Market Beef Show Day Checklist: From Wash Rack to Ring

Show day has a way of exposing every small thing you forgot at home. The halter is in the truck, the show stick is in the barn, the entry number is in the glove box and the steer needs to be in the ring in twelve minutes. A checklist is not exciting, but it is the cheapest insurance you can buy, and it keeps the morning calm for the kid and the calf.

This guide gives a practical show day checklist for a market beef project, from packing the night before to the walk into the ring. Your show's rules and schedule come first, so read the fair book and the day sheet. If you want to find junior beef shows near you, agriculture.directory can help you find agriculture events in your area.

The Night Before

Check the show schedule, class order and ring times.
Pack the tack box, grooming gear and feed, using the list below.
Confirm entry papers, health papers, tags and any required forms.
Fill the truck with fuel and make sure the trailer is ready.
Give the steer his usual feed and water. Do not change the ration.
Set alarms and plan the morning.

The Show Box Checklist

Handling gear: show halter, extra halter, rope halter, lead, show stick if allowed.
Grooming: brushes, combs, blower or dryer, adhesive and finishing products allowed by the rules, towels, rags.
Washing: soap, buckets, sponges, a hose and nozzle, a scraper.
Clipping: clippers, extra blades, blade wash, oil, extension cord, extension cord reel, fan.
Feeding: feed pans, water buckets, feed scoop, hay and the steer's usual ration.
Papers: entry forms, tag numbers, health papers and any ID.
Exhibitor gear: clean show shirt, jeans, boots, belt, number holder or pins, hat if allowed.
Safety and comfort: first aid kit, water for people, sunscreen, snacks, chairs, a tarp.
Cleaning: shovel, fork, broom, trash bags, bedding.

Check your show's rules about what products and tools are allowed. Fitting rules, especially about adhesives and sprays, vary.

Arrival and Setup

Arrive early, and find your assigned stall or tie area.
Unload the steer calmly and let him settle.
Offer water and hay, and follow the barn rules.
Set up the stall, tack area and fan.
Check in at the office, weigh-in or inspection as required.

The National FFA Organization and 4-H programs emphasize responsibility and respect for the show, including cleanliness in the barn.

Weigh-In and Health Check

Know where and when the official weigh-in happens and who must be present. Bring the animal's papers and ID. Many shows inspect animals for health and eligibility, and animals showing signs of illness may be turned away. Keep the steer cool and calm in line.

Wash Rack and Grooming Timing

Plan your wash and grooming schedule around the class time, remembering that the wash rack can be crowded, so go early. Hair usually needs time to dry. Wash, rinse thoroughly, brush and blow dry as practiced at home. Final touches should come close to ring time. Use only products allowed by the rules, and keep the animal comfortable, not rushed.

Feed and Water on Show Day

Keep to the usual routine as much as possible. Offer water often, particularly in hot weather, and feed according to your plan. Do not try new feeds or supplements on show day. If your steer is nervous and off feed, give him time and keep hay available. Watch for signs of heat stress. Resources from Nebraska Beef and the Merck Veterinary Manual cover heat stress and care of cattle.

Before Entering the Ring

Check the class order, and be at the holding area on time.
Check your number, halter and show stick.
Do a last check of the steer's hair, feet and cleanliness.
Take a breath and review a few reminders: eyes on the judge, calm hands, steady pace.
Walk him a little to loosen him up.

In the Ring

Show to the judge, keep the steer set up and respond calmly to changes. Parents stay on the rail and keep quiet. Afterward, shake hands, congratulate others and lead the steer out. Whatever the placing, thank the judge and your family.

After the Class

Return the steer to his pen, and offer water and feed.
Clean the stall and the wash area.
Write down what went well and what to change.
Prepare for the premium sale or later events, if applicable.
Pack up carefully, and check that nothing is left behind.

Dad's Job

You are the pit crew, not the driver. Handle the truck, the trailer, the extension cords and the cooler. Keep track of the time. Keep your voice low. Let the kid run the show.

Common Mistakes

Forgetting something small. Use the checklist.
Changing feed on show day. Keep the routine.
Rushing the wash rack. Go early.
Ignoring the heat. Watch the steer.
Letting the barn get messy. Clean up as you go.

Farm.fm's page on ranching in Texas gives some background on beef country, and for a laugh, see farm.fm's humor piece on a county farm and ranch expo.