We caught up with San Angelo Stock Show Junior Boer Goat Judge, Charles Seely, to ask him a few questions before he steps “INSIDE THE RING”!
How did you get started in the livestock industry?
My start in the livestock industry came from my father, who was passionate about the swine industry and raised show pigs throughout the 80’s and 90’s. From this endeavor, he instilled into my siblings and I the importance of livestock that were not only high quality, but functional as well.
My first show animal was a duroc gilt that I showed at the HLSR Open Breeding Gilt Show when I was 7. Like many others, I am a product of the 4-H and FFA programs. During my youth livestock career, I was fortunate to have experienced exhibiting multiple species of livestock including hogs, chickens, cattle, sheep and goats.
Tell us about your career.
I currently work in the loan department at Citizens State Bank in the thriving metropolis of Somerville, TX. Before going into banking, I spent nine years as a County Extension Agent for 4-H & Youth Development.
I spent countless hours mentoring young people through livestock projects, coached livestock judging and quiz bowl teams, and offered educational opportunities for 4-H members and their families.
What is your all-time favorite show?
Growing up in the Southeast Texas area, there has always been something special about the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo. The green shavings, the bright lights, and the top notch facilities all make it a very special event.
What is your biggest show ring pet peeve?
As a judge, my biggest pet peeve would have to be holding the show up to wait on exhibitors that are late getting to the ring.
A FEW FUN QUESTIONS
What did you want to be when you were younger?
Ag Teacher
It’s Karaoke Night… What song are you singing?
“California Love” by Tupac or “Don’t Stop Believing” by Journey.
FAVORITES
Favorite Quote:
“It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.”
– Teddy Roosevelt
Favorite Vacation Spot:
My vacations usually have a stock show involved somehow.
Favorite Sports Team:
Houston Astros, Texans and Rockets
Favorite Singer/Band:
Randy Rogers Band
Favorite TV Show/Channel:
ESPN
