Youth and Livestock Take Center Stage in Montgomery
This week, Montgomery, Alabama is hosting one of the state’s most anticipated agricultural youth events — the Alabama Junior Cattlemen’s Association (AJCA) Roundup. Organized by the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association (ACA), the event brings together young cattle enthusiasts from across the state for a week full of competition, education, and community.
Erin Beasley, Executive Vice President of the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, shared her excitement about this annual gathering.
“We’re looking forward to the hottest week of the summer and welcoming all of our junior cattlemen exhibitors to Montgomery,” Beasley said. “Roundup’s been going on for many years, and we’ll have about 120 youth coming in to compete.”
A Miniature National Show at the State Level
The AJCA Roundup is designed to give young cattlemen and cattlewomen the experience of a national show in a local setting. Participants will exhibit their livestock, engage in professional development contests, and enjoy a wide array of beef industry-related activities.
“This is our opportunity to bring the feel of a junior national show to the state level,” Beasley explained.
Youth will begin checking in on Wednesday and Thursday, with events running through the weekend. This multi-day event is more than just a cattle show — it’s an immersive experience focused on developing future leaders in agriculture.
Beyond the Show Ring: Education and Skills Development
While the cattle show is a highlight, the Roundup also features a series of educational and skills-based contests. Participants will compete in:
- Quiz Bowl
- Cattle Judging
- Photography
- Poster Contests
“There’s a lot of different contests, so really something for everyone at this event,” said Beasley.
These contests are designed to strengthen knowledge of the beef industry while enhancing public speaking, teamwork, and creative skills among youth.
Building Community and Inspiring the Next Generation
The AJCA Roundup is not just about competition — it’s about connection. Families from across Alabama will come together to support their young exhibitors, fostering a strong sense of agricultural community.
“This is something that I know our youth look forward to each year,” Beasley said. “We definitely are as a staff as well — to see all the competition and to see a lot of kids coming together and having a nice time as they exhibit their livestock.”
Supporting the Future of Alabama Agriculture
Events like the AJCA Roundup play a critical role in preparing the next generation of cattle producers and agricultural leaders. Through competition, camaraderie, and hands-on learning, Alabama’s youth are gaining valuable experiences that will benefit them far beyond the show ring.
“A lot of contests are related to the beef cattle industry,” Beasley added, highlighting the event’s educational mission.
Stay tuned throughout the week for updates and highlights from Montgomery as the Alabama Junior Cattlemen’s Association Roundup unfolds.
To learn more about the AJCA Roundup or the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association’s youth programs, visit www.bamabeef.org.