A Beginner's Guide for Showing Cattle

The Basics of Showmanship

The animal is the star of the show, but you should look your best, be well-mannered, and calmly confident at all times. If the show requires a dress code, you’ll want to find that out in advance of show day. If there is no dress code, a button down shirt tucked in with a belt, hard-toed shoes, and a generally clean, combed appearance is standard. Once in the ring, it’s time to let everyone see the results of all the hard work you’ve done. The ring should be big enough to allow everyone in the class adequate space, but that may not always be the case. Whenever possible, leave several feet between you and the handler in front of you. Don’t tailgate and don’t lag behind. Keep a steady pace consistent with the flow of everyone else. Do not pass the handler in front of you if they’re moving too slowly or their animal is unruly. It is acceptable to give the animal in front of you a gentle tap on the thigh if they’ve come to a halt. When you have the opportunity, make steady, confident eye contact with the judges. Even if you haven’t shown an animal before, try to appear like you have. Your calm confidence will be part of your overall presentation. Don’t be smug or overlyconfident in your appearance. Humility goes a long way. With any luck, you’ll take home a ribbon--maybe even top prize in your class. If you don’t happen to place this time, be thoughtful about what you can do next time to improve on your performance. At the end of the day, the judge’s decision is the judge’s decision. The best you can do is the best you can do--that’s usually enough to impress just about anyone.