We caught up with California State Fair Junior Goat and Wether Dam Doe Judge, Brad Horner, to ask him a few questions before he steps “INSIDE THE RING”!
Who got you involved in the industry and how?
I grew up in the livestock industry from the start. My Dad, Dick Horner, raised Angus cattle and Yorkshire hogs and made the transition into raising show lambs because of a joke by his college roommate in 1985.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Mason City, IL until the fifth grade. We then, due to my Dads career, made a move to Vandalia, IL. I lived there until about 10 years ago when we moved to Newton, IL.
Did you show livestock growing up? If so, what species?
Yes I did. I grew up showing market hogs. I actually won the Illinois State Fair when I was 5 years old with a Yorkshire barrow my Dad raised and have been hooked ever since. Throughout my showing career, I also showed cattle and market lambs.
Do you have a favorite animal that you have ever judged? if so, what was it?
I have had the opportunity to judge a lot of very good livestock, of multiple species. With that being said, the Grand Champion market goat at NAILE that I chose was a creature for that time.
THIS OR THAT
Judging with Music on vs Judging in Silence
Music
Judging Does or Judging Wethers
Wethers
Judging State Fairs or Judging National Shows
State Fairs
We caught up with showmanship judge Brad Horner before he steps “Inside the Ring” at the California State Fair. We invite you to read our candid interview with Brad below and please continue to check back often for our next edition of “Inside the Ring – Showmanship Edition”
Sponsored by Leggett’s You Gotta Believe Livestock Camps
What is your background in the livestock industry?
I grew up raising and showing livestock across the country since I was 5 years old. I have judged shows in 31 states. With my wife Sarah and 3 sons Cole, Maddox and Maverik, we own and operate Horner livestock, we have raised cattle, hogs and now our emphasis is on competitive market lambs.
What is the #1 pet peeve you have in while in the ring?
Picking the front legs up off the ground while set up on the profile.
How do you feel about switching exhibitors and stock?
I don’t do it. I can understand the guys position that do, but I want to see who has spent the time at home with their project and see how they mesh together in the ring.
Halter or Chain?
It absolutely doesn’t matter to me. Figure out what your goat responds to the best and is the most comfortable with to give you the largest advantage in the showring.
Favorite Steakhouse (Or Restaurant)?
I travel a lot for work so I always look for the local restaurants. In California, Wool Growers Restaurant in Bakersfield is legit.
Favorite College Sports Team
Baseball – Mississippi State
Football – Ohio State
Basketball – Illinois Fighting Illini
What is your Dream Vacation?
Fiji
