We caught up with Parker Henley before he steps “Inside the Ring” at the 2026 Illinois State Fair Junior Market Lamb Show. Learn more about Parker below…
What is “nonnegotiable” for you when judging good livestock?
Build quality and presence. Elite livestock are fundamentally built right, but they also have that extra look and presence that sets them apart. The great ones get your attention immediately and continue to impress the more you study them.
What is your favorite part about working with the next generation of young people?
I enjoy watching young people become savvy and incredibly knowledgeable about the livestock industry. As an educator, I believe the show ring can spark a passion for agriculture that lasts a lifetime. Seeing that seed planted and watching it grow is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do.
What is your best piece of advice for someone looking to pursue a judging career?
Surround yourself with great mentors. Find people who have been successful, ask questions, stay engaged, and never stop studying the livestock industry. Take your time and be willing to put in the hours. Expertise doesn’t happen overnight. It takes countless shows, evaluations, and experiences to develop your eye and confidence. The people who succeed on the big stage are usually the ones who have invested the time learning from others and refining their craft.
Biggest showmanship pet peeve?
When exhibitors focus more on looking at the judge than presenting their animal. Great showmanship is about making the animal look its best, not drawing attention to yourself.
Do you prefer to judge on the profile or on the walk?
The walk. I’m a big first-impression person, and when an animal comes through the gate on the move, that initial look is important. Beyond that, you can learn a tremendous amount about structure, functionality, and athleticism when livestock are in motion. With market animals especially, I want to study them walking away from me to evaluate their genuineness of build and skeletal integrity.
Favorite show you have judged?
Oklahoma Youth Expo Market Steer Show in 2023
If judges had a walkup song, what would yours be?
Should’ve Been a Cowboy – Toby Keith
Go-to road trip snack?
Nerds Gummy Clusters are the premier road trip candy. Pair that with an Arnold Palmer, and I’m set for just about any trip.
What impression do you hope to leave on the crowd and exhibitors when you exit the ring after judging?
I hope people leave the ring knowing I was professional, confident, and exhibitor-focused. I want my decisions to be easy to follow and understand, and I want exhibitors to feel that I was transparent, consistent, and fair in how I evaluated their livestock..
