Success StoryLivestock Evaluation Leads to First Kentucky National Championship



Livestock Evaluation Leads to First Kentucky National Championship

Author: Mike Meyer

Planning Unit: 4-H Central Operations

Major Program: 4-H Agriculture Core Curriculum AND Natural Resources

Plan of Work: Marketing & Profitability

Outcome: Long-Term Outcome

Nine years after first attending practice in Harrison County, Will Banks could experienced the highest success.  For the first time in program history, the Kentucky 4-H Livestock Judging Team earned the overall top honor at the North American International Livestock Exposition in Louisville, Kentucky.  Will has been a member of the Harrison County Livestock Judging Team for nine years.  Each year, members practice 6 hours per month from January until June, completing their time at the Kentucky 4-H Livestock Judging Contest.  The Harrison County has been coach by Livestock Volunteer leader, Kevin Farrell for the past 10 years.  In addition, Luke Arthur and many current and past team members have helped along the way, including Will and his brother, Wyatt Banks.  Over the past 10 years, Harrison County teams have won all levels at the state contest, including clover, intermediate, and senior.  In addition, there have been 9 members who have competed on the national team for Kentucky.  In addition, Will and his brother Wyatt have been the only siblings so far to win the top 4-H achievement Emerald Award.  Will has contributed his leadership and communication development to the hours he has spent giving oral reasons and crafting his decision-making skills through judging.  Will, and his brother Wyatt are both attending community college programs with livestock judging scholarships for their efforts.  Both plan to attend a four-year program upon completion and continue their work in the livestock industry.






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