We caught up with Chance Neff before he steps “Inside the Ring” at the 2026 Iowa State Fair 4-H Show. Learn more about Chance below…
What is “nonnegotiable” for you when judging good livestock?
They gotta be arrogant!
What is your favorite part about working with the next generation of young people?
The livestock world is unique in so many ways. Never know when a kid that showed to you can turn into a life long friend. I can’t recall a show I have judged to where when I walked away I wasn’t overly impressed with an individual or two.
What is your best piece of advice for someone looking to pursue a judging career?
I think sometimes these younger evaluators get in the ring too soon. I guess you could say I truly believe in what the collegiate livestock judging program has to offer. Especially when it comes down to creating a thought process. I guess I would tell them be eager to get in there and be passionate, but don’t do it prematurely.
Biggest showmanship pet peeve?
Paying more attention to me than the stock.
Do you prefer to judge on the profile or on the walk?
I always say ya better wear your Nikes!
Favorite show you have judged?
I have been blessed to get to judge at O.Y.E. On three different occasions. That one is special to me. However my favorite show I have judged was a jackpot in Ohio the Covid year. I couldn’t tell you what won, but I know the stock was killer and watching all them folks come together was next level.
If judges had a walkup song, what would yours be?
Well when I judged at the Pennsylvania Youth Expo my ol buddy Scott Shelby was the DJ. I walked in the ring and he played the Texas Tech fight song. We will roll with that.
Go-to road trip snack?
Anybody that’s traveled with me knows my truck smells like Hot Tamales ( the cinnamon candy) at the end of a trip.
What impression do you hope to leave on the crowd and exhibitors when you exit the ring after judging?
I have the same goal every time I judge. Like it or not I hope the people in attendance know what I like . I also hope the grand is one that’s talked about for years.
