Colorado 4-H Dairy Judging Team Invited to International Competition

Published on January 24, 2019

The Colorado 4-H Dairy Judging team has been invited to attend the International Dairy Judging Tour in Scotland and Ireland. The tour takes place from June 19 to July 3, 2019.

Last October, team members Megan Podtburg (Greeley), Awna Hirsch (Eaton), and Kyndall and Morgynne Tucker (Fort Collins), competed at the National 4-H Dairy Cattle Judging Contest in Madison, Wisconsin. They finished fourth overall as a team, which garnered them an invitation to the upcoming International Dairy Judging Tour. The tour consists of two contests, one in each country with visits to multiple dairies and other agricultural enterprises.

Hirsch won the High Individual Overall award and is the first person from Colorado to win this prestigious award since the contest’s inception nearly 100 years ago!

“This is an amazing opportunity for these young ladies,” said Keith Maxey, Director of Weld County Extension. “To our knowledge, this is the first Colorado 4-H Dairy Judging team to be invited on this tour. We are honored to receive the invitation and would be grateful to represent Colorado at this event.”

To participate in this unique event, the team needs public support! The trip is estimated to cost $30,000, and any support residents can provide would be greatly appreciated by the team and coaches. The Extension Office is in the process of making personal contacts with individuals, businesses, and organizations to solicit support. Discussions of hosting a fundraising dinner, silent auction, and other events are also in the works.

To donate, please send a check made payable to the Colorado Dairy Youth Foundation. The memo line should state International Dairy Judging Tour. Address checks as follows:

Keith Maxey
Weld County Extension
525 N 15th Ave.
Greeley, CO 80631