State 4-H Meats Judging Contest

COLUMBIA, Mo. � The University of Missouri Extension 4-H State Meats Judging contest on Feb. 17 drew 48 competing 4-H members, said Don Nicholson MU Extension Interim Associate 4-H Director.

Working in partnership with the MU Meat Science Department and MU Collegiate Meats Judging Team, the contestants were provided an opportunity to develop and hone their judging skills, and explore future career and educational options.

Youth involved with the meat judging program develop key life skills to aid in their future career success, and success as life-long consumers. �Through involvement in a 4-H judging team members must make rapid, logical decisions and defend their decisions via oral reasons. Therefore, students improve their ability for critical thinking and accurate communication. In addition, students become organized and self-disciplined, learn to accept criticism, develop self-confidence and become leaders,� said Nicholson. Alumni from the program have reported success in the meat judging competition has translated to employment opportunities, internships and scholarships.

The 2018 contest included two age divisions: Junior for ages 8 � 13 and Senior for ages 14 � 18.

Participating from Cape Girardeau County 4-H were Samuel Koenig who placed 8th, Steven Peters who placed 9th, Adam Koenig, and Gracen James in the senior division. They placed 3rd as a team. In the Junior division, Asher Ahrens, Kasen Ahrens, Blake Aufdenberg, Hunter Aufdenberg, Dylan Aufdenberg, and Ryan Glenzy competed. Asher, Blake, Hunter, and Kasen placed in the top ten of the 8-10 year olds. Denise Essner coached them. Susan Ahrens, James Aufdenberg, and Craig Glenzy served as chaperones.

The members of the senior championship team from Franklin county will advance to the National 4-H Meats Judging Contest held in the fall as part of the American Royal.