Move over Sammy.

Monday, September 13, 1999

Move over Sammy. Take a seat Mark. Sorry, Yankees. Too bad, Braves.

The "real" fall classic is taking place this week in Austin, where the "World Series of Swine Shows" is taking place.

If you’re a pork producer, Austin is where you will want to be this week.

The 53rd annual National Barrow Show begins today with the national swine judging contest.

According to Larry Rasch, NBS superintendent, "We expect exhibitors from over 20 states this week at the 53rd annual National Barrow Show."

For three days, the best hogs in the nation will parade before pork industry audiences in Crane Pavilion at the Mower County Fairgrounds at the premier show of its kind.

Today, the best swine judges from across the nation are competing for top honors at the 51st annual NBS swine judging contest. University and college students, as well as 4-H and FFA members from throughout the United States, are vying for individual and team honors.

The winners will be honored at the show Tuesday at 9:30 a.m.

The second annual NBS University educational seminar involving topics that pertain tot he hog industry will be held 1-2 p.m. today.

The sessions are free of charge and open to everyone interested in issues affecting the industry.

Today’s activities conclude with judging competition for truckloads of purebred and crossbred hogs.

The show and sale of four purebred breeds begins Tuesday, involving the Yorkshire, Spotted, Hampshire and Poland China breeds.

Four additional purebred breeds, Chester White, Duroc, Landrace and Berkshire will be exhibited and sold Wednesday.

The auction sales always attract the most attention of the NBS.

Last year, a Yorkshire boar owned by Lorenzen Farms, Chrisman, Ill., sold for $31,000.

The Hog College champion boar was the highest selling hog at the 1998 show. It was purchased by Prairie State, Champaign, Ill.

All activities are held at the fairgrounds in Austin and there is no admission.