SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Being in the Governor’s Sale of Champions is something all livestock exhibitors dream about, but few are able to accomplish. Each year, this marquis event of the Illinois State Fair Ag Day festivities showcases the hard work and dedication of the youth in the agriculture industry.
In addition to being spotlighted before a full crowd at the Livestock Center on Tuesday night, these Grand Champion exhibitors, along with the Reserve Grand Champion exhibitors, will receive a portion of the proceeds from the sale of their animal. The exhibitors use the funds towards their college education, or invest it back into projects for next year.
“The Illinois State Fair recognizes that these youth exhibitors are the future of Illinois agriculture,” stated Raymond Poe, Agriculture Director. “In the coming years, there is projected to be an influx of agriculture jobs available for those who are trained, educated and qualified to fill them. We strive to encourage these kids to stay involved in Illinois agriculture and make a career in our state’s number one industry.”
CME Group and AT&T also realize the importance of education, which is why they have collectively donated $60,000 in scholarships to this year’s Sale of Champions. Each of the ten Grand Champion exhibitors will received a $1,000 scholarship from AT&T and a $5,000 scholarship from CME Group, for a total of $6,000.
This year, the Department of Agriculture made significant changes to the formula used to award the money raised at tonight’s sale. These changes were designed to award more youth exhibitors for their agricultural achievements. Under new rules, this year’s Reserve Grand Champion exhibitors will be receiving a portion of the proceeds from this evening’s sale.
It should be noted that the goats, sheep, barrows, and steers are being donated to the University of Illinois College of ACES.
— Illinois State Fair
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