March 16, 2024

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Grand champion steer, Woozy, ties for $1 million record at rodeo auction

Although he had been competing since he was in the 3rd grade, 15-year-old Blaize Benson said he couldn't help but feel really nervous as he showed his steer, Woozy, to a packed NRG Stadium.

"I try not to think about that stuff," he said, "Because that's where mistakes happen,"

The Jordans, along with Laura and Steve McNear and Chris and Lisa Cunningham, tied their own world record Saturday with another $1 million bid on the 2024 grand champion. This time the cool million went to purchase Woozy, a 1,397-pound Simmental steer exhibited by Blaize Benson from San Angelo.

Benson, a member of Tom Green County 4-H, will receive $75,000 for raising and showing Woozy.

Money earned will go toward the winners' college fund as well as the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Educational Fund.

Lauren Mitchell, Digital Production Editor

lauren.mitchell@houstonchronicle.com

Food and Culture

Blaize Benson reacts after his steer was named grand champion during the Junior Market Steer Selection at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo at NRG Stadium, Friday, March 15, 2024, in Houston.

Photo by: Jason Fochtman, Staff Photographer

Woozy named 2024 grand champion junior market steer at RodeoHouston

Woozy, a Simmental steer, was named the 2024 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Grand Champion Junior Market Steer.

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Tonight's headliner

Brad Paisley performs in concert during Rodeo Houston at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo at NRG Stadium on Saturday, March 18, 2023 in Houston.

Photo by: Karen Warren, Staff Photographer

Brad Paisley is as essential to RodeoHouston as mutton bustin' and half-price carnival tickets.

This will be his 15th time on the rotating stage. Paisley's show doesn't change much from year to year. But that consistency is why he continues to draw big crowds.

Everything is meticulously planned but feels spontaneous. He makes jokes. He jumps offstage to pose for selfies and shake hands. And, if you're close by, he'll grab your phone and check your Amazon shopping history or your Instagram follower count.

Up Next

• March 17: Eric Church

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Photo by: Jason Fochtman, Staff Photographer

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Notice: You're receiving this update as part of our special coverage of the rodeo and its impact on Houston's food, music and arts culture. Find the rest of our coverage of RodeoHouston at Houstonchronicle.com