Local talent stood out at the Illinois State Fair Master Showmanship Contest on Friday at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield, where 65 of Illinois’ top young livestock exhibitors showcased their skills.
The prestigious competition, open to 4-H members ages 14–18 who won their county contests, judged participants on their expertise in handling beef, sheep, and swine, as well as their species-specific knowledge and showmanship. Awards were presented in each species category, with cumulative scores determining the top five overall winners.
Three local youth earned significant accolades, highlighting the strength of agricultural education in the region. Nolan Hoge of Good Hope (McDonough County) secured fourth place overall and was named Reserve Champion in the beef division. Carly Powell of Saint Augustine (Knox County) claimed fifth place overall and third place in the beef division. Aubrey Killey of Berwick (Warren County) took third place in the swine division.
The Master Showmanship Contest required participants to demonstrate precision and poise across multiple livestock species, a testament to their hard work and training.
Hoge is the son of Mark and Katie Hoge; Powell is the daughter of Justin and Amanda Powell; and Killey is the daughter of Kevin and DeNeene Killey.
