Showmanship is an event many cattle exhibitors look forward to during competitions. Unlike a traditional livestock class that compares the qualities of the animals, showmanship focuses on the individual exhibitor’s ability to handle and showcase their animal. To be a successful showman takes a lot of labor and time, but anyone can be successful if they are willing to be patient, practice, and work with their animal. 

For those wishing to improve their skills and become a winning showman, the following should be considered: 

Exhibitor Presentation and Positioning 

• Wear the proper attire. For example, 4-H or FFA official dress or a button-up shirt and black jeans. Always check the show rules for specific requirements. Proper attire includes proper footwear. Closed toed shoes or boots are a must.  

• Use a cattle show stick and plastic comb (cloth for slick cattle.) Keep your show stick in your left hand with the prong facing down. Don’t overuse! 

• Use a leather or phantom show halter. Match the color to your animal. 

• Don’t block the view of the judge and don’t stand in front of your animal. Pay attention to what the judge tells you and where he or she wants you to go. 

• Maintain a natural smile and make eye contact with the judge during showmanship. Be confident and stay calm. 

Figure 1: As the exhibitor, do not block the view of the judge. Have some space between you and your animal when you have them set up. (Photo Credit: Lizzie Whitehead, UF/IFAS Bradford County Extension) 

Animal Presentation and Positioning 

• Properly groom, clip and brush your animal before entering the arena. 

• Ensure the halter properly fits your animal. 

• Position the animal’s legs so it has: 

• Its head up and topline straight. 

• Offset rear legs. 

• Front legs parallel and directly under the shoulders. 

• Use the halter and show stick while positioning your animal, being careful to not rely too heavily on the show stick. Instead, have the animal take a step or two to get into the proper stance. 

Figure 2: Make sure your animal is positioned correctly with its head up, topline straight, front legs are parallel and directly under their shoulders, and the rear legs are offset. (Photo Credit: Shannon Kehoe Photography) 

Showmanship Etiquette 

• Be on time. 

• Know the rules. Each show is different. 

• Show good sportsmanship. Be respectful to competitors and judges. Be gracious when receiving feedback and results. 

• Maintain space from other animals and the edge of the arena when competing. 

• Keep your animal under control and clean up after your animal in the pens. 

Figure 3: Practice makes perfect! Attend showmanship clinics and prospect shows to get you and your animal experienced in the show ring. (Photo Credit: Cassidy Dossin, UF/IFAS Clay County Extension Agent) 

Good showmanship skills are developed and learned, but anyone can be successful. Have a plan for improvement and practice, practice, practice! Attend any showmanship clinics that you can take your animal to. Observe more experienced showmen and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Most importantly, enjoy the showing process. If you have fun and love what you do, you will already be a winner even before you step into the show ring. 

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