We caught up with Mr. Hayz Wilson, exhibitor of the Reserve Grand Champion Market Lamb at the 2024 Oklahoma Youth Expo. Learn a little more about Hayz below!
Tell us a little about your champion:
He was sired by Follow the Money and raised by Salinas Club lambs. He was not the most fun lamb to show and there wasn’t a time that we showed that he didn’t make me work for it.
What’s the most interesting thing you’ve learned while showing animals?
All the different techniques to use in the show ring to get my lambs looking their best. From their body positions to mine. Every lamb is different and each requires learning new maneuvers.
Do you have any special tricks for getting stubborn animals to cooperate?
Each lamb is different and getting to know the lamb helps me understand what works and what doesn’t. Sometimes they’re just moody and need an attitude adjustment.
What’s your favorite memory involving your animals?
Winning my first buckle. Being in the grand drive at OYE and receiving that handshake definitely tops the list now too.
How do you prepare your animals both physically and mentally for the shows?
The amount of time setting them in the barn, we always try to make setting them up in the barn is always harder than what we do in the ring
What’s the most challenging aspect of showing livestock, and how do you overcome it?
Showing up and putting the work in even when I don’t feel like it. Staying at the barn late or getting up early when I’m tired. Thinking about buckles and banners, that winning handshake, the feeling of hard work paying off, that’s what keeps me motivated
Who inspired you to become the showman you are today?
My brother, Dylan. He was a great showman of his time and I always looked up to him for that.
Do you name your animals? If so, what’s the most interesting name you have given?
We always name the lambs after a tv show or movie. My favorite so far has been Home Alone- Kevin, Harry, and Marv!
If your lamb had its own pump-up song, what would it be?
Thunderstruck
What’s the most unexpected blooper you’ve experienced during a show?
My lamb, whom was a runner, got away from me at the Tulsa State Fair and I bit the dirt pretty hard.
