We caught up with Ms. Preslie Strader, exhibitor of the Grand Champion Wether Dam and at the 2023 Missouri State Fair. Learn a little more about Preslie below!
Age: 16
Grade: 11th
How do you stay focused on reaching your goal?
I set “show goals” at the beginning of each year and between my parents and other show friends/family, they keep me focused on those goals. They’re constantly reminding me to see the big picture.
Do you show any other species besides sheep? If so, what other species?
I also show cattle and was fortunate enough to show the Grand Champion Charlois Steer at the state fair this year.
What’s your favorite show? and why?
It’s a toss up between Louisville and Denver. Denver has better shopping, but I don’t have to send my sheep through the black hole in Louisville.
What do you do to celebrate after a big win?
A good dinner.
What has showing livestock taught you?
Patience, hard work, grit, humility.
What’s your biggest dream?
I really want to win Denver.
What’s your lambs name? and what made him/her so special?
We just call her Titus, because that’s who raised her. This was actually my third ewe on feed this summer. We struggled with prolapses with the other two, so third time was a charm. She was special because last year I won the market lamb show with a Titus tag, so it was pretty neat to win the wether dam show with a Titus tag this year.
Who do you look up to?
Victoria Newcomb. She balances work like and show life.