We caught up with Ms. Katherine Olson, exhibitor of the Grand Champion Market Lamb at the 2020 Wyoming State Fair. Learn a little more about Katherine below!
Age: 16
Hometown: Cheyenne, WY (Burns Jr./Sr. High School)
With the uncertainty of the show season, how did you stay focused?
I stayed focused by remaining optimistic. Wyoming is a very agriculturally based state and I was hopeful that the administrators of our state and county fairs would make sure the show would go on.
What was something new you tried this year since you were able to be home more often than normal?
Being home allowed more time and flexibility to prepare and work my show string for shows. It also allowed me to have a set daily regime to prepare my animals for my target shows.
What is your favorite show product to use?
Revive Lite
When I grow up I want to be….
I’m still undecided but I’m interested in being a surgeon.
Showing animals has helped me to develop……
Showing animals has not only taught me responsibility but it has instilled it in me. Dedication 365 days a year, animals first even on Christmas morning! I have learned to be financially responsible. Each animal, bag of feed, veterinary visit adds up. Market prices in livestock are unpredictable and so are buyers. The experience has taught me money management and entrepreneurship. I’ve learned faith. Agriculture is risky. Losing livestock that I have invested so much in (genetics, breeding, caring, feeding) is heartbreaking. I’ve learned especially this year to cope with the unpredictable. I’ve learned sportsmanship through tough competition. I’ve made life-long friends across the country. Self-drive, honesty, and integrity are among a few other skills I’ve developed. Thinking back over the many projects that I’ve had,I do not view any one of them as a waste of time. In fact, showing livestock has been building a bridge into my future.
What’s your favorite Barn Chore:
My favorite barn chore is “leg” day where I work the leg wool.
Who is the person you look to for advice right before you go in the ring for that last minute pep talk or pointer:
My brother, Braxton. He’s my master fitter, my coach, as well as my toughest competitor
Favorite Song or Singer:
Is there only one! Seriously, I like all genres of music!
