State Fair raises over $470,000 to benefit Colorado youth

NEWS RELEASE
GOVERNOR JARED POLIS
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The 2023 Colorado’s Electric Cooperatives Junior Livestock Sale held at the Colorado State Fair raised more than $470,350 in the auction of 108 animals raised and shown by young people from across Colorado. The 2023 Grand Champion Market Beef, raised by Hadli Gabel of Weld County, was sold for $50,000 at today’s event and was purchased by the Sam Brown family.

“This is a great opportunity to celebrate the hard work of Colorado’s talented young people who are an important part of Colorado's proud farming and ranching tradition. Their hard work helps to ensure that Colorado remains a leader in agriculture for generations to come,” said Governor Jared Polis.

The Junior Livestock Sale benefits youth exhibitors who raise animals to show at the Colorado State Fair. All youth exhibitors who participated in today’s auction are learning responsibility, leadership, showmanship, and best animal husbandry practices. 

“The Colorado State Fair helps showcase the hard work and dedication our state’s young people put into raising their animals,” said Colorado State Fair General Manager Scott Stoller. “We’re grateful our generous buyers are committed to supporting the future of Colorado agriculture and those young ag leaders who traveled from near and far to participate in the auction.”

The junior livestock sale is instrumental in supporting the future of Colorado’s agribusiness, as it demonstrates the importance of raising quality livestock and the work required of those who pursue careers in agriculture. The auctioneer and master of ceremonies for the event was John Korrey. 

The Grand and Reserve Grand Champions are listed below. A complete list of all winners will be posted on the Colorado State Fair website.

The 2023 Colorado State Fair continues through Labor Day, September 4th. For a complete schedule of state fair daily events, fair hours, admission pricing, and parking information, visit ColoradoStateFair.com and the Colorado State Fair Facebook page.

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