Judges sifted through many entries of turkeys and broilers on Thursday, March 11 to select the 2021 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Grand Champion Junior Market Turkey and Broilers.
JUNIOR MARKET TURKEY CHAMPIONS
The Grand Champion Turkey was exhibited by eleven-year-old Amber Ellebracht from La Vernia, Texas. Amber is a member of the La Vernia FFA and has been showing turkeys for four years.
Reflecting on her win, Amber said she was surprised but excited. Showing animals is more to her than just winning shiny buckles.
“You learn a lot raising animals,” Amber said. “Whether you win or you lose, it helps build your character.”
In the future, Amber hopes to attend Texas A&M University to pursue a degree in business and marketing.
Jace Burkholder, 15, from Boerne, Texas, took home the Reserve Grand Champion Turkey title. From a young age, Jace has attended the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, showing turkeys alongside his siblings for 7 years.
“My family has raised turkeys since I was two years old,” Jace explained. “We enjoyed getting to learn from each other and cheering each other on through the years.”
After graduation, Jace plans to utilize the earnings he has gained through showing to pursue a degree in agricultural engineering at Texas A&M University.
JUNIOR MARKET BROILER CHAMPIONS
The Grand Champion in the broiler division was shown by Makensie Till, a senior from El Campo, Texas. Makensie has shown at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo for five years and said she was excited to do well on her final year at the Show.
“I’m super stoked,” Makensie said, grinning from ear to ear. “I’m finishing out my senior year with a good win!”
Regan Greer from Spring FFA exhibited the Reserve Champion Broilers. In her five years of attending the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Reagan said this is the best she has ever done.
Much like Amber, Regan was surprised when her pen of broilers was selected.
“We hoped we had some good broilers coming into the Show, but we didn’t know they were Reserve Grand Champion worthy,” Regan explained. “You never know because it’s always a tough Show.”
This year’s poultry auction will take place May 14, 2021, at NRG Center.
The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo promotes agriculture by hosting an annual, family-friendly experience that educates and entertains the public, supports Texas youth, showcases Western heritage and provides year-round educational support within the community. Since its beginning in 1932, the Rodeo has committed more than $500 million to the youth of Texas and education. For more information, visit rodeohouston.com and connect with #RODEOHOUSTON online via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube for all the latest news.
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