Oklahoma Family Prepares For Livestock Show At Tulsa State Fair, A 3 Generation Tradition

The junior livestock show is on at the Tulsa Fairgrounds this year despite the state fair being canceled because of the pandemic.

The Glover family, which has competed at the Tulsa State Fair for three generations, will make the trip from Comanche County to Tulsa this week. The family lives in the town of Elgin, near the Wichita Mountains. Going to the Tulsa State Fair a tradition that has roots dating back to 1969.

"It is hectic. A lot of preparation, as you can imagine,” Jamie Glover said.

"Most mornings it's about 5:35 my alarm goes off,” Tommy, her 16-year-old son, said.

Tommy has been competing in livestock shows since he was nine.

"I come home, I do my homework and I come out, cause I've got a job to do,” he said.

The job may not have become his reality if it weren't for his grandpa, Bruce.

"Well I was in about the seventh grade and I decided I would like to have a project,” Bruce said.

He first showed at the Tulsa State Fair back in 1969. Now it's a three-generation family affair.

"I think it's very gratifying that they have followed up in my footsteps and like what I like to do. It just makes my heart happy,” Bruce said.

Tommy's mom, Jamie, won the Grand Champion Market Steer at the Tulsa State Fair back in 1996. Exactly 20 years later, Tommy took home the same award.

"I really didn't know until after the show. But all I was worried about that day was doing as good as I can. I mean I was trying to win,” Tommy said.

Now he's working toward another win with a cow named Ruger, who gets to chill out in the air conditioning all day.

"They go in the cooler room because it's when it gets cold, they grow more hair instinctively, to get them ready for the show,” Tommy said.

A goat, named Pedro, is also getting ready for the show.

"I wanted to try something new,” 11-year-old Taylor Glover said.

Tommy's sister, Taylor, is used to showing cows but said she likes a challenge.

"I went to one of the goat shows and the goats seem to have a cool personality,” Taylor said.

No matter the animal, the family is dedicated to their work and proving along the way: "Families that show together, grow together."