We caught up with Brian Reilly before he steps “Inside the Ring” at the 2026 State Fair of Virginia. Learn more about Brian below…
What is “nonnegotiable” for you when judging good livestock?
Rib cage, round with internal dimension. It makes the whole show lamb better and adds functionality to every ewe.
What is your favorite part about working with the next generation of young people?
Seeing kids go from good to great, with elite showmanship skills. I truly believe anyone can be great at anything, it’s just takes three components. Work ethic + persistency + loving what you do.
What is your best piece of advice for someone looking to pursue a judging career?
It takes some grit and back bone to judge the highly competitive ones. The heat gets pretty hot when you have a bunch of hard core competitors vying for 1 hole and being kind of ok runner up. Best advice- use the best animal, regardless of who bred it, fed it, found it or holding it.
Biggest showmanship pet peeve?
Excessive yanking on one’s head and dragging them forward.
Do you prefer to judge on the profile or on the walk?
Love to see them move, see if they stay “true” when set in motion.
If judges had a walkup song, what would yours be?
It All Adds Up – Shinedown
Favorite show you have judged?
San Antonio. It’s best set top to bottom that I’ve ever seen. Houston a close 2nd.
Go-to road trip snack?
Water and trail mix.
What impression do you hope to leave on the crowd and exhibitors when you exit the ring after judging?
The guy has a type and kind, explains that kind and doesn’t deviate from it.
