KANSAS CITY, Mo. Junior Shorthorn enthusiasts gathering from 28 states competed in the 2023 National Junior Shorthorn Show & Youth Conference in Des Moines, IA, June 17June 24.
Not only did the juniors compete with their animals, but had the opportunity to compete in multiple individual, team, or state contests.
As the Beef Cook- Off Contest came around, attendees followed their noses to the delicious smelling contest. The objective of the contest is for each state group to cook the best dish using the wholesale rib cut of beef. Judging criteria is based on the team’s creativity, teamwork, and knowledge of the product/ industry in their presentation as well as the taste, originality, and presentation of the beef product.
Executive Secretary/CEO of the American Shorthorn Association, Montie Soules, explained in an interview that, “The National Junior Shorthorn Show and Youth Conference is every bit as much about the contests and the educational aspect from that as it is the cattle show.
The youth of this breed pride themselves in participating in a number of contests. This provides leadership and communication skills for those junior exhibitors that will advance them in their lifelong goals. One of the things that I am most proud of about this event is the high participation percentage that we have in our contests. Our junior board and staff have made it a point to try and provide new and updated contests that challenge the junior members with the technology available in today’s world. This prepares Shorthorn youth for their future.”
Receiving top honors in the Beef Cook-Off was: 1. Oklahoma 2Dayson Cash, Carter Kornegay, Sheridan Soules; Peyton Ramsey 2. Arkansas- Natalie Lester, Anna Phelps, Lindsey Baker, Karlie Schluterman 3. Kansas- Braylee Kraisinger, Ryder Heter, Josie Heter; Carissa Dalquest 4. Shorthorn Stackers-Kelby Worthington, Will Collins, Kade Lott,; London Steele 5. Indiana 2- Jemma Jordan, Chloe Jordan, Charlotte Jordan,; Jack Jordan Winning Recipe: Champion Recipe: The Alabama Kingdom Stacker-Shorthorn Stackers Beef Cook-Off Showmanship Award: Champion Showmanship: Oklahoma 2-Shorthorn Kingdom For more information and a complete list of activities, sponsors, contests, and winners, visit www.shorthorn.org or contact the ASA at 816599-7777 or shelby@shorthorn.org.