Mic’d Up – Brad Mortensen
Brad Mortensen
Kent City, Michigan • The Exposition Purebred Barrows
What part of the show are you looking forward to the most and why?
Honestly, I would have to say being back in the ring at the great Iowa State Fairgrounds. It’s where it all started for the WPX, and it still has that iconic feel to it.
What’s one thing you can’t go without when judging a show?
Probably caffeine and mints.
But I should probably go with an herbal tea since my voice gets hoarse after about two minutes 😂
Your favorite national summer show memory?
It would have to be years ago. I think I was going into my sophomore year in college and Al Snedegar was judging the Yorks at WPX. He asked me to be his associate judge. Back then that was not a common thing, and although I was just in there to observe, it was one of his true teaching moments.
Besides shows, what’s something else you look forward to during the summer?
Spending as much time as I can in the warm weather. I ask myself all the time why I live in this state of Michigan. I hate being cold, but on a serious note, probably seeing the new crop of summer pigs. There is always excitement to see if matings worked.
Pool or lake?
Pool
Lemonade or iced tea?
Iced tea
Baseball or golf?
Baseball
Ice cream or popsicles?
Ice cream
Mic’d Up – Cody Hayes
Cody Hayes
Fenton, Louisiana • The Exposition Purebred Barrows
What part of the show are you looking forward to the most and why?
I am looking forward to the Grand Drive. This has become an amazing tradition that I look forward to watching each year. Being able to work with kids from all across the country is another highlight I am looking forward to this year.
What’s one thing you can’t go without when judging a show?
I can’t go without my Johnson & Murphy dress shoes.
Your favorite national summer show memory?
There is not one specific moment, but the entire experience for my family is the people we have met. My boys have made lifelong friends that they wouldn’t have otherwise. These are friends they will have for a lifetime, and those are the best memories to make.
Besides shows, what’s something else you look forward to during the summer?
I love watching my son Gage play baseball in the summer. It is something my wife and I look forward to. Another highlight is harvesting rice. This is a family affair that both my boys help with.
Pool or lake?
Lake
Lemonade or iced tea?
Lemonade
Baseball or golf?
Baseball
Ice cream or popsicles?
Ice cream
Exhibitor Spotlight
Bryleigh Beyers
Some of the most memorable showpigs aren’t always the easiest ones, and Bryleigh Beyers said “Little Moyer” fit that description perfectly — a little green, a little stubborn, and one of her favorites from the very beginning.
Tell us a little bit about your champion:
My barrow, Little Moyer, was raised by Moyer Genetic Edge. He was one of the last ones we brought into the barn, and from the start he always had a little bit of an attitude and was a little greener than the rest. I have to admit, though, he was one of my favorites.
Who is somebody that helped you achieve this win?
First of all, I have to thank God for His hand in making everything come together on the day it needed to for this barrow. I thank my family for helping me achieve this win. I also can’t go without thanking Reese. She has been through it all with me. Between the late nights, early mornings, and tough days, we’ve made more memories than I can count. This was her last year getting to do this with me, and it was truly bittersweet watching her leave. I know she has so much ahead of her, and I can’t wait to see where life takes her next.
What was the most challenging homework you had to make up?
Definitely Spanish. Let’s just say I have two years under my belt, and the only thing I can confidently say is, “Me llamo Bryleigh.”
What was a challenge you had to overcome with your champion or at the show?
The biggest challenge was making sure he had enough room to fill out at the end while still staying within weight range. It took a lot of patience in the days leading up to the show, hoping and praying he stayed right where he needed to be.
What’s your go-to snack in the snack tub?
Chewy granola bars. They’re perfect for holding you over, especially when you’ve been up for three hours and still haven’t had breakfast.
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