San Antonio Stock Show Spotlight: Junior Heifer Exhibitors Build Bonds While Chasing the Banner

Three junior heifer exhibitors continue their trek through the Texas Swing at the San Antonio Stock Show, balancing competition, friendship, and life on the road.

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS (RFD NEWS) — The Texas stock show swing is officially underway, and the San Antonio Stock Show is serving as a key stop for junior exhibitors competing on one of the state’s biggest stages.

A close-knit group of friends is showing heifers in San Antonio before loading up and heading to their next destination on the circuit. Kirbe Schnoor takes us behind the scenes to highlight the long days, early mornings, and dedication it takes to compete—along with the memories being made along the way.

The spotlight features Kylee Gaston of Eastland, Texas; Annabelle Vander May of Glen Rose, Texas; and Karsyn Pack of Stephenville, Texas, who are balancing competition, camaraderie, and the demands of life on the road during the heart of stock show season.

All this week, catch live coverage from the San Antonio Stock Show on RFD+, showcasing youth exhibitors, livestock events, and the next generation of agriculture in action.

Related Stories
UNL Extension’s Troy Walz discusses the Nebraska Ranch Practicum, where sessions are held, how producers can get involved, and what ranchers can gain from participating in the program.
The Ranger Road Fire in the Oklahoma Panhandle is now 65% contained after burning nearly 300,000 acres over the past week. Kevin Charleston of Specialty Risk Insurance Agency discusses wildfire recovery, livestock insurance considerations, and the importance of preparedness for producers across the Southern Plains.
Higher output keeps milk supplies ample, reinforcing expectations for softer dairy prices even as feed costs remain favorable.
Singer-songwriter and RanchHER Clare Dunn reflects on the importance of National FFA Week, her time in FFA, and her commitment to advocating for agriculture and rural issues.
Border closures tied to the threat of New World Screwworm continue to stall Mexican fed cattle imports, tightening U.S. feeder cattle supplies over time — triggering feedlot closures that hinder herd rebuilding efforts, threaten the beef supply chain, and shrink production while consumer prices stay elevated.
FFA Western Region Vice President Jael Cruikshank talks about the importance of community service and how National FFA Organization members are making a difference in their communities during National FFA Week.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Alan Bjerga of the National Milk Producers Federation discusses the Dairy Margin Coverage program, recent improvements, and what producers need to know ahead of this week’s enrollment deadline.
William Lee Golden joined us to talk about his farming roots, his storied career with the Oak Ridge Boys, and how his new book and music continue to reflect the values that have guided him throughout his life and career.
Glyphosate and phosphorus are deemed critical to U.S. national defense, ensuring farmers’ access while signaling a shift toward regenerative agriculture. RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney shares insight on the Trump Administration’s move and what it could mean for U.S. farmers moving forward.
Claire Woeppel, Central Region Vice President with the National FFA Organization, joined us to discuss Alumni Day, the lasting impact of FFA supporters, and why honoring that legacy matters during National FFA Week.
Ag leaders say President Donald Trump’s State of the Union is unlikely to spark major agriculture headlines, but ongoing tariff uncertainty and trade policy remain key concerns, as does the debate around glyphosate and the status of the next Farm Bill.
Cotton jassid, a invasive pest, is raising concerns for Southeast cotton growers as experts work to understand its impact this season.