Perry FFA shines at Georgia Young Farmer livestock show

The Perry High FFA had a successful showing at the Georgia Young Famer Association livestock show. Exhibitors were required to compete in a showmanship class on Friday, followed by weight classes on Saturday.

The livestock team started bright and early Aug. 10 preparing their cattle. Arriving early at the barn gave the team plenty of time to feed, wash, clean their spot and get their cow ready for show. In the midst of all the commotion, the livestock team was still able to have fun.

All of the participants will tell you that it is not just fun and games; it takes hard work and dedication to achieve their goals.

Sophomore, Jacob Collins, says “Even though it is stressful at times, I can’t see myself doing anything else but showing cows. I enjoy the atmosphere and closeness of the Perry High show team.”

On a day to day basis these young farmers spend a countless amount of hours with their livestock, preparing them for the show.

In showmanship, exhibitors are judged on how well they present their animals, as well as answering questions from the judge on things such as daily care, maintenance, and training. Collins, started showmanship off by winning his class, becoming the 10th grade showmanship champion for the show. Others from the Perry FFA who also made it to the final drive in showmanship are: freshman – Lizzi Neal and Haley Pulsifer; sophomores – Collins; juniors – Summer Knight, Billy Gordy, Ali Moore and Will Whitehead; seniors – Anna Collins, Cassie Wright and Ashlyn Reeves.

Weight classes started on Saturday, where exhibitors compete on how well maintained their cow is, its muscle size, and structural correctness. Winners from Perry include Tori Tucker (Grand Champion Limousin heifer), Anna Collins and Ali Moore (both Commercial heifer class winners), Katie Barlow (third overall champion steer), Will Whitehead (fourth overall champion steer), and Bonner Brooks (fourth overall British steer).

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