Under the bright lights and the unmistakable hum of livestock barns filled with anticipation, the Oklahoma Youth Expo once again brought together the very best of Oklahoma’s next generation in agriculture this March at the State Fairgrounds. Billed as the world’s largest junior livestockshow,theOklahoma Youth Expo continues to live up to its reputation, drawing more than 7,500 4-H and FFA exhibitors from all 77 counties.
Over the course of several weeks each spring, students showcase not only their livestock, but months, and often years, of dedication, discipline and hard work. Among the highlights this year was the 22nd Annual Legislative & Celebrity Showmanship Contest, where lawmakers traded the Capitol floor for the show ring.
State Rep. Josh Cantrell took part in the friendly competition, handling a goat owned by Zoey Goff of the Madill FFA. Under Goff’s careful instruction, Cantrell guided the animal through the ring, offering a glimpse into the precision and preparation required of student exhibitors.
Cantrell praised Goff’s efforts,notingthemanyhours she invested in preparing her animal for competition. The momentservedasareminder that behind every ribbon and bannerstandsayoungperson committed to mastering their craft.
“This event is always fun, but it also underscores the important work of the Youth Expo,”Cantrellsaid,pointing to the organization’s ongoing missiontosupportOklahoma students.
Since 2002, the Expo has awarded more than $2.3 million in scholarships to over 1,000 participants, helping pave the way for future leaders, particularly those pursuing careers in agriculture. That mission was formally recognized on March 16, when the Oklahoma House honored the Expo with a resolution on the floor.
Also recognized were top winners from the Ag Mechanics and Engineering Contest, highlighting the diverse talents present at the event. Taking home Grand Champion honors was Brody Bazor of the Marietta FFA, who impressed judges with a firewood processor trailer he constructed.
ReserveGrandChampion accolades went to Barrett GrissomandHunterLehman of the Strother FFA for their hydraulic chute project.
Agriculture remains a cornerstone of Oklahoma’s economy, providing not only jobs but sustaining communities and contributing to the global food supply. Events like the Oklahoma Youth Expo play a critical role in cultivating the next generation of agriculturalleaders,blending education, competition and opportunity.
As crowds filtered through the barns and show rings, one thing was clear: beyond the animals and accolades, the true success of the Expo lies in the young men and women who continue to carry forward Oklahoma’s rich agricultural tradition.