We caught up with Minnesota State Fair FFA Market Goat Judge, Cal Schultz, to ask him a few questions before he steps “INSIDE THE RING”!
What are you looking forward to the most while judging the show?
I grew up in Minnesota, so it means a lot to me that I’ve been blessed with the opportunity to come home and sort the livestock at a show that I spent several summers putting in long hours in the barn working towards. I was in those kid’s shoes only a few years ago, and to be given the chance to be on the other side of the mic at my home state fair means more to me than words can express.
What species did you show?
I showed cattle and goats throughout my 4H and FFA career, with a few years having some sheep in the barn as well
Who is one judge that left an impact on you? How did they do that?
The list is long, but individuals like Ryan Rathman, Taylor Frank, and Chris Mulinix are some of my favorites to watch judge. I love how they’re able to break down livestock to the smallest detail in a way that sounds professional and is easy to follow. My goal is someday to be able to replicate that in my own style while still interacting with the showman in a fun way.
What is one thing you stressed about as an exhibitor that didn’t matter?
I love to win as much as the next person, but knowing that all the wins and success is a byproduct of the person you’re becoming and the work you’re putting in is something I wish I understood sooner. Realistically, it’s just one judge’s opinion, and the only way to guarantee you’ll be happy with the end result is if you’re proud of the work you put in and the way you went about it.
