Phoenix, Arizona – May 1, 2026 – The Top Judge Livestock Mentor Program, dedicated to developing the next generation of skilled livestock judges, partnered with the Arizona National Livestock Show in 2025 to provide hands-on mentorship and real
world judging experience. The program, which paired aspiring judges with experienced industry professionals, focused on livestock evaluation, oral reasons, decision-making, and professional development.
That year, the Arizona National Livestock Show, a proud sponsor of the Top Judge program, supported its mission by inviting two members of the inaugural Top Judge class to serve as associate judges for the sheep and goat shows. Gunner, a Texas A&M graduate with extensive livestock judging experience, and Ashlyn O’Brien, an Academic All-American from Oklahoma State University, gained practical judging experience while contributing to the success of the competitions. Their participation highlighted the program’s emphasis on combining technical skill development with professional growth.
“Partnering with Top Judge allowed us to invest in the future of livestock judging and the next generation of agricultural leaders,” said Tyler Grandil, Executive Director of the Arizona National Livestock Show. “We were proud to support these talented young mentors and provide them with opportunities to gain experience at one of the country’s premier livestock shows.”
About the Arizona National Livestock Show
The Arizona National Livestock Show, held December 27-31 at the Arizona State Fairgrounds in Phoenix, brings together farmers, ranchers, and families from across the country to celebrate agriculture through livestock competitions, rodeo events, and youth programs. Highlights include the Ranch Rodeo, Stockdog Trials, livestock judging contests, and the new Welding Competition.
For more information about contests and entry details, visit www.aznational.org or contact the Arizona National Livestock Show office at (602) 258-8568 or information@aznational.org.
Media Contact:
Tyler Grandil
Executive Director
Arizona National Livestock Show
1826 West McDowell Road, Phoenix, AZ 85007-1696
Phone: (602) 258-8568
Email: information@aznational.org
Website: www.aznational.org
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