Showing cattle is a lot like NASCAR. There is the car (calf), the driver (the showman), the pit crew (fitters and clippers), and the crew chief (the boss). During the time I spent showing cattle, my pit crew consisted of my brothers and my crew chief was my father. Whether we were in Denver, Sioux Falls, or at our county fair, my family was always there to help me get my calves ready.
My favorite cars (calves) were Crossbred, Chianina, and Maine steers. Unfortunately, those breeds typically show close together, meaning we would need to fit one steer while the other steer is showing. As the showman, I always went to the ring with the calf. While I was away from the chutes, I would worry about the other steers. I worried “What if the steer won’t be ready in time?” and “Are the legs going to be clipped too tight?”
No matter what, the steers were always in good care. My brother, Hayden, always volunteered to stay back at the stall to fit. As much as I wanted him to watch me show, I knew we needed him with the other steers. Hayden can pull a back leg like no one else. He is one of the most talented fitters I know. Not to mention, Hayden makes the environment fun to be a part of with his playlist and jokes. He would put most NASCAR pit crews to shame. Hayden is someone I can always count on.
Just like in NASCAR, we can't get very far without a pit crew. We need people we can count on and trust—people who can pick us up during our lows. Who is your pit crew?
With sincere appreciation,
Stephanie Berenda
Indiana FFA Northern Region Vice President
