Livestock Judging Team Completes Intensive Summer Practice

The Allen Community College Livestock Judging Team wrapped up a rigorous weeklong summer practice session from August 11–15, preparing for the upcoming competitive season. The freshmen team of, Candace Ashlock, Macey Lewis, Alexis Kincaid, Shaun McLaughlin, Colby Troxel, and Sheldon Weber — traveled across three states to hone their judging skills.

The week began at the Iowa State Fair in Des Moines, Iowa, where the team spent three days observing multiple livestock shows and studying judges’ critiques across species. They practiced on 13 classes of cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs in a private session exclusive to Allen Community College.

On August 14, the team joined a group workout at the Inter-State Fair in Coffeyville, Kansas, alongside colleges and universities from Oklahoma and Kansas. There, they judged 10 classes of livestock across all four species.

The final leg of the practice took place at the Missouri State Fair in Sedalia, Missouri, on August 15. Allen’s team participated in a collaborative workout with institutions from Arkansas, Oklahoma, Texas, and Kansas, focusing on nine classes of pigs. The day concluded with a shrimp boil dinner sponsored by Judging Pro.com, fostering camaraderie among participants.

Coach Rhett Taylor praised the team’s dedication: “This group of freshmen showed tremendous commitment and growth throughout the week. Their enthusiasm and work ethic set a strong foundation for the season ahead.”

By the end of the week, the team had marked 32 judging cards and delivered four sets of oral reasons, demonstrating their readiness for future competitions.

Allen Community College provides quality educational and support services in an atmosphere that is caring, safe, and conducive to learning.