We caught up with Ms. Addie Cortez, exhibitor of the Grand Champion Market lamb at the 2023 Western Idaho Fair. Learn a little more about Addie below!
Age: 14
Grade: 8th
How do you stay focused on reaching your goal?
Showing sheep is my sport. I go outside and do the work every day because I love this industry. I love getting to know new people, traveling and most of all I’m working for those moments that I am in the ring and get to shake the judges hand.
Do you show any other species besides sheep? If so, what other species?
I don’t right now unless I make it to Round Robin for Showmanship. In the future I could see myself showing goats or hogs.
What’s your favorite show? and why?
The Show in Reno. I love the atmosphere and how it’s a gathering of so many of my favorite people. I make new friendships every year and I like watching my friends succeed.
What do you do to celebrate after a big win?
The first thing I do when I come out of the ring is give my mom a big hug. Then of course it’s awesome to get backdrop photos with the judge and my “show crew”. We usually end the night by going out to dinner with friends or family and celebrating the day’s accomplishments.
What has showing livestock taught you?
Showing Livestock has taught me responsibility and given me a good work ethic. It’s also taught me a ton of confidence, that hard work can take you to the top and at the end of the day it’s only one judges opinion. I learn something every single time I step in the ring.
What’s your biggest dream?
I want to be able to win a division at Arizona National and I would love to win Grand Champion Market Lamb at The Show in Reno.
What’s your lambs name? and what made him/her so special?
There is a lamb that I showed last year for breeding. I named her Beth (like Beth Dutton from Yellowstone and boy did she live up to that name!) Beth is super special to me because she taught me patience and how in tune an animal could be to my feelings. I had to learn to be calm and patient and that each animal has its secrets you have to unlock. She was also the lamb I used in Showmanship and I won my first Intermediate Championship with her.
Who do you look up to?
Kylee Fisher because she has taught me so much. Kylee believes in my ability and she understands how much I really want to achieve in this sport. She is always there to support me, answer questions and cheer me on.
