We caught up with goat showmanship judge Caley Mayo before she steps “Inside the Ring” at the New Year Nationals. We invite you to read our candid interview with Caley below and please continue to check back often for our next edition of “Inside the Ring – Showmanship Edition”
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What is the hardest to decide on, while judging showmanship?
For me, judging showmanship is entirely subjective to the individual on the mic. Not everyone is going to like the same style or agree on the same showman to win, but the basic fundamentals are always there. As long as there is a showman in the ring I would be confident to hand my own stock to and not worry about them getting the job done, the decision is easy for me.
What do you think is the biggest struggle in the ring with this generation of showman?
I think the biggest struggle I see in the ring is simply being confident in their ability to perform. From all angles- ring side or on the mic- I see the nerves get the best of some of the best showmen out there. As a parent or coach, we naturally want to see our kids succeed, so we tend to be hard on them and coach harder when we think they have a chance to win. Staying mindful of this, especially in showmanship, is way more beneficial to their confidence and focus in the ring. There’s not a bigger pet peeve of mine than a showman who is more focused ringside than on the job at hand.
Is it hard for you to judge wether showmanship vs doe showmanship? Or how do you feel about it?
In my opinion, doe showmanship and wether showmanship are two different horse races in the same ring, and the best two showmen could be showing their animals in each respective style. There is a time and place for both, but at the end of the day, if that showman knows the flaws in their animal and can show them out with whatever style does that BEST- then that is all I can ask for and look for as an evaluator.
Flying or Driving?
Whichever way gets me there fastest- with the best snacks!
Halter or Chains?
Halter or chain doesn’t make a difference to me. It’s 2022, as long as the goats move well and show well I’m all for either.
Favorite Sport Team?
Oklahoma State Cowboys! Go pokes!
