We caught up with Ms. Hailey Williams, the Champion Overall Ewe Showman at the 2025 Oklahoma Youth Expo. Learn a little more about Hailey below!
What does it mean to you to selected as one of the best showman at OYE this year?
It means a lot, especially because it was my first year showing at OYE. My ewe, Cece and I have been a great pair all year and I am very proud of how we did.
What has been the hardest thing for you to learn as a showman?
In very large classes, it’s hard to always know where the judge is, but also it’s very hard when you never know what the judge is going to do.
How have you overcome the obstacles you have faced as a showman?
I have spent a lot of time practicing switching sides at the walk. It gets easier the more you practice.
What is one thing you do that sets yourself apart?
Whenever I’m in showmanship, I always tell myself that I’m in the hunt and I can win the class. What I think shows the judge I’m there to win is the intense look on my face.
If you had to pick a favorite judge, who would it be and why?
I haven’t been showing for very many years, so I don’t have one yet!
What is a habit that you really want to break?
I’ve been told that I can be too aggressive tapping them for the walk.
What is your favorite part of OYE?
When I get to show and connect with my sheep.
