Fredericktown FFA members participated in the Ohio FFA State Livestock and Equine Evaluation Career Development Events on March 28, joining students from across the state to test their agricultural knowledge.
In the Equine Evaluation event, which requires students to assess horses based on physical structure and performance, Fredericktown saw representation at both middle and high school levels. Lily Hambleton finished 19th out of 38 competitors in the middle school division. In the high school division, Raegan Blanchard placed 92nd among 306 individual evaluators. The chapter noted that placing in the top third of such a large field highlights the dedication these students have shown in mastering equine movement and conformation.
The General Livestock Evaluation team also competed in what was described as one of the state's most competitive contests. This event tasks students with evaluating multiple classes of beef cattle, sheep, swine, and goats under time constraints. Out of 196 teams and nearly 1,000 individual participants, Fredericktown's team earned 53rd place overall.
Livestock Judging Team (Left to Right) Austin Robinson, Austin Frazier, Lane Dugan, Jordyn Neighbarger, Allissya Dugan, Ella Bouton
Team members Lane Dugan, Ella Bouton, Jordyn Neighbarger, and Austin Frazier all placed within the top 400 individuals out of a field of 966 competitors. The chapter said this level of consistency at a state-level event demonstrates critical thinking skills and an ability to apply industry standards to real-world agricultural scenarios.
According to the organization's press release, participation in these events provided valuable decision-making experience for Fredericktown FFA members that will benefit them academically and professionally.
