UPDATE: In a thrilling showdown at the Jasper County Fair, 15-year-old Karly Spear has been named Champion Showman, showcasing her exceptional skills and preparation in the Brice Leonard Supreme Showmanship Contest. This year’s competition took place earlier today, and Spear’s remarkable performance included top-two finishes in five out of six species shows.
Spear, who hails from Newton, returned to the pavilion with newfound confidence after last year’s nerves held her back. She actively sought guidance from fellow 4-H’ers to enhance her livestock presentation skills. Her hard work paid off, as she clinched first place in both the beef and sheep categories while tying for first in goat alongside Claire Kucera. She narrowly missed a top-two finish in swine, finishing behind this year’s Reserve Champion Showman, Grace Guy, aged 17, also from Newton.
Reflecting on her journey, Spear expressed gratitude for the experience gained over the past two years. “In the past two years, I’ve had some animals that maybe weren’t perfectly behaved, so it’s just learning to keep my composure and work hard at it,” she shared with Newton News. She acknowledged the challenges of handling livestock, especially when it comes to maintaining control during competitions.
Guy, who also competed in previous contests, noted a significant improvement in her performance this year. “Last time, I came in dead last. It was humbling to say the least,” she admitted. This time, however, her experience proved invaluable as she secured three top-two placements in swine, beef, and sheep categories. “I kinda knew what to expect, and I think my confidence level has gone up,” she stated.
Both champions recognized the importance of dedication in their preparation. Guy emphasized her commitment, quoting her father: “You get what you put into it. I worked with as many kids as I could and I tried to stack as much experience as I could right in there.”
Spear and Guy’s triumphs are not just personal victories but serve as inspiration to their peers in the 4-H community. The Brice Leonard Supreme Showmanship Contest continues to highlight the hard work and resilience of young competitors in the livestock arena. As the fair progresses, all eyes will be on these rising stars, showcasing the spirit of competition and camaraderie that defines the event.
Stay tuned for more updates as we cover the highlights from the Jasper County Fair and the remarkable achievements of its young contestants.