by Megan Silveira
M
When asked what to caption this photo, Leonard simply said, “The
one time it rained.” He is not far off, given Lubbock County, Texas,
averages 19 inches of rain per year, with summer temperatures
averaging 91 degrees.
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any ranchers first discover their passion for the cattle industry
while watching a cow bring a new calf into the world or
when they lead their first heifer into the showring as a young 4-Her.
Lyle Keeton, however, is not like most cattle ranchers.
“I participated in the calf scramble at Houston,” Lyle said with a
hint of laughter. “I caught a calf in that scramble and knew I wanted
to start showing cattle.”
Leonard Keeton, Lyle’s father, said he jumped at the opportunity to
get involved in the cattle industry with his son. Leonard grew up in
the cattle and swine industry, but had raised Lyle solely around hogs.
His son’s sudden interest in the cattle industry felt like coming home,
Leonard said.
“I have always liked the cattle better,” Leonard admits. “When Lyle
caught the calf in the scramble, he wanted to get involved and it really
triggered my interest in cattle.”
continued on page 44
• APRIL 2020