We caught up with Mr. Dwayne Hurliman after he judged the Breeding Ewe Show at the 2025 Oklahoma Youth Expo. Check out his thoughts below…
Knowing how important females are, where did you lay your priorities while sorting the OYE Ewe Show?
Females are so extremely important. I built my whole sheep operation around outstanding females when I was raising sheep. My emphasis was on balance, rib shape, correct front ends, very good hip structure, nice condition, look good on the move and correct muscle shape.
Going forward into production, what trait would you protect your champion on?
I felt like both of the champion ewes were extremely complete. I feel this is what propelled them to be Champions. Think it will be extremely easy to find stud rams to breed these potential donors too.
What “sealed” the deal for you on your champion?
When the champion commercial won her class I knew she had a shot to win it all. Her balance, look and rib shape was so good. Then moved extremely well.
The purebred ewe once she won her breed I was pretty sure she would be very hard to beat for champion. She was so complete and would combine so many high quality features. I felt like she won the supreme ewe pretty handily.
What do you think this generation of showman needs to be more aware of?
If you want to win at the high level of competition. You have to be willing to out work everyone at home. Surround yourself with great people and be very thankful for all the help and sacrifices along the way.
What showman stood out to you? Why?
There was a small young blonde haired girl. Guessing maybe 9 years old. But she showed like she was 18. Extremely impressive young young lady. Very confident, poised, set legs, braced very well and lead her ewe out very nice.
It’s been a few years since you’ve raised sheep yourself, what has been the most intriguing part of the industry that has changed?
With the advancement of AI and ET work being done. It has aloud more people to use the hottest and newest genetics. So therefore the depth of quality has really increased.
If you could own one female, what would it be and why?
It would be the champion commercial ewe at 2025 OYE. She really emphasized what I look for in a future donor. High quality, very good balance, great skeleton outline with muscle shape and moves out extremely well.
What is one piece of advice you want to give all the senior showman that are finishing up their show career?
Live life with no regrets!!!
Give 100% in anything you do.
Chase every dream.
