We caught up with Ohio State Fair Open Goat Judge, Ryan Driskel, to ask him a few questions before he steps “INSIDE THE RING”!
What’s your biggest pet peeve while judging?
I’d say my biggest pet peeve is when the showman are more worried about the hand signals coming from outside the ring rather than being aware of the judge and their animal in the ring. I’m not saying I’m totally against some help from the outside because the perspective can be way different. Take care of your work at home and let it show inside the ring.
Who’s your biggest influence in evaluating livestock?
Man it’s hard to exactly narrow it down to one person. I’ve been fortunate enough to work with some of the sharpest livestock minds in the business. Getting to pick their brains during sale season or at the stands getting one ready has molded what I believe are my priorities when breaking down livestock.
Do you prefer to evaluate when goats are in motion or stuck on profile?
I like them things when they are on the move, prancing around like little show ponies gets me fired up. Not taking away from being stuck because that one that smacks you right in the chest prancing will typically prop up how a show goat should look.
In your mind, how has the industry changed in the show ring over the last 10 years?
In my opinion the industry progressed at such an alarming rate in the past 10 years. The goats these producers are making are incredible animals that are hard to construct and the showman are putting all the tools to use to create a highly competitive atmosphere. I think where the industry has came from and to where it’s heading is absolutely exciting to watch and be apart of.
