The Leflore County Junior 4-H Livestock Show brought lots of youngsters out to the Leflore County Agri-Center Saturday for a chance to shine with their animals.
In all, about 70 kids participated Saturday.
Madison DeLoach, 18, the son of Bubba and Kim DeLoach of Carroll County, came away with top honors in the steer competition, winning both Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion with two steers he helped to raise of the family’s farm.
“My dad’s a farmer. We raise our own animals,” said Madison.
The livestock show has been a way of life for the DeLoaches, he said, noting that his older siblings had also showed animals when they were his age.
He said success depends on handing the right animal correctly and making sure that it displays well for the judges.
Emma Hodges, 9, of Leflore County, who was also celebrating her birthday Saturday, won Champion Showman honors for her sheep.
She is the daughter of Michelle and Channing Hodges.
“I’m thrilled,” Emma said.
All the time, Emma was encouraged by her mother for the way she handled herself and the animal in the show ring.
“You kept up, you kept fighting,” she said.
Winners from Saturday’s competition will next compete in the Delta District 4-H Livestock Show, which is scheduled for the Agri-Center on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Youngsters from 11 counties will be participating in the district show.
On Tuesday, beginning at 8 a.m., lambs, goats and beef will be judged. On Wednesday, the show will focus exclusively on hogs, said Christina Meriwether, the youth agent for Leflore County 4-H.
Asked how Saturday’s show went, she replied, “It’s been going real smooth. The kids are doing good and the animals are cooperating.”
• Contact Bob Darden at 581-7239 or bdarden@gwcommonwealth.com.
