We caught up with Mr. Ben Cooley before he steps “Inside the Ring” to sort the Market & Prospect Hog Show at the 2024 American Royal Spring Youth Livestock Show. Learn more about Ben below!

Tell us a little about yourself and your background in the ag industry?
I grew up through the 4-H program showing livestock so it’s been a part of my life from an early age. Competitive livestock judging in college took my interests to another level and really enhanced my interests in the agricultural industry. In the past I’ve been a Cooperative Extension Agent, Collegiate Livestock Judging Coach and Animal Science Professor at Northeastern Junior College, a Feed Sales Specialist and currently I work for Zoetis where I’m a Beef Livestock Production Specialist. I am also the co-owner of Flatland Show Pigs where we run 70 sows.

What are you looking forward to most about judging this show?
I think because it’s the inaugural Spring American Royal, I feel a sense of pride and excitement that I was asked to judge the first one. I want to help make this a great experience for everyone involved.

Any expectations going into it?
The quality of the livestock will undoubtedly be top notch and of course a very fun and professional atmosphere.

What is a nonnegotiable for you when sorting hog shows?
I try not to single trait hate on a pig because the current environment of so many wild traits in these animals, dictates you have to comprise a little from class to class. However, anyone who knows me, I start with a good skeleton and build on extras from there.

Favorite hotel chain to stay in while at shows?
Hilton

What are you looking forward to in 2024?
Being in our new facility for the entire year. It’s been great so far!

Boots or Comfortable Dress Shoes
Boots

Prepared Grand Drive Speech or Wing It
Prepared

Flying or Driving
Flying

Fist Bump or Handshake
Fist Bump