We caught up with goat showmanship judge Levi Criswell before she steps “Inside the Ring” at the Michigan Livestock Expo. We invite you to read our candid interview with Levi 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 the hardest thing about judging showmanship?
Definitely differences in styles when showman who execute the way they get it done as flawless as each other. At the end of the day we all have a preference and consistency is always key. We’ve all experienced it, where you do a great job and come up just short.
Do you have a piece of advice for kids getting ready for their next showmanship class?
Like many, my involvement with showing livestock began at the local county fair. As I grew older and realized how much I enjoyed it, my family supported me to enter a few jackpots and eventually state fair and other larger shows became a part of our summer and fall schedules.
What is a quote you live by?
I try to always remind myself of a quote we frequently used in junior college at Redlands. “The harder you work, the luckier you get”. I think when breeding, trading or showing livestock there is no more truer quote.
Who do you want to thank for getting you here?
There are certainly more than a few people I’d like to thank: Mom and Dad for encouraging me to do what I enjoy. My 4-H Livestock judging coach, JoAnn Fogle, who knew she’d become my Mother-in-law someday. Dr. Kyle Culp for a live changing conversation in Harrisburg, PA 13 years ago.
Lastly my wife, Katie, for always taking care of the things at home while I’m away judging or checking on customers animals.
Music or Podcast
Podcast
Snow Cone or Ice Cream
Ice Cream