Raising steers to please today's consumers requires more than just providing feed and water. Beef producers must understand good conformation, growth patterns, breed differences, and genetic traits.

Since 1941, the Steer Show -- sponsored by the Southeastern Livestock Association -- has sought to improve beef quality through the arena of competition. Through the years, many other shows and activities have been added, but the Steer Show remains the mainstay of what is now known as the Southeastern Youth Fair.

The Steer project is one that takes many months of hard work and dedication. Many exhibitors bringing their projects to a close for this year's Fair are already beginning the process of selection for next year's steer project. Most students begin handling and breaking their weaned calves over the summer. Exhibitors work hard to prepare their steers for the show ring.

Daily handling and training must take place if exhibitors wish to be competitive. Extensive grooming and clipping is done in order to present their steers in the best possible light to the judge. The judge looks for steers with good thickness and balance and that stand up well on their legs.

Marketing is another important part of the steer project. Each exhibitor must make at least five business contacts in order to promote the sale of their steers. As with all the animal projects for the SEYF, a completed record book must be turned in for the exhibitor to compete with his or her animal. We invite you to come on out to the Steer Show and Sale and support these hard-working youngsters!

                                                       2012 STEER SHOW WINNERS

                                              PREMIER EXHIBITOR - HARRELL PHILLIPS       
                                                               
                                          GRAND CHAMPION STEER - HORIZEN ACADEMY FFA
                                                   RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION STEER - ALORA THOMPSON
                                                GRAND CHAMPION HOMEGROWN - HEATHER HAMBLEN
                                          RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION HOMEGROWN - HARRELL PHILLIPS
                                                          LANDIS BLITCH AWARD - ALORA THOMPSON
                                                                    HERDSMAN - KAYLIE HEIRS
                                                                            SHOWMANSHIP
                                                                     JUNIOR - PRESTON DAMERON
                                                                  INTERMEDIATE - HARRELL PHILLIPS
                                                                       SENIOR - KATE SHUFFITT
                                                                        RECORD BOOK WINNERS
                                                                      JUNIOR - CHARLES PHILLIPS
                                                                 INTERMEDIATE - HARRELL PHILLIPS
                                                                    SENIOR - JUNSTIN NUMEMAKER
                                                                            SKILL-A-THON
                                                                     JUNIOR - CHARLES PHILLIPS
                                                                 INTERMEDIATE - TAYLOR BALDWIN
                                                                    SENIOR - HEATHER HAMBLEN