Champion Drive 2023: Special Needs Youth Have Their Chance to Shine at the Austin County Fair

The Champion Drive at the Austin County Fair is always a heartwarming event that showcases the power of inclusivity and community support. High school FFA students from Bellville, Brazos, Faith Academy and Sealy are partnered with a special needs buddy and together they worked to grow and show livestock. There was a large crowd as parents, teachers, administrators and fellow students turned out to support their school’s participants.

The event kicked off with students and their buddies, parading their livestock animals around the ring. This initial demonstration of handling showcased the bond between the young exhibitors and their animal companions. Sheep, goats, pigs, and calves took center stage as they were led around the ring. The participants captivated the audience with their poise and grace as they put the animals through their paces.
The judging began with the smaller animals such as rabbits, chickens and turkeys and proceeded to larger animals such as pigs, goats, sheep and calves.
The judges introduced each participant, gave a bit of information on them into the interview part of the contest. Participants were asked a couple of questions and were given time to answer. Each student gave great answers and one boy even stoked school rivalry as he declared that he would not be beaten by a girl from the rival school! Once the students had completed the interview part of the contest they were asked more technical questions about their animal. These questions were geared to each child’s ability so everyone was able to shine.

Throughout the Champion Drive, the buddies, comprised of both boys and girls, proved to be the unsung heroes of the day. Their unwavering support and dedication to their special needs partners shone brightly, creating an environment of inclusivity, understanding, and love. In a world that often feels fast-paced and disconnected, the Champion Drive serves as a reminder that communities can come together to create meaningful, inclusive experiences for everyone, regardless of their abilities. It's a testament to the power of empathy, support, and the shared love of animals. The Austin County Fair Champion Drive 2023 was not just an event; it was a celebration of the human spirit.

We at Austin County News Online had the privilege of filming the entire event. The footage captured the essence of the Champion Drive, highlighting the smiles, the camaraderie, and the sense of accomplishment that permeated the day.