Every year at the Manitowoc County Fair, cattle judging is one of the main attractions.
For local dairy farmers and 4H members, it is an opportunity to showcase the hard work and dedication they’ve put in throughout the year.
This year was no different, as open class and junior fair dairy cattle judging took place on Thursday (August 22nd).
Ross Westphalen, one of the individuals tasked with judging the cows, has been doing this for the better part of two decades.
Before judging, he showed cattle of his own and knows what goes into making this happen from the perspective of a judge and participant.
He also told Seehafer News what makes cattle showing so important.
He said, “It teaches the kids responsibility, and it’s just a family tradition with farms. I grew up doing this, and I enjoy helping out every year.”
Westphalen also said cattle quality has improved over the years, and the gaps between first- and second-place cows have become narrower.
Showing cattle teaches the younger competitors valuable life lessons. Westphalen elaborated, saying, “They take away work ethic. I believe it’s one of the key things, and they know they have to be there.”
One of those young competitors included 18-year-old Eli Staudinger who has been showing cattle for ten years.
This year, his winter calf, Jersey, won reserve grand champion at the Wisconsin State Fair.
When asked about his favorite thing about the cattle shows, he said, “Showmanship, being able to show my calf to the best ability that I can.”
Showmanship and hard work paid off are just two things on full display at the Manitowoc County Fair for dairy farmers and members of 4H.
To see the winners in all dairy cattle categories, visit the dairy cattle barn at the Manitowoc County Fairgrounds.
