How to Read a Class Catalog and Know What You’re Competing Against

The catalog, show book or class list is more than a schedule. It contains the rules, the class definitions and clues about the competition. Learning to read it carefully can save you money and mistakes.

Start with the rules

Read the general rules first. Look for eligibility, entry deadlines, ownership dates, tagging or tattooing requirements, health papers, weigh-in rules and dress codes. Missing a rule can disqualify an animal.

Understand the class structure

Classes are usually divided by species, breed, sex, age or weight. A beef heifer class may be split by birth date, and a market hog class by weight range. Knowing the exact class lets you enter the right one.

Find the age and weight cutoffs

Check the dates or weights that define each class. An animal born one day too early or weighing slightly too much may fall into a different class. Confirm with the superintendent.

Look at the class sizes

Some shows publish past entries or numbers. A class with many entries has deeper competition. A small class may offer better odds but fewer learning chances.

Check for breed-specific classes

Breed classes group animals of the same breed. If your breed has its own class, you compete with similar animals. If not, you may enter an All Other Breeds class.

Understand showmanship divisions

Showmanship is often divided by age, such as junior, intermediate and senior. Check the cutoff date for age.

Look at the sale and awards

The catalog may describe championship drives, premium sale eligibility and special awards. Note the requirements.

Check the schedule

Note the check-in, weigh-in, judging and release times. Plan travel and feeding around them.

Use the previous year's results

If available, look at past results to see which breeds and sizes placed well. This can inform your project plan.

Ask questions

If anything is unclear, ask the superintendent or your advisor before entering. A short email can prevent a big problem.

Common errors

• Entering the wrong class
• Missing a deadline
• Ignoring weight rules
• Skipping the health paperwork

Keep a checklist

Make a list of deadlines and requirements. Check it weekly.

The takeaway

Reading the catalog carefully shows you what you are up against and what you need to do. Treat it like a map of the show.

For related reading, see How Breeding Classes and Market Classes Work. agriculture.directory lists feed stores, vets and suppliers near you, and for a lighter break from fair prep, farm.fm has Farmer Hosts BBQ – Pigs Nervously Check Guest List for “Uncle Porky!”.