We caught up with Brantly Hoover before he steps “Inside the Ring” at the 2026 Maryland State Fair. Learn more about Brantly below…
What is “nonnegotiable” for you when judging good livestock?
A nonnegotiable for me is having the right kind of power and structural integrity. You can make as many attractive, cool-fronted ones as you want, but you can’t eat pretty. If they’ve got muscle and structure, then we can worry about ring presence.
What is your favorite part about working with the next generation of young people?
I love seeing the passion and drive of the next generation. The ones who want it and dedicate their lives to it have a special place in my heart.
What is your best piece of advice for someone looking to pursue a judging career?
You have to love it. I can remember being little and having to choose between baseball and livestock judging, let’s just say I knew from a young age that I was going to go to college for livestock judging, not baseball. Then in college, I spent more time on the road judging than I did studying because that’s what it took to compete.
Biggest showmanship pet peeve?
Showmanship is a challenge to judge. My biggest pet peeve is making sure that your animal is driving or at-least appears like it is. In sheep and goats, if they’ve are not driving into you, then you’re not getting them stuck.
Do you prefer to judge on the profile or on the walk?
I like to see animals in motion. Showmen can make such a difference on how an animal looks from the side. I’ve been known to walk animals multiple laps just to see how good they’re built and then make my decision.
Favorite show you have judged?
My favorite show that I’ve ever judged is the Permian Basin Fair in Odessa, Texas. I have sorted state fairs and I loved it, but nothing compares to going into a ring that I showed in when I was 4 years old. The nostalgia and quality of animals at that show always gets me excited.
If judges had a walkup song, what would yours be?
Field of Heather by Shane Smith and the Saints
Go-to road trip snack?
Corn Nuts and an Arizona Green Tea
What impression do you hope to leave on the crowd and exhibitors when you exit the ring after judging?
When I judge a show, I want the crowd to know that I love doing this and I enjoy working with the kids.
