We caught up with Ms. Tristan Salopek, exhibitor of the Grand Champion Market Lamb at the 2023 New Mexico State Fair. Learn a little more about Tristan below!
Age: 15
Grade: Sophomore
How do you stay focused on reaching your goal?
Creating a good daily routine and working on it everyday
Do you show any other species besides sheep? If so, what other species?
I show pigs as well
What’s your favorite show? and why?
Definitely Arizona Nationals because it’s so relaxed and laid back but still super competitive
What do you do to celebrate after a big win?
Go out to eat with my family and the people who helped me accomplish my goals
What has showing livestock taught you?
It has taught me so much about hard work and dedication in so much in, and outside, of the show ring. It’s taught me how much work and effort is put into every win and loss. It definitely has made me appreciate the process a lot more and not just the successful days.
What’s your biggest dream?
To win a national show
What’s your lambs name? and what made him/her so special?
We called him Middlesworth because that’s his breeders name and we have given up on naming the lambs haha. He has always been super calm and had a sweet demeanor.
Who do you look up to?
A couple people I look up to would be first of all Jesus for every opportunity I’ve been given and so much more. I also look up to my parents. I don’t think they will ever know how grateful I am for them and how much they have taught me throughout the years. They have believed in me since day one and been my biggest supporters throughout everything.