DLD
Well-known member
We just have a county bred class along with our regular steer show. I think it's good to recognize those cattle (and exhibitors and breeders), but I fully agree that I wouldn't want to see the whole show limited that way, even though we are one of only 3 or 4 families that often show what we raise. It's tough enough to be competitive on a limited budget without restricting where you can buy them, and buying them in our county prob'ly wouldn't save most most kids any money, 'cause we produce more than our share of high dollar ones here. The lottery thing is trying to eliminate competition anyway - fortunately I don't believe it'd ever be seriously considered here.
One thing I do like is that our neighboring county has a bred and owned show (along with their regular show), where the animal has to have been bred and raised by the exhibitor themself. I know bred and owned classes are common at bigger heifer shows, but this is the only one I know of on a county level or that includes steers. It does encourage those kids to try harder to raise a good one, and offers some incentive for them to show something they've raised (as opposed to buying one). I really like the idea of recognizing that accomplishment - it's more important than just being county bred, IMO.
One thing I do like is that our neighboring county has a bred and owned show (along with their regular show), where the animal has to have been bred and raised by the exhibitor themself. I know bred and owned classes are common at bigger heifer shows, but this is the only one I know of on a county level or that includes steers. It does encourage those kids to try harder to raise a good one, and offers some incentive for them to show something they've raised (as opposed to buying one). I really like the idea of recognizing that accomplishment - it's more important than just being county bred, IMO.