We caught up with judge Brad Dale before he steps “Inside the Ring” at the Ohio State Fair Junior Show. 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.”
WHO GOT YOU INVOLVED IN THE LIVESTOCK INDUSTRY AND HOW?
I got started in 1978 when my first 4-H calf bloated and died so my dad bought me two lambs to take to the county fair.
WHERE ARE YOU FROM AND WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO WHERE YOU CURRENTLY LIVE?
I grew up in Brooklyn, Iowa and I’m still here today.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE SHEEP YOU’VE EVER SEEN?
2021 NAILE Champion
WHAT IS A PET PEEVE OF YOURS IN THE RING?
Shaking hands while I’m trying to give reasons
DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE ROAD TRIP SNACK?
Cheetos and Mountain Dew. I apologize for the orange finger prints on your lamb after I handle them!
SHOWING BY WEIGHTS OR BY BREEDS?
Breeds
STATE FAIRS OR NATIONAL SHOWS?
State Fairs
EVALUATING STOCK ON THE MOVE OR ON THE PROFILE?
On the Move
We caught up with market lamb judge Brad Dale before he steps “Inside the Ring” at the State Fair of Texas. 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?
I have been raising and exhibiting sheep for 40 years and graduated from Iowa State with a degree in animal science.
WHAT PERSON/PEOPLE INFLUENCED OR HELPED TO SHAPE YOUR VIEW ON WHAT THE IDEAL SHEEP SHOULD POSSESS?
Over the years there has been many breeders, traders, judges and most importantly my father, Jerry Dale, that have helped shape my opinions of what the ideal sheep should look that. This ideal lamb has changed and evolved over time, as the industry continues to grow.
WHERE DID YOU ATTEND COLLEGE?
I attended Iowa State University.
WHAT ARE YOUR INITIAL SORTS WHEN EVALUATING MARKET LAMBS?
My initial sorts are balance and design, muscle, and structural integrity.
WHAT’S THE BEST LAMB YOU HAVE EVER SEEN OR JUDGED?
Some of my favorites over the years, some being way in the past but still being really good ones for their time. Brian Johnson’s 1992 American Champion, Sam Raute’s 2010 Louisville Champion, and Zac Howell’s 2016 Louisville Champion.
WHAT DO YOU HOPE PEOPLE NOTICE MOST ABOUT YOU?
I hope people will notice and recognize that I will always use what I feel is the best lamb and that I will never let who is showing or bred it factor into my decisions.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD?
Pizza
WHAT IS SOMETHING YOU ENJOY DOING THAT DOES NOT INVOLVE LIVESTOCK?
Spending time with my family
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE VACATION SPOT?
New York City
