We caught up with the breeder of the Grand Champion Commercial Ewe at the 2025 EYO. We invite you to read our candid interview with Tuck Bros Show Lambs below and please continue to check back often for our next edition of “Breeder Spotlight.”
What’s the pedigree of your champion?
Mythical x Cardi Donor (Phoenix X 2105 Greenline)
What are your long-term goals as a breeder?
Our long term goals are constantly evolving as we make strides to bump our size. I would say ultimately our main goal is to raise sheep that have value in both the ring and in production.
Was there a moment when you almost gave up? What made you push through?
This question hits home, my brother and I had pooled all the money we had to go buy our first set of ewes when we were in middle school/high school. That spring after we had just finished lambing, our barn burned down and we lost everything, sheep included. Ironically it’s strange how things work out and how many blessings were hidden in that. Because of that fire we bought wethers that year from people we never would have and met some folks that later changed our path dramatically and mean the world to us.
What’s something you’ve changed your mind about over the years?
The first few years we always viewed the sheep as a “hobby”. That hobby quickly consumed every ounce of spare time/365 days a year so we made the decision 2 years ago for one of us to go part time with the sheep to help lighten the load.
If you could rebuild your herd/flock from scratch, what would you do differently?
I would return every impulse buy we ever made. Studying ewe families and the success those ewe families have doesn’t happen by coincidence. I wish we would have went after the best ewes we could afford from the get go.
What trait do you wish you had focused on sooner in your program?
Trying to own the most elite females we could afford. Every program has a ewe that cranks every time, and for every one of those there’s 10 ewes that make average ones. I wish we would have focused harder on females from the start.
Is there a breeding decision you’re especially proud of — or one you regret?
Not any particular. But proving my brother wrong on a mating decision he doesn’t like is enough gratification for me.
What’s your favorite state fair — and why?
Ohio State Fair-can’t beat our home state!
Is there anything you wish you had known when you started breeding?
There’s seasoned breeders out there that would do anything to see you succeed and there’s breeders out there that would do anything to get a pay day from you. Find what fits you the best.
What’s next — any big goals or projects in the works?
2026 is going to be a big one – we have a few projects we’re working on!
