We caught up with Mr. Donnie Begalka before he steps “Inside the Ring” to sort the Commercial Ewe Show at the 2025 NAILE. Get to know Donnie below!
Who first encouraged you to step into the ring as a judge?
My Dad & Mom. Livestock judging schools were just part of our activities growing up.
Do you have a “pre-show ritual” or way you get in the right mindset before walking into the ring?
A good cup of coffee
What’s one lesson showing livestock taught you that you still use today?
The work ethic it takes to start a project and see it thru to the end for a junior project is the same as what you need for raising livestock on a daily basis.
What’s the very first thing you notice when an animal/exhibitor enters the ring?
Presence and structure
One word or a short phrase you’d use to describe your judging style?
Quick
