At various state fairs and local competitions across the nation, young exhibitors have showcased their exceptional rabbit breeding and husbandry skills. Recent competitions have crowned new champions, celebrating the hard work and dedication that goes into raising these remarkable animals.

Short Summary:

• Lain Gerdeman from Warrenton takes the title of Grand Champion Meat Rabbit Pen at the Missouri State Fair.
• Carissa Stong from Sheldon is named Reserve Grand Champion Meat Rabbit Pen, showcasing her award-winning rabbits.
• Numerous fairs highlight 2024 winners in rabbit competitions, celebrating youth and agricultural achievements.

Celebrating Champions: Grand and Reserve Winners of Rabbit Shows Announced

In what can only be described as a testament to hard work and dedication, young rabbit breeders across various fairs have showcased their talents and skills in recent competitions. Most notably, the Missouri State Fair recently concluded, revealing the champions in the rabbit shows, while other state fairs nationwide recognized some incredible young talents.

Missouri State Fair Results

At the Missouri State Fair, held in Sedalia, Lain Gerdeman emerged as the Grand Champion Meat Rabbit Pen for the 2024 competition. Lain, a dedicated member of the County Line 4-H Club and son of Michael and Jess Gerdeman, successfully evaluated & showcased his pen of rabbits, which collectively weighed an impressive 5.2, 5.3, and 5.3 pounds.

“It means so much to me to win this title,” Lain expressed. “All the hours of care and preparation have really paid off.”

Following closely was Carissa Stong from Sheldon, who secured the title of Reserve Grand Champion Meat Rabbit Pen. Carissa, a member of the Nevada FFA Chapter, exhibited rabbits weighing 4.2, 4.5, and 4.5 pounds, showcasing her talent as an emerging rabbit breeder in the agricultural community.

Carissa commented, “Being a part of this competition and getting recognized has been an incredible experience. I can’t wait to continue this journey.”

Sale of Champions at the Missouri State Fair

Both Lain and Carissa will have the opportunity to sell their awarded rabbits at the Missouri State Fair Sale of Champions slated for Saturday, Aug. 17. This annual event has become a highlight of the fair, with many exhibitors vying for their moment in the spotlight within a marketplace of champions.

The Sale of Champions will feature a variety of animals, including Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion steers, lambs, barrows, meat goats, pens of chickens, and, of course, pens of rabbits. The event is set to take place at 1:30 p.m. in the Lowell Mohler Assembly Hall and will be broadcasted live on KMMO radio and on the Missouri Department of Agriculture’s Facebook page.

Youth in Agriculture Scholarship Program

The Youth in Agriculture (YIA) Scholarship Program, overseen by the Missouri State Fair Foundation, benefits significantly from the proceeds of this annual sale. These scholarships are awarded to support the future endeavors of youth seeking a career in agriculture.

Last year, the program granted forty-nine scholarships of $1,500, along with additional supreme scholarships, totaling an impressive $1,069,000 awarded since its inception in 1992.

Highlights from Other State Fairs

The success stories of young exhibitors were not confined to Missouri. Across the country, other fairs also recognized outstanding accomplishments in rabbit breeding. The 148th Troy Fair recently celebrated multiple winners in both market and breeding rabbit categories.

The weeklong festivities culminated in emotional moments for many young participants, particularly for siblings who both claimed winning titles at the Auglaize County Junior Fair Rabbit Showmanship & Show. Their shared triumph is a rare occurrence that highlights the familial dedication to the art of rabbit breeding.

2024 Winners

• Logan Lewis: Best in Show, Pickaway County Fair
• Darby Daubenmire: Grand Champion Market Rabbit, Oakland County Fair
• Isabelle Vartanian: Schuylkill County Fair Grand Champion Meat Pen
• Alyssa Cook: Cattaraugus County Fair Grand Champion Pen of Market Rabbits
• Khloe Duffy: Additional available championships to be recognized

2023 and Beyond

The successes of 2023 were notable as well, with numerous competitions highlighting winners across various categories and fairs. Noteworthy winners included:

• Drew Miller: Reserve Champion, Monroe County Fair
• Grace Smith: Grand Champion Meat Pen of Rabbits, The West End Fair
• Carlee Loch: Grand Champion Market Rabbit Pen, Monroe County Fair
• Ariel Ross: Grand Champion Meat Pen Rabbit, Indiana State Fair
• Jeremy Makstaller: 6 Class Breeding Rabbit honors at Hamilton County Community Fair

Such achievements reflect the dedication and resilience of these young breeders, providing inspiration for future generations who aspire to make their mark in the agricultural world.

Community Support and Future Prospects

Community support plays a crucial role in the success of these youth. The Missouri State Fair encourages sponsorship and partnership not only for events such as the YIA program but also for the vibrant agricultural community. Interested sponsors can find more details on their official website or reach out to coordinators like Chuck Miller, Rodney Heimer, or Chip Kemp to explore opportunities further.

With a bright future ahead and a commitment to nurturing the next generation of agricultural leaders, events like the Missouri State Fair and various local fairs are more than just competitions; they are essential platforms for growth, learning, and community engagement.

Join the Movement

As rabbit enthusiasts, we must continue to celebrate and uplift the younger generation passionate about the rabbit industry. Connection and support not only enhance the lives of rabbits and their owners but also foster an engaged community fostering future leaders. For more information on caring for rabbits, their diet, and being part of this vibrant community, visit BunnyEat.com.

Whether keeping rabbits as pets or raising them for shows, those involved are making a difference in preserving these cherished animals and ensuring responsible ownership for years to come. Together, we can celebrate these champions and work towards building a stronger future for the rabbit community.