The 2025 Hill District Grandstand is just around the corner, and anticipation is building for the prestigious breeding gilt competition. At the helm of this esteemed event is Braeton Kimble, a seasoned livestock judge whose passion and dedication have brought him to the forefront of the livestock judging community.

A Journey from Hydro, Oklahoma

Braeton hails from Hydro, Oklahoma, a town that has undoubtedly shaped his love and appreciation for agriculture and livestock. Growing up in a farming family, with stocker cattle as a central part of life, Braeton developed a deep connection to the world of livestock early on.

Academic Excellence & Judging Prowess

Braeton’s academic path took him from Connors State College to Texas Tech University, where he honed his skills in livestock judging. During his time at Connors State, Braeton judged livestock for two years, achieving significant success and laying a strong foundation for his future endeavors.

At Texas Tech University, Braeton continued to excel. He was an integral part of the 2020 judging team, marked by notable achievements. His prowess was highlighted when he was named the High Individual at the 2020 National Western Stock Show—a testament to his keen eye and expertise.

After his competitive judging career, Braeton stayed on to coach the 2021 Texas Tech judging team, passing on his knowledge and passion to the next generation.

The Drive Behind the Judge

For Braeton, judging livestock is not just about the competition; it is about the love of evaluation and the thrill of the show. “When I get to do that as a show judge, my favorite thing is there is no outside noise,” Braeton shares. “I can go in and do what I love for the entirety of the show and tune out the rest of the world for a bit.”

Beyond the technical aspects, Braeton finds profound reward in witnessing the hard work of young exhibitors come to fruition in the ring. For him, it is a moment where dedication meets recognition, and the circle of effort is complete.

Words of Wisdom for Exhibitors

Braeton stands by a quote that resonates deeply with his values and approach to life and judging. “It is better to fail in originality than to succeed in imitation,” he shares, citing Herman Melville. This philosophy encourages exhibitors to bring their unique perspectives and innovations to the show, valuing authenticity over mere replication.

A Life Rooted in Passion

Family remains a central part of Braeton’s life. His family farming operation and involvement with stocker cattle have significantly influenced his career.

Outside the judging ring, Braeton enjoys helping families exhibit show pigs across the country—another extension of his commitment to the livestock community and his passion for sharing knowledge and support with others.

As we look forward to the 2025 Hill District Grandstand Breeding Gilt competition, Braeton Kimble’s expertise and enthusiasm promise to make this year’s event an unforgettable experience for all participants and spectators alike.