Mitch Barthel guaranteed himself a spot in next summer’s World Livestock Auctioneer Championship by winning a qualifying contest in Dickinson, North Dakota, Oct. 20.
The 36-year-old from New York Mills, Minnesota, has worked as an auctioneer for 20 years.
He will join reigning champion Rod Burnett of Armstrong, B.C., at the June 16 event in Turlock, California.
Barthel was named champion from a field of 14 contestants.
The remaining qualifying contests are Jan. 17 in Greeley, Colorado, and March 8 in Groesbeck, Texas.
The eight highest scorers in each qualifying contest and the reigning champ make up the field of 33 for the 2012 WLAC.
The qualifying contests, and the WLAC, are broadcast live at www.LMAAuctions.com .
