Meet Best Clipper/Fitter Mark Kelley from Central, TX.
He’s no stranger to the cattle, his family has been involved in the business for years. Kelley and His family raise a primarily Red Angus based cowherd. Along with that they sell over 100 head of Fall and Spring Born Calves, mostly Hereford, throughout various sales.
How did you get your start in the cattle industry?
“My family was involved in the purebred cattle industry before I was born. Dad worked for Hereford places and my Mom, who’s originally from California, was involved with purebred operations out there. She eventually made her way to Texas while working various Hereford outfits. My family being involved in this industry is what grew my love and passion for it.”
How did you gain experience within the cattle industry?
“The most instrumental thing for me was watching people and just putting in the work. PICK YOUR CIRCLE, find whoever you think is the best and go observe from them. If you hang around with successful talented people you are more likely to follow that trend.
Who are the most influential people in your life?
“My Dad, Ted Kelley- he’s the greatest cowman I’ve ever met – he is the type of guy that would rather end up on short end of deal than take advantage of anyone. There are tons of others that aspire me including Bob Bruns and Scott Hessman just to name a few.”
What is your favorite Sullivan Supply product?
“Tail Adhesive – Isn’t it everybody’s go to product…”
What advice would you have to young people just starting out?
“Never Give Up – if you give up after the first one you are for sure beat at the next one. Even if win keep looking for ways to do better. You can never know it all and there’s always ways to improve so look for ways to up your own game at all times.”
What’s your best fitting tip?
“Know your cattle” – You could be the best fitter/clipper around but if you don’t know what strengths and weaknesses you are working with a good fit job won’t matter.
“Theres’s one thing I want to leave people with, and that’s to appreciate the army of people that make it all happen! Just because you might not be out in front of everybody it doesn’t mean the part you play in a groups success isn’t important. There are so so many people who go unnoticed that deserve a lot of the credit. Remember to say thank you and appreciate all you’ve been blessed with. The show stock industry is unlike any other…. it’s not something you have to be born into. The people involved are always ready to welcome newcomers with open arms.”
