Being more competitive

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rookiepig
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Joined: Sun Jan 22, 2017 2:15 pm

Being more competitive

Post by rookiepig » Sun Jan 22, 2017 2:25 pm

I showed when I was in school and decided to let my kids. I think the lessons they learn is the most important but I'm also very competitive. This year I decided to try and do it right and spent the money and went all out. We are doing ok, and don't want to sound like a sore loser,but it seems like the same ones always win? We show well and put in the time but it seems like every judge is different and half the time what they say is hard to understand. Any suggestions or ideas on good websites, videos, reading material etc? Everyone thinks their way is the best. Is there a standard on what a show pig should look like? Thanks for any opinion.

gobigorgohome
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Joined: Mon Sep 21, 2015 12:41 pm

Re: Being more competitive

Post by gobigorgohome » Wed Jan 25, 2017 1:23 pm

Unfortunately every judge is different and has different opinions on what they like. Some like them more muscled, some prefer more finish. We have always tried to buy two similar pigs to raise, but this year we opted to buy two completely different pigs. One was more square made and muscular, while the other was much longer and lighter muscled. The more muscled pig placed 3rd in his class while the other won the show. This Judge liked them longer sided with "some" muscle definition. A lot of attention is paid to how pigs walk and their skeleton shape. The more muscled hogs tend to walk a little more short strided - and the judge docked them for that. I would suggest you go to shows and listen to what the judges say. After your kids show, talk to the Judge, ask his advice - usually they are happy to give it. But again, remember that every judge has his own opinion. I look at the "winner" pictures on breeders websites to see what is winning or placing high. I know next year we will be buying "different" hogs again - it just improves your chances of having what that judge likes.
Remember, as long as your kids are having fun and learning something - you are being successful!

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