CASPER – If you are involved in the livestock show industry, chances are you have heard of Ryan Rash. There’s also a good chance you have longed for one of his infamous “glitter slaps.” 

Young showmen throughout Wyoming will have a chance at one of those glittery explosions in May.

Westwind Livestock is bringing the flamboyant livestock judge to Casper for the Rash Bash.

Westwind Livestock owners Kolby and Mariah Smith said the idea to reach out to Rash started as a joke.

“While we were planning out our show, my husband suggested we invite Ryan Rash, he was kind of joking, but I figured it wouldn’t hurt to ask. By either luck or a blessing, Ryan messaged me back right away and said he was available and would love to come back to Casper. The last time Ryan Rash was in Wyoming was in 2020,” Mariah explained. 

Mariah said Rash tends to stick to big national shows across the United States so having him come to Wyoming is exciting for a lot of show families in this region.

“We currently have six different states registered for the show, so I would say that people are excited to have Ryan Rash come to Casper,” Mariah added. 

Another reason for the excitement beyond the glitter slap is the unique perspective Rash has for the show industry, in particular when it comes to kids and showing livestock. 

He recently told Stock Show Trendsetter Magazine “...I may not be the smartest person to ever step into the ring, but I can promise you this: you won’t find anyone who cares more or works harder to ensure that every single kid feels seen and valued. These kids aren’t just exhibitor numbers or holders of animals—they’re individuals who deserve respect and recognition for their dedication. I make it a point to engage with each one, to thank them for bringing their animal and putting in the effort. When you have me as a judge, you’re getting nothing less than complete honesty from someone who is unbiased, unpolitical, and genuinely truthful...”

Mariah agreed. 

“Ryan Rash is a fun judge to watch and listen to. Ryan really seems to care about the kids showing in the ring. He does a lot of talking with the kids in the ring, which is something I think more judges need to do, especially since this is all supposed to be a learning experience and knowledge based,” Mariah noted.

The crowning of a champion during a livestock show usually involves a little bit of suspense, culminating with a handshake and a tip of the hat the winning showman. In recent years judges have started “slapping” the winning animal on the hind end to let the showman know they are the champion. Rash has taken it to the next level by storing glitter in his jacket pocket to decorate the champion animal. Walking back to the barn covered in glitter at a Ryan Rash show is the ultimate dream for many.

“We have never personally watched Ryan do his champion glitter slap, but we have heard stories and watched YouTube videos of it and it looks super amazing and a memorable experience,” Mariah said of the decorative tradition.

In addition to judging livestock shows, Rash also raises and sells show cattle and hosts a Podcast called Beyond the Ring. 

If you’re interested in exhibiting 2025 cattle, swine, sheep or goat projects in front of Ryan Rash, you will need to register on the showman.app (under Rash Bash) by April 14 for early bird pricing.

Sheep and goats will show May 3. Swine and cattle will show May 4. 

The Smiths are offering free Peewee showmanship (3-7 years of age by January 1, 2025) to help get the next generation interested in showing livestock.

For more information or to contact Westwind Livestock, find them on Facebook or through the showman.app.