Goat milking and local media stardom came together for an afternoon event on Saturday, March 2 at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
The Celebrity Dairy Goat Milking Contest presented by the Sheep and Goat Committee, brought a competitive and playful spirit to the task of goat milking.
With dairy goats sponsored by the Prairie View A&M Show Team, celebrities took to the goat stands for 30 second intervals to try their shot at milking the largest amount.
Sarah Pepper, Celebrity Dairy Goat Milker of 16 years, gave advice for success before the competition started.
“Keep your hands warm and go from [the] top down,” Pepper said.
“I spent a month preparing for this contest. I rented a goat against my landlord’s wishes to practice with,” said Andy “Riggs” Riggle of 93Q.
Audrey Rose of 104.1 KRBE smiled and told the crowd, “I’m bonded with this goat – I think I’m good this time,” while getting in position for round two.
Erik Smith with 100.3 “The Bull” took home the Champion title for the 2024 Celebrity Dairy Goat Milking Contest. After becoming Reserve Champion in 2023, Smith prepared for a comeback all year.
“Here’s the secret: make a lot of eye contact with the goats beforehand. If you noticed I made a good impression on my goat, so really, really invest your heart and soul into the goats,” Smith said.
Dr. Bryan Blonder, a Vice President of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™ and Officer in Charge for the Sheep and Goat Committee, received the title of Reserve Champion.
“It was my first time, and I can’t wait to do it again next year,” Blonder said.
About the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo promotes agriculture by hosting an annual, family-friendly experience that educates and entertains the public, supports Texas youth, showcases Western heritage, and provides year-round educational support within the community. Since its beginning in 1932, the Rodeo has committed more than $600 million to the youth of Texas and education. The 2024 Rodeo is scheduled for Feb. 27 – March 17. The 2024 World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest, presented by Cotton Holdings, is scheduled for Feb. 22 – 24. For more information, visit rodeohouston.com and follow @RODEOHOUSTON online via Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram and YouTube for all the latest news.