Goats Over Bows

Avaree Walker of Brooksville, Kentucky is always with her Lamancha goats. At just two-years-old, she is being mentored by 15 year-old Faith Hitch-learning the ins and outs of showing and raising her favorite animal.

Having been to over ten livestock shows since she was just a few months old, Avaree will not be seen playing with dolls or dresses but instead can be found in the barn trying to clip her goats’ hair with hoof trimmers, according to Faith’s parents, Mike and April Hitch.

The spunky little girl is excited and ready to soon begin showing her goats. Until then, she’ll continue to learn from Faith and prepare to take on some competition! Keep an eye out for her at next year’s show.

The North American International Livestock Exposition is celebrating its 46th year as the World’s Largest Purebred Livestock Show. Equine, cattle, swine, goats, sheep and multiple other species are shown by exhibitors that come from across the nation to compete for a championship title they can bring back to their hometown.

NAILE also hosts numerous judging contests for 4-H, FFA and collegiate youth to test their skills against peers from all over the nation. Public speaking, livestock judging and quiz bowls are just a few of the opportunities these youth have to enhance their knowledge and talents within the agriculture industry.

The North American Championship Rodeo (Great Lakes Finals) will be held from Nov. 14-16 in Freedom Hall at the center. From bull riders to clowns, the top men and women in each category come to compete in the circuit finals of the Pro Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA).

Christmas decorations, livestock equipment, toys and clothing are some of the things you can find at the Trade Show throughout the duration of the North American.

Going on now until Nov. 21, the livestock expo promises something of interest for every member of the family.