We caught up with Ms. Ariah Neier, exhibitor of the Reserve Supreme Breeding Ewe at the 2022 Aksarben Stock Show. Learn a little more about Ariah below!
School Attending & Grade: I am homeschooled and in the 7th grade.
What was special or interesting about your lamb?
My ewe “Gigi” is a Double T Chanel donor. Chanel was the 2021 Female of the Year. She was the mom of my Grand Champion Market Lamb and Breeding Ewe at the 2021 Aksarben Stock Show. So it was exciting to be able to show one out of Chanel again this year.
What was your favorite sheep in your barn this year?
I do not necessarily have a favorite lamb this year. If I were to choose one it would be my wether “Hop”. He is super laid back and has a great personality, making him a great showmanship lamb. Together we’ve had some really good success this year!
How would you describe the moment you were selected as champion?
Being selected the Reserve Grand Breeding Ewe at Askarben was an indescribable feeling. I was super excited for my breeder, Deno Livestock, they are always helping me get the best out of all my lambs. I was so happy that all the early mornings and late nights in the barn had paid off. When my sister, Alette, was selected third overall I was even more excited. We always work together and her ewe is also from Deno Livestock!
Favorite thing to hear on showday?
Before heading into the ring on showday my mom always tells me to do my best and have fun! Its always encouraging to have my family there to support me. I also, like to hear words from Colin Deno, he is always motivating me to go out and do my best and get the best out of the sheep I’m showing.
Favorite person you spent time with at the show…
My favorite people to spend time with at shows are my parents and my sisters and brother. My siblings and I all show sheep together and I love that for us this is a family project. I also like spending time with Colin Deno, he is always there encouraging me to do my best, give me a hard time, and making me laugh.
Do you have any superstitions?
The only superstition that I have right now is I always use a black halter on the sheep I think have the potential to do well.
What is your dream job?
My dream job is to stay involved in the junior livestock industry and mentoring other young showmen like myself. I would also like to work in the livestock reproductive industry, with a focus on sheep.
