Strive For The Purple Ribbons

The goal throughout my 4H and FFA years showing cattle was to be the best of the best and receive as many purple ribbons as possible. Being successful meant spending hours in the barn with the calves taming them down, washing, combing, drying, feeding, and walking them. It is important to spend time with them and talk to them so they know your voice and so they trust you and act calm around people. It is critical to wash, blow-dry, and comb them every day, if not twice a day, to help stimulate hair growth. Hair helps the calf look better and more attractive in the show ring. Also, walking them around the farm in different and unusual places will prevent them from being spooked and will help them not be stubborn so they will walk with you when you want them to. Of course summers get busy and sometimes it is challenging to find time everyday but those are some important factors in having a successful fair project. 

However, at the end of the day, receiving a purple ribbon depends all on the judge that day. Every judge has a different opinion about which animal they see as the best. Along with the daily tasks on the farm, a good show heifer or steer is also based on genetics and how they look. Whether you are in your own pasture searching for the perfect fair project or you are looking online or traveling to private sales to purchase a calf, there are specific features to look for. Keep in mind, there may be differences in traits between looking for a steer or a heifer. In general; a good square hip, muscle definition, long clean neck, thick bone in the legs, big hooves, and being sound when they walk are just a couple characteristics to look for. Every animal will have its flaws but the goal is to have an animal with the least amount of flaws.

My favorite heifer I ever showed was named Stacy. She was a big bodied, cow-looking heifer which anyone would love to have in their pasture. She was sound on her feet and very deep bodied. I won multiple times with her as a heifer as well as when she became a cow with a calf on her side. My biggest accomplishments was being named Grand Champion FFA Cow/Calf Pair at the Iowa State fair in 2012. That moment the judge shook my hand was a feeling I will never forget. Getting awarded with that big purple banner was something I strived for! Although showing is more about the work ethic, and relationship building, and learning by doing experiences, receiving the ribbons and trophies put the icing on the cake!

It is that time of year to start shopping for the perfect show calves for next summer! Keep in mind the things to look for when picking out a calf and all the hard work that goes into it! Strive for the purple ribbons this upcoming fair season!