HOUSTON, Texas (RFD News) — At the Houston Livestock Show, young exhibitors spend months preparing their animals while gaining hands-on experience in the agriculture industry. Ainslea Hayes is one of those competitors, coming from a long line of cattle producers.
Her family on her mother’s side has been raising Brahman cattle for more than 50 years, and now Hayes is continuing that tradition by showing steers and heifers.
RFD Network’s Kirbe Schnoor spoke with Hayes about what it takes to prepare for the ring.
“We have to figure out what the steer likes to eat, what’s going to make him look the best on show day, and we have to wait in the trailer line overnight,” Hayes said. “Then, moving in the next day, anywhere from 1 a.m. to noon, we get them set up. I’m definitely nervous being here.”
Hayes says the experience is about more than just competition. She also expressed gratitude for the buyers who support young exhibitors.
“To have people that are willing and ready to support young agriculturists like myself and others in this barn who are feeding America, and even the world, means a lot to me,” she said.
From Junior Heifer Shows to Mustang Magic competitions, the 23-day event brings together 4-H and FFA participants, livestock enthusiasts, and families to celebrate North Texas’ rich Western heritage.
