The Wright County Fair starts in just few days, running from July 26 – 30, and area 4-H clubs have been preparing for months. Although most competitions don’t start until the actual fair, the 4-H dog show is held early.

 

Kallee Fisher and Devin Riley showed their dogs at the fairgrounds last weekend, once again bringing home numerous ribbons. The cousins are members of the Kicking Clovers club.

 

Fisher and her Miniature American Shepard, Jazzy, received grand champion in Showmanship and red in Four Dog Team and Obedience. This is her sixth year showing dogs in 4-H.

 

Riley and his Miniature American Shepard, Zeus, received grand champion in both Jumpers III and Rally Excellent, reserve grand champion in Showmanship, blue in Advanced Agility and red in Obedience. This is his seventh year showing dogs in 4-H.

 

Fisher and Riley qualified for state in each of their events except for Obedience.

 

It was the first time participating in the dog show for Cloverbud member Ethan Walker, who used Riley’s dog, Zeus. Cloverbuds are awarded green participation ribbons.

 

Walker is the third generation of his family to be part of 4-H at the Wright County Fair. His mom, Bonni (Buisman) Walker participated in the horse program and was awarded all-around champion her final year, as well as high point showman. His grandmother, Lisa Riley, participated in categories such as foods during her time at the fair. 

 

Members of the Northern Peak 4-H club are ready for the upcoming fair with entries in a number of categories.

 

Josie Wagner will be entering the poultry category in egg laying and breeding hen, as well as aerospace and food & nutrition. Isaac Wagner will be entering the poultry category in egg laying and breeding hen as well as food preservation. Cameron Wagner will also be entering poultry in egg laying and breeding hen.

 

Nick Olson will be entering the plants & soils category with a project he made illustrating different methods of tapping maple trees. 

 

First year participant Macie Growth is entering photography with a photo of roses and citizenship with a Tennessee state float she created. Eli Groth, who is also a first-year participant, is entering the photography category with a photo he took of otters at the MN Zoo, and food & nutrition.

 

It’s Elijah O’Koneck’s first year bringing a project to the fair; he refurnished an old banana seat bike to enter in the self-determined category.

 

Kiley O’Koneck is entering a couple photos in the photography category as well as an interactive question and answer display in horseless horse,

“My mom’s older sister and dad both did projects like this when they were in school,” she said. “They were my inspiration.”

 

Last year O’Koneck received grand champion with a couple of her projects but wasn’t old enough to go on to state. This year she is, so she’s hoping for the same success.