We caught up with Ms. Caroline Mattingly, exhibitor of the Reserve Grand Champion Market Lamb at the 2023 Kentucky State Fair. Learn a little more about Caroline below!
Age: 16
Grade: I am a junior in high school
How do you stay focused on reaching your goal?
Over the past few years I’ve learned that success is not achieved overnight. My biggest goals, my largest dreams were right in front of me. I just had to put the work into my goals to accomplish the “big” dreams. Hard work beats talent every time talent doesn’t work hard.
Do you show any other species besides sheep? If so, what other species?
Yes, I also show goats.
What’s your favorite show? and why?
I’ve always loved the American Royal. The show and the city itself is so unique. However, I may be biased but my favorite show has always been the Kentucky State Fair. There is just something special about showing on the green shavings in August.
What do you do to celebrate after a big win?
After a win, celebrating with family and friends is most important. In our family a win for one of us is a win for all of us! However, it has quickly become a family tradition to celebrate by finding the nearest ice cream shop!
What has showing livestock taught you?
As I reflect on what livestock showing and this industry as a whole has taught me I come up with so many answers. Most importantly, I’ve learned that with hard work anything is possible. Over the summer I was reminded of the quote ‘One day or day one’. We have the option to either sit back and wait for our dreams to become reality’s or to take control of our success and make it happen! If you work hard, dream big ginormous dreams and trust God’s timing literally anything is possible!
What’s your biggest dream?
My biggest dream right now would be to win all of the divisions within the sheep species at the Kentucky State Fair over time and to win a showmanship title at one of the national shows. But ultimately, my biggest dream is to bring Honor and Glory to God and that I can share his love with all those I meet.
What’s your lambs name? and what made him/her so special?
This year the name of my market lamb was Roscoe. To me there were many things that made him special. The moment I laid eyes on him I knew he was meant to do big things. Every time I came to the barn he would pop his head up to meet me. I built a relationship with him unlike any lamb I have ever had. I wouldn’t have wanted to spend the late nights in the barn working anyone else. Roscoe was the perfect partner and helped me achieve a dream come true.
Who do you look up to?
Over the past few years this industry has given me so many people to look up to and call role models. It would fill a page long to name all of the individuals I have looked up to over time. But currently I would say I look up to my mom, Christian Johnson and my FFA advisor Celisa Cunningham. Mom, you’ve taught me everything I know. Thank you for everything! Christina, you’re the coolest/strongest person I know! Mrs. Celisa thanks for rooting me on and helping me find my Platform!
