Tuesday, December 3, 2013
Lawrence County Livestock Team Participates In National Contest
Submitted by Paul Kelly 4-H Extension Agent Lawrence County
Four outstanding youth represented all of Tennessee 4-H livestock judgers in Louisville, Kentucky recently. This national contest is held in conjunction with the North American International Livestock Exposition (NAILE).
Team members include John Calvin Bryant, Tori Bryant, Bryant Gobble and Mandy Whitfield and were coached by Volunteer Leader Candace Hartsfield and UT Extension Agents Calvin Bryant and Paul Kelly.
These youth have participated in mentally challenging activities while learning responsibility, organizational skills and the ability to defend a decision. Tori, John Calvin and Bryant grew up exhibiting sheep at various shows including the North American.
Mandy travels the country showing Boer goats. Each member brings unique strength and talent to the team. They all have the determination and devotion it takes to be competitive.
With an average age of 16 years old, this relatively young team held its own against many more experienced states.
While at NAILE, they were able to enjoy several livestock shows, an extensive trade show and the North American Championship Rodeo.
Many years of practice made this trip a possibility for these youth. They are also very grateful to all the sponsors, producers and farm managers that worked with them and made this trip possible.
The team has traveled all over Tennessee visiting farms, attending judging clinics and encompassing the livestock industry in preparation for the contest. They evaluated more than just the animals, having learned performance data and carcass traits on all species.
This was an honor and a privilege for the contestants. Their next chance to compete at livestock judging will be at the collegiate level. Mandy summed it up best by saying “We have ended a very big chapter in our livestock judging careers but I’m proud to say our book is not finished.”
We have room for more youth in grades 4th through 12th in the Lawrence County Livestock Project Group. No experience is necessary and you do not have to own animals to enjoy experiences like those mentioned above.
Contact Paul Kelly at 931-762-5506 for more information. Programs in agriculture and natural resources, 4-H youth development, family and consumer sciences, and resource development. Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment.
