Masyn Riggins, 18, of Macomb was crowned the 2026 National Shorthorn Lassie Queen at the 2026 Cattlemen’s Congress in Oklahoma City, OK Jan. 11.
Riggins, the daughter of Andy and Holly Riggins, had previously reigned as the Illinois Shorthorn Lassie Queen for 2024 and 2025. She is a freshman at Kansas State University, studying Animal Science Management and Industry. with a concentration in Beef Reproduction. Throughout the next year, Riggins will represent the Shorthorn breed at cattle shows and sales across the United States.
“I really want to thank my parents, my sisters, Katie and Sarah and extended family for supporting me as she chased this dream.
From traveling all over the country to shows, my family has been with me through it all,” she shared. “I’d also like to thank the Shorthorn breeders of Illinois. The Illinois Shorthorn Association has been incredibly supportive and encouraged me to pursue this opportunity. It’s my hope to make the Illinois Shorthorn breeders proud throughout my reign.
“I’m grateful for this opportunity to serve as the 2026 National Shorthorn Lassie Queen,” Riggins concluded. “I look forward to a year of making memories, promoting the Shorthorn breed of cattle and inspiring others to follow their passion and not be afraid to chase their dreams.”
