Leigh FFA Competes at Aksarben
About a month later after members of the Leigh FFA Chapter competed at the State Fair and showed off their projects, the Aksarben Stock Show rolled around the corner. Aksarben is eligible to 14 different states: Arkansas, Colorado, Kansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, Montana, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
Aksarben started off with check-in on Thursday, September 25, followed by showmanship during the day Friday, the market show on Saturday, and rounding off the weekend with breeding shows on Sunday.
Junior Carmen Malena commented, “Aksarben was a super fun show. I did well, making it an even better trip! Many lessons were learned and many laughs were shared with family and friends.”
Carmen Malena placed 1st in class market barrow, while younger brother Cruz Malena finished 3rd in class market gilt.
Freshman Briggs Klug finished 3rd, 4th, and 5th in class market barrows, and freshman Avery Kuester received 3rd overall market beef.
The participants worked very hard this year on their projects and it really shows off in the ring. With this being a show for multiple states, the competition is still very tough. Through competing in shows like Aksarben, students learn skills like proper nutrition and taking care of their animals; communication from talking with breeders, nutritionists, fitters, and others in the industry; and learn time management.
The members of Leigh FFA who participated in this show include juniors, Carmen Malena and Daphne Jedlicka; freshmen, Briggs Klug and Avery Kuester; and 8th grader Cruz Malena.
Freshman Avery Kuester stated, “Getting 3rd place at Askarban was an amazing experience! It's more than just a banner, it's proof that long hours in the barn, dedication, and passion for what you do can pay off. I was proud to be able to be there and represent the Leigh FFA.” Congrats to Avery Kuester receiving 3rd overall Market Beef!