We Caught up with Mr. Hayden Everhart, exhibitor of the Reserve Champion Crossbred Barrow at The 2023 Exposition. Learn more about Hayden below…

Age: 11

Grade: 5th

Hometown: Middletown, IN

Tell us a little about your champion:
He‘s been special from the start. When I first saw him I told Dad that I needed to show him and was glad my brother Brody didn’t take take him. We call him Rodi since he came from Jom Rodibaugh’s farm and he’s been the nicest and calmest pig I’ve had.

What do your days leading up to a show look like?
We get each pig of the pen to walk, rinse, condition skin and put on foot cream. I clean pen front twice a day and make sure the pigs stay comfortable and healthy as possible.

Describe the moment you were selected as a champion.
I was so excited, and as he picked Rodi, I was so happy and glad the hard work had paid off. It was awesome to win at such a tough and competitive show like the Expo.

Do you prefer summer or winter shows? Why?
I like the summer shows because it’s fin to be outside and much easier than winter months which are very cold in Indiana.

Who’s been your biggest influence?
My Dad. He is always supporting me and helping me. He’s been teaching me and helping me learn more about feeding and how to evaluate pigs each year.

Do you and your family raise pigs?
My dad is a partner in Tres Amigos Showpigs so we get to help out there some in the year. I hope when I get older to have some sows of my own.

What’s your favorite thing to do in the barn?
I like spending time with my pigs and helping dad feed especially eggs. I also like the feeling of turning the lights out after a long night in the barn.

What’s your favorite thing to do in the summer?
I like going to National shows where I can play and hang out with all my friends. I also like to play basketball whenever I can and throw a football.