Brad Mabry

Ohio State Fair – Purebred Gilts

In your opinion, what is the most challenging thing when judging shows?
Seeing myself in the kids that are barely making the cut and placing near the bottom. That’s who I was when I was showing as a kid. I know what that feels like, and it can feel insignificant at times. I wish I had the time to visit and encourage the bottom of the classes. All the attention is at the top, but it’s most needed at the bottom.

What is a nonnegotiable for you when judging?
Squareness of chest and body shape.

What is the most memorable show you’ve sorted?
The Black and Gold Jackpot Show years ago. It was in December of 2016. It was an incredible assembly of livestock. Cruel Intentions’ mother was the Grand Champion. Almost every breed champion was a breed champion at the Texas majors. It was intimidating and a blast to sort.

When someone says that’s a “Brad Mabry” pig, what qualities does it have?
Good-built, correct maturity pattern.

Biggest pet peeve in the ring?
I really don’t have pet peeves around kids—they are kids. My pet peeve comes from the 10 feet around the ring: parents yelling at kids how to show. Watching their faces change from focus to frustration is something only I can see.

Lemonade Shake Up or tea?
Tea

Elephant ear or funnel cake?
Funnel cake

Carnival rides or carnival games?
Carnival games

Big slide or Ferris wheel?
Big slide

Corn dog or hamburger?
Corn dog