Stockjudging
What is stockjudging?
Stockjudging involves placing animals in an order and then giving your reasons to a judge. Some consider it an art form, but good stockjudging results from sound observation and an understanding of an animal's make-up. It also depends on being able to explain your choices simply and clearly.
Preparing to judge
- Always ensure you have a clean, white coat. Wear it at all times and keep it buttoned up.
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Before you start
- Establish what has to be judged - are you judging animals for breeding or for the butcher?
- Establish how long you have to judge the class.
- Read the judging card to establish the criteria against which you will be judged.
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Stand back
- Have a good look from a distance.
- Understand what you have to judge, its general appearance, type, etc.
- First impressions are often the best.
- Make a judgement by eye and confirm by careful handling.
- When judging livestock for slaughter refer to carcase quality and killing-out percentages.
- Don't rush in.
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Giving reasons
- Establish how long you have, usually two minutes are allowed.
- Memorise your reasons, as much as possible. Picturing the animals will help.
- Stand up straight and look the judge in the eye.
- Speak clearly and slowly enough for the judge to follow.
- Describe the stock fully, refer to any distinguishing features (e.g. white face). As you deliver your reasons compare as much as possible, going from front to back or back to front using the same style for all animals in the class. This means that you are less likely to get confused and allows the judge to follow your reasons more easily.
- Use the full time allocated, the clearer your reasons, the better your chances.
- Thank the judge when you have finished - whether you enjoyed the experience or not. Judges rarely remember if you thank them, they always remember if you don't!
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To download the NFYFC guidelines on 'Positive Reason Giving' please click here.
Stock Guidelines
Click on the following links to see further guidelines:
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