We caught up with Brad Amthauer before he steps “Inside the Ring” to sort the Market Lamb Show at the 2026 Michigan Livestock Expo. Learn more about Brad below…
What is “nonnegotiable” for you when judging good livestock?
I like hard handling, square backed show sheep, but this doesn’t mean I’m just going to use the thickest one out there. I’m going to be hard pressed to use a big handling one that doesn’t look like a show sheep from the side. Vice versa, I’m don’t prefer sheep with a killer look, who are narrow when I get on top of them.
What is your favorite part about working with the next generation of young people?
I like the ability to leave a positive mark on the kids. It’s pretty cool when after a show you get feedback from someone about how excited an exhibitor was about an interaction you had with them as a judge.
What is your best piece of advice for someone looking to pursue a judging career?
Do what you think is right, not what someone else told you is right.
Biggest showmanship pet peeve?
Showman not being courteous to other showman. (i.e. – stay in line, don’t crowd fellow showman, etc.)
Do you prefer to judge on the profile or on the walk?
I like to use both, but I think the most important view is the first 10-20 steps in the ring. The best ones sort themselves right out of the gate.
Favorite show you have judged?
Kansas State Fair was the first larger show I’ve judged. The first one is always the best one.
Go-to road trip snack?
No Man’s Land Beef Jerky
What impression do you hope to leave on the crowd and exhibitors when you exit the ring after judging?
I always hope that the exhibitors feel that I gave every one of them a fair look.
