|
The Western Texas College Show Team recently participated in the Open Swine Show at the Southwestern Exposition and Livestock Show held in Fort Worth. The team exhibited nine entries and placed four.
The placing animals included a Black OPB (Berkshire) July Boar that placed first in his class, a Duroc September Gilt placed 7th in her class, another Duroc August Gilt placed 8th in her class and a Black OPB (Spot) August Gilt placed 12th in her class.
"I am very proud of the kids and all of the hard work they have put into our breeding program. Alot of time and dedication have gone into taking care of the animals and making sure they are healthy. We were able to sell some high quality show pigs this last season and also keep some back to improve on our genetics in the college's herd. I am glad we were able to do so well at the show, it is a huge reward that has many benefits!" said Jessica Colvin, agriculture instructor.
One of the benefits Colvin is referring to is recruitment. Several high school students were exhibiting at the same show and took the opportunity to visit with the ag instructor and current Show Team members about continuing their education somewhere they could still show after high school. Another benefit is publicity. According to Colvin, "Other breeders and exhibitors were able to see what type of animals we are raising and the genetics that we have to work with."
Show Team members include Kalyn Presley of Hamlin, Larissa Blackard of Snyder, Brady Evans of Ira, Morgan Reynolds of Lindale/Grand Saline, Corbin Smith of Sweetwater and Ruby Bausch of Iraan.
|
