ARCOLA - The Saskatchewan Junior Hereford Association held a Beef-a-Rama show in Arcola on July 13, as a prelude to a show that will be held in Brandon.
At the heart of the Beef-a-Rama is the exhibition of Hereford cattle, a breed known for its docile temperament and excellent meat quality.
Young participants, ranging from six to 21 years of age, prepare their animals with meticulous care, highlighting the dedication and hard work that goes into raising show-quality cattle.
These young cattlemen and women demonstrate their skills in the show ring, where a judge assesses the animals on criteria such as confirmation, grooming and overall presentation.
This show also serves as an educational platform for shows to come and is a way for young people to develop leadership skills. Many of the Saskatchewan Junior Hereford members take on rolls in the organization.
Twenty-five juniors came out to Arcola to show what they had accomplished with their cattle.
Megan Nicholas, Emma Lees and Arden Charlton organized the event, but Nicholas said they worked as a whole association to get everything done.
Nicholas noted they have different people looking for volunteers and judges, and also to manage the facilities, find prizes, take registration, and find sponsorships.
Although Nicholas did not show her cattle at this event, she has been involved since she was six years old.
John Hogberg, from Langdon, SK was the judge for the day, and he complimented those who paid a great deal of attention to their animals instead of watching the judge.
He said the animal is No. 1, and that the kids should always make sure their animal is set up nicely and well groomed.
Hogberg was pleased with the cattle that were shown and said that one could tell that they had been well prepared for the showring.
Grand champion female was Curtis Hewitt and reserve champion female went to Emma Lees.
Grand champion bull was awarded to Hannah Lees, with reserve champion bull going to Matthew Charlton.
Senior champion showmanship was won by Emma Lees, with reserve champion showmanship going to Kyla Lees. She also took the championship steer.
Sixty Saskatchewan kids will be attending the 2024 Bonanza for the Canadian Junior Hereford Association in Brandon from July 24-27. This event will highlight the best of the best in the Hereford breed and will include the holding of their annual meeting.
Saskatchewan will be well presented at the event, and they hope to bring home several championships.
