Best of the Barns – 2023 Best Goat Showman

In the realm of livestock showing, showmanship denotes the capability of a participant to present their animal in a manner that emphasizes its most favorable traits persuasively and competitively. Rather than the animal’s quality the emphasis is centered on the quality of showman. Giving all participants an equal opportunity. Showmanship transcends mere ring presence, encapsulating instead the toil and commitment invested in the diligent care and attention given to the animal on a daily basis, including early mornings and late nights. The 2023 Best of the Barns Best Goat Showman – Kenna Cooley, shows up and shows out – usually in her signature color of pink.

Kenna Cooley of Pomona, Kansas, has been showing goats since she was old enough to be competitive. Usually, you can find her in her signature pink shirt. Not only is her attire eye-catching, but so is her ring presence; with focus and drive like no other, Kenna sets herself above the crowd. She stays calm, moves fluently with her animal, and stays consistent. Remember that showmanship may be the most essential quality for success in the show ring. A goat showman is responsible for presenting their goat in a way that highlights the animal’s qualities and minimizes its weaknesses. Combining a skilled showman and a high-quality goat forms a very competitive team. Some young people have a natural talent for showing animals, while others develop this skill over time. For Kenna, showmanship is not something that is learned or developed overnight. It takes hard work to become an experienced showman.

In 2023, Kenna Cooley had a phenomenal year, pushing herself to new limits and gaining new experiences. Caring for show animals teaches the importance of consistency and attention to detail. Kenna has provided her livestock with the exact amount of feed, exercise, and grooming to ensure they look their best. Kenna has helped many others succeed and helps push her comrades to improve at what they do. Growing up in the livestock industry helps young people build a solid foundation of values and respect for others.

Showing goats has pushed Kenna to make new and build already existing relationships. Pictured here with Jaci Falkenstien is a prime example of the friendships she has built through showing. Kenna is a great competitor and an even better friend. She also helped Jacie travel to Denver and wind up on the famous green turf for the Grand Drive. Kenna was ringside, cheering on her competitor and friends. Nothing shows better showmanship than supporting those who push you to improve yourself.

Here are a few examples of her success and showmanship to make it to the top.

 Grand Champion 2023 Aksarben

Raised by Mock Livestock

Placed by Kempker Livestock

Sold at Friday Night Fever 23’

Congratulations Kenna Cooley

Like an industry leader, Kenna constantly pushes to stay updated and improve, realizing that the harder you work, the luckier you get. Whether finding herself at another backdrop or helping bring other people there, this girl’s focus and pursuit of greatness follow her in everything she does. We would like to wish a GRAND congratulations to Kenna Cooley, Best of Barns, Best Goat Showman 2023.