Oh how 7 years have flown by!
I didn’t grow up showing. I’d always watched my cousins do it, but I never really had the urge to join 4-H. That changed when I got to high school and discovered FFA I knew immediately it was my time to jump in. And I’m so glad I did.
FFA has shaped me in ways I’ll never be able to fully put into words. It’s made me who I am today.
Every year before the hog show, people would ask how I thought I’d do. And if you know me, you know I’m not big on expectations same way I was with sports. So I’d always say, “Well, I’m just hoping for top 10.”
I’m proud to say I met that goal and then some:
🏆 2 Grand Champions
🥈 2 Reserve Grand Champions
🎓 4 Senior Showmanship wins
👑 2 Senior Master Showmanship titles
🏅 1 Fifth Place
🏅 1 Sixth Place
None of it would’ve been possible without my dad. Thank you for the countless late nights researching, the long drives to pick up pigs, always trusting me with the final say, guiding me, and being my biggest supporter.
And to every family member and friend who ever helped out, gave advice, or simply showed up to cheer me on thank you.
Showing has helped pay for college, my car, and now it’s helping get me through school. I’m currently finishing my undergrad at WVSU in Sports Studies Pre-Professional, graduating this December. I’ve already applied to four Doctor of Physical Therapy schools now I’m just waiting to hear back.
Even though my time in the ring is over, I’m not going anywhere. As the oldest cousin and sibling, I’ll be around to help the next round whether it’s pigs or cattle (but fingers crossed someone sticks with pigs 🐷).
Here’s a look back at all 7 years:
Year 1 – Ms. Applewood 🍎
The beginning of it all. She gave me confidence from day one. My first year and already Reserve Grand Champion, 1st in Senior Showmanship, and a shot at Master Showmanship. Pretty sure she’s still my dad’s favorite!
Year 2 – Ms. Willow 🌳
The COVID year — no fair, just online sales. But we kept working. Willow was the spunkiest pig I ever had and made that tough year so much more fun.
Year 3 – Ms. Watermelon 🍉
Our backup hog who became a champion. My original hog broke down just two weeks before fair. Watermelon stepped up and won Grand Champion. Logan took Reserve — and they were actually littermates!
Year 4 – Ms. Betsy ♥️
My favorite pig ever. Sweet as could be and helped me earn my first Triple Crown: Grand Champion, 1st in Senior Showmanship, and Master Showmanship. Maybe even the first ever for the Putnam County Fair.
Year 5 – Ms. Hickory 🌳
A true learning year. We placed 5th and gained a ton of knowledge — especially about feeding strategies.
Year 6 – Ms. Berri 🫐
The prettiest hog I’ve ever shown — her markings were stunning. Berri earned Reserve Grand Champion, 1st in Senior Showmanship, and Master Showmanship! My second Triple Crown!
Year 7 – Ms. Pineapple 🍍
A dream hog. I wouldn’t change a thing. We placed 6th overall and won Senior Showmanship! I also competed in Master Showmanship one last time.
These years were more than just banners and buckles — they were life lessons, memories, and moments I’ll carry forever. 💙💛
- Kaylee Bowling
