By Scout Nelson
The 94th Kansas Junior Livestock Show (KJLS) brought together more than 730 exhibitors and 1,590 livestock entries in Hutchinson, highlighting the skills, dedication, and leadership of young livestock producers from across Kansas. Participants competed for championships, scholarships, and cash premiums across multiple species and showmanship divisions.
Brecken Bergkamp of Reno County earned grand champion market steer honors with a Charolais entry, while Dax Seibert of Pawnee County exhibited the reserve grand champion steer. Beef showmanship champions included Aubree McCurry (senior), Josie Beltz (intermediate), and Paisley Ferris (junior).
Kate Heikes of Johnson County claimed grand champion market hog honors, with Kelltyn Grasser of Rice County earning reserve grand champion. Swine showmanship titles went to Hadley Huseman, Kinley Heikes, and Kinsley Ellis in the senior, intermediate, and junior divisions, respectively.
Cole Flower of Rooks County exhibited the grand champion market lamb, while Quinlyn Yoho of Woodson County showed the reserve grand champion lamb. Sheep showmanship champions were Grady Gleason, Colyer Williams, and Raile Mazanec.
Ella Hoeltzel of Riley County earned grand champion honors in the market goat show, and Kodi McComb of Pratt County exhibited the reserve grand champion goat. Goat showmanship winners included Ella Neher, Avery Franklin, and Teagan Parsons.
The LEAD Challenge recognized youth for leadership, communication, and industry knowledge. Division winners were Katherine Bormann (senior), Quinn Breiner (intermediate), and Sutton Ludwig (junior).
The Flint Hills Mid-America Classic Livestock Judging Contest was held alongside KJLS. Kansas State University won the senior college division, with Anna Webel named the top-scoring senior individual competitor.
The event once again showcased the achievements of Kansas youth in livestock production, leadership, and agricultural education while helping prepare the next generation of industry leaders.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-erdinhasdemir
Categories: Kansas, Livestock