The draft mule show industry always has been an elite group of mule skinners.  Elite, as in a small group, with a great desire to keep the draft mule in front of the public, all the while being tough skinned.  As in most small equine groups, judges are hard to find that does not have some type of connection to one or more exhibitors.  This plays a large role in the outcome of the shows, at times not even meaning too, but discourages one or two mule owners from participation.

2021 has started to offer draft mule shows at local community events and county fairs.  Even with the loss of draft mule show families due to COVID, some shows are getting off to a strong start.  The question is will they hold in numbers or will the same ole judging clics push them down to low numbers at the shows?

Louisville KY State Fair has opened their show ring for the drafts to attend in August 2021.  The exhibit usually offers sixty plus mules; predictions are numbers will be lower this year.

Putnam Co Fair jumped off to a good start according to sources at the show with a good number of mules present.  

Only time will tell the true story of the continuing of judging clics or will show managers reach outside the norm in order to secure more show stock participation.  

Good luck to all participating.