University of Vermont (UVM) Extension 4-H working steer project members will participate in two qualifier shows this summer, hoping to earn a coveted spot on the state team that will compete regionally later this year. The public is encouraged to come cheer them on at the competitions.

The four top place finishers, based on their combined overall scores from the two shows, will represent Vermont in competition at Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, Mass. in September. Although any 4-H'ers, ages 9 to 18, may participate in these shows, only exhibitors age 12 and up will be eligible for the state team.

The first show will be held July 8 at the Windsor County Agricultural Fair in Springfield. The second qualifier will take place at the Connecticut Valley Fair in Bradford on July 22. Both shows will begin at 10 a.m. and are included in the price of admission to these fairs.

The young teamsters will compete in three events at each show. In fitting and showing they will be evaluated on the grooming and condition of their steers, their knowledge of working steers and how well they drive and present the team to the judge. For the cart class they will be judged on their ability to maneuver a two-wheeled cart through a series of obstacles with a time limit for hitching their team and completing the course.

The third class focuses on their ability to use their team to work a stone boat, which is a cement block on a wooden sled. The course, which must be completed within a specific time limit, will include at least one turn to the gee (right) and one turn to the haw (left).

Contact UVM Extension 4-H livestock educator Wendy Sorrell at (802) 656-5418 or (800) 571-0668 (toll-free in Vermont) for more information about these qualifying events or the 4-H working steer project.