4-H members place first in livestock judging contest

Posted 10/1/20

The 2020 University of Missouri Extension State 4-H Livestock Judging Contest was held virtually Saturday, September 12, to Sunday, September 13. Nearly 115 4-H youth from across the state applied …

This item is available in full to subscribers.

Please log in to continue

Log in

4-H members place first in livestock judging contest

Posted

The 2020 University of Missouri Extension State 4-H Livestock Judging Contest was held virtually Saturday, September 12, to Sunday, September 13. Nearly 115 4-H youth from across the state applied their evaluation and communication skills in this contest.

Youth involved with the livestock judging program develop key life skills to aid in their future career success. Through involvement in a 4-H, judging team members must make rapid, logical decisions and defend their decisions via oral reasons. Students improve their ability for critical thinking and accurate communication. In addition, students become organized and self-disciplined, learn to accept criticism, develop self-confidence and become leaders. Alumni from the program have reported success in the livestock judging competition has translated to employment opportunities, internships and scholarships.

Participants competed in one of two age divisions, junior (8-13) and senior (14-18), with the top 10 8–10-year-olds being recognized. The top 10 8–10-year-old competitors were Scarlett Miller, Carroll County, first; Michaela Miller, Carroll County, second; Stetson Stone, Audrain County, third; Ty Murphy, Saline County, fourth; Kaston Pitt, Carroll County, fifth; Addie Honan, Nodaway County, sixth; Faith Calvin, Jasper County, seventh; Tyler Meier, Cape Girardeau County, eighth; Kenton Merrifield, Bates County, ninth; and Thomas Hulse, Marion County, 10th.

The Audrain County Senior Team placed first in the contest. Team members were Annamarie Stone, Jenna Hasekamp, Zane Stone, and Jake Haines. If there are national opportunities later this year to compete, in-person contest or virtual alternative, the team will be able to take advantage of the opportunity.

When asked why she participates in livestock judging, Annamarie shared: “I love judging livestock because it provides me an opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge I have gained from my 4-H experiences over the years. I am able to evaluate animals based on their merit and defend my decisions. Each of us is gifted in different areas, and this is my area. It is what I am passionate about.

Successful and meaningful programs, like the State 4-H Livestock Judging Contest, would not be possible without support from the Missouri 4-H Foundation.


X