Young Exhibitors Take Center Stage on Final Day of Muskingum County Blue Ribbon Fair

Interviewed by WHIZ reporter Gabe Hutton

The 180th Muskingum County Blue Ribbon Fair wrapped up with plenty of excitement, as young exhibitors took the opportunity to showcase the animals they have worked hard to raise and care for throughout the year.

The final day featured a variety of animals at the fairgrounds, including cows, chickens, ducks and more. For many exhibitors, the fair is a chance to put months of hard work on display while taking part in some friendly competition.

For Reserve Grand Champion Zach Hallowell, winning is certainly a rewarding part of the experience, but he says the lessons learned along the way are just as important.

“Obviously winning is a big part of it. It’s really fun to win,” Hallowell said.

Hallowell explained that raising an animal from a calf to a finished steer allows exhibitors to see the progress they have made and the bond they have developed with the animal.

“You get to see the change and grow with the animal. You both are learning a lot throughout that timeframe,” he said.

Hallowell is also beginning to raise his own cattle, continuing to build on the experience he has gained through showing animals at the fair.

For other young exhibitors, showing animals is about more than competition. It is also a way to continue a family tradition.

Carter Hogue, who showed cattle and rabbits, said his family’s connection to dairy farming goes back generations.

Hogue said his great-grandfather purchased the family’s dairy farm, Holstein Hills, in the 1950s, and the family has been milking cows for roughly 75 years.

That history has helped inspire Hogue’s own involvement in showing animals.

“I like working with mine,” Hogue said.

The excitement from the young exhibitors was evident throughout the final day, as they celebrated something they enjoy while carrying on traditions that have been passed down through their families.

With the 180th Muskingum County Blue Ribbon Fair now in the books, exhibitors and fairgoers will have to wait until next year for another opportunity to come together.

For updates and information about future events, you can visit the Muskingum County Blue Ribbon Fair’s Facebook page.