Electric Co-op Today

For the second year in a row, a Florida co-op has helped youngsters gain real-world experience in the competitive world of cattle exhibiting before they hit the local and state fair circuits.

Destiny and Adam McCauley prepare to show their Angus cow as part of a cattle show sponsored by a Florida co-op. (Photo By: Mark Sellers)

More than 100 competitors, some as young as four, from 17 Florida counties exhibited 190 head of cattle at the 2010 Hardee County Preview Show, an annual event hosted by Peace River Electric Cooperative, Wauchula. Billed as a family-friendly event, the show aims to prepare young people for the rigors of big-time competition at local and state fairs.

While the Sunshine State has an active show circuit for cattle professionals and amateurs, there were no opportunities for youngsters and novices to cut their teeth until now, said Nell McCauley at Peace River Electric Co-op.

“We wanted to see this as a learning experience for young people,” said McCauley, the co-op’s chief marketing and member services officer. “Most of the competitors walked out of the ring with more experience and at least a ribbon. We’ve hit a niche.”

Although this is only the show’s second year, it’s already a known entity among cattle enthusiasts; its Facebook site has attracted more than 400 friends.

Dozens more heifers, bulls and steers were shown this year, enabling the co-op to return entry fees and award cash prizes to winners. Community support is strong too, with backing from local insurance agents, banks and credit unions, allowing the co-op to provide T-shirts and free meals to exhibitors.

“It’s the largest non-state fair cattle show in the state,” said McCauley, whose own two children competed in it, as did the children of many consumer-members.

A national level cattle judge spent extra time and turned the showmanship competition into a clinic. After judging each round, he “talked to each and every one of the contestants and actually demonstrated on the animals,” said McCauley.

“I was very impressed with both the high quality of cattle and young people who participated in the event,” said Wes Hudson, the judge. “The exhibitors who attended this show will be much better prepared for their local county and state fairs.”

Tags: Local Initiatives