Colorado Youth Prepare for National Western Stock Show
Ever since Grace Kennedy met Quinn in May, her goal has been to raise the Hereford calf just right to auction it off at this month’s National Western Stock Show in Denver.
Quinn, a year-and-a-half-old calf, started at 460 pounds when Grace won him from the Stock Show’s Catch-A-Calf program. By early December, he had grown to about 1,250 pounds.
“They just want a good-looking carcass,” Grace, a 17-year-old from Morrison, explained, referring to the judges who will evaluate Quinn at the show.
Grace is one of Colorado’s 4-H youth members participating in the Stock Show, aiming to sell livestock to fund college, buy a car, or invest in farming.
The Stock Show, running until Jan. 25, is a significant opportunity for youth like 15-year-old Ty Weathers from Yuma, who hopes to sell his steer, Theodore, for a car.
Unlike Grace, who received Quinn through the Catch-A-Calf program, Ty’s sale is not guaranteed, but he remains optimistic about the auction.
Zemery Weber, a 14-year-old from Gill, will be showing her goat, Nemo, for the first time at the Stock Show, aiming to earn money for her first car and college.
4-H also provides educational opportunities at the Stock Show, with field trips for elementary students to learn about animals and agriculture.
4-H, operating for over 120 years, engages children in various projects, including livestock showing, gardening, and robotics.
More than 100,000 Colorado students participate in 4-H programs, fostering skills in responsibility and reliability.
Grace’s interest in cattle was sparked during the pandemic, leading her to dream of owning a ranch. She has been a 4-H member for six years and is part of the Catch-A-Calf program to learn cattle management.
Teens in the Catch-A-Calf program must care for a calf, track its progress, and learn about animal management. Grace and her fellow participants will showcase their steers at the Stock Show, aiming for the Grand Champion title.
Grace hopes to cover Quinn’s expenses and make a profit from his sale, emphasizing the valuable learning experience the program has provided.
Participating in activities like the Stock Show and 4-H programs not only offers financial opportunities but also instills important life skills in Colorado’s youth.
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