MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
More than 300 young cattle exhibitors from 21 states and Canada are headed to Hutchinson this week as the American International Junior Charolais Association hosts its national show at the Kansas State Fairgrounds.
Josi Schrader, Area 3 Director for the association's junior board, said the event will feature more than 600 head of Charolais cattle and a full week of competitions that extend far beyond the show ring.
"We're expecting over 600 head of cattle and over 300 exhibitors from 21 states and Canada," Schrader said during an interview on the BW Morning Show.
Schrader, a Kansas native from Wells and a student at Kansas State University, represents Kansas and Oklahoma on the association's junior board. The organization serves youth ages 8 to 21, helping members develop leadership, communication, and livestock skills through competition and education.
Activities begin Sunday with check-in and opening ceremonies. Monday and Tuesday will feature leadership and communication contests, including speeches, interviews, resumes, photography, and talent competitions. Additional events include sales talk, team fitting and showmanship contests before livestock shows take center stage later in the week.
The Charolais breed, which originated in France, is known for growth and performance in beef production. While smaller in numbers than breeds such as Angus and Hereford, Schrader said Charolais cattle maintain a strong presence throughout the Midwest, particularly in Kansas, Missouri and Texas.
The week will conclude with breed shows, awards presentations and the association's annual banquet recognizing members and supporters.
Schrader said the public is encouraged to attend, noting there is no admission charge. Events will take place at the Kansas State Fairgrounds Expo Center, with most competitions and shows beginning at 8 a.m. throughout the week.
"Our planning committee has put so much time and effort into this event," Schrader said. "We're super excited to see everybody."