Age: 17

Hometown: Oronogo, MO (Webb City High School/Carthage FFA)

With this uncertainty of this year's show season, explain how excited were you to win your state fair/show?
Winning a Major has been a big goal of mine. I was very excited to win Grand Champion Barrow at the 2020 American Royal Livestock Show. I'm not sure it really set it that I had won until a couple of days later but when it did I was so happy for what I, my family & team accomplished. "Sites" was a pretty special barrow from day one to me.

What was something new you tried this year since you were able to be home more often than normal?
It always stays pretty busy around our place. Besides showing pigs I also show steers & heifers. In the beginning we didn't know if shows would actually happen but I still focused daily like they would.

What is your favorite show product to use?
That's tough & I can't tell all of our secrets. HA. Something that has been fun to learn to use this season & is a staple in our showbox now is Gold Dust.

When I grow up I want to be....
Agriculture is my life. I love learning & meeting new people. I hope to continue helping other youth learn to love the pig & cattle industry as much as I do. My plans are to attend NEO staying close to home until my show jr. career is over.

Showing animals has helped me to develop......
The livestock industry has helped me develop relationships that I might not have made. I am truly thankful for my show family & we have so much fun. It has also taught me to never give up. When you least expect it your hard work will pay off.

What's your favorite Barn Chore:
I would say my favorite barn chore is NOT cleaning pens but is something we are big on at our place. In the spring & summer we will put our pigs outside in our tanning pens. Skin, hair & the appearance of your pigs can tell the judge a lot when you first hit the ring.

Who is the person you look to for advice right before you go in the ring for that last minute pep talk or pointer:
Brent "Boots" Boland. He has helped me become the showman I am & I can't thank him enough. I get a little intense but he can calm me down better than anyone. He's like family now. I also have to thank my mom & dad. Without them backing my dreams I wouldn't be able to do as much as I do.

Favorite Celebration Restaurant after a good day at the show:
After winning the Royal we went to 801 Chop House. Our show family usually finds a good restaurant that can hold a lot of people & no matter where it is we always have a good time & it's loud. Confetti is always a must! We are still finding confetti!

Favorite Song or Singer:
Ask anyone, my playlist varies. My favorite song is "The Front Porch" by Robert Earl Keen but it drives my mom crazy. Before going in for the champion drive I played "Thunderstruck" & "Hippies & Cowboys"