This is Our Sport

For many in the livestock show community, competitions are more than just a hobby; they are a way of life. At NAILE, families from across the country come together, driven by a shared passion that shapes their values, lifestyles, and even how they raise their children. We spoke to three exhibitors from different species: Swine, Dairy Cattle, and Boer Goats, who all agree that showing livestock is their sport and deepest source of joy.

The show ring is where memories are made and life lessons are learned for these families.

“Showing livestock is our root of happiness and has taught me more than life itself,” said Grace Day, Goat breeder and exhibitor.

The discipline, responsibility, and dedication that come with caring for animals are qualities they hope to instill in the next generation of agriculturalists. Long days spent in the barn feeding, grooming, and training aren’t just chores; they’re opportunities for learning responsibility and teaching the value of hard work.

“There’s nothing like the feeling of walking into the show ring, knowing the countless hours you’ve invested to get to this point,” said Kali Kimbler, 2024 NAILE Swine showman.

The focus isn’t just on winning but on growing as individuals and as a family. The lessons learned—about patience, perseverance, and sportsmanship—are carried long after the banners have been put away.

“At Emerald Farms, we strive to make each generation better by focusing on honesty and integrity, which has been at the forefront for generations,” said Dairy Cattle breeder Kassady Jodrey Raines. “Time spent in the barn and field with family can be attributed to all we have accomplished on our farm.”

From early mornings milking cows to late nights clipping and preparing for a show, the experience fosters a love for agriculture deeply rooted in family values. Watching their children develop a sense of pride and responsibility is one of the greatest rewards of being involved in the livestock industry, explained Raines.

Others echo that sentiment and add that the community aspect and camaraderie within the agriculture industry are unmatched.

“We’ve built lifelong friendships through showing goats, and the support we receive from fellow exhibitors is incredible,” said Logan Hollen, Boer Goat exhibitor.

At the heart of it all, showing livestock at events like NAILE is more than just a competition with ribbons, banners, and titles; it’s a sport that defines a way of life. It brings families together, unites communities, and teaches lessons that shape future generations. The show ring becomes a place where challenges are faced and celebrated together, making every high and low a shared experience. It’s the root of happiness for exhibitors and is why they dedicate themselves to raising their kids with the values of hard work, respect for animals, and a deep appreciation for agriculture.

To all who show livestock, keep celebrating this sport, passing down the traditions, and finding joy in every moment spent in the barn and the ring. This is our sport, our passion, and our way of life.