Every exhibitor has a story – and we’re excited to share a few as we count down to the Jr. Livestock Auction 🐔

 

Meet today’s Reedley Middle College FFA exhibitor, Sophia Tovar!

 

“I first got involved in the FFA through showing livestock. I showed a market barrow my freshman year of high school, and little did I know that simple decision would lead me to a state championship, many awards, leadership positions, and a deeper love for showing livestock. Showing livestock has not only taught me about responsibility, but it has taught me to appreciate the things we have in life. Enjoy the little moments with your animal, because you’ll never know when the last time you walk, feed, work hair, or practice showmanship will be.

 

This year, I decided to raise a market steer named Lucky. Over the course of several months, I’ve had the opportunity to take Lucky to several jackpot shows, including California State Fair. This steer will always hold a special place in my heart, not because of the banners we won together, but because of the bond and love that I have grown to have for him. Though my time with Lucky is coming to an end, I know the memories with him will last a lifetime.”

 

Help support Sophia and fellow 4-H and FFA exhibitors by participating in the Jr. Livestock Auction as a buyer or through an add-on bid. Every contribution makes a difference.

 

The 2026 Big Fresno Fair Jr. Livestock Auction kicks off Saturday, October 10, with additional sales continuing Saturday, October 17.

 

Details on how to become a buyer or place an add-on bid will be available soon. Every bit of support makes a difference for these hardworking students. Learn more here!

Meet one of the dedicated exhibitors working toward this year’s Jr. Livestock Auction 🐖🐄🐑

 

Maria Gomez, a Tranquility FFA senior at Tranquility High School, is putting in the time and dedication as they prepare for this year’s auction. Here’s her story:

 

“I joined FFA because I heard it would help me become more confident with my public speaking skills and help me grow as a person. I also wanted to challenge myself by competing in CDE’s. FFA has taught me many valuable skills over the years and has helped me become more responsible by raising an animal.

 

My project for this year’s Fair is a market steer. The name I chose for my steer is Manolo. Manolo is a very loving steer and he loves getting pets. Every day I feed, brush, and make sure he has water. My project has taught me how to be more patient especially when walking him. This is my last project for the Fair while I’m still in high school and he has become one of my favorites so far. I have enjoyed my time with him and I’m hoping he does very good at the Fair.”

 

Show your support for Maria and fellow 4-H and FFA exhibitors by participating in the Jr. Livestock Auction as a buyer or through an add-on bid. Your involvement helps recognize the hard work, dedication, and time these students put into their projects.

 

The 2026 Big Fresno Fair Jr. Livestock Auction begins Saturday, October 10, with additional sales continuing Saturday, October 17.

 

Interested in becoming a buyer or placing an add-on bid? More details will be available soon. Learn more here.