Stock Show Spotlight: San Antonio Wraps Up, But Young Exhibitors Are Already Looking Ahead

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.

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS (RFD NEWS) — The San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo has officially wrapped up for the year, but the excitement surrounding the event is far from over. For exhibitors, the show represents months of preparation, dedication, and hard work that often begins well before the first animal ever enters the ring.

Kirbe Schnoor caught up with a young stock show participant, Abigail Smelley, who has been putting in the work since last fall, highlighting the commitment required to compete at one of the nation’s largest livestock exhibitions.

Organizers say the next San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo will return in February 2027.

Related Stories
After years of showing livestock, Gosda reflects on the bond and responsibility of taking care of her cattle
Houston competitor Ainslea Hayes shares what it takes to compete in the ring and carry on a family legacy
Young exhibitors balance school and months of preparation as they compete at one of Texas’s largest livestock events.
The annual event blends livestock shows, youth competitions, and family-friendly attractions in the heart of Austin
The Biden Administration launched the Increasing Land, Capital, and Market Access (ILCMA) program in 2023 to help underserved farmers facing barriers to land ownership.
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer provided guidance on navigating the R&D tax credit, emphasizing record-keeping, eligibility, and maximizing potential savings as crop margins remain the key pressure point for farmers.

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:

K-State’s Dr. Gregg Ibendahl breaks down the impacts of the Middle East ceasefire on energy markets and input costs, and what farmers should watch in the weeks ahead.
CME Group Executive Director of Ag Research Fred Seamon discusses the recent rise in farmer sentiment highlighted in the March Ag Economy Barometer report.
Faster approvals could speed projects, but may face scrutiny.
Data centers may compete with farms for key resources.
Catch the double-episode premiere of Prairie Prophets, Tuesday night at 9 PM ET on RFD Network and RFD+
Strong corn and China-driven demand support the pace of U.S. grain exports. RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney discusses Canada-China agricultural trade talks.