We caught up with Mr. Drake Fletcher, exhibitor of the 2020 3rd Overall Team Purebred Gilt at the National Junior Show. Learn a little more about Drake below!

Age: 17

Hometown: Athens, IL (Athens High School)

With this being one of the major shows of the summer, explain how excited were you to take home a Top 5?
I was beyond excited to be able to step into the ring and be named 3rd overall. As I was caught up in the moment it wasn’t as much about being in the grand drive as it was to just being able to attend a show, hanging out with friends and having a feel of normalcy!

What was something new you tried this year since you were able to be home more often than normal?
One thing I tried this year is seeing what schedule best fits each pig. For example I have found that one may perform better walking during the day and the other mag react better in the morning, night and vice versa. I think that this has helped each individual pigs eating habits and all around functionality.

What is your favorite show product to use?
I could bounce around on a lot of products depending on the situation, but as of right now my favorite product would have to be Sullivan’s hydrator.

When I grow up I want to be…
When I grow up I plan to be involved in the stock show industry, I want to work in animal nutrition and help create new supplements for the stock show industry’s needs.

Showing animals has helped me to develop…
showing livestock has helped me in more ways then I could have ever imagined. I think the one thing that it has taught me the most is that it is going to take all you have to achieve your goals, there will be no way of getting into the grand drive cutting corners and taking breaks. In all the times you may think that it’s not possible it is your job to make it a reality.

What’s your favorite barn chore:
My favorite barn chore is working on skin and hair, and seeing one become so fresh and appealing.

Who is the person you look to for advice right before you go in the ring for that last minute pep talk or pointer:
The one person I can always turn to before I step in the ring is Ben Bobell.

Favorite celebration restaurant after a good day at the show:
My favorite restraint to celebrate would be Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse.

Favorite Song or Singer:
Parker McCollum