We caught up with Ms. Payge Dahmer, exhibitor of the Grand & Reserve Champion Market Lambs and at the 2023 Missouri State Fair. Learn a little more about Payge below!
Age: 21
Grade: Senior at Pittsburg State University
How do you stay focused on reaching your goal?
I stay focused on my goals by looking at the progress pictures of my sheep from the beginning of the year to the most recent point. I think that seeing how much they progress over the spring and summer motivates me to keep working to get them looking the best that they can.
Do you show any other species besides sheep? If so, what other species?
I showed pigs for several years, but the past 3 years have been only sheep.
What’s your favorite show? and why?
My favorite show is Arizona National. Although I only showed there once, it was such an incredible experience. Arizona National created memories with not only my family, but the friends that we traveled with on the many hour road trip.
What do you do to celebrate after a big win?
Celebrating with friends and family is a must after a win. This typically includes dinner and just simply hanging out together.
What has showing livestock taught you?
Showing livestock has created a lasting impact on me that will carry over to my future career. I have learned the importance of taking care of something that relies on me every single day. I have also learned that in order to succeed, you have to make sacrifices to ensure that the animals are taken care of to the best of your ability.
What’s your biggest dream?
My previous biggest dream was to end my junior show career at the Missouri State Fair with a bang and since I accomplished that, I have set a larger goal. My next biggest dream is to win a division at the American Royal.
What’s your lambs name? and what made him/her so special?
My sheep’s name was Frog and he certainly lived up to his name. Every single time I walked in the barn, he had his front legs perched up on the gate waiting for a neck rub. He’s certainly one that I’ll never forget!
Who do you look up to?
I look up to my two brothers, Payton and Paxton. They have shown me the importance of hard work and how to dream big! Although we occasionally fight, I can’t think of two other people that are better role models!
