County youth shine at 2026 livestock show
More than 100 Shackelford County youth showcased their livestock projects last week as the 2026 Shackelford County Livestock Show concluded with a solid premium sale and add-on contributions still coming in.
A total of 116 students from the Albany and Moran FFA chapters and Shackelford County 4-H entered 219 animal projects. Each exhibitor was eligible to sell one project in Saturday’s premium sale. The annual show is presented by the Shackelford County Youth and Livestock Association (SCYLA).
Several moments during the show were dedicated to remembering longtime SCYLA volunteer Gayala Askew, who died several months ago. Her years of service were acknowledged repeatedly throughout the event, including remarks from livestock judge Todd Vineyard of Decatur. Askew’s husband, SCYLA board president and longtime volunteer Bronco Askew, was unable to attend for the first time in many years because of health issues.
Finance committee member Mike Parsons said the premium sale remained strong despite a smaller crowd of bidders.
“I think the sale went well. We had fewer bidders on hand, which I think is a reflection of the local economy,” Parsons said. “But we did have a very strong amount contributed to ‘add-on’ bids this weekend, which I think will get us to within 90 percent of last year’s record sale total.”
Parsons added that add-on contributions for individual exhibitors will remain open for several weeks and will be included in the final total.
Austin Sherwood, SCYLA vice president and show superintendent, credited the success of the show to the broader community.
“The show ran smoothly and was very successful,” Sherwood said. “Shackelford County is fortunate to have great kids, supportive parents, dedicated advisors, and outstanding volunteers. Our community includes people who work hard and invest significant time and money into the kids and their projects, especially at a time when life feels busier than ever and resources are stretched thin.”
Sherwood said the absence of Bronco and Gayala Askew was felt throughout the weekend, but noted that others stepped in to ensure the show continued without issue. “I believe they would be very proud of how everyone came together and rose to the occasion,” he said.
Top Hand Award
Albany High School senior and FFA vice president Ryan Turner was named Top Hand by show officials for the second year in a row. Albany High School agriculture teacher and FFA sponsor Chris Beard said Turner embodies the spirit of the award.
“Ryan definitely deserve the Top Hand Award. He earned it,” Beard said. “It is a recognition of his hard work, leadership, and commitment to agricultural excellence,” Beard said. He cited Turner’s involvement on both leadership and career development teams, as well as his hands-on dedication to livestock care.
“Ryan’s achievements highlight the essence of FFA – combining leadership, service, and a passion for agriculture,” he said.
Other Details
The 2026 Shackelford County Livestock Show wrapped up ahead of a forecasted change in the weather for the coming weekend.
Participation was slightly lower than last year’s show, which drew 128 students from Albany FFA, Moran FFA and Shackelford County 4-H. Once finances are finalized, exhibitors who sold animals will receive checks, likely in early April.
With this year’s show complete, preparations are already underway for 2027. The SCYLA annual meeting is held in April, when officials review the event, address any concerns from the 2026 show and consider possible rule changes for next year.
