By Blake Jackson
The first-ever New York State 4-H Livestock Bowl was held April 25 at Cornell University, creating a new statewide opportunity for youth to demonstrate their livestock science knowledge and competitive skills.
To earn a place in the competition, participants first completed an online written exam administered through their local county 4-H educators. A total of 65 youth from across New York participated in the qualifying round, with the top 20 scores advancing to the state contest. Fifteen contestants ultimately competed during the inaugural event.
Organizers from the New York State 4-H Livestock Advisory Committee created mixed-county teams to encourage teamwork and collaboration among participants from different regions of the state.
After several rounds of competition, Team 1 claimed the championship title. The winning team included Josiah from Seneca County, Morgan and Emerson from Chemung County, and Mackenzie from Ontario County. Team 2 finished in second place, followed by Team 3 in third and Team 4 in fourth.
Top individual honors went to Shannon Denning, Morgan Evan, Josiah Freier, Delana Wood, Levi Blook, Tianna Bova, Cheyenne Moyers, Hannah Wieboldt, Alaina Bliss, and Emerson Swimelar.
The top four individual competitors earned the opportunity to represent New York State at the National Livestock Bowl Competition scheduled for November in Louisville.
“We are incredibly proud of all participants for their hard work and dedication,” said Brian Aukema, New York State 4-H youth livestock and companion animal specialist.
“This event highlights the strength of our 4-H youth programs and the bright future for the livestock industry in New York State.”
Photo Credit: cornell-university
Categories: New York, Livestock