By Blake Jackson
Missouri FFA and 4-H members excelled at the 2024 Missouri State Fair Swine Skillathon and Judging Contest.
The events, sponsored by the Missouri Pork Association and the University of Missouri Extension, showcased the skills and knowledge of young agriculturalists.
In the Swine Skillathon, participants competed in three age groups. Colton Hawkins from Green Ridge took first place in the 12 and under division, while Michaela Miller from Bogard won the 13-15 division.
Mason Forkner from Richards claimed the top spot in the 16 and older division. The contest included hands-on swine management tasks, a quiz, and a personal interview.
The Swine Judging Contest featured 78 FFA and 4-H members competing in novice, junior, senior, and pro divisions.
Mizzou GDI won the high team overall in the pro division, with Tucker Robnett, Alaina Link, and Carlee Long as top individuals.
The All Stars team took first place in the senior division, with Braden Dennison as the top individual.
The Blue Butts won the junior division, with Mesa Tiemann as the top individual, while the Spotty Too Hotties won the novice division, with Addy Sloan as the top individual.
The Sale of Champions was a highlight of the fair, raising over $350,000 for youth agriculture programs.
Cole Murphy from Houstonia exhibited the Grand Champion Barrow, while Kade Jackson from Lathrop showed the Reserve Grand Champion Barrow.
The Growth & Quality Barrow Classic featured almost 40 hogs from across the state. Lyla Bolinger from Moniteau County won the overall championship with a Duroc barrow. Madison Wolf from Livingston County placed second.
The Best of Missouri Sale included the sale of the grand champion pork carcass exhibited by Lyla Bolinger. The carcass sold for $5,500.
These competitions provided a valuable opportunity for young people to showcase their skills, learn about the pork industry, and compete for prestigious awards.
Photo Credit: istock-srdjan-stepic
Categories: Missouri, Business, Livestock, Hogs