At 9 years old, Zeb Murphree of Hamilton, TX is a very busy young man. He plays Little League, football and basketball, all while volunteering as the Hamilton County 4-H Treasurer and his Student Council Treasurer. In spite of an already full plate, Zeb decided to raise and show a heifer for his second year in a row. “My mom grew up showing Hereford cattle, and I have watched my older cousins show, and I wanted to show too.” he says.
His parents purchased his heifer, Brinley, from Dave and Rebecca Allan of the Bar A Cattle Company. While his parents worked hard to teach him how to raise and show a calf, Zeb says he also felt supported by the entire community of Hamilton. “My county agent, Bruce Boyd, is always helping me get my heifers show ready. Also, my teachers are very supportive of me going to shows. They work with me so I get my school work done, and they are always cheering me on from Hamilton. I live in a small town and everyone has been supportive so far.”
Zeb’s routine involved working with Brinley a few hours a day to practice showing as well as washing or rinsing her every day. He also fed her Hi-Pro Show Heifer Developer twice per day, along with hay. “My cattle really like to eat it, and they always look good and shiny.” He says.
He describes several challenges with his showing experience, especially with his hectic schedule. “It was hard finding time for all my activities, school work, and showing my heifer.” He says. Additionally, Brinley herself was a challenge. “My parents helped me learn how to halter break Brinley, but she can be real stubborn and doesn’t like to lead. I was always so nervous right before I got into the ring because I wasn’t sure if she would behave!”
In spite of the challenges, Zeb remained determined and his hard work paid off when he and Brinley won Reserve Champion Polled Hereford Heifer at the State Fair of Texas Pan-American. “I was so excited!” Zeb exclaims.
Showing Brinley with the support of his family, county agent, and community in Hamilton has been a rewarding and fun experience for Zeb. “I like watching the heifers grow. I get to keep and breed them to grow my herd.” He says “I like going to the shows, too. I’ve met a bunch of new friends.”
Hi-Pro Feeds looks forward to seeing what Zeb Murphree will accomplish in the future and is proud to support his journey showing livestock. To learn more about our show products, click here.
