A new competition was held in conjunction with the Spring Show and Three Year Old Futurity. Focused on youth exhibitors, the Youth All-Around Buckle Competition was designed to recognize youth exhibitors that compete in a variety of competition areas.

All youth exhibitors were eligible to participate. To qualify, youth needed to participate in at least three categories. Categories included Horsemanship/Equitation, Model, Performance, Versatility, Trail and Cattle Classes. Only one placing per category counted toward the competition.

Youth exhibitors also had an opportunity to earn up to 3 bonus points during the week by participating in other events. These events include the attending the Youth Seminar, one day of the ranch sorting clinic schedule, or participating in one of the National Trail Rides scheduled during the Spring Show and Three Year Old Futurity.

Five youth exhibitors turned in All-Around Buckle Competition forms to qualify for the awards. This represented approximately 17 percent of the youth exhibitors participating in the show. “For our first time hosting this competition, we were pleased with the participation,” shared Lisa Cantrell, MFTHBA Vice-President. Lisa developed and proposed this competition to the MFTHBA Board of Directors as a way to encourage youth exhibitors to try different competition areas. “Youth participating in the All Around competition showed an average of 5.8 times during the show This is an increase over the typical youth exhibitor who showed an average of only 3 times.”

In addition to the winner of each division earning a custom belt buckle, $200 was up for grabs in each division. This money was designated for the Top 5 winners. Since neither division had five winners, each winner will be given the percentage designated for the placing. In addition, left over money will be divided equally among the participants in the division. Prize money was sponsored by Cantrell Stables of Conway, Missouri.

“We appreciate all the youth exhibitors that participated in this competition,” added Lisa. “In the coming months, the MFTHBA Board of Directors will discuss whether to host a similar competition at the World Show and Celebration this coming September.”

2017 Spring Show and Three Year Old Futurity Youth All-Around Winners

Youth 11 & Under

1. Casey Thompson. Winner of the custom belt buckle and $102
2. Kylee Bruffett. Winner of $98
Youth 12-17

1. Jessica Stafford. Winner of custom belt buckle and $71.33
2. Dallee Porter. Winner of $67.33
3. Rachel Wade. Winner of $61.33