The Smith County 4-H Livestock Judging Teams competed in the Central Region Contest on April 9, 2021, in Lebanon. Thirteen 4-H members successfully participated in this contest.
Livestock judging teaches 4-H members decision-making skills while they learn more about the livestock industry. Beef cattle, sheep, goats, and hogs are evaluated to determine which animals would be best in a farm’s breeding program or would make the most profit in a market situation. 4-H’ers also learn how to read and use genetic information (EPDs) to assist in the selection of livestock. This is useful knowledge if these young people ever buy livestock of their own.
Five classes of animals were judged at the contest. The senior division also gave a set of oral reasons to explain why they placed the class the way they did. This improves their communication skills as they must think under pressure while still utilizing their best public speaking skills.
The Junior Division (4th-5th grades) participants were 4th graders Presley Claywell, RiLynn Tisdale, Tana Harville, Kara Brooks, and 5th grader Turner Harville. The Junior Team placed 2nd overall with Turner placing 3rd Individually and Kara placing 8th Individually.
The Junior High Division (6th – 8th grades) participants were 6th grader Caleb Hensley and 8th graders Gabe Harville, Kynlee Davis, and Erin Hensley. Their team placed 8th overall.
The Senior Division (9th-12th grades) participants were 9th grader Courtney Dickens, 10th graders Abby Malone and Carson Meeks, and 11th grader Gary Claywell. Their team placed 10th overall.
All Smith County 4-H’ers performed exceptionally well, and we are proud of their hard work and commitment!
For more information about the livestock group or any of our 4-H activities, please call 615-735-2900.
The 4-H Youth Development Program delivers programs through cooperative efforts of the University of Tennessee, Tennessee State University, and public and private sector volunteers. 4-H is a community of young people across America who are learning leadership, citizenship and life skills. 4-H educational programs are offered to all youth, grades 4-12, on an age-appropriate basis, without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation or disability.
