This edition of A Few Minutes is with Chance Neff from San Angelo, Texas, the market judge for the 2013 Illinois State Fair Junior Market Lamb Show. Enjoy reading our candid interview with Mr. Chance Neff and be sure to check back for more state fair judge interviews in the coming weeks!
Why do you take the time out of your busy schedule to judge market lamb and goat shows?
Judging shows has always been something that I have enjoyed doing, and is a privilege . It gives me an opportunity to give back to the youth and to a program ( 4h & FFA) that helped me become the person that I am today. Traveling about the country and visiting with people that share the same interest as myself is a plus as well.
What is your background and current involvement in the sheep and goat industry?
Growing up I showed sheep and hogs throughout school. My father and I bought our first set of ewes in 2001. We ran 50 head of finewool ewes until I graduated college in 2011, which is when I took over our small operation. Currently we run 250 head of mature ewes comprising of 180 finewool ewes and 80 hampshire influenced females.
How does your current operation effect what you look for when evaluating sheep and goats?
In our area of the country rain is rare, so for me to make a living at raising sheep I have to watch my input cost. Therefore some of the more extreme type sheep that I like are actually harder to maintain. That’s why moderate type sheep are more my style. It’s hard to do from a breeders perspective, but I like to bust them open in their skeleton, keep them moderate in their frame, while still keeping them organized in their build and unique from the side.
What person/people influenced or helped to shape your view on what the ideal sheep or goat should possess?
There have been a few people who have helped me shape my opinion on what the ideal sheep should look. It started with looking at sheep with my father who stressed to me how important muscle shape and correct finish was. Once I was in high school I went to work for Kyle Smithwick. This when I began to understand how a market lamb should be built on their feet, and legs and how to read a rib shape. I can’t forget my judging coaches over the years. Steve Sturtz, Cade Wislon, and Ryan Rathmann.
Where did you attend college?
I started at South Plains Junior College and then graduated from Texas Tech University.
What are your initial sorts when evaluating market lambs and goats?
These are market animals, so naturally muscle and finish are very important. These are show animals though. I like sheep that can hit the ring on a set of sound feet and legs and remain collected in their skeleton. From a handling perspective I want a wide fresh loin edge and an expressive rack.
When you get down to those top end lambs and goats, what separates them for you?
Most of the time when I get down to the top end all of the sheep have enough muscle and handle correctly. The ones that are the hardest to build and have something special about them are the ones that I gravitate towards.
What would you consider an acceptable fat range?
Fat cover is something that seems to be awfully controversial to me. I prefer sheep with less than .3, however I don’t want to burn a great one just because I think he’s close on finish.
Who are some people that you credit with helping you get to where you are today?
I feel like there have been a lot of people who have molded me into the person I am today. My parents have helped me tremendously and have put me in a situation where I can do what I’m truly passionate about. Then there are countless friends and coaches over the years that have pushed me to obtain success.
What’s the best market lamb you have ever seen?
It’s tough for me to pick the best one I have ever seen. There are a few that stand out to me though. The reserve at Fort Worth in 2012 of Erica Walkers, The Champion at Fort Worth of Ross Hargroves, Cooper Newcomb’s champion at Louisville in 2009, and then my sisters reserve overall at Houston in 2012. All these sheep were powerful and built right, yet had the extra bells and whistles.
Who’s the person you must like to sit down and watch judge?
I enjoy watching Kyle Smithwick and Clay Webber sort stock, but my favorite person to watch is Josh Cody. I feel like when he sorts market lambs that he really appreciates some of the things that are extremely hard to breed for, while keeping sheep sound and powerful.
What do you think is the most important issue facing the sheep and goat industry?
In my opinion some of the sheep are too big and pushing past acceptability in terms of finish.
What’s your biggest pet peeve in the showring?
I really can’t stand when a showman pushes out and covers up another showman. All the exhibitors have dedicated time and financials to their projects and deserve and equal opportunity in the ring.
Do you consider yourself more of a handle judge or a profile judge?
More of a profile judge
You’ve got one night to go anywhere in the country and watch one band? Where is it and who you watching?
I would be at Gruene Hall watching George Strait.
Who is your favorite sports team?
Unfortunately my favorite sports team is the Dallas Cowboys.
What is your favorite place to vacation?
I enjoy going to float the river, but here lately Sedalia, Mo has been vacation destination.
