Youth show animals for judging at Ag Center

Adults enjoy ‘Bloody Marys At The Barn’ while students show off their year’s work

BY CONNIE MCFALL CLARK Star Contributor

Texas county livestock shows and fairs have been in existence for over 100 years. This year Lindner Show Feeds was the sponsor of the Kendall County Junior Livestock Association judging held this week at the Youth Ag & Equestrian Center, and donated prize money to the winners.

The crowd included the animals, the youth and of course, proud parents. The day brought temperatures in the 40s and chilly, damp misty rain, which did little to deter the youth who were ready, willing and more than able to show their animals.

Some of the youth’s animals were bigger than them but they proudly showed off their animals. There were some beautiful livestock, showing the care and attention the youth who lived with them and trained them during 2023.

Judge Wayne Morse presided over the goats, lamb and sheep judging, of which there were 12 classes for market goats, breeding goats, market lambs, breeding sheep, and Angora goats. The top two winners in each division (lightweight, medium-weight, and heavyweight) competed for Grand Champion and Reserve Champion.

Director Duane Zoeller coordinated the heifer and steer judging, with Chad Coburn was the judge.

The Grand Champions and Reserve Champions will bring in hefty sales on Saturday, when the livestock auction is held.

“Bloody Marys At The Barn” was set up next to the show ring, hosted by the Wild Game Dinner. There was no charge for the drinks; however, tips were collected to support the youth programs.

Director Beca Short advised that this was a popular event in the 1980s but went by the wayside and then started up again six to eight years ago.

Screwdrivers were also offered, proving very popular with the adults in the crowd.

The Kendall County Junior Livestock Association provides an opportunity for 4-H and FFA members to exhibit their livestock projects before the public, fostering a development of excellence in livestock production skills and practices.