From Cleavers to Seniors, 26 youth came out to this year’s 4-H Achievement Day, held June 5 at the Iceberg Arena.
Good weather, good weights and happy kids made for a good Achievement Day, said Boyle 4-H leader Tanya Bosik-Borle.
“My daughter says it’s better than Christmas,” she said. “Overall, I had a sense that the kids were having fun.”
Bosik-Borle noted that although steer auction sale prices were down, the community support from buyers and sponsors is duly noted. She said it shows how much people believe in what 4-H is doing with youth.
“I think knowing the economics of our community, (sales) went very well – better than expected,” she said. “We’ve lost a lot of oil business and other companies. Even when we go around to look for sponsorship, the fact that they’re still going to sponsor prizes meant a lot.”
Sixteen-year-old Dannielle Borle with the Boyle club was the day’s big winner, with her steer “Wide Load” taking home the Interclub Grand Champion prize.
“She’s been in it a long time and has worked really hard toward it,” said Bosik-Borle, who is Borle’s mother. “It truly is just what the judge wanted that day ... There was a ton of great calves there.”
Kaitlynn Bulas, 15, took home the Interclub Reserve Champion Female prize, among awards. She said she has been in 4-H for seven years, adding that “you learn lots.”
“I really love the animals in it and it gives you the opportunity to grow as a person,” said Bulas, who is a member of the Athabasca 4-H Beef Club.
Bosik-Borle also pointed out that the woodworking kids were showcased at Achievement Day, and Cleavers Club kids were there, too.
“They just had so much fun,” she said.
Nine-year-old Delaney Kamelchuk said she led sheep for her Cleaver project with Colinton 4-H.
“It’s really good,” she said. “I like leading my sheep and stuff, and shows and Achievement Day.”
Alexis Paradis, who just turned seven, raised rabbits for her Cleaver project. She said she “liked it a lot.”
“They love carrots and dandelions,” she said, when showing her project to interested parties. “But what they like better is lettuce.”
Bosik-Borle also pointed out the almost-festive atmosphere throughout the arena, especially noting the members of the community come out to support local youth.
“It’s an occasion to visit,” she said. “I know even a few farmers stop by just to, you know, have that coffee and talk to others, and show support for the community.”
