Pedigree/Genetics of Champion:
This barrow was sired by Goosebumps and out of 143-11, a sow that has climbed the ranks rather quickly around here. 143-11's pedigree is 8-1 (Distinct son) x Ante Up x Super Monster. She is also the mother of "Rea Rea", the Div I Champ at the 2019 American Royal and  $35,000 top seller in our 2020 Built the Brand Sale.

How did you get involved in the swine industry?
I am fortunate to be able to say I'm a third generation pig farmer. My father and grandfather both raised pigs on the farm that is now home to Heimer Hampshires. As a young boy, I can remember running the PTO on the tractor for my Dad while he filled feed sacks. I remember learning a new language during those early mornings when we had to load market hogs. I owe a great deal of thanks to many who have mentored me over the years, but I'm especially thankful that I had the chance to learn how to raise pigs from my Dad. I started showing at a young age at our county fair but the Showpig industry was very different 30 years ago.

Being able to show without question was something we once took for granted. Now with the uncertainty of being able to have shows, how rewarding was it to capture a win?
I do believe there is a new sense of appreciation for livestock shows, at every level and no matter what, when, or where, it's always rewarding to capture a win. It has been very fun to work with the Mullenhoff family and I'm very proud of Q! It didn't take very long to recognize how much Quentin truly loves feeding and showing pigs and I feel very fortunate that he and his family have entrusted us with the opportunity to work together.  

With the pandemic, what struggles have you faced as a breeder and how do you think the show world will evolve with the problems we are facing?
I think everyone involved in the junior livestock industry has had to adjust and adapt to the ever-changing circumstances. With that said, I believe collectively, as an industry, we've navigated these challenges and worked together to provide opportunities for young people who still aren't able to participate and compete in many other activities. That in turn has allowed many of us to sustain our businesses and livelihoods at a time when many have been far less fortunate. I am thankful for the countless leaders who have stepped up to make sure we have shows when it has become much easier to cancel. The new normal could very well look different without shows that have been a big part of our industry's history, however, I am hopeful that many of the new shows that were created out of need can become annual, premier events that provide growth and sustainability for our entire industry.

What breeding decision are you most excited about for the next breeding/farrowing season?
In all of agriculture, it's important to be eternally optimistic and hopeful. That is especially true when breeding livestock and I am excited about the breeding decisions we made during the last several weeks. In this space, it's worth mentioning that 143-11, the mother of this winner was bred back to KOH in an effort to recreate 'Rea Rea'!