We caught up with Ms. Victoria Kovacs, exhibitor of the Grand Champion Commercial Ewe at the 2026 Ohio State Fair. Learn a little more about Victoria below!
How long have you been showing sheep?
I’ve been showing sheep since I was four years old, so sheep have pretty much been a part of my life for as long as I can remember! I was raised showing breeding sheep, and this is my third year showing market lambs. It’s been a really fun challenge getting to experience a different side of the sheep industry!
What was your favorite thing about this lamb?
My favorite thing about “Bad Bunny” is definitely her walk! For how stout she is, she carries herself incredibly well off her feet and legs. She also has only one speed in the show ring—we call it the ‘Bunny Walk.’ She’s definitely not in a hurry, but that slow, steady walk has become a running joke with my show crew!
Go-to “hype” song on show day?
I usually don’t listen to much music on show day, but if anything by Justin Bieber comes on, it puts everybody in a good mood!
What goes through your head when you are in the show ring?
Most of the time, I honestly just blank out! I’m usually thinking, ‘Hopefully they look good,’ while also trying to decipher whatever Adam is signaling from the sidelines. The only problem is, I’m about half blind when it comes to finding people ringside, so sometimes I’m just hoping I’m looking at the right person!
When prepping for a show, what is something that is a “must-have” in the show box?
Definitely Gold Dust and 3hrs Out! I’m a firm believer that both products can make a huge difference when they’re used correctly on the livestock. They’re definitely two things I don’t want to show up without!
What is your favorite motivational quote?
“‘Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.’”— Theodore Roosevelt.
That’s one of my favorite quotes because I can’t control everything that happens, but I can control the work I put in. I just try to make the most of every opportunity and give it everything I have.
