The show livestock industry may have strayed from production values in some ways. Here in Sumter County, we are helping bring youth back to the foundations of animal production. Premier Exhibitor is a long-standing program in Sumter County, predating myself. Premier Exhibitor is a skill-a-thon centered contest for all market exhibitors. Modeled after the Florida State Fair Champion of Champions program, with topics rotating each year. Topics include reproduction management, nutrition, and animal handling.

Youth have the opportunity to participate in poster presentations, record book tests, skill-a-thon, and preparatory educational seminar. All of these events are scored and add points to the youth’s overall score. Each participant is awarded a sponsored premium check for the total points they earn. Prizes are given to high scoring individuals for each species area and then overall, coveted title of “Premier Exhibitor” for a customized belt buckle. For the 2025 fair we had over 60 participants. We are excited to grow this contest even more next year.

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