Darren Friend
Parents: Stacy and Stephen Greb
Age: 17
Hometown: Ratcliff, Ark.
FFA Chapter: Countyline FFA
FFA Advisor: Ron Koch
What is your favorite aspect of agriculture?
“I really like the animals best because they’re close to human beings and make good friends. Unlike people, however, they don’t talk back. I remember when I was little and saw them just after they were born, I was amazed at how small they were and how they would run away when you tried to get near. Last year was my first year showing, which was really fun. I got into it because my brother was showing and I came with him to the shows and wanted to be part of it. My stepdad runs a hobby farm with Hampshire cross and Hampshire and Yorkshire hogs, which my brother and I help take care of.”
Who is the most influential person in your life?
“My mom and my stepdad, Stephen, are the most influential because they have taught me right from wrong especially in terms of drugs and always being polite. Being polite means you make friends instead of enemies.”
What is your favorite possession?
“Actually I love my professional bull riding hat because it’s like a part of my body. Where I go, it goes. I also like my two Quarter Horses and Tennessee Walking horse. I like riding them around our place, which is one of my favorite things to do. Living in the country, you don’t really get to see your friends all that much but being able to ride and do what you want when you want more than makes up for it.”
Favorite ag memeory: “I really enjoyed showing my two pigs at Ozark last year because I got to share my country life and my pigs with my friends. I won first and second in premium sales in two different classes.”
Future plans: “I plan on starting out in the military and becoming a game warden or a law enforcement officer when I get out. The most important part is that I want to own my own hobby farm with cattle, pigs and horses.”
