Abbotsford Youth Achieve Big Wins at 4-H Auction, Raise $336K

UPDATE: The Abbotsford 4-H Beef Club celebrated remarkable success at this year’s PNE Fair, with local youth auctioning off livestock for a staggering total of $336,680.07. This significant amount marks an increase of over $2,600 from last year, showcasing the hard work and dedication of these young agriculturists.

The annual 4-H festival, held as part of the PNE Fair, wrapped up recently, featuring talented youth from across British Columbia. Among the standout competitors was 9-year-old Wynn Lepp, who claimed the reserve champion carcass steer title. Wynn sold her impressive 1,363-pound steer named Pepper for $7.10 per pound, while the reserve champion carcass steer fetched an impressive $9.60 per pound.

Another major winner, 16-year-old Caden Henderson, sold his 1,300-pound steer, Boone, for $8.70 per pound and also earned the reserve champion title in the senior fitting category. Together with fellow competitor Camryn Howes, Wynn and Caden pledged to donate 10 percent of their proceeds to the non-profit organization Casa De Luz, which supports impoverished single-parent families and vulnerable children in Mexico.

“Letting their animals go is always hard, but knowing the impact they are making by bringing awareness and helping others in need definitely makes it a little easier,” said Megan Lepp, Wynn’s mother. This sentiment resonates deeply as the community rallies around these young leaders and their charitable contributions.

The Abbotsford 4-H Beef Club also saw other ribbon-winning performances, including Tyson Thiele, who won the champion market steer title by selling his steer for $8.50 per pound, and Linden Hastie, crowned champion in senior fitting.

Christie Kerr, PNE director of fair operations, emphasized the importance of this event:

“We are grateful to every buyer who raised a paddle. Our 4-H members showed real skill, commitment, and respect for their animals, and the support from local families and businesses proves how much this matters to our community.”

In total, 102 animals were auctioned off during this year’s event, highlighting the dedication of the young participants who raised healthy and happy animals. This culmination of hard work reflects a growing appreciation for the local agricultural industry among British Columbia’s youth.

As the Abbotsford 4-H Beef Club continues to grow, community members are eager to see how these young leaders will impact their local and global communities in the future. The enthusiasm surrounding this event is palpable, making it a highlight of the agricultural calendar in British Columbia.

Stay tuned for more updates on upcoming 4-H events and the continued impact of these inspiring youth.