dispositioned gelding sold to Tom Hulme, Soda Springs, ID for $5,000.

Shown in reined cowhorse events, ranch ridden, and used in the mountains, Hip 44 “Smart Lil Peppy Prom” a 2004 AQHA Dun Mare sired by Gray N Smart was standout pretty.

Consigned by Scott Buttars, Weston, ID the good mare brought $4,500.

It was evident they had seen steady employment and Hips 418 and 418X “Dic and Dan” a matched team of black percheron brothers, four and five years old, were broke to ride and drive.

Used on all types of farm machinery, field work, hay hauling, and barn cleaning chores, the honest team sold to Joe and Joyce Sperano, Gardiner, MT for $4,200.

Solild and steady, the top five averaged $4,540, top ten brought $3,940, top 20 came in at $3,340, top 50 averaged $2,553 and the top 100 brought $1,943.

Loose horses felt the seasonal shift in the market largely due to over supply and lessened demand , however, the top loose horse of the day brought $1,100.

The top five averaged $870, followed by the top ten at $760, top 20 at $643, top 50 averaged $470 and the top 100 brought $355.

Get set for one big day of horses, tack, and more horses on Saturday, January 23 as Billings Livestock kicks of the New Year with the “Winter Special Catalog Horse Sale” and annual “Cabin Fever Tack Sale” offering used and collectible tack.

Sale Report for October 24-25

The Frenchman’s Club

Better broke, honest, and a reliable ride - including ponies, prospects, to finished arena horses - the customers craved a solid diet of the all-around good kind at Billings Livestock’s “Fall Special Catalog Sale” October 24-25.

For the third consecutive month, a two-year-old filly by Frenchman’s Guy is at the top of the leader board commanding the weekend’s top sale price of $15,500.

Making it a “three peat” for Frenchman’s Guy was Hip 105 “TL FrenchPerksNClass” a 2007 AQHA Chestnut mare by Billy and Deb Meyers’ famous barrel horse sire and out of a proven daughter of Dash For Perks.

She came with only ten rides and the smart and oh, so pretty filly handled like an old horse, radiated charisma, and was eligible for many futurities and derbies.

Bred, raised, and started by Lisa Miladinovich, Casper, Wy, the first-class filly sold to Tami Semas, Prineville, OR.

Bringing $10,500 and number two on the high seller’s list was Hip 86 “Sportin Rooster” a 2005 AQHA Bay stallion by Gallo Del Cielo and out of Sportin Playgirl x Freckles Playboy.

Rein, rope, or cut, the solid built, handsome stallion came consigned by Liz and Richard Willett, Philipsburg, MT.

They wanted the geldings that were fun to ride, ready to work, and good-to-get-along with, and Hip 270 “Dontcha Luva Cashbar” a 2002 AQHA black gelding fit the bill.

The coal black, ranch ridden, stress-free gelding was offered by Kennedy Performance Horses, Sundance, WY and sold for $5,500 to Stanley Barber, Valleyview, Alberta.

A game ready gelding, Hip 136 “Flash” a 2000 Grade sorrel gelding owned and shown by Anna Haaland, Gillette, WY was a rock solid head horse, goat horse, and hazing horse combo.

Betty Bengert, Chetwynd, BC purchased the user-friendly fellow for $4,800.

Four good, grade geldings graced the BLS Top 20 sellers listing with a $3,625 average sale price.

He’d happily been a million miles and Hip 211 “Bart” an eighteen-year-old spotted pony gelding rode like a big horse - rope, run barrels, poles, and ranch horse competitions - the good natured, extra-broke little guy brought $3,000.

They had just flat outgrown him and eight-year-old twin cowboys, Jake and Cooper Deveraux, New Castle, WY sold their pony to Gary Cooper, Cody, WY.

A weekend total of 917 head of horses were offered with 137 head of “pass outs” or no sales.

Market solidity prevails in the better using horses and top-end, performance bred prospects. Demand continues to diminish for the plainer, thinner, more common type horses.

Overall sale averages include the top five at $8,600, top ten averaged $6,660, top 20 brought $5,105, top 50 averaged $3,348, and the top 100 horses came in at $2,346.

The law of supply and demand came into play in the loose division with 408 head offered as is, where is, and the top four on the loose ringing the bell at $1,250 each.

The loose market slowed as the horse market continues to feel the effect of the closure of all U.S. Processing plants. All United States plants have been closed since September of 2007.

Here is how it stacks up - Loose averages include the top five at $1,240 - versus $1,100 in 2008 and $860 in 2007; top ten at $1,077 compared to $870 last year and $767 in 2007; . Top 20 averaged $906 against $663 one year ago and $641 two years ago; top 50 brought $654, $435 in ‘08 and $493 in ‘07; and the top 100 loose averaged $487 this year compared to $315 last year and $395 two years ago..

Billings Livestock's next sale event is set for November 28-29 and will be the final sale of 2009for Billings Livestock.

The big sale weekend will include an indoor, pre-sale preview of cutters, ride horses, and rope horses on Friday, November 27 at the HorsePalace Arena.

“Holiday Special” Catalog Sale headlines Saturday and Sunday’s schedule with loose horses selling Sunday, November 29 at 9 a.m.

For more information, to consign or request a catalog, contact Billings Livestock Commission Horse Sales at 406-245-4151 or see it all at www.billingslivestock.com

Horses, horses, and more horses - a whopping 1,211 head of horses - loaded the horse sale superstore at Billings Livestock’s “Cow Country Classic” catalog sale and “Fall Rope Horse Special” September 25-26-27.

Head, heel, or breakaway, an incredible offering of rope horses took the stage Friday afternoon in Billings Livestock’s sale horse jackpot where 186 teams put on a show - it was two complete go-arounds and a top 12 finals - and one big-time in Billings, Montana.

Professionally produced by Wrangler Team Roping Championship’s Dennis Tryan, the “rockem, sockem, doublehockem” display of rope horses blasted off the expanded three-day, 75^th anniversary celebration of Billings Livestock.

Jackpot average winners Rhett Shrewsberry, Alliance, NE heading on Hip 490 “Ted” a 2003 Grade sorrel gelding, and Max Kutler, American Falls, ID aboard Hip 42 “Lady Dash” a 97 APHA Grullo Mare, put it on three in 23.76, to earn $564/man and custom Master Saddles Rope bags.

Hip 223 “Jayne Smart” a 99 AQHA Bay Mare by I’ll Be Smart lead the charge in the rope horse division bringing $9,000 and selling to Jim Walma, Wickenburg, AZ.

Shown and offered by Brian Smith, Minden, NV, the pretty, non-pro, West Coast Futurity Champion reining mare had won money roping at USTRC and ACTRA ropings in addition to being used outside at brandings.

The weekend’s top selling horse brought $12,500 and Hip 321 “French Pep A San” a 2008 AQHA Palomino Mare sired by Frenchman’s Guy was bred, raised, and offered by Alan Woodbury, Dickinson, ND.

The extra-pretty prospect sold to Quinn Wilson, Calgary, Alberta.

Big, blue, and been there, Hip 236 “ZangsBlue Woody” a 2003 AQHA Blue Roan gelding consigned by the Double K Ranch, McCook, NE had been ranch ridden and put through the paces.

The solid, honest, gentle gelding sold to Gary Carter, Livingston, MT for $9,000.

World Champion Team Roper, Bobby Harris, Highmore, SD offered Hip 397 “TRM Frenchman’s Bug” a 2003 AQHA Bay mare x PC Frenchmans Mark and out of a Top Moon bred mare.

The head, heel, combo was also started on barrels and poles and sold to Steve Meloy, Helena, MT for $7,500.

Sunday’s sale featured the dispersal offering of 63 head from long-time breeders Bub and Nona Nunn, Miles City, MT home of High Rolling Roany.

Hip 627 “Rolling Sue” a 98 AQHA Red Roan mare by High Rolling Roany topped the offering with $7,500 bid from Brad Hauerland, Sealy, TX.

Solid, solid, solid - from top to bottom - the top five horses averaged $9,350, with the top ten at $8,145, top 20 averaged $7,017, top 50 brought $5,471 and the top 100 averaged $4,145.

Again, the younger, plainer, less experienced horses continue to see lessened demand while the better, overall quality individuals have not skipped a beat.

In the loose division, 561 head were offered in the Sunday morning session where the top selling horse brought $2,300, and the top five averaged $1,980 versus $1,085 in 2008, top ten at $1,715 compared to $955 one year ago, top 20 $1,361 against$805 last year, top 50 at $900 even compared to $582 in ‘08, and the top 100 averaged $631 versus $440 one year ago..

With 595 individuals registering to buy over the three days, 301 buyers purchased horses, with 140 buying two or more head.

A 93.6% completed sales percentage prevailed as 1,121 head of horses actually changed hands.

Billings Livestock’s “Fall Special Catalog Sale” is set for October 24-25 where two, big days of horse sales are planned.

An indoor, climate and ground controlled preview for the barrel horses, cutters, saddle and ride horses, calf horses, and team roping horses is set for 1 p.m. on Friday, October 23 at the HorsePalace Arena.

For more information, to consign or request a catalog, contact Bill and Jann Parker, BLS Horse Sale Managers at 406-245-4151 or see it all at www.billingslivestock.com

Popular pedigreed performance packages - with heavy emphasis on barrel and speed bred horses - gave a strong boost to the market at Billings Livestock’s “August Catalog Sale” August 22-23.

 Five out of the top seven selling horses had ties to the $2 million dollar barrel horse sire Frenchman’s Guy -  they were either sired by him or bred to him - and averaged a brisk $12,671.

 Leading the charge was Hip 245 “French Kissed” a 2007 AQHA Palomino mare by Frenchmans Guy and out of Fols Fancy Firewater x Firewater Flit.

With her movie star looks, the extra fancy, prime prospect filly was raised and offered by Sarah Ann Lesh, Stillwater, OK and purchased by Dave and Melissa Brandt, Hermosa, SD for $26,000.

Number two on the top sellers listing was also sired by Frenchmans Guy, also palomino, and also extra fancy - Hip 163 “Frenchmans Boogie” a 2000 AQHA stallion came consigned by the number one barrel horse breeder of the decade - Victory Farms, Danny and Darla Ray, Ada, OK. 

Out of the proven 1-D barrel mare, Boogie Smurf, the attractive stallion brought $15,000.

Atwood Ranch, Orland, CA offered a special set of speed bred mares including daughters of Merridoc, First Down Dash, and Chicks Beduino - all bred to Frenchmans Guy - and brought $8,500, $8,400, and $10,000 respectively.

Black Rock Ranch, Harrison, ID offered a good set of mares and yearlings including Hip 161 “Purdy Smart Pistol” a 98 AQHA Sorrel mare by Smart Little Lena and out of the mare Purdy Pistol - second dam being the famous Miss Silver Pistol.

The money earner and producer brought $10,800 and sold to Roberta Thompson, Cocalalla, ID.

 Good geldings got it on again and included Hip 44X “Freckels Hancock Six” a 2002 AQHA sorrel by Hancock Six brought to town by National Finals Steer Roper J.R. Olson, Greeley, CO.

The finished head horse brought $7,000 and sold to Cynthia Helmig, Leduc, Alberta.

Also ringing the bell at $7,000 was Hip 331 “Simon” a 2000 grade gelding offered by SMJ Performance Horses, Queen Creek, AZ.

 A full sale weekend saw 904 head of horses come and go over the two days selling across the map to 445 registered buyers of which 236 purchased two or more horses.

 Completed sales percentage was 90%.

Sale averages reflect a firm market - the top five averaged $14,360; top ten brought $11,095; top 20 averaged $8,262; top 50 at $5,474 and the top 100 averaged $3,869.

 Biggest news of the weekend was the all-amazing loose trade where the top selling loose horse brought $3,300 followed by $2,250 and $1,900  - pushing the top five loose average to $2,160.

It was gung-ho and go - 416 head sold loose in four hours - with better than good averages hitting $2,160 on the top five; $1,760 on the top 10; top 20 averaged $1,371; top 50 brought $967. And the top 100 - that’s 25% of the loose - averaged $702.

Expanded to three days, Billings Livestock’s annual “Cow Country Classic” catalog sale is next on the BLS Sale agenda September 25 - 27.    

The big, fall sale event will headline “Rope Horses” and host a special 75^th anniversary celebration for Billings Livestock Commission.            

All classes of horses will sell including mares, stallions, finished horses, prospects, and young stock. Cattle will be available to show the cutting horses, calf horses, and rope horses.

Team roping jackpot on sale horses is set for Friday, September 25 at 1 p.m.   See it all at www.billingslivestock.com or contact Bill and Jann Parker, BLS Horse Sale Managers at 406-245-4151.

Sale Report for July 25-26

Headlined by some of the most noted and winning programs in the horse industry, Billings Livestock’s “Mid-Summer Special Catalog Sale” July 25-26 ran full tilt - from the first horse Saturday through the last horse Sunday - a horse happy crowd saw the top ten average $11,625.

The gather was on the horses with a purpose and growth stock prospects with a better market deeper into the offering than one year ago - the top 50 averaged $6,871 compared to $5,738 in 2008 and the top 100 brought $5,100 versus $4,093.

A Big Sky welcome went out to 491 registered buyers of which 276 purchased horses - 110 buyers purchased two or more head - and they came to Montana from 23 states and four Canadian provinces.

A king-size total of 974 horses sold in addition to 28 roping steers and 7 pair of trophy longhorns.

Pass outs were minimal, with 66 head “no-saling” computing to a 94% completed sale percentage.

Sons and daughters of Freckles Playboy, Shining Spark, Dual Rey, Peptoboonsmal, Zack T Wood, Smart Little Lena, and High Brow Cat filled the top ten sellers listing in addition to ready-to-haul rope horses.

Just call her the business - Hip 162 “Miss Playboys Josie” a 99 AQHA Bay mare x Freckles Playboy and out of Hickorys Pant Jose x Doc’s Hickory offered by SG Management, Jackson, WY sold with her filly by Peptoboonsmal at side and bred back to Pepto for 2010.

Laura Teague, Ft. Morgan, CO purchased the nifty little package for $22,000.

Carol Rose Quarter Horses, Gainesville, TX brought eight head packing the genetics of her award winning program including Hip 139 “Shiners Big Top” a 2007 AQHA Palomino stallion by Shining Spark.

Broke and double broke, the fancy two-year-old stud colt brought $17,000 and sold to Ryon Simon, Cannon Falls, MN.

She’d won over $18,000 and showed it in the previews, and Hip 201 “Playin A Little Jazz” a 2005 AQHA Chestnut mare x Playin Stylish and out of a Dual Jazz daughter brought $11,500.

Pretty on a cow, the little dynamo came offered and shown by Jake Ream, Elk Ridge, UT and sold to Jeff Schwitzer, Yorktown, Saskatchewan for $11,500.

Scores, runs, rates, and honest gentle, Hip 155 “Storms Bartender” a 2001 AQHA Red Roan gelding by Bostons Little Man and out of a daughter of Two ID Bartender was a solid, hauled and won on head horse offered by Tyler and Jamie Morgan, Prosser, WA.

As an added dividend, the good gelding had seen plenty of ranch use. He sold to Wyoming Horses, Pavillion, WY for $10,000.

Hauled roping calves, heading, heeling, cutting, and working cowhorse, Hip 169 “Dealer From Reno” a 2001 AQHA sorrel gelding x Reminic came with an extensive resume.

Owned and shown by 11X National Finals Rodeo qualifier, Brent Lewis, Eloy, AZ the gelding with his game on brought $8,000 and sold to Don Ramsour, Casper, WY.

Sale averages include top five at $14,200; Top ten $11,625; Top 20 $9,592; Top 50 $6,871; and the top 100 averaged $5,100.

The loose horse market made magic - in part due to the wild demand for the ride horse prospects - the top selling horse on the loose brought $2,800 followed by $1,950, $1,900, $1800, and $1,600.

The demand drove the loose market higher all the way around and 430 head sold in rapid fire fashion where the top 5 averaged $2,010, top 10 brought $1,722, top 20 averaged $1,442, top 50 brought $1,013 and the top 100 averaged a whopping $725.

Here’s how that stacks up: last years top 100 loose averaged $494 - that’s $231 a head better on 100 head in 2009.

Billings Livestock’s next sale event includes the annual “August Catalog Sale”, and “Montana Miniature and Pony Sale” August 22-23.

Special reduction offering from Atwood Ranches, Orland, CA will headline the sale in addition to a special consignment from Victory Farms, Ada, OK.

An open, 4-D barrel race with $300 added will kick off the weekend’s activities on Friday evening, August 21 in the BLS Arena.

Sale horses are encouraged to compete and enter with a $100 bonus awarded to the sale horse clocking the fastest time.

To enter, consign or request a catalog, contact Bill or Jann Parker, BLS Horse Sale Managers at 406-245-4151 or see it all at www.billingslivestock.com

Sale Report for June 27-28

The saddle up, get on and get on with it kind continued to command the market at Billings Livestock’s “Summer Special Catalog Sale” and regular monthly horse sale featuring “cowbred” horses and a special session of “Buckskins” June 27-28.

Kicked off with a team sorting competition on sale horses Friday evening, the weekend saw 1,064 head of horses and 33 roping steers sell over the next 48 hours.

Official sale stats include a 93.8% completed sales percentage , $12,700 for the weekend’s top sale horse, a top five average of $7,840, and 565 horses offered “loose”.

Well attended, well mounted, and a sure-shot opportunity to watch the sale horses in action, the sorting championship went to the team of Hip 268 “OMI Booger” a 2003 AQHA blue roan gelding offered by Henry Hollenbeck, Molt, MT - operated by Charley Hollenback - and Hip 182 “Mr Chessy Bartender” a 2002 AQHA bay roan gelding offered by Brandon Mosher, Billings, MT and piloted by Greg Goggins;

The pair of roan, no-nonsense cowhorses brought $2,100 and $4,500 respectively.

He came in a shiny golden wrapper and Hip 114 “Mr Hollywood Rooster” a 99 AQHA buckskin stallion by Gallo Del Cielo and out of a Doc’s Preseriptions daughter came consigned by Wrights Quarter Horses, San Juan Bautista, CA and took home top sale honors with a $12,700 sale price.

A proven producer and NRCHA money earner, a standout heel horse, and an extra-fancy ranch horse, the total package stallion was purchased by Barry Barager, Waterton Park, Alberta and will stand and continue to be campaigned by W/D Ranch, Wayne and Doretta Pacheco, Livingston, MT.

Double K Ranch, McCook, NE brought an extra-nice, all-around good, set of gentle, ranch ridden geldings including Hip 119 “Tye Skip” a 2001 AQHA gray sired by Tyroan Skip.

Complimented by pretty, he’d seen many working miles and sold to Otto George, Oak Creek, CO for $7,000.

Head or heel, he’d won paychecks on both ends - rodeo and jackpots - and Hip 428 “MG Lander Ike” wore the Gill Cattle Co. Brand on his right thigh and was the real deal rope horse.

Sired by a Blue Valentine grandson - Ruanos C Wood - the 99 AQHA palomino gelding was ridden and owned by Shane Hampton, Riverton, WY.

Dave Weber , Reinholds, PA purchased the ready-to-rodeo gelding for $6,000.

Sale averages include the top five at $7,840, top ten at $6,520, top 20 came in at $5,418, top 50 at $4039 and the top 100 averaged $2,999.

Value continues to be found in the younger, plainer horses with minimal riding and working skills.

Despite national pressure, the BLS loose horse trade delivered - the top ten averaged $1,363 compared to $1,347 one year ago and $1,142 in 07; top 20 brought $1,025 against $1,115 in 08 and $946 in 07; ,top 50 averaged $706 compared to $828 and right on the money two years ago at $704, and the top 100 came in at $531 against $643 last year and $563 in 07.

Billings Livestock’s next sale event will be July 25-26.

Already popping with a solid line-up of first-class horses, the annual “Mid-Summer” Catalog Sale – featuring cutting horses – is two full days of horse sales and previews.

All classes of horses will sell, including finished horses and prospects for ranch, roping, arena, cutting, or recreation.

Designed to allow the sellers an opportunity to showcase their consignments and at the same time, giving the buyer an honest, professional opportunity to assess the horses, Friday’s special preview of cutting horses on cattle will begin at 5 p.m. in the BLS Arena. Saturday’s preview begins at 9 a.m. with another look at the cutters on cattle, followed by the saddle and ride horse demonstrations, with calf horses and team roping horses showing at 11 a.m. Catalog Sale Time is 12 Noon each day. Loose horses sell at 9 a.m. on Sunday morning. 500 plus catalog horses are expected with the catalog closing date of Monday, July 6. Billings Livestock is a federally licensed and bonded facility and offers all classes and kinds of horses. For more information, contact Bill or Jann Parker, BLS Sale Managers at 406-670-0773/406-855-1947. www.billingslivestock.com

Sale Report for May 23-24

Geldings owned it from start to finish as the annual “Best of the Remuda” ranch horse competition showcased an outstanding set of using horses at Billings Livestock’s “Cow Country Classic Catalog Sale” May 23-24.

The top two selling horses - both ranch geldings - brought $10,500 and $10,000 respectively, the top five geldings averaged $8,150.

A mix of spring in Big Sky Country and the passage of Montana’s House Bill 418 contributed to the increase in horse numbers over past months as 842 head came to town for the Memorial Day weekend sale.

Final sales figures include 92.7% completed sales - 62 “no sales” - 362 offered loose, all complimented by 400 plus registered buyers.

Billings Livestock was proud to host consignments from the 2007 AQHA Remuda of the Year award winner “S Ranches” - John R. Scott and Sons, Billings, MT and Miles, TX.

He’d never left the ranch he was born on, wore the famous “S” on his left hip, and was every inch a working ranch horse and Hip 193 “Little Irish Whiskey” a 2002 AQHA Sorrel gelding by Paddys Irish Whiskey and out of the Smart Little Lena daughter Smart Little Gaylena brought $10,000.

Shown capably by Caleb Scott in Friday afternoon’s ranch horse competition, the gentle natured , total cowhorse sold to Turnbull Livestock, Billings, MT.

Way nice and already packing a substantial ranch resume, Hip154 “Pic Your Dual” an 05 AQHA Chestnut gelding by Mister Dual Pep was out of a daughter of Dual Doc, second dam by Sugar Vandy.

Branded on, trail ridden, and gentle, too - the extra-broke four-year-old was owned and shown by Tom Buckingham, Bruneau, ID.

Earning third in the competition, the showy gelding brought $7,250 and sold to Kent Kingsbury, Orchard, CO.

Good barrel horses continue to be the business with the top two bringing $8,250 and $7,000.

Hip 56 “PJS Royal King Tivio” a 97 AQHA Brown gelding offered by Cathy Frei, Halliday, ND was a ready-to-haul 1-D barrel horse.

The strong, money-earning gelding by a son of Jessie Tivio “Sweet Sandy Tivio” brought $8,250 and sold to Bob and Tammy Musfelt, Lusk, WY.

Good weather and a good market combined to make fireworks in the BLS loose horse department where the top 50 on the loose averaged a whopping $914 per head.

It’s all about quality - even in the loose division where the top five averaged $1,850 compared to $1,620 one year ago; Top 10 brought $1,602 versus $1,430 in 2008 and $1,405 in 2007; Top 20 came in at $1,303 compared to $1,221 last year and $1,230 two years ago, and the top 100 averaged $637 versus $687 in 2008.

They came to get them as is, where is, and how is at BLS where the top loose horse of the day brought $2,300, followed by $2,200, and $1,700.

Tallying up the entire sale event, strong sale averages include the top five at $8,750; Top ten averaged $7,720; Top 20 brought $6,472; Top 50 averaged $4,714; and the top 100 brought $3,502.

Billings Livestock’s “Summer Special Catalog Sale” is set for June 27 -28 and will feature “Team Penning/Sorting” horses in addition to a special session of “Buckskins”.

All classes and types of horses will sell, from prospects, mares, stallions, to finished horses.

Cattle will be available to show the penning, sorting, and cutting horses in addition to rope horses beginning at 9 a.m. on Saturday morning.

To consign or request a catalog, contact Bill and Jann Parker, Billings Livestock Horse Sale Managers at 406-245-4151 or see it a all at www.billingslivestock.com

Sale Report for April 25-26

Rope Horse World

A complete rope horse showcase stuffed full of skilled veterans, eager prospects, and everything in between dressed up Billings Livestock’s 11^th annual “Rope Horse Special and April Catalog Sale” April 25-26.

The two-day sale offered 637 horses, with 118 head specifically consigned to the popular “Rope Horse Sale Session”.

The top five - every one a rope horse - averaged $10,150.

From California to Florida and Alaska to Texas, horses sold to 19 states and two Canadian Provinces, as the weekend’s completed sale percentage came in at 85%.

Friday afternoon’s jackpot team roping hosted by the HorsePalace Arena offered good cattle, good conditions, and a competitive atmosphere magnifying the consignments and simplifying the shopping, sifting, and sorting of sale horses for the buyer.

Every horse a sale horse, the professionally produced jackpot drew 129 teams in the two-go-around and finals format roping.

Nailing three in 22.9 the team of Henry Hollenbeck aboard Hip 94 and NFR cowboy Jhett Johnson heeling on Hip 164 took home first in the average, BLS Master Saddles Trophy Rope Bags, and $420 each.

Double bred Two Eyed Jack and every inch a roping horse, Hip 155 “Breezer Two” a 96 AQHA Bay Gelding brought $13,000 and came stout, smart, seasoned and was the weekend’s top selling horse.

Offered by six-time National Finals Steer Roper J.R. Olson, Greeley, CO, the take-him-to- the-rodeo-tonight, gentle, head horse had also been ranched on.

He looked the part and could flat scat, and Hip 83 “Doc Anita Hanky” a 00 AQHA Brown Gelding offered by Roger Myers, Emmett, ID was all-over calf horse.

Score, run, stop, and work the rope, the rodeo-ready calf horse/heel horse combo brought $10,000 and sold to NFR Chuteboss and barrel man Jon and Dottie Taylor, Filer, ID.

Way nice and flat out a roping expert, Hip 94 “Little Rocket Pep” a 98 AQHA Bay Gelding x Paddys Irish Whiskey and out of a Peppy Nina daughter wore the famous Scott Ranch brand and possessed all of the ranching, rodeo, and roping characteristics that he was bred for.

Owned by M.C. Hollenbeck, Molt, MT and winning first and fourth in the jackpot with Henry Hollenback in the saddle, the better-end gelding brought $9,500 and sold to Chyan Biggs, Bozeman, MT.

If you ever wanted one good horse, Hip 61 fit the bill.

Polished black and offered by Pine and Samantha McQuay, Corvallis, MT, “Ripple Badger” a 96 AQHA Gelding x Tenino Badger was a head horse, heel and calf horse, ranch horse, and came with a double dose of gentle.

The all-in-one package brought $7,600 and sold to Alan Chappell, Purcell, OK.

Good horses, both mares and geldings - fit, ready, and with careers - continue to make the market at Billings Livestock.

Impressive overall sale averages reflect the push on the better horses - the top five brought $10,150; top 10 aveaged $9,055; Top 20 aveaged $7,745; Top 50 averaged $5,683; and the top 100 brought $3,980.

Loose horses rallied as prospects lead the way - the top five averaged $1,240; top ten at $1,048; top 20 brought $883; Top 50 came in at $644; and the top 100 loose averaged $473.

Memorial Day weekend - May 23-24 features the annual “Cow Country Classic” catalog sale in addition to the “Best of the Remuda” Ranch Horse competition. Featured in May will be Ranch horses along with kid’s ponies and horses.

The judged “Best of the Remuda” Ranch Horse competition is set for 3 p.m. Friday, May 22.

Cattle will be available both days to preview the rope horses and cutting horses.

For more information, to consign or request a catalog, contact Bill and Jann Parker, BLS Horse Sale Managers at 406-245-4151 or see it all at www.billingslivestock.com

Sale Report for March 28-29

The Blue Collar Boys

Pack, pull, ride, or drive - multi-tasking, industrial-strength stock stood front and center at Billings Livestock’s “Spring Special Catalog Sale” featuring “Outfitters, Guides, Guest, and Dude Horses & Mules” March 28 - 29.

With resumes that included National Park gigs, wilderness hunting trips, and downtown parades - 60 plus mules, loads of quarter drafts, and ten teams filled the weekend’s sale selection of 756 head.

The top team brought $12,800 and Hips 527 and 527X “Kit and Kate” an eight-year-old bay Molly Mule team stood 15.3 hands, weighed 1200 pounds, and came broke to ride, drive, and pack.

Used on seasonal hunting trips 28 miles into Yellowstone’s famed “thoroughfare”, the proficient mule team had hauled kitchen poniards, horns, and meat. Add parade, car, and people-proof to their descriptions and the attractive mules with no vices offered by 4C Equine, Powell, WY sold to Max Yates, Butte, MT.

He brought a final sale price of $36,000, and call him a sale highlight - Hip 205 “Finish Line Express” a 98 AQHA Sorrel Stallion x Streakin Six and out of a Merridoc daughter had $54,000 in race winnings in addition to $100,000 plus in barrel racing earnings by offspring.

Consigned by Lee and Annie Woods, Grangeville, ID, the AAA earner and producer sold to and will stand with O’Donnell Quarter Horses, Cardwell, MT.

Shoot straight and ride smooth, Hip 159 “Trigger” a 99 grade palomino pony gelding was a bona-fide, real-deal kid’s horse.

Ridden in the hills, parades, pony clubs, horse shows, and been roped on, the happy, yellow package was offered by Jody Schaff, Shepherd, MT and sold to Jerome Carlson, Casper, WY for $6,000.

Jim Schultz, Monticello, MN consigned Hip 227 “Bonanzas Show Bar” a 2000 AQHA Sorrel gelding x Grandbar Showdown and out of a Major Holiday bred dam.

The gentle, ranch-used gelding had also been trail ridden and would ride for anyone, anywhere.

Meyer Ranch Company, Helmville, MT purchased the steady-as-he-goes fellow for $4,800.

A special session of “Roans Only” highlighted the weekend’s offerings where Hip 182 “Flashy Blue Reno” a 2004 AQHA Blue Roan Stallion x TR Flashy Badger and out of a High Rolling Roany daughter brought $4,800.

Consigned by Huffman Cattle Company, Lemmon, SD, the true-blue color producer sold to Maverick Cattle Co., Billings, MT.

Sale averages include the top five at $14,840; top ten at $10,050; top 20 at $7,095; the top 50 came in at $4,740; with the top 100 averaging $3,447.

In the loose division - no speech, no guarantee, no rider - 233 head sold with the top loose horse commanding $1,900; the top five averaged $1,210; top ten brought $1022; top 20 came in at $826; top 50 at $585; and the top 100 brought $435.

Billings Livestock’s next sale event is set for April 25 - 26 and will feature the 11th annual “Rope Horse Special” catalog sale and regular monthly horse sale.

Lots of cattle, lots of opportunities to watch the rope horses, including a jackpot team roping open only to sale horses set for Friday, April 24 in the BLS arena.

Rope horses will show again in previews on Saturday and Sunday.

All classes of horses will sell including mares, stallions, finished horses, prospects, and young stock. Cattle will also be available to show the cutting horses and calf horses.

Catalog closing date is April 5, with a supplement printed for later entries.

See it all at www.billingslivestock.com or contact Bill and Jann Parker, BLS Horse Sale Managers at 406-245-4151.

Sale Report for February 27-28 & March 1

Savvy, Style, & Shine

Billings, MT - Stuffed plumb full of movers and shakers, the catalog offering  at Billings Livestock’s “February Special Catalog Sale” February 27-28 and March 1 offered a show-stopping selection of reputation programs, pedigree and proven performance.

 A lot of good horses - all in one spot, all offered for sale, and all given the opportunity to preview, the three-day sale weekend welcomed 698 individual buyers, 741 head of horses, and sent 657 horses to new homes from California to Florida,   and north to four Canadian provinces.

 Run barrels, cut, rope, or just ride-around, sons and daughters of celebrated stallions including Dash Ta Fame, Freckles Playboy, Smart Little Lena, Dual Rey and CJ Sugar captured the top six sale spots - and a $20,050 average selling price.

 He’d won more money than any other horse ever offered at Billings Livestock - $180,503 NCHA and produced in excess of  $150,000 - and Hip 356 “CJ Sugar Lena” a 93 AQHA Sorrel Stallion by CJ Sugar was offered by Josh and Amy King, Baird, TX.

 He came in show ready condition, demonstrated on cattle at the preview, was bred by Buster Welch, earned the NCHA Non-Pro Finals Championship title in addition to many, many others, and topped the weekend’s sale offering with a $24,000 price tag.

 Douglas Hines, Saltcoats, Saskatchewan purchased the game-ready stallion.

 A cornerstone of the Hutchings Quarter Horses, Thayne, WY breeding program, Hip 360 “HR Hickory Player” a 97 AQHA Bay stallion by Freckles Playboy and out of SR Hickory Lena x Doc’s Hickory brought $23,000.

 Shown in the preview, the $50,000 money earner sold to John McCarthy, Jr., Dade City, FL.

 Sired by the Number One sire of barrel horses in the nation for five years running - Dash Ta Fame – Hip 327 “Elle Ta Fame” an 07 AQHA Bay mare was out of a race earning and stakes placing mare - Queen Finale SI101.

 Bred, raised, and offered by Patty Ann Perry, Vaughn, MT, the exciting filly sold to Terry Simonson, Sidney, MT for $20,500. 

Ready-to-go-rodeo, Hip 390 “Red” a 96 grade, red-roan gelding was the barrel racing business consigned by Amanda Jarrett, Cody, WY.

 With limited hauling, the strong gelding had earned $12,000 plus in the past two rodeo seasons, showed exceptional in the preview, and came with a gentle disposition.

 Everett Harris, Florence, Mt purchased good guy for $13,500.

 The weekend’s top rope horse brought $8,700 and sold to Delbert Brewer, Hermosa, SD.

 The automatic heel horse came dressed in Matt Dillon buckskin and offered by Pine and Samantha McQuay, Corvallis, MT.

 February’s market saw great demand for good horses - the top ten averaged $17,045; top 20 at $13,535; top 50 averaged $9,131; and the top 100 brought $6,444.

 Loose horses held their ground with 185 head selling Sunday morning, and again, the better horses - better condition, better look, better broke -   brought the better price as the top five averaged $1,300; top ten $1,115; top 20 came in at $940; top 50 at $677; and the top 100 head averaged $464.

 Next on the sale agenda at Billings Livestock’s is the “Spring Special Catalog Sale” March 28 - 29 and will feature the annual “Outfitters, Guest,  Dude Ranch and Trail Horse” offering in addition to a special session of “Roans Only”. All classes of horses will sell, complimented by a big selection of riding and pack mules.

 An indoor preview of the barrel horses, cutters, saddle horses, mules, and rope horses is set for Friday, March 27 at 1 p.m. 

 For more information, to consign or request a catalog, contact Bill and Jann Parker, Billings Livestock Commission Horse Sales at 406-245-4151 or see it all at www.billingslivestock.com

SALE REPORT FOR January 24

Tack, treasures, and just all-around guys with good attitudes and a willingness to please powered the market at Billings Livestock’s “Winter Special Catalog Sale” and annual “Cabin Fever Tack Sale” January 24.

Right from the get-a-go, the annual “Cabin Fever Tack Sale” seized a captive audience offering only used and collectible tack, including old cowboy gear and Native American items.

The once-a-year event - held each January at BLS - hosted a standing-room-only crowd who came to do business.

The day’s top selling piece - a pair of rare pattern Crockett spurs called the “Cheyenne Specials” brought $2,600.

Better than good, the one-day sale saw increased demand in all divisions with the day’s top selling horse fetching $6,200.

348 head of horses sold, with 24 horses "no saled" or "passed out".

Purchased by Steve Grange, Phillipsburg, MT Hip 53 “Mr. Tee” a ten-year-old black and white grade gelding offered by Amy Heitland, Sheffield, IA stood 14 hands, had been shown at county fairs, trail ridden, and came safe and sensible.

One of only two mares to crack the top twenty sellers list, Hip 58 “Taffys Cash” a 99 AQHA Chestnut mare by Deregulate was a solid 2D/3D barrel horse.

Offered by Robert and Lori McMillan, Cody, WY, the saddle winning barrel horse brought $4,800 and sold to Walt Bales, Miles City, MT.

Gentle, easy to catch, ride, drive, or pack, Hip 59 “Fred” was the complete mule package and the ten-year-old brown john mule drew lots of attention.

Consigned by Weller Ranch, Kadoka, SD the agreeable fellow sold to Clark and Vicki Kissock, Gillette, WY for $3,800.

Proof that good horses continue to see a healthy demand, seven head of 2006 model AQHA geldings raised and offered by Harold and Tana Gertner, Crossfield, Alberta averaged $1,185.

Only halter broke, the good boned, good sized, quality colts were the business.

The market showed no weakening - it was solid from start to finish - the top five averaged $4,520; top ten brought $3,920; top 20 $3,260; top 50 averaged $2,435, and the top 100 - that’s well over one-half of the day’s catalog offering - averaged $1,788.

A rip-roaring loose horse trade saw the top prospect bring $2,175, while the top five averaged $1,110; Top ten $860; Top 20 $684; Top 50 averaged $522, and the top 100 came in at $410 a head.

Billings Livestock’s “February Catalog Sale” will feature an expanded three-day sale format February 27-28 and March 1.

The sale weekend is highlighted by a special, limited session of “Sons and Daughters” of Champions and Money Earners in addition to the NFR Session. All classes of horses will sell.

A preview of the rope horses, cutting horses, barrel horses, and saddle horses is set for Friday, February 27 at 11 a.m. at the Horse Palace Arena. Rope horses, calf horses, and cutting horses will all preview on cattle.

Catalogs will be available on-line Thursday, February 19 with hard copy catalogs mailed on Friday, February 20.

For more information, to consign, or to request a catalog, contact Bill and Jann Parker, BLS Horse Sale Managers at 406-245-4151. See it all at www.billingslivestock.com

SALE REPORT FOR November 29-30

Pretty mares popping with pedigree, ready-to-ride rope horses, and better broke geldings made the market at Billings Livestock's "Holiday Special" catalog sale November 29-30.

A very good sale - All classes, all kinds - strong and stronger than one month ago - and - better than one year ago! 

A weekend total of 718 head of horses came to Billings Livestock with the top selling horse commanding $12,700.

Hip 99 "Ms Skeets Lil Peppy" took home top sale honors and the 2003 AQHA Sorrel Mare by Skeets Peppy sold in foal  to the reining superstar,   "Wimpys Little Step".

Purchased by Shannon Gecse, Eckville, Alberta, Canada, the special package was consigned by KC Performance Horses, LLC, Bayfield, CO.

All over beautiful, Hip 174 "Shine A Shine" a  97 AQHA Buckskin mare sired by Carol Rose's great Shining Spark was out of a daughter of Doc O Dynamite.

Offered by Dana Russell, Acton, MA, the mare had her Open Performance ROM, in addition to being a World Show qualifier in the Working Cowhorse.

Jess and Lana Matt, Bridger, MT purchased the mare for $10,000.

Rope horses saw strong demand as three out of the top ten sellers proved their skills in the pre-sale previews, including Hip 118 "Sign of Trouble" a 99 APHA Brown Tobiano Gelding by Cheyenne Sign.

The rodeo-ready head horse was raised and owned by Paula Harris, Billings, MT, trained and shown by Chris Witcher, and sold to jeff Campbell, Cheyenn, WY for $7,000.

Rope horse number two was Hip 38 "Two Bar" a 2000 Grade gray gelding offered by Tom Spencer, Drummond, MT.  The head horse/heel horse had been hauled and won on at jackpots and rodeos and sold to Kelly Baker, Belcourt, ND for $5,400.

Sale statistics include a 93% completed sales percentage with only 49 head no-saled or passed out by the consignor.

Averages include the top five at $8,880 compared to $7,560 in 2007; top ten came in at $6,950 versus $6,270 last year; Top 20 brought $5,315 compared to $5,075 one-year-ago; Top 50 averaged $3,680 versus $3,655 in 2007, and the top 100 brought $2,710 compared to $2,671 one year ago.

Loose horses gained momentum as the top five averaged $1,285, top ten brought $1,148, top 20 at $944 - that's a $298 increase per horse over 2007; top 50 brought $626 compared to $466 one-year-ago, and the top 100 brought $472 versus $353 in 2007 - a $119 per head increase.

Billings Livestock's next sale will be January 24 and  will feature the “Winter Special Catalog Sale” and regular monthly horse sale in addition to the “Cabin Fever” Tack Sale offering collectible and used tack.

To receive a catalog or consign to future BLS sale events, call Bill or Jann Parker, for more information at 406-245-4151 or e-mail info@billingslivestock.com

SALE REPORT FOR October 24-25-26

A tiptop selection of famous label prospects, ranch geldings, and arena horses filled the cowhorse superstore at Billings Livestock’s three day “Fall Special Catalog Sale” October 24-25-26.

Reiners, ropers, working cowhorse, or cutters - the catalog was stuffed full of the sought after contemporary genetics of today’s arena competitor.

Sons and daughters of Smart Chic O’lena, Doc’s Hickory, Smart Little Lena, Gallo Del Cielo, Smart Lil Scoot, and Playgun peppered the weekend’s offering highlighted by special consignments from Jim Babcock, Babcock Ranches, Gainesville, TX and Black Rock Ranch, Coeur D’Alene, ID.

Folks came from 18 states and three Canadian provinces to get them, and 526 individual buyers registered to purchase 970 head of horses. 85.5% of the horses offered, sold.

The top five selling horses averaged $16,300.

His honors are many and include over $10 million won riding his offspring, Hall of Fame positions in both the NRHA and NRCHA, and he’s the sire to the number one selling horse of the sale - Hip 396 “Chic’s Bold Rooster” a 2005 AQHA Sorrel stallion by Jim Babcock’s multi-talented sire “Smart Chic O’lena”.

The extra-broke, smart looking stallion was out of a daughter of Gallo Del Cielo and sold to Robin Faller, Lisbon, ND for $27,000.

Three palominos - every one a mare - claimed top seller positions three, four, and five, bringing $13,000, $12,500, and $9,000 respectively.

Blonde, broke, and oh, so pretty, Hip 283 “Chics Palogun” a 2006 AQHA filly also by Smart Chic Olena previewed flawlessly in the riding horse demonstration and sold to Gus Evagelopoulos, Calgary, Alberta for $12,500.

Grade, gray, eight-years-old, and an industrial strength ranch gelding - Hip 74 “Judge” came shown and consigned by rancher Bill Johnson, Big Sandy, MT.

The gentle, ranch expert brought $8,000 selling to Flying Triangle Ranch, Grand Junction, CO.

Good horses sell and people come to get them - the top ten averaged $12,095; Top 20 brought $8,742; Top 50 averaged $6,117, and the top 100 averaged $4,404.

Market solidity prevails in the better using horses and top-end, performance bred prospects. Demand continues to diminish for the plainer, thinner, more common type horses.

Driven by supply and demand, the loose horse market dipped as the horse market continues to feel the effect of the closure of all U.S. Processing plants. All U.S. plants have been closed since September of 2007.

But, even in the loose division, a definite shift towards the “better” type horse - the top five averaged $1,100 compared to $860 last year - with the high selling loose horse commanding $1,600 this year versus $1,300 in 2007; Top ten averaged $870 compared to $767 one year ago; Top 20 at $663 - that’s $22 better than the the 2007 figure of $641; Top 50 brought $435 against $493 in 2007; and the top 100 averaged $315 this year compared to $395 one year ago.

Billings Livestock's next sale event is set for November 29-30 and will be the final sale of 2008 for Billings Livestock.

The big sale weekend will include a pre-sale preview of cutters, ride horses, and rope horses on Friday, November 28 at the HorsePalace Arena.

“Holiday Special” Catalog Sale headlines Saturday and Sunday’s schedule with loose horses selling Sunday, November 30 at 9 a.m.

For more information, to consign or request a catalog, contact Billings Livestock Commission Horse Sales at 406-245-4151 or see it all at www.billingslivestock.com

SALE REPORT FOR September 27-28

Custom built and ready to rodeo, a game-ready set of rope horses fit for the Friday night jackpot or the Sunday matinee cranked it up at Billings Livestock Commission’s 10^th annual “Cow Country Classic” catalog sale and “Fall Rope Horse Special” September 27-28.

Good, better and best - it was absolutely the best set of rope horses ever offered at Billings Livestock - head horses, heel horses, or breakaway - all in one place, all at one time, and all in a one-stop-shop marketplace.

They showed it to you, too, and Friday afternoon’s “sale horse only” team roping competition flat out rocked with 140 teams showcased in a pick one-draw-two format, with two complete go-arounds and a top-ten finals.

The first-class, put it-all-out-there jackpot came produced by Wrangler Team Roping Championship’s Dennis Tryan, and first-place jackpot titles went to Lyle Mitchell, Wolf, WY aboard Hip 108 and Lane Siggins, Ruidoso Downs, NM pitching from Hip 29 - nailing three steers in 24.37.

The top rope horse brought $15,000, top five rope horses averaged $11,350, and the top ten “ropers only” - nine geldings and one mare - cracked $9,075 a head.

Horses, horses, and more horses - 1,117 head of horses - plus three working cow dogs and one Zebu bull - completed the weekend’s offering from consignors hailing from 19 states and Canada. A 90% completed sales percentage prevailed as 1,001 head changed hands.

Over 540 individual buyers registered for the expanded three-day horse sale showcase.

Fit, fancy, and finished, Hip 274 “Lotto Lena Last” a 2001 AQHA Sorrel gelding by Lotto Lena had been hauled and seasoned and came owned and shown by Siggins Horse Co, Ruidoso Downs, NM.

Ellison Carter, Santo, TX purchased the rodeo-quality head horse for $15,000.

Pink, polished, and a Paprika Pine grandson, Hip 288 “Jacksons Strawberry” a 2000 AQHA Red Roan gelding x Strawberry Flair was a hard-to-find, pretty package of head horse, heel horse and started barrel horse complimented by “gentle”.

Darnell Versatility Horses, Pueblo, CO offered the USTRC and rodeo money winner and John Gebbers, Brewster, WA had the final bid at $13,500.

Hip 170 “Annie is Tuf” was oh, so nice, and came with seven AQHA roping points and glamour- girl looks.

The only rope horse mare to make the top ten, the 96 AQHA Buckskin sired by Tuf N Busy was a finished head and heel horse consigned by Cliff Kellmer, Post Falls, ID.

The striking mare was purchased by Karen Stepp, Boulder, WY for $8,750.

A blockbuster all-around junior and high school rodeo horse- run barrels, poles, goat tie, and breakaway - Hip 186 “Baldy” a 96 grade roan gelding offered by Jamie Strand, Bison, SD previewed in both goat tying and breakaway.

Ridden in parades, carried flags, and used at brandings, the all-in-one gelding brought $7,500 and sold to Chris and Billie Schaff, Worden, MT.

Better prospects also pushed the market, as did real deal ranch geldings including Hip 254 “Blue Windy Drift” a 2000 AQHA Blue roan gelding consigned by Big Horn, MT working cowboy Les Best.

The gentle, true ranch horse brought $4,600.

It was good and stayed that way - the last horse in the Saturday offering Hip 377 brought $9,500 - as sale averages either exceeded 2007 figures or held steady.

Again, the younger, plainer, less experienced horses continue to see lessened demand while the better, overall quality individuals have not skipped a beat.

Complete sale averages show it - the top five averaged $12,600 compared to $11,200 last year; top ten brought $10,275 versus $9,360 in 2007; top 20 came in at $8,042 while in 2007 the top 20 brought $7,695; top 50 at $5,583 compared to $5,689 one-year-ago, and the top 100 averaged $4,146 versus the 2007 average of $4,320.

The BLS loose market held it’s own as 529 head of horses sold standing in their tracks - as is, where is, how is - and the top five prospects averaged $1,085, the top 10 commanded $955, top 20 brought $805, top 50 averaged $582, and the top 100 loose averaged $440.

An expanded sale format is set for October 24-25-26 Billings Livestock’s “Fall Special Catalog Sale” where three, big days of horse sales are planned.

An indoor, climate and ground controlled preview for the barrel horses, cutters, saddle and ride horses, calf horses, and team roping horses is set for 12 noon on Friday, October 24 at the HorsePalace Arena.

Sale times include a Friday evening catalog horse sale October 24 beginning at 6 p.m. With Saturday and Sunday catalog sale times set for 12 noon.

For more information, to consign or request a catalog, contact Bill and Jann Parker, BLS Horse Sale Managers at 406-245-4151 or see it all at www.billingslivestock.com

SALE REPORT FOR August 23-24

Celebrated programs packed with years of development, promotion, and fine tuning stacked the books at Billings Livestock Commission’s “August Catalog Sale” August 23-24.

The exceptional horse sale weekend saw a grand total of 1,005 head of horses and came headlined by 40 head consigned by Atwood Ranches, Orland, CA, including daughters of High Brow Cat, Peptoboonsmal, Smart Little Lena, Powder River Playboy and the famous sire “I’ll Be Smart”.

Featuring speed bred and performance horses, the “August Catalog Sale” kicked off with an NBHA/Open barrel race Friday afternoon while Sunday’s “Montana Miniature and Pony” sale wrapped up the sale weekend.

Top guns showed their stuff each day in the pre-sale preview, including the saddle horses, cutting and rope horses.

Toting the four-star genetics of his famous family - Hip 171 "I'll Be Smart"- a 1989 AQHA Bay Stallion sired by Doc O’Lena and out of Smart Peppy - a full brother to Smart Little Lena and Smart Peppy Doc - had earnings of $77,740 and offspring earnings of $1,383,643 and growing.

The sire of 153 money earners with average earnings of $9,043 was offered by Atwood Quarter Horses, Inc, Orland, CA and purchased by Teresa Martin and Ridley Gibson on behalf of Santa Rosa Stud, Vernon, TX for $52,000;

Reserve sale honors went to Hip 162 "Four Six Jess" a 2001 AQHA Sorrel Stallion sired by Mr Jess Perry and out of the $535,000 money winning mare Dashing Folly x Fist Down Dash came consigned by Lazy VC Kelly Ranch, Inc, Faith, SD and purchased for $34,000 by Troy Yokley, Oklahoma City, OK.

A purple-pedigreed set of race-bred mares were presented by Lazy VC Kelly Ranch, Inc, and included Register of Merit daughters of Mr. Eye Opener, Fishers Dash, Special Leader, Strawflyin Buds, and Sixarun.

The running-bred mares - ROM and others - averaged $4,373.

High selling mare of the weekend was consigned by Atwood Quarter Horses, Orland, CA and Hip 173 “Hola Gato” a 2004 AQHA Palomino mare by High Brow Cat and out of the $117,000 money earning mare – CD Date x CD O’lena was a knock out.

The extra pretty mare brought $30,000 and sold to Vintage Oaks Ranch, Napa, CA.

The number one Breeder of AQHA Performance Horses for the past 15 Years, Carol Rose, Gainesville, TX offered 11 head from her world renowned program including Hip 83 “Legally a Blonde” a 2006 AQHA Palomino mare x Shiners Lena Doc and out of Betty Dun It x Hollywood Dun It.

Started for reining or working cowhorse, the special mare brought $15,500 and sold to Larry and Gayleen Smith, Stetler, Alberta, Canada.

Head or heel, he’s the man for the job, and Hip 310 “Admiral” a 2000 grade sorrel gelding offered by Turner Performance Horses, Victor, MT showed outstanding in the rope horse previews.

Duncan and Pat Carey, Vermillion, Alberta, purchased the solid, all-around gelding for $6,800.

Quality was prevalent and better horses pushed the market, breaking all previous August sale records at Billings Livestock.

Proof of the quality represented in the August offering is reflected in the sale averages where the top five averaged: $31,400; top ten brought $23,420; top 20 averaged $17,205; top 50 brought: $11,125. And the top 100 figured at $7,504.

News in the loose trade showed a steady to better market as 446 head sold in that division where the day’s top selling prospect brought $2,200.

Loose averages include the top five at $1,390; top 10 at $1,187; top 20 brought $985; top 50 averaged $722; and the top 100 came in at $584 per head.

Billings Livestock’s next event is September 26-28 and features the annual “Cow Country Classic” catalog sale and fall “Team Roping” sale, in addition to our 10^th anniversary celebration.

A team roping jackpot on sale horses is scheduled for Friday, September 26 along with previews for the cutters, saddle horses, goat tying horses, team roping and calf horses again on Saturday morning.

Keep up with what’s coming at www.billingslivestock.com and email us at info@billingslivestock.com to reserve your catalog.