LIMA — One by one, they filter into the show arena, guided into position as their handlers pull their halters. As they are lined up, each heifer has its feet placed just right by a show stick, giving the animal a good stance that can accentuate its structure and health. The handler faces questions from the judge, ranging from the type and amount of feed used to its exercise routines.
All these factors make up the Jr. Fair Beef Showmanship competition held at every Allen County Fair, a competition that is as much about the young handler as it is about the heifer.
“Showmanship is how the kids handle the calves, if they’re groomed and clean and if the kid can put the calf where he or she wants it to go,” Allen County Fair Assistant Beef Superintendent Dave Meyer said. “You can really tell the kids who have been working with their animals and getting them ready.”
Showmanship judging is divided by age group, with beginners ranging from 8 to 12 years of age, juniors ranging from 13 to 15 and seniors ranging from 16 to 19. For many of the handlers, their history with showing calves goes back years.
“This is my 10th year with animals,” Delphos’ Kylie Fritz, 19, said. “I’ve been with cattle for eight years and pigs for 10.”
A lot of effort goes into trying to win that first-place ribbon. Getting a calf ready to show in the arena takes several months of preparation, with handlers often sacrificing sleep and even a social life.
“It’s basically a nine-month project,” Delphos’ Justin Siefker, 18, said. “You get done here at the fair, you get maybe a month break and then you’re back again looking for calves. I get up at 6 o’clock every morning. You’re up before the sun’s up bringing them in, you feed and you rinse, and if you have time, you rinse in the middle of the day, and then in the evening, you feed and rinse them again.”
Handlers want to find calves with good structure with all hooves pointing in the same direction and a level back. They also try to find ones they hope will have a good temperament in the arena.
“You’re basically trying to predict what they’re going to be like in the future,” Siefker said.
Despite all the work, the rewards can be well worth it.
“It’s hard work, but it’s really worth it,” Fritz said. “I learn good work ethic and responsibility, and it’s fun. I love having a bond with the animals.”
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