07/22/2026
Borrowed this from another page!
If you want to find the biggest bullies at a county fair, don't look in the show ring.
Look in the stands.
I'm not talking about the kids. I'm talking about the adults.
Today I texted my friend to congratulate her on her family's success at their county fair. Her son earned Supreme Champion Heifer. She told me that immediately after his win, a woman walked up to him, looked him in the eye, and told him he didn't deserve it.
Think about that for a minute.
An adult. Speaking to a child. Trying to take away one of the biggest moments of his young life.
That makes my blood boil.
Let's be honest. Livestock judging has always been subjective. There isn't a single judge who has ever pleased everyone standing around the ring. That's part of showing livestock.
Telling a child they didn't deserve to win is not.
If you have a problem with the results, have that conversation with your spouse on the drive home. Talk to your friends over a hamburger after the show.
But leave the kids out of it.
One of the things I love most about 4-H is its pledge: “…My Head to clearer thinking, My Heart to greater loyalty, My Hands to larger service, and My Health to better living….”
Choosing to tear down a young exhibitor doesn't demonstrate clearer thinking. It doesn't show greater loyalty to our youth. It isn't service. And it certainly doesn't help create the kind of positive environment 4-H works so hard to build.
So here's my challenge.
If you're an adult at a livestock show, act like one. The kids are watching every conversation, every Facebook post, every eye roll, and every comment you make under your breath. Whether we realize it or not, we're teaching them what sportsmanship looks like.
And if you feel the need to bully someone, at least pick on somebody your own age.
Actually, here's an even better idea.
Don't pick on anyone at all.
County fairs should be where kids build confidence, friendships, and memories they'll carry for the rest of their lives. Let's make sure the adults aren't the reason those memories are ruined.
AMEN