NEW HAVEN – Vermont 4-Hers and their heifers took center stage at the State 4-H Dairy Show, August 11 and 12, at the Addison County Fair and Field Days site.
The University of Vermont Extension 4-H-sponsored event attracted 51 competitors, who vied for championships in fitting and showing and conformation. Judging the contests were Greg Norris, Westhampton, Mass., and Christine Sheesley Rozler, Canton, N.Y. Dr. Becky Allen DVM conducted health check-ins for all the animals prior to the show.
To be eligible for the state show, 4-Hers had to be at least 11-years-old, have participated in a local 4-H dairy show and completed community service. Eligibility also was based on their 4-H dairy project record books and an in-person interview.
In the fitting and showing classes, which are arranged according to the exhibitor’s age, the 4-H’ers were evaluated on their poise and how well they presented and handled their animal. The first- and second-place winners in each age group competed for the championship titles.
Dawson Michaud, East Hardwick, earned the Junior Fitting and Showing Championship award.
Conformation classes, arranged by breed and age of the animal, focused on the overall appearance, physical structure and condition of the animal. Championships were awarded for each breed.
The State 4-H Dairy Judging Team, which will compete at Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, Mass., in September, also was recognized at the show. Members are Mackenzie Chase, Bristol; Zachary Johnson, Tunbridge; Brailey Livingston, New Haven; and Morgan Michaud, East Hardwick.
In addition, 30 of the show’s best exhibitors, ages 12 to 18, will be invited to compete at the New England regional 4-H dairy show at Eastern States.
