Caden Childers of Morgan County was the Grand Champion Junior Exhibitor in the Alabama Junior Beef Expo Showmanship Contest March 19 in Montgomery. He is shown here with judge Brigham Stewart of Washington, Kan., left, and Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell, right. The contest was held in conjunction with the Southeastern Livestock Exposition. | Special to the Enquirer

It was a big day for beef at the Alabama Junior Beef Expo Showmanship Contest March 19, when more than 150 young people competed March 19 at Montgomery’s Garrett Coliseum.

The show, sponsored by the Alabama Farmers Federation, was part of the Southeastern Livestock Exposition, which marked its 59th year. Youth activities began March 18  with the market steer show and ended March 20 with the heifer show.

The showmanship classes drew entries ages 9-19 from throughout the state who were judged on how they exhibited their calves as well as the animals’ fitness and grooming. Many exhibitors work with their calves for months to prepare for the show.

“Participating in the state show is the culmination of months of dedication, hard work and determination by the young people,” said Federation President Jimmy Parnell. “These are some of the most impressive young people in Alabama, and we are proud to support livestock shows, which help them develop leadership skills, work ethic and responsibility.”

Two Chilton County contestants took top honors in the Senior Exhibitor Division. Anna Grace Parnell was the Grand Champion Senior Exhibitor and Aniston Bolding was Reserve Champion Senior Exhibitor.

Emma Merriman of Etowah County was the Grand Champion Intermediate Exhibitor. Jewel Thompson of Lee County was Reserve Champion Intermediate Exhibitor.

In the Junior Division, Caden Childers of Morgan County was the Grand Champion and Victoria Thompson of Lee County was the Reserve Champion.

The 2016 Louise Wilson Scholarship winner was Anna Grace Parnell of Chilton County. The annual award is presented to the highest-placing young woman of the graduating class.