Stock Show Spotlight: Heidi O’Quinn Puts Dedication on Display in Houston

Young exhibitors balance school and months of preparation as they compete at one of Texas’s largest livestock events.

HOUSTON, TEXAS (RFD News) — The Houston Livestock Show is bringing together young exhibitors from across the state, each showcasing months of hard work in the ring.

RFD Network’s Kirbe Schnoor was on the grounds, catching up with one exhibitor to get a closer look at what it takes to prepare for competition.

Student Heidi O’Quinn is no stranger to stock shows. Her most recent project, a Duroc pig, reflects months of daily care and commitment.

“It’s a lot of work. We get the pigs in August when they’re little bitty, and then it’s cool to watch them grow,” O’Quinn said. “We have to feed them morning and night. We have to oil them to get their skin looking good. It’s a lot of work.”

However, preparation doesn’t stop in the barn for O’Quinn.

O’Quinn says school remains a top priority, often requiring her to give up free time to stay on track with her studies.

“I have to take school very seriously. Sometimes I have to stay in during recess, but it’s okay because I love showing, and if it takes doing schoolwork and staying in at recess, I’ll do it,” she said.

This year, the Grand Champion Junior Market Steer was sold for $1.5 million dollars.

Related Stories
From barns to show rings, producers and students say that livestock events offer economic opportunity and life lessons. Let’s take a look at some shows across the southeast in Georgia, Virginia and Louisiana.
Held each year in Mercedes, the Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show remains a cornerstone event for the region — blending education, competition, and community, even during challenging times for agriculture.
Streaming LIVE March 12-28 only on RFD+
The San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo concluded last night, marking the end of another successful year showcasing youth exhibitors, livestock producers, and the spirit of agriculture.
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.

Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
The affable and unassuming international singing star Daniel O’Donnell is one of Ireland’s best known performers – from Australia to Alaska.
“Texas Our Texas” – a magical place. A place of land and legend. A place like no other. People come here to touch it, to feel the passion, to soak it in and be a part of it. Hosted by Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller. Let’s ride!
Celebrating 16 Consecutive Seasons on RFD Network! “The Penny Gilley Show,” starring “The Sweetheart of Country Music” herself, Penny Gilley.
Ray’s Roadhouse is a weekly program featuring the music of Ray Benson and Asleep at the Wheel. Ray and his band Asleep at the Wheel has had a more than 50 year career in the music industry and over the years have earned nine Grammy Awards. The program also will feature guest performers such as Pat Green, Stoney LaRue and Kelly Willis.
The Presley Family built Branson’s Original Show on the Strip. “Presleys’ Country Jubilee” was a smash hit, and people from across the country lined up every night for a chance to hear the country music and comedy the Presley Family loved to perform.