We caught up with Mr. Justin Rodibaugh after he judged the Crossbred Gilt Show at the 2024 Arizona National. Check out his thoughts below…

What breed stood out as the toughest and deepest?
I judge a very good set of cross gilts on the second day of the Arizona National Livestock Show.

At what point did you know that your champion was your champion?
When two very good gilts both came in the same class – the third class of the heavy division.

What’s one thing you wish this generation of showmen needs to be more aware of?
1) Always remember to congratulate your peers for their success (even when they place better than yourself)
2)  Less is sometimes More!  (When getting your project show ready, keep your pig looking natural and don’t over-use paint, oil, adhesive, ect .. ect..ect  Less is sometimes More

When judging do you ever wonder what the pedigrees are on some of the animals or think I bet that one is a ……. ?
For sure, I think that is one of the fun things about this business being both a show judge and also a breeder.

Any funny encounters throughout the day?
None this time

What has been the biggest change in the ring since you were an exhibitor?
It’s been 21 years since I was an exhibitor, so a lot has changed in regards to showing pigs!  I would say the biggest change is just how much time, energy, and money is spent at home before you ever get to show day.