For Mercedes High School senior Hector Zuniga, the Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show represents years of dedication, hard work and memories made alongside friends, family and fellow exhibitors.

Meet the Exhibitor: Q&A with Hector Zuniga

Q: What club are you a member of?

A: Mercedes FFA

Q: What animal or project are you competing with at the RGVLS this year?

A: Market Hog – Duroc, Steer- AOB, Commecial Heifer and ARB Heifer

Q: What is your animal’s name?

A: Hog- Canela, Steer – Tator Tot, Commerical Heifer- Miss Kellie Lane, ARB- Satin

Q: What is your animal’s breed?

A: Market Hog – Duroc, Steer- AOB, Commecial Heifer and ARB Heifer

Q: How does this project connect to your future career or education goals?

A: I am planning on attending Texas State in San Marcos and pursuing a career in AG Business

Q: Who has helped or mentored you throughout this project?

A: My FFA Teachers and friends and family. 

Q: How long have you been working with your animal, and what’s the daily routine like?

A: Since May 2025, Routine is feeding, walking and cleaning pens for all my animals. 

Q: What does competing at the Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show mean to you?

A: This year is my last year showing at RGVLS and I am reminded of all the years I have enjoyed the show, the competitive shows and all the friends I have made along the way from different cities. 

Q: What’s your strategy for impressing the judges?

A: Just going out and doing my very best and enjoying the moment. 

Q: What is your goal at RGVLS competition this year?

A: I hope to make sale with at least one of my animal.