We Caught up with Ms. Calla Higbie, exhibitor of the Supreme Champion Gilt at the 2024 Kansas State Fair. Learn more about Calla below..

What do you do to overcome your obstacles?
Overcoming obstacles has been something I have had to do a lot of over the past two years. Everyone experiences obstacles throughout the duration of their lives. I have experienced a fair share of them throughout my short life. However, I have found there is no problem too big or obstacle too large to stop my God. I overcome my obstacles and greatest adversities through Him. I believe the Lord puts obstacles in our paths to show us that we can overcome them through the strength He gives us. By trusting in Him, I believe I can overcome any obstacle life throws my way.

What is your favorite thing about your animal?
My favorite thing about Raquel is her sweet disposition. She has been my barn favorite since day one. I have used her for showmanship at every show I have attended this year. I truly believe you cannot be successful without a good partner, and she definitely played her part every time, even helping me win showmanship at National Junior Summer Spectacular in Louisville.

What is one thing you had to overcome together?
I have not really had to overcome anything with this particular gilt. She has pretty much been perfect since the beginning. She’s the kind we all dream of – an extremely easy feeder and one that maintained herself almost effortlessly throughout the show season.

What is at the top of your bucket list?
There’s a lot on my bucket list when it comes to the ag industry. When it comes to winning something, I would say what I want to achieve the most is winning national livestock judging contests. I believe there is more to showing the livestock than just entering a ring. It is important to become a true evaluator and an all-around stockman if you want to be successful and really have a grasp on the industry. Livestock judges combine all the skills I’ve gleaned over the years – being a breeder, knowing what they are looking for in and out of the show ring and being a stockman who can think critically, defend my thoughts and positions orally, and one who can evaluate livestock at the highest level.

Favorite snack?
My favorite snack is the to-go pickles called “Oh Snap” that they sell in gas stations. For some reason they taste so much better than other pickles and I love grabbing them on the road to shows.

Favorite show day breakfast?
My favorite breakfast food is biscuits and gravy. You just can’t beat that.