I understand the frustration with the show ring, but have a different opinion. First off, I will readily admit there are a lot of holes in this bulls epds. I wouldn't use him personally, but in all reality he is top 15percent in dollars weaned. A cow/calf producer might find this appealing. (Just making an excuse, I don't love him, but for folks selling at weaning he might not be bad). My biggest difference in opinion is with the negative connotation of the show ring. I'll admit I like fancy females, but more than that, I have seen the number of younger folks showing has brought in. If it allows younger people to meet and make connections with others interested in the cattle industry I'm more than for it. It teaches kids hard work, responsibility, a great deal about raising cattle and introduces them to others with the same love... it gets a bad rap, but I'm not sure it's fair. I love college football, but have no interest in the NFL. I care deeply about our juniors and their shows, but have little interest in open shows. I've never researched it but would think Jr shows make up the vast majority of them.
On a side note, wouldn't it be interesting to see the epds of commercial bulls. I'd say I've seen some that were far inferior (and superior) than this one.