The University of Missouri Extension 4-H State Meats Judging Contest on Feb. 20 drew 45 competitors from across the state.
"This year's contest looked different from most. However, we were able to provide a great lineup of classes for youth to judge while following safety protocol," said Maria Calvert, MU Extension state 4-H agriculture and natural resources educator.
The contest, held in partnership with the MU Meat Science Program, provided youths the opportunity to develop and hone their judging skills and explore future career and educational opportunities, Calvert said.
The championship team, from Monroe County, will represent Missouri in the National 4-H Meats Judging Contest this fall at the American Royal.
Junior division (ages 8-13)
Teams: First place, Callaway County; second place, Jasper County 2; and third place, Cape Girardeau County.
Individuals: First, Gianna Quinn, Monroe County; second, Austin Pope, Jasper County; third, Aiden Wimmer, Callaway County; fourth, Bryli DeLashmutt, Callaway County; fifth, Kirsten Harris, Callaway County; sixth, Emily Harris, Callaway County; seventh, Hunter Aufdenberg, Cape Girardeau County; eighth, Blake Gates, Randolph County; ninth, Josie Schulte, Osage County; and 10th, Robert Quinn, Monroe County.
Senior division (ages 14-18)
Teams: First place, Monroe County; second place, Audrain County; and third place, Cole/Platte counties.
Individuals: First, Rose Quinn, Monroe County; second, Tucker Robnett, Audrain County; third, John Paul Quinn, Monroe County; fourth, Mallory Greiwe, Monroe County; fifth, Reid Ragsdale, Monroe County; sixth, Lance Fort, Audrain County; seventh, Paighton Witt, Franklin County; eighth Pacey Cope, Audrain County; ninth, Dylan Aufdenberg, Cape Girardeau County; and 10th, Kalaa Clark, Webster County.
Sponsors for the 2021 Missouri 4-H State Meats Judging Contest include the Missouri Association of Meat Processors and Missouri 4-H Foundation. Learn more about the Missouri 4-H Meats Judging project and other 4-H programs at 4h.missouri.edu.