We caught up with judge Chad Coburn before he steps “Inside the Ring” to sort the Finewool, Finewool Cross, and Droper Market Lambs at San Angelo Stock Show. Learn more about Chad below…
Did your high school self ever think this is what you would be doing in 2024?
I’ve always had a passion for livestock. Being active in FFA, I participated on Livestock and Meats Judging Teams. I had no intention of judging livestock on the collegiate level, but that all changed my Freshman year in college. I attended a Livestock Evaluation class, and the next thing I know, I’m competing on the Senior level in on a Collegiate Livestock Judging Team. That sparked a passion for livestock evaluation that I still have today. I had no idea that God would bless me to the point of judging multiple major livestock shows.
In your judging career, what is one thing that has stuck out to you?
Valuable life skills for youth. I’ve found that over 35 years of judging, kids that are involved in animal agriculture are the best in the world. Character, integrity and responsibility are in their favor. I challenge youth and families that show livestock to use their animals as a tool to teach an ignorant world about our food source. In America, we still produce the safest and cheapest food on the planet. When naive folks ask about animals, take that opportunity to respectfully teach them about animal agriculture.
What’s your biggest pet peeve while judging?
I don’t like sheep/goats walked too fast. Move them at a natural pace. It’s a show, not a track meet.
What’s your opinion on kids who show with a halter?
Unbiased. It does not matter to me.
Do you prefer to evaluate when sheep are in motion or stuck on profile?
In motion. I like to move animals quite a bit. On the move, there is no hiding structure, good or bad.
Tell us about your family!
I have been married to my wife Traci for 26 years. Our daughter, Addison, is the Marketing Coordinator for Beefmaster Breeders United. She is engaged and will marry in the summer. Our son, Gunner, is a Junior at Texas A&M and is a member of the Livestock Judging Team. Prior to attending A&M, he judged livestock at Blinn College.
What’s your dream vacation?
Usually in the mountains somewhere.
