First Place:  2

Entry number: 1311

Exhibitor: EmsoffLambs

State: CA

Sheep name/number: Emsoff 426

Breed: Hampshire

Website: www.emsofflivestockcompany.com

To me 2 is easily the most complete balanced lamb in the class and wins the class in an easy placing. On the profile I appreciate the extended neck squarely placed. I like the up-front, the tucked chest, long and level rack, loin, and hip. I would like to clean up the points a tad, however, they are certainly acceptable. This lamb has great rib shape, with fullness to the rear flank, and that makes this moderate plus framed lamb an attractive package.

From the rear the shape of the rack, the loin with the raised edge, the length of hip are all sure correct with plenty of twist depth and the great set to the feet and legs are all a plus.

Second Place:  4

Entry number: 1370

Exhibitor: EmsoffLambs

State: CA

Sheep name/number: Emsoff 362

Breed: Hampshire

Website: www.emsofflivestockcompany.com

At first glance my problem lamb was number 4, however, after close observation I’m going with the ewe lamb 4 for second. From the profile I like the extended neck. The neck set might need to be raised a tad, however, the spine extension of 4 compared with the short sided 3 is why 4 moves into the second hole. This moderate plus framed lamb is already exhibiting correct rib shape and fullness of rear flank.

From the rear I appreciate the wedge shape to the top of the shoulder and down the spine. 4 is wide in the pins and has enough twist depth. Keep in mind you can feed 4 to a heavier weight than the short sided 3 and will not have to be concerned with too much cover.

Third Place:  3

Entry number: 1350

In placing 3 third I do appreciate the width over the rack, the loin, the depth of twist and width of dock. This moderate minus framed lamb will finish out at a lighter weight than the other three, however, this easy doing type lamb can sure add on finish in a hurry so that could be an issue.

Fourth Place:  1

Entry number: 1247

In placing 1, the finewool X lamb, fourth I do realize this lamb is certainly more attractive from the rear than the profile. Although the top is fairly level, this changes when you get to the hip and that’s where the slope begins. I would like to raise the loin edge and this will become a problem as the lamb matures in skeletal size. This moderate plus lamb is frail in skeleton design, bone and feet. From the rear this lamb will improve in appearance as she is fed to heavier weights, she is just too light in bone and muscle to move up in class.

Again, I placed the class 2-4-3-1 with cuts of 5-2-3. Discussion of the class is appreciated... OG