We caught up with market lamb judge Scott Greiner before he steps “Inside the Ring” at the 2023 Fort Worth Stock Show. We invite you to read our candid interview with Scott below and please continue to check back often for our next edition of “Inside the Ring.”
WHAT IS ONE QUOTE THAT YOU LIVE BY?
“Success is the sum of small efforts repeated day in and day out.”
IF YOU COULD JUDGE ANY SHOW IN THE COUNTRY, WHAT SHOW WOULD IT BE AND WHY?
I have been very blessed with the opportunity to judge lots of shows all over the country in multiple species. Each of these has been unique and special in its own way. Along the way I have established great relationships with may people as a result, and more importantly had the opportunity to hopefully have a favorable impact on the lives of young people as well. This is what its all about!
BEFORE YOU GET READY TO JUDGE, DO YOU HAVE A ROUTINE THAT YOU LIKE TO FOLLOW?
It is a great honor to get asked to judge a national show like Arizona National, and along with that comes anticipation and excitement for me as a judge just like for the exhibitors. So my routine includes being well rested so I am ready both physically and mentally. A hearty breakfast show morning is a must, and a good cup of coffee! Lastly, my wardrobe needs to earn the approval of my daughters!
DO YOU KNOW YOUR CHAMPION WHEN YOU SEE IT?
Yes. Champion livestock that put the pieces together in a unique way, and have that special presence about them when they hit the ring command your attention when you see them. The fun thing is when several potential champions enter the ring during the same show!
TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY!
My wife Lori and I have two daughters, which were both very active in youth livestock projects. Kaylee is finishing up her Master’s degree in Meat Science at Texas A&M and will graduate in May. Leah is a junior studying Animal Science at Iowa State. We are proud they are both pursuing careers in agriculture and the livestock sector, and look forward to what their futures hold!
WHAT IS YOUR DAILY OCCUPATION/DAILY ROUTINE LIKE?
I am a Professor and Extension specialist at Virginia Tech. I am fortunate that I get to wear lots of hats- including teaching classes in livestock production/management; conducting applied research and mentoring graduate students; working with extension agents and industry on educational programs and various activities; and working on a daily basis with livestock industry leaders both in Virginia and across the country. So no two days are the same! Before and after my time at the office each day, I tend to things in our barn looking after our flock of club lamb ewes.
LONG GRAND DRIVE SPEECHES VS A FEW WORDS
Short & Sweet
MUSIC ON DURING THE SHOW VS SILENCE?
Turn it up!
JUDGING ON DIRT VS WOODCHIPS
Woodchips
