Junior Director Achieves Champion Honors and Competes in Premier Exhibitor at NWSS

California Pork Producers Association’s Junior Director Madelynn (Maddie) Gardner recently competed at the National Western Stock Show (NWSS) in Denver, Colorado, earning success not only in the ring, but also in goals she’s set over the years. Competing among top exhibitors from across the country, Maddie was named Champion Yorkshire with her market barrow, selected to compete in the Grand Drive, and chosen to participate in the Premier Exhibitor Interview Competition.

This achievement reflects not only excellence in the show ring, but a deep understanding of the pork industry and a commitment to leadership and advocacy.

Maddie’s journey in the show ring began early, starting to show pigs at just three years old in peewee showmanship, and has now evolved into competing for the past 13 years. Over that time, she has developed the skills, work ethic, and confidence that led to her success on one of the industry’s biggest stages.

“Showing at NWSS was such a core memory,” Maddie expressed. “Being one of the first to show in the CoBank Arena and make friends with industry leaders really showed that hard work pays off.”

Competing at the National Western Livestock Show requires more than simply entering pigs into the show. Maddie shared that the process begins in July with the official draw application, followed by DNA kit ordering, online entries, and verification of premise ID, PQA/YQCA certification, and 840 RFID tags. Qualifying for the Junior Livestock Sale places exhibitors among the top tier at NWSS, recognizing both animal quality and exhibitor excellence.

A special component of the National Western Livestock Show is the Premier Exhibitor Competition, a comprehensive program designed to challenge youth exhibitors beyond the show ring and highlight their overall livestock knowledge, communication skills, and industry professionalism. Participation in the Premier Exhibitor Competition is highly selective, with only exhibitors whose animals qualify for the Junior Livestock Sale being eligible, placing Maddie among a small group of competitors at the show. These exhibitors are evaluated on multiple components, including live animal placings, showmanship, a formal speech and an in person interview.

As part of the Premier Exhibitor Interview Competition, Maddie had the opportunity to present a formal speech highlighting the importance of Pork Quality Assurance (PQA) and the role it plays for both producers and consumers. During her interview, she spoke about:

·       The steps producers take to raise high-performing hogs

·       Daily swine care and animal well-being

·       Pork production standards before products reach the consumer

Her ability to confidently articulate these topics reflects the growing importance of youth leaders who not only excel in the show ring but can also advocate for modern animal agriculture and the pork industry as a whole.

“Years ago, I made a bucket list of shows to attend, NWSS was at the top of my list. Not only making the draw, but being selected as Champion Yorkshire was surreal,” Maddie shared. “I was beyond grateful and proud of myself to be able to walk the green turf that night, as well as compete in the interview competition.”

Alongside her fellow CPPA Junior Directors, Maddie will continue to help educate exhibitors, promote responsible production practices like Pork Quality Assurance, and serve as a knowledgeable advocate for pork to consumers across California. CPPA’s commitment to the Junior Director program will continue in developing youth leaders who are prepared to represent the pork industry with confidence, knowledge, and professionalism.

Congratulations to Maddie on her accomplishments at the National Western Livestock Show. California Pork Producers Association is wishing you well in the Premiere Exhibitor Competition results which should be announced this month.