100 youth exhibitors filled the Churchill County Fairgrounds April 23–26 for the annual Churchill County Junior Livestock Show and Sale (CCJLS), showcasing animals, agricultural mechanics projects, and months of hands-on work in a cornerstone event for local 4-H and Future Farmers of America (FFA) members.
This year’s total includes 12 Pee Wee participants, ages 5 to 9, who took part in the show’s youngest age division. Exhibitors at the main show ranged in age from 9 to 19, representing youth agriculture programs throughout Churchill County.
The event opened Thursday, April 23, with the breeding show, where participants presented animals they raise for long‑term projects. Breeding classes included beef, sheep, hogs, goats, dairy goats, and dairy cattle.
The show also welcomed approximately 400 fourth‑grade students for the annual Ag in the Classroom field trip, which introduces elementary students to agriculture, livestock care, and the work exhibitors put into their projects. This field trip took place on Thursday, April 23.
Friday’s schedule featured the market show, with exhibitors showing steers, hogs, lambs, goats, chickens, turkeys, and rabbits. All market animals were judged on Friday in preparation for Saturday night’s auction.
A growing addition to the event is the Ag Mechanics competition, now in its second year. Exhibitors who showed livestock could enter projects in metalwork, woodwork, or crafts, expanding the show’s hands‑on learning opportunities.
A total of 73 animals were sold during Saturday night’s auction. Final buyer information is still being compiled as organizers close out the show.
One of the standout moments of the CCJLSS came when 15‑year‑old exhibitor Neel Bhakta, a member of the Oasis FFA chapter, performed the national anthem before the auction. Churchill County 4‑H Coordinator Karen Bogdanowicz said he blew the audience away with his talent.
Bogdanowicz also said the camaraderie among exhibitors remains one of the show’s greatest strengths. “I always think it’s a highlight when you see the youth helping the younger kids, and the older, more seasoned showmen — the older youths — teaching the younger ones,” she said.
Bogdanowicz further recognized Ted Guazzini, who has served as the show’s auctioneer for more than 40 years, guiding generations of youth exhibitors through the sale with his steady presence and trademark professionalism. She also praised longtime spotter Mickey Laca, whose experience and sharp eye have helped keep the auction running smoothly year after year.
Although the CCJLS is not connected to the Nevada Junior Livestock Show, many Churchill County exhibitors will continue on to that event, scheduled for June 11–14 at the Reno Livestock Events Center.
Results of the CCJLS will be posted when they become available.
Comment
Comments