We Caught up with Miss, Rachel Leary exhibitor of the Champion Overall Crossbred Gilt at The 2023 Team Purebred National Jr Show. Learn more about Rachel below…

Age: 17

Grade: 12

Tell us a little about your champion:
My crossbred gilt, Robin, is one of the sweetest pigs I have ever had. She has always had a great personality and is one of my favorite pigs to show. She’ll always have a special place in my heart and I hope she has an amazing life when we have to say goodbye.

What do your days leading up to a show look like?
Depending on the pig, I will walk my animals at least 30 minutes a day and make sure they are well watered and fed. I’ll also make sure their skin has been cared for and that they are bathed the day of the show.

Describe the moment you were selected as a champion.After driving Robin in the pen for a while, I had noticed that out of the three pigs left in the ring, the judges had been watching mine the most. This could have been either good or bad news, but when they announced me as the Champion, I couldn’t help but grin. I was so proud of Robin for showing so good under the circumstances and for being such a good pig.

Do you prefer summer or winter shows? Why?
I have only ever been to summer shows, but I would imagine that they would still be my favorite between the two. I love winter, but having nice, sunny days to walk your pigs in is pretty amazing.

Who’s been your biggest influence?
My biggest influence is my dad. I love spending time with him and taking care of our pigs together. We both like to work hard and care for the things we love by dedicating our time to make things better. My dad is one of my biggest role models and I’m so grateful to have such a supportive person in my life.

Do you and your family raise pigs?
My dad used to raid pigs before I was born and stopped to help raise me. We tried to breed one of my showpigs from last year in an insulated shed we built in our barn, which resulted in some very cute piglets, one of which we kept for showing this year. While this was a very educational experience, I am happy to shop for showpigs with my dad rather than raise them.

What’s your favorite thing to do in the barn?
My favorite thing to do in the barn is to rinse my pigs down on a hot day. I like being with my animals and giving them some comfort when I can.

What’s your favorite thing to do in the summer?
My favorite thing to do in the summer is show pigs. I don’t always like all the work but I always love the animals that I get to take care of and love.