Several Blanco FFA and Blanco Jr. FFA steer feeders have spent the past several weeks competing at jackpot steer shows in the area. In June, Kolby Marek took home champion honors in two divisions with his Santa Gertrudis and Polled Hereford steers at the annual New Braunfels River Round-Up. Kylie Leachman also did well, winning reserve champion in the Simmental division in addition to placing 2nd with a Charolais. Overall, there were more than 160 steers at the show. Following the New Braunfels show, eight local feeders traveled to Seguin to take part in the Pecan Valley Classic. More than 200 steers went through the ring at this year’s show. Leading the way for Blanco was Kelton Marek and his Reserve Champion Polled Hereford. Brenna Wallace and James Leachman also placed high, taking home 2nd place ribbons in the Simbrah and Simmental divisions respectively. Brenna also placed her ABC and Maine Anjou steers while James placed another steer in the Charolais division. Other local FFA members doing well included: Asher Haack, Carly Haack, Hanna Garrett, Kolby Marek and Carlin Green.

Many of these local FFA steer feeders, as well as several others, will now begin preparations for upcoming shows in Fredericksburg, Johnson City, Boerne and Hondo as August and September signal the start of numerous county fairs.