The Stanislaus County Fair is celebrating its 100-year anniversary this year, and some things haven’t changed much over the last century. Agriculture is still the cornerstone of the Stanislaus County Fair, and the youngest agriculture exhibitors are insuring that the tradition of county fairs continues for the next 100 years.

Children as young as 3 years old competed in the Kiddie Showmanship competition at the Stanislaus County Fair on Sunday. The pint-sized exhibitors showed small animals and livestock. Goats were a popular category, and the smallest of the showmanship entrants were allowed to have a parent or other helper walk with them in the ring.

Logan Smith, who just turned 3, was accompanied in the ring by his mom, Mandy Smith. Logan was showing a Lamancha goat, a small animal that was well suited to Logan’s tiny stature.

“He’s brand new at it and he just walked his first goat. He normally loves the goats, but he seems a little shy today,” Mandy Smith said.

Mandy explained that she was a goat leader for local students but she has been out of practice for a few years since Logan was born. She thought the Kiddie Showmanship competition was a good way to introduce Logan to animal showmanship and prepare him for a future in 4-H.  

Children in the youngest age groups were asked their name, their animal’s name, and whether they liked goats. For the most part, everyone said “yes.”

“Everyone did a great job. I want to commend them and I look forward to seeing them in their future 4-H and FFA careers,” said Christie Hobby, goat showmanship judge.

To contact Andrea Goodwin, e-mail agoodwin@turlockjournal.com or call 634-9141.