Livestock and horse shows continue at the Tulsa State Fair. Livestock entries have increased five percent over last year. General Beef Superintendent Blake Nelson says cattle entries have grown for Simmental, Maine Anjou and for junior exhibitors showing heifers.
"We see it in our open show,” Nelson said. “This past weekend, I think that our added prize money of over $3,000 has definitely stirred interest in the cattle barn and lets the exhibitors here, primarily from Oklahoma but surrounding states, come and showcase their cattle."
This year exhibitors will find a new set up and an outstanding lineup up of judges. Nelson said that also draws more exhibitors in having livestock evaluated by some of the best judges around. Numbers have increased both on the open show side, as well as among junior exhibitors. Until recently, he said the stronger cattle prices and the state's energy sector supported that growth.
"I think it’s allowed families to invest more back into their kids, projects and we’ve definitely seen it at an overall growth in that area,” Nelson said.
The culmination of the junior market shows happens Wednesday with the McDonald's Night of Champions. The selection of champions for beef, swine, sheep and goats will be held at 7 pm. The Junior Livestock Auction and Gala will be held on Thursday at 5 pm. Nelson said this allows the public to see the best livestock exhibited during the Tulsa State Fair and can support them monetarily, if they choose to.
The rest of the Tulsa State Fair will feature breeding heifers, gilts and does. Nelson said they are seeing more youth building their swine and cattle herd. The Tulsa State Fair continues through Sunday, October 11th.
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