We caught up with Ms. Riley Walker, exhibitor of the Grand Champion FFA Commercial Ewe at the 2023 Iowa State Fair. Learn a little more about Riley below!
Age: 18
Grade: I’m a freshman at Iowa State University
How do you stay focused on reaching your goal?
I stay focused by making achievable goals and working everyday to make them happen. I also take every opportunity to listen and ask questions from those who I look up to.
Do you show any other species besides sheep? If so, what other species?
I show performance horses
What’s your favorite show? and why?
My favorite show is the Iowa State Fair. The Iowa State Fair is my favorite because it’s extremely competitive but also a great one to catch up and visit with everyone after a busy summer.
What do you do to celebrate after a big win?
After a win I like to thank everyone who helped make it possible. It takes a village to make wins happen and it’s important to appreciate those who helped.
What has showing livestock taught you?
Showing livestock has taught me to be consistent, grateful, and determined. When you keep working at your goals consistently, grateful for those who help you, usually things go right and something good comes out of it.
What’s your biggest dream?
My biggest dream is to win the market and commercial show at a major show.
What’s your lambs name? and what made him/her so special?
My ewes name is Loretta, she is definitely special to us because she’s been our go-to ewe to haul to lots of shows this year and she always seems to be happy to go. She oddly enjoys going to shows
Who do you look up to?
I look up to my parents most because they have taught me the most about life and given me the opportunities to pursue my passions. I also look up to the Hild family and Brycen Stark because they have taught me the most about showing sheep and are always there when I need help.
