We caught up with market lamb judge Brad Horner before he steps “Inside the Ring” at the Kentucky State Fair. We invite you to read our candid interview with Brad below and please continue to check back often for our next edition of “Inside the Ring.”
WHAT IS YOUR BACKGROUND AND CURRENT INVOLVEMENT IN THE SHEEP INDUSTRY?
My family has been involved in raising and showing market lambs since the late 1980’s. I also own a business focused on Laparoscopic AI of sheep and goats.
WHAT PERSON/PEOPLE INFLUENCED OR HELPED TO SHAPE YOUR VIEW ON WHAT THE IDEAL SHEEP SHOULD POSSESS?
My Dad – Dick Horner. Some of my fondest memories growing up were traveling with my Dad looking for and discussing the sheep we wanted in the show string and finding our next stud bucks.
WHERE DID YOU ATTEND COLLEGE?
I was on the Livestock Judging team at Lake Land College.
WHAT ARE YOUR INITIAL SORTS WHEN EVALUATING MARKET LAMBS?
Structure and balance.
WHAT DO YOU THINK THE MOST IMPORTANT ISSUE FACING THE LAMB INDUSTRY TODAY?
Public perception. We all know the time and effort we put into taking great care of our livestock. We as an industry have a tainted perception when it comes to the general public.
WHAT’S YOUR BIGGEST PET PEEVE IN THE SHOW RING?
Holding the lambs feet up off of the ground
WHAT DO YOU HOPE PEOPLE NOTICE MOST ABOUT YOU?
I have a passion for judging livestock shows and working with the youth who are the future of this great industry.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD?
Steak
WHAT IS SOMETHING YOU ENJOY DOING THAT DOES NOT INVOLVE LIVESTOCK?
Coaching my sons travel baseball team
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE VACATION SPOT?
Jamaica
