Among the many competitions held during the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, one event offers a lighthearted break for exhibitors and committee members alike — the annual Celebrity Goat Milking Contest, where competitors race to squeeze out every last drop of bragging rights.
This year, David Smith, officer-in-charge of the Sheep and Goat Committee, claimed the Grand Champion title, winning both the traditional contest and the inaugural father-daughter round.
The contest featured three heats, with competitors given 30 seconds to milk their goat. There was no practice round. Participants jumped straight into competition, with the top two milkers from each heat advancing. The six finalists were then compared to determine the overall champion.
Smith’s victory came after returning with a renewed competitive mindset following an upset in last year’s contest.
“I’m highly competitive,” Smith said. “When I didn’t do as well last year, I definitely thought about it for 365 days.”
This year’s event also introduced a father-daughter milking round. Smith teamed up with his daughter, Ella, to win the inaugural round before going on to secure the overall championship.
Matt Horn of FOX26 finished just behind Smith to earn the Reserve Grand Champion title after a strong showing in the heats.
The event came together with support from the livestock community. Goats used in the competition were provided by exhibitors in the Livestock Show, stepping in at the last minute to ensure the contest stayed on schedule.
Members of the Sheep and Goat Committee say the contest helps highlight the role of their division within the Livestock Show while bringing attention to the breeding and dairy sheep and goat industry.
“We’ve really tried to do a little more internal marketing so people understand the purpose of the Sheep and Goat Show,” Chairman Rhonda McLeod said. “Unlike other shows where animals go through the auction ring, our show focuses on breeding and dairy production. These animals aren’t sold for market — they head home with the same exhibitors who brought them.”
The contest also provides a fun break for exhibitors who often spend long days preparing animals for show, offering a chance to relax, laugh and enjoy a little friendly competition.
Local radio personality Riggs of 93Q Country said it’s only natural for a country station to take part in rodeo traditions like this.
“We enjoy being a country radio station and participating,” Riggs said. “It’s important for us to have a presence at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.”
As contestants gathered to celebrate the newly crowned champions, Smith took a moment to enjoy the win, already joking about returning next year to see if he can defend his title.