Pipestone Flyer
Approximately 45 dedicated young people arrived at the Wetaskiwin Ag Society grounds between 6:00 am and 8:00 am on May12th, 2013. They were practising the motto, “Learn to do by doing” by participating in the annual Wetaskiwin District 4-H Beef Clubs Achievement Day. At 8:15 members from the Rosebrier and Falun East 4-H Beef Clubs, their relatives, sponsors, donors and other onlookers recited the 4-H pledge and viewed the opening parade. At 8:30 am the show began. During the next 4 hours competitions were held in several different categories and winners were selected. Grand Champion Steer, Reserve Champion Steer, Grand Champion Female, Reserve Champion Female, Senior Showmanship, 2nd Senior Showmanship, Intermediate Showmanship, 2nd Intermediate Showmanship, Junior Showmanship, 2nd Junior Showmanship, Senior Grooming, Second Senior Grooming, Intermediate Grooming, 2nd Intermediate Grooming, Junior Grooming, 2nd Junior Grooming, Group of Three, Rate of Gain and Reserve Rate of Gain.
These young men and women are very dedicated. They spend countless hours, days, weeks and months caring for, and training their animals in preparation for the Show and Sale. Needless to say, many of them form a special bond with their animals and know it will be a sad time at 2:30 pm when they will be leading their ‘pet’ into the show ring for the last time. The animals are auctioned off and purchased by local individuals and businesses who are staunch supporters of the value of 4-H to the local youth and community.
4-H has been an integral part of Alberta communities since 1917 developing leaders and strengthening communities. Learning through experience and active participation is a key objective of 4-H. Although completing a project such as raising, showing and selling a calf is an important learning process, the young people gain important skills such as communication, leadership, technical and life skills. They learn how to cooperate, work together, have fun, make friends and yes, they “Learn to do by doing”.
The Wetaskiwin District 4-H Beef Clubs are grateful to the supporters, buyers, donors, volunteers and spectators who supported this event.