39th annual pig sale breaks all-time records
The 39th annual First Impressions Invitational Pig Sale shattered previous records Sunday, Sept. 7, with gross sales topping $158,300 and an average of $1,251 per head, according to longtime organizer Mike Parsons.
“This was a record-breaking sale in every way,” Parsons said. “The Association will realize more than $24,000 from the proceeds, which will go directly to support the youth of Shackelford County.”
The sale, considered the longest-running livestock sale of its kind in the nation, drew 36 consignors from seven states, with 208 bidders in attendance and an additional 305 bidders registered online. The highest-selling pig went for $14,000.
Parsons praised the efforts of Reggy Spencer, who coordinated consignors, reviewed entries, and promoted the event. “Reggy did an outstanding job gathering the consignors, approving the entries, and promoting the sale,” he said.
He also recognized the essential contributions of Chris Beard and his agricultural science students at Albany High School. “Chris and his ag classes provided a tremendous amount of work to prepare the barn,” Parsons said.
Much of the success, Parsons added, also depends on the dedication of key volunteers. “Many volunteers contribute to the success of this sale, which completed its 39th year,” he said. “But without Molly Cauble, Tisha Caldwell, Debra Boyett, and Laci Cook, there would not be a sale of this caliber.”
The sale’s ongoing success has been bolstered by recent improvements to the Shackelford County Livestock Barn. “The Capital Improvement Campaign on our show barn has proved to be invaluable,” Parsons said. “It will have a positive impact for the youth in our county for decades.”
Parsons emphasized the unique nature of the event. “This sale is a unique collaboration of breeders from across the country, combined with the volunteer efforts of a group of parents and sponsors for the benefit of local youth,” he said.
He also credited the sale’s corporate sponsors — Primo Feeds, EZ Feed & Supply, and Parsons Beef — for their critical support. “They provide the prize money for the consignors to ensure they bring their very best stock and underwrite the advertising of the sale,” Parsons said.
The First Impressions Pig Sale is hosted annually by the Shackelford Youth and Livestock Association, which also oversees the annual Shackelford County Livestock Show in January. Proceeds from the sale help fund youth livestock projects and support ongoing improvements to the county show facilities.
