Chambana Sun

Illinois 4-H members participated in the 2023 State Livestock Judging Contest at the University of Illinois campus in Urbana. The event involved young participants evaluating cattle, hogs, and sheep based on breed characteristics, physical conformation, structure, and gain efficiency.

University of Illinois Extension 4-H youth development educator Shelby Carlson expressed enthusiasm for the event, stating, “This is absolutely my favorite 4-H event.” She praised the professionalism and dedication shown by the participants.

The contest emphasized both technical judging skills and positive youth development. Charlie Thurman from Warren County, who placed third overall, shared his training routine: “We worked out three times a week with hogs, then cattle, then sheep.” He aims to win next year.

Successful contestants will advance to national competition at the North American International Livestock Expo in November. Additional tryouts this summer will determine team members.

Carlson highlighted the significance of the expertise developed by these youths: “Most of them have the chance to go on and compete, even on to the college level, possibly earning scholarships.”

In the Junior Division Top 10 Individuals Overall category, Alexa Turner from Champaign County secured first place. The Champaign County #1 Team claimed top honors in the Junior Division High Team Overall category.

Kashen Ellerbrock from Henry County took first place in Senior Division Top 10 Individuals Reasons. Emma Pistorius from Christian County led in Senior Division Top 10 Individuals Overall. The Henry-Stark County Team achieved first place in Senior High Team Overall.

The Illinois 4-H Foundation and Illinois Farm Bureau support livestock judging teams participating in national competitions. Livestock for the contest was provided by several farms including Lorenzen Farms and Hi Point Genetics.