SPENCER, Iowa — The Clay County Fair open class livestock entry deadline is rapidly approaching. All livestock entries for beef cattle, dairy cattle, swine, sheep, rabbits, and horses are due on Wednesday, August 15, whether this is online, in person, or via mail.
Daily open class livestock shows are a highlight for many fairgoers with over 500 exhibitors showing over 3,500 head of livestock in 2017. In addition to the open classes, there are also several hundred 4-H and FFA exhibitors that show at the Fair.
“Livestock competition is a cornerstone of the Fair,” said Fair Manager Jeremy Parsons. “We are excited to show off several changes, added prize money, and renovated facilities at this year’s Fair.”
This year, the Horse Department will feature changes to the horse show schedule (Appaloosas will be showing the first weekend rather than the second weekend), as well as the addition of a cash bonus for draft horse exhibitors who participate in all seven of the hitch classes.
The addition of $500 in cash premiums for the Supreme Female and Supreme Bull highlight changes in the open class beef cattle department. The selection of those champions will occur Sunday, Sept. 17 with all of the breed champions (including the miniature Hereford and Charolais champions).
Exhibitors and their livestock will also be able to enjoy renovated facilities at the Fair. The restroom and shower facilities in the Livestock Pavilion have been completed remodeled, while the stalls in the Horse Barn have been lined with new clay to improve equine safety.
Check out the exhibitor handbooks online at www.claycountyfair.com or pick one up at the Fair Administrative Offices to find the rules and guidelines to enter your livestock at the Fair. Pre-registration for all animal departments is mandatory and can be completed online, by mail, or in person by August 15.
About The Clay County Fair & Events Center Rooted in Tradition, the Clay County Fair and Events Center is a year-round facility that annually hosts more than 300 events, including its signature event, the Clay County Fair. Known as “The World’s Greatest County Fair” since 1917, the Clay County Fair attracts more than 325,000 guests each September for nine-days of world-class entertainment, competition, food, fun, and the largest farm machinery show at any fair in the United States. Additional information can be found at claycountyfair.com.
— The Clay County Fair & Events Center
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