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Warren County 4-H shows out
Tylan Tamworth Gilt with backdrop.jpg
Tylan Lusk displays his ribbons along with his Tamworth gilt.

January is a busy time for many 4-Hers in Tennessee. Most are preparing for club contests, gearing up for spring judging events, attending shooting sports practices, and working on their 4-H portfolios. Four Warren County 4-H members prepared to show out at the Central Region and State 4-H Swine Expos held in Cookeville. Ayrin Drake, Declan Lusk, Tylan Lusk, and Carl Parris began preparing for this show in October. Over the months leading up to the event, these 4-Hers cared for their hogs daily. 

Warren County 4-Hers were successful. Members brought home several division titles. During the Central Region Swine Expo, Ayrin Drake earned Reserve Champion with his Spot gilt and Reserve Champion Market Hog with his Hereford barrow. Carl Parris received a white ribbon with his Chester White barrow.

During the State 4-H Swine Show, local 4-Hers competed against 230 other 4-H members from 33 counties. Ayrin Drake exhibited the fourth Overall Breeding Gilt with his Spot gilt. Tylan and Declan Lusk both showed Tamworth gilts. Tylan won Grand Champion and Grand Champion TN Bred. Declan Lusk earned Reserve Champion and Reserve Champion TN Bred. Tylan also received Reserve Champion TN Bred with his Tamworth Market Hog.

While at the shows, 4-Hers had the opportunity to participate in showmanship classes and a skill-a-thon contest. Showmanship classes allow the 4-Her to show the judge how well they present their animal. The skill-a-thon tests 4-Hers knowledge of the animal they are exhibiting. Tylan Lusk placed fifth in the Junior High Showmanship class against 38 others. Ayrin Drake placed third in the Explorer skill-a-thon contest and fourth in the Explorer Showmanship class against 14 others. He also received Premier Breeding Gilt Exhibitor and third Overall Market Hog Exhibitor for his age group.

Overall, Warren County showed out at the Central Region and Tennessee State Swine Expo. UT-TSU Extension offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, age, sex, disability, religion, or veteran status. 

If you are interested in becoming involved in 4-H or showing livestock through the 4-H program, contact Emily Mote or Alison Hopper at UT-TSU Extension Warren County 473-8484.