Special to IFN
Iredell County 4-H members recently showcased their dedication and expanding knowledge in the dairy industry, achieving significant success at the 2025 4-H State Dairy Quiz Bowl and Skill-a-thon on March 1 and the State 4-H Dairy Judging Contest held on April 11.
The State Dairy Quiz Bowl and Skill-a-thon saw two Junior Dairy Teams and senior Kimber V. to represent Iredell County. While a victory in the quiz bowl eluded the teams this year, their improved performance from the previous year was a testament to their hard work and growing expertise.
The Junior Team A, composed of Cooper G., Stella F., Bryson B., and Bryson S., shone in the Dairy Skill-a-thon, securing an impressive First-Place finish. This challenging event tested their skills across five rigorous rotations, including Dairy Equipment Identification, Feed Identification, Hay Judging, Dairy Cow Judging, and Dairy Products Identification (Milk and Cheese).
Adding to this success, Bryson B. of the Junior A Team, earned the top honor of First-Place Overall in the Junior Skill-a-thon individual competition.
The Junior Team B, consisting of Raelynn G., Tinsley S., and Hunter W., also demonstrated enthusiasm and determination while navigating the demanding Skill-a-thon rotations.
Beyond the Quiz Bowl and Skill-a-thon, Iredell County 4-H members also excelled at the State 4-H Dairy Judging Contest on April 11. These dedicated individuals, part of the local 4-H Dairy Judging Teams, demonstrated their ability to evaluate dairy cattle based on physical traits crucial for productivity and longevity.
In Dairy Judging, participants meticulously assess a class of four animals of the same breed and class, ranking them from best to worst based on factors such as Dairy Strength, Body Capacity, Mammary System, and Feet and Legs. Competitors also present oral “reasons” to a judge, justifying their placings and demonstrating their understanding of dairy type.
In the Senior Individual division of the judging contest, Kimber V. demonstrated exceptional judging skills, placing an impressive second out of 34 competitors. Carson B. also competed, placing 22nd.
The Junior Teams also had a remarkable showing at the judging contest.
Junior Team A, composed of Bryson B., Cooper G., and Stella F., took home First Place out of 12 teams. Their combined scores highlighted their excellent teamwork and individual talents. Individually, Bryson B. was the top judge of the junior contest, securing First Place out of 45 participants. Stella F. also placed in the top 10, earning an impressive Sixth Place. Cooper Grebe rounded out the team’s success, placing 27th.
Junior Team B at the judging contest, consisting of Raelynn G., Pressley L. and Ellie S., placed ninth out of 12 teams. Individually, Ellie S. had an excellent contest, placing third out of 45.
These impressive performances at both the State Dairy Quiz Bowl and Skill-a-thon and the State 4-H Dairy Judging Contest are a testament to the hard work, dedication, and growing expertise of the Iredell County 4-H Dairy Teams. Their achievements underscore the valuable learning experiences and opportunities provided through the 4-H program.
LEARN MORE
Have questions or want to get involved in Iredell County 4-H? Contact Adreanna White at awhite6@ncsu.edu or 704-873-0507. 4-H is the youth development component of Cooperative Extension and is open to youth ages 5-18 as of January 1.
