Eighty Three Years of the National Western Stock Show Catch-a-Calf Contest
By Amy Kelley, CSU Extension Agent, Morgan County
Fort Morgan, CO – 2020 will mark the 83rd year of the National Western Stock Show Catch-a-Calf Contest. This long running program is an important part of the National Western. It not only gives youth the opportunity to learn about animal husbandry, but also to compete at the National Western.
Catch-a-Calf participants first must catch a calf during one of the National Western Stock Show Rodeo performances. They then return in May to receive their project, which they are required to feed and care for until the following year’s Stock Show. At that time participants bring their steers to be evaluated based on their rate of gain and appearance. Participants must also submit a record book, participate in an interview, and compete in showmanship. The overall grand and reserve grand champion Catch-a-Calf steers are eligible for the Auction of Junior Livestock Champions. The National Western Stock Show Catch-a-Calf Program would not be possible without generous sponsors, so participants are also required to send monthly correspondence to their sponsors.
This practical beef cattle management educational program is open to 4-H members and residents from Colorado, Wyoming, Kansas, and Nebraska that are between 12 and 19 years of age, as of December 31st, 2019. To apply youth will go to http://www.nationalwestern.com/livestock-shows/catch-a-calf-contest/ to complete an online application. There is also a form that applicants must print off and sign, along with their parent/guardian and extension agent. The form and online application are both due by December 1st.
Written and submitted to The BARN by:
Contact: Amy Kelley
CSU Extension Director & Agent, 4-H Youth Development
(970) 542-3545
E-mail: amy.kelley@colostate.edu