Spruce Point Park in Kinuso was full of energy and encouragement on June 8 as young 4-H members gathered for a full day of competition, learning and celebration during the interclub achievement day shared by Kinuso Lakeside 4-H and Mirror Landing 4-H from Smith. Families, leaders, volunteers and supporters filled the grounds from early in the day, creating an atmosphere that reflected just how much pride and community spirit surrounds the 4-H program. Throughout the arena, there was a steady sense of excitement as members prepared their animals, visited with one another and waited for their turn to show their animals.
Achievement day is the culmination of months of work, and that dedication was on full display throughout the event. Members showcased a wide range of projects, including cow-calf pair projects, steer projects, carcass projects, sheep and chickens. Each category represented countless hours of feeding, grooming, record-keeping, daily care and preparation for the show ring. For many members, these projects begin long before achievement day arrives, and success depends on steady effort, patience and a willingness to learn as they go.
The shared achievement day brought together members from the different clubs in a spirit of friendly competition and mutual support. Whether they were waiting for their turn in the ring, helping fellow members get animals ready or celebrating each other’s success, the participants showed the teamwork and sportsmanship that are at the heart of 4-H.
The event was a chance not only to compete, but also to connect with other young people who understand the work that goes into raising and showing livestock. For parents, grandparents and other supporters in attendance, it was also an opportunity to see that progress up close and to recognize how much members have grown in confidence and skill over the year.
From the opening classes to the championship selections later in the day, there was a strong sense of support surrounding every exhibitor. Conversations around the ring reflected the mix of nerves, excitement and pride that comes with achievement day, especially for younger members gaining experience and for senior members hoping to finish the season on a high note. The full schedule kept the event moving, but there was still time for members to help one another, talk with visitors and enjoy the experience of being part of something bigger than a single competition.
In the beef competition, Kalliope Wong of Kinuso Lakeside 4-H won grand champion, while Gabriel Hedrich, also of Kinuso Lakeside 4-H, was named reserve champion.
Success continued into the cow-calf pair category, where Hedrich won grand champion and Emily Flemming was named reserve champion.
In the supreme female competition, Mordecai Chapman of Kinuso Lakeside 4-H took grand champion, while Hedrich added another banner to his day with reserve champion honours.
In the lamb project, Brysa McConaghy of Mirror Landing earned grand champion, while Brooke Dubois, also of Mirror Landing claimed reserve champion. The chicken project also drew plenty of attention, with Gabriel Hedrich taking grand champion and Charlotte Adkins, also from Kinuso, finishing as reserve champion.
Judging by the excitement, encouragement and strong turnout at Spruce Point Park, that effort was appreciated by everyone in attendance.
For the members, the day marked the payoff for a year of responsibility, learning and perseverance.
For the community, it was a chance to see firsthand the kind of character and work ethic these young people are developing through 4-H.
Sara Driedger
Lakeside Leader