We caught up with Mr. Logan MacLennan before he steps “Inside the Ring” to sort the Market Lamb Show at the 2026 American Royal. Get to know Logan below!
What is something you think separates a good judge from a great judge?
There are a hundred factors that could differentiate the two in my opinion. But the big ones that separate good to great for me is a judge being committed to their type but able to recognize that sometimes your kind isn’t in this class, so just pick the best one available rather than try to convince yourself of one that simply isn’t as good. Also, someone who makes decisions quickly, confidently and accurately. Someone who actually judges them when walking and uses it to make decisions and recognizes that the way their legs function is not the only aspect of being good on the move. If his legs flex and reach like a cat but his chest floor drops 2 inches and his top line is up or down or his tail head is off, doesn’t matter how flexible he is- he’s not good on the move. But most importantly, a great judge will make decisions with no regard to who’s holding it, who’s helping it, or whose feelings will be hurt.
What is the most rewarding part of stepping into the ring?
Specifically a show of this caliber, the opportunity to work with the best young sheep people in the country and get the up close experience to watch their next level abilities in presenting one. And having the chance to promote the kind of sheep I like.
What is one lesson from judging that you hope young people carry with them outside of the show ring?
That no matter how hard you worked and how many hours you put in at home, that sometimes someone just had a better sheep than you. But win or lose, working hard and being committed to something, anything, will always be worth it in the end.
When you travel to judge a show, how many outfits do you take?
Travel day clothes. 1 set of show day clothes with 1 extra pair of judging quality jeans. Khakis have historically left some fellas in some uncomfortable situations… Just ask Bedwell. Then a set of travel home clothes.
Go-to meal after a long day in the ring?
I’m not particular. Protein of the beef variety.
What do you hope exhibitors remember about your evaluation after the show?
My hope is that every exhibitor knows they were seen. That they can all recognize the kind I like and how their sheep either fit or didn’t fit. And that despite all the “it’s a done deal” nonsense leading up to the show, that it was in-fact never done and the best sheep in the building won the show!
