We caught up with State Fair of Texas Market Goat Judge, Jessup Yeaman, to ask him a few questions before he steps “INSIDE THE RING”!
Who got you involved in the industry and how?
My grandparents and parents got me involved in agriculture from an early age. My grandparents ranched for living and I worked with them for years and even managed their operation while in high school after a major health event ended my grandfathers ability to ranch. Russell Kott was my county agent when I was growing up and he did a great job of introducing us to the show stock side of things as well.
Where did you grow up?
Rocksprings, TX, which is in the southwestern part of the state.
Did you show livestock growing up? If so, what species?
I showed a few goats and lambs growing up and learned a good deal from those experiences, but honestly the projects were an after thought compared to my responsibilities on the ranch during high school.
Do you have a favorite animal that you have ever judged? if so, what was it?
I’ve been fortunate enough to get to sort through lots of high quality sets of livestock, so it’s really difficult to pick a single animal as a favorite. One that really sticks out to me to this day though is the wether I used to win the Houston market goat show in 2013. That one was really special in terms of his massive build that he combined with balance and proportionality. He was ahead of his time.
THIS OR THAT
Judging with Music on vs Judging in Silence
Silence
Judging Does or Judging Wethers
Wethers
Judging State Fairs or Judging National Shows
Nationals
