The alarm rings at 6:30 A.M. and footsteps make their way to the barn. The door swings open, and lights flick on. A moment of silence is broken by the squealing of pigs. They run in circles, whining and ready to get their breakfast.

That scene greets Braxton Wright every morning. Wright is a junior at Park High School that has raised 4-H pigs for 7 years. “The best part is when you get to see your work pay off in the end,” he says. In late July, his two pigs will compete against other 4-H and FFA members at the Park County Ag Fair. The animals are judged based on their skeletal structure, muscle, amount of fat, and overall health. Wright spends time every day with his swine to make sure they are in peak physical condition for the show.

Midday, he takes them for a walk around his property. “Sometimes I’ll put sunscreen on the white parts and let them tan in the sun,” he said. He does this to make their skin look healthier but also to prevent sunburns during the walks. When they get back, Wright washes both pigs and applies a conditioner to hydrate their skin. It is important to keep them clean and fresh. Most people think that pigs are dirty or stinky, but this is completely false. Wright keeps his swine on clean, hard floors with wood shavings packed on top for soft bedding. Every day, he replaces the shavings so that the pen stays clean.

In the evening, Wright feeds them again and practices his showmanship. A large portion of the competition is being able to control and guide the animals during the show. He trains them to turn, speed up, and slow down by tapping a thin whip to the pig’s jowls, sides, and under the chin. They are also taught to walk with their heads up. This makes them look more athletic and emphasizes their muscles during the show.

If you visit the fair this summer, it will be clear to you the passion that the showmen have. “[The pigs] are like a pet even though they won’t be around for as long. However, there is more of an end goal compared to raising a pet. Wright said. For him and many other showmen, the experience is more impactful than the competition. The discipline, memories, and lessons they learn stay with them longer than a ribbon.