Master Showmanship contest slated for August 8

[August 05, 2014]  BLOOMINGTON - The Illinois Farm Bureau and RFD Radio Network will host the Illinois Master Showmanship Contest Friday, August 8, beginning at 8 p.m. in the Junior Livestock Barn on the Illinois State Fairgrounds.

The Master Showmanship Contest recognizes 4-H youth who have excelled at showing animals at their county fair. The members will be judged on their handling of each of three species of animals: beef, sheep and swine. They are also quizzed by judges on their knowledge of animal husbandry and livestock production. Over $8,000 worth of prizes donated by sponsors will be given away this year. A winner from each species will receive $100 and various prizes. Three top winners will receive $500, $300 or $200, a new showbox, director’s chairs and various prizes. In addition, all participants will receive a t-shirt and prize for their hard work.

2014 marks the fifteenth year for the contest. It was started by farm broadcasters in Illinois as a way to recognize outstanding youth and provide a state forum for the competition.

 The Illinois Farm Bureau is a member of the American Farm Bureau Federation, a national organization of farmers and ranchers. Founded in 1916, IFB is a non-profit, membership organization directed by farmers who join through their county Farm Bureau. IFB has a total membership of more than 400,000 and a voting membership of more than 82,000. IFB represents three out of four Illinois farmers.

[Text received; ILLINOIS FARM BUREAU]