Hanging Banners

 

If you show livestock in this great country, a big goal is to hang banners. You want to hang the biggest banners from the top shows. It is a fun time when you win a show. Not going to lie, the thrill is outstanding. What is important is the blood, sweat, and tears you put into those banners. That time you have with your family and friends is invaluable. 

If you want to hang a big banner in Texas, you have a few shots at it. There are plenty of major shows and opportunities to chase those banners. There is still a small elite club of animals and people. At the Fort Worth Stock show this year there were over 1800 junior heifers walking through the rings. Most breeds have over 100 head of cattle in each breed. They picked 15 champions. 

Texas is unique in its size and scope of cattle, breeders, opportunities, and focus on its youth. Last year we had a few people pick up the reins and put on Cowgirls in Cowtown and The Patriot steer show. 2 outstanding shows and if they were to continue, they would be huge major shows. We also have 5 different State Fair opportunities in addition to the multiple majors.

When you walk away from a show and you don’t hang a banner, you just have to put it all in perspective. Remember, it is one show, one opinion, and one day. There will be more days to hang banners. 

Success though comes in many forms, not just hanging banners. Showing in a major show and it only being your 6th time in the ring and you place the top half of your class, that is a good day. When you bring your homegrown calf and you win a class or division, that is a good day. Making the sale with a steer that was home grown or your neighbor raised is success. When you make connections for new opportunities of buying livestock, selling livestock, or getting help with yours that is a good day.

Even though you will not always hang a banner, that doesn’t mean you failed. That means you have more work to do, more patience has been gained, and a better understanding of what you want out of your livestock and kids. Keep chasing those banners. You will hang them all if you want. Every dream is attainable if you work at it. 

“Banners fade, buckles tarnish, and show boxes wear out. None of it is worth more than the friends and memories I made growing up showing livestock.” -Jeremy Workman