Pedigree/Genetics of Champion: The gilt was sired by Family Jewels who was bred by Mauck Show Hogs and raised by MB Genetics.  We purchased him from MB last summer in THE EXCHANGE.

Her dam is the 2019 Exposition Open Show Champion Gilt.  She is sired by Coattails and was  was bred by Lane Showpigs

How did you get involved in the swine industry?
My grandfather Chester Meal began raising Poland Chinas in 1916 and we have involved in the showpig world ever since.  He set the bar very high for our family having won 5 4-H Grand Overall Barrows at the Indiana State Fair.  

My parents picked up the Poland China baton and I began raising Hampshires in 1981.

Regina & I started Premium Blend Genetics in 2012 and all 4 of our children are now employed full-time @ PBG.

With this being one of the major shows of the summer, how rewarding was it to capture a win?
Without question the most rewarding aspect is seeing our customers succeed and the emotion that is involved and knowing how much it means to them.  Creating lifelong memories is what drives everything we do.

Having bred both the 3rd Overall Breeds Gilt (Reserve Berkshire) as well as the Champion Poland Gilt is incredibly gratifying for our team as that is what we all love to do.

We are very grateful that both gilts were in awesome homes with families that worked so hard to have them spot on.

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?
Having our showpig and semen customers' opportunities to exhibit their animals reduced has certainly been the most disappointing effect.

However, it has been incredible to see how many people have stepped up to create tremendous options for kids to exhibit their projects.  

Cyber shows and smaller jackpot/backyard shows will likely have a place in the future to provide more events than ever to show off their projects.

Lots of dedicated people and organizations now have the experience and logistics in place to put on a show and create a fun environment and that is a very valuable resource going forward.

What breeding decision are you most excited about for the next breeding/farrowing season?
That would likely be a different answer from each us.  We will be up to approximately 60 females this fall and there will be lots of discussion on how to go on each one of them.  

Disco Girl - the San Antonio Reserve Champion & Record-selling gilt will certainly be a mating that will be fun to talk through.