Championship Drive Presented by Farm Credit Mid-America Doubles in Size

The Kentucky State Fair was built on agriculture. Through the years, while other aspects of the event have emerged, livestock is still the cornerstone, and the 4-H and FFA Championship Drive presented by Farm Credit Mid-America is one of those livestock events that continues to be a time-honored tradition. It’s the time when we celebrate the hard work, dedication, and many accomplishments of our junior livestock exhibitors. 

"Providing young farmers a stage to showcase their animals is not just an investment in agriculture—it's an investment in the future,” said Mark Barker, Senior Vice President of Agricultural Lending in Kentucky at Farm Credit Mid-America when asked about the decision to sponsor the event. “When we give youth the chance to succeed, we are creating the next generation of confident, innovative leaders who will provide for our communities for years to come." 

The Kentucky State Fair 4-H and FFA Championship Drive selects the top five overall from each species. In 2025, the Kentucky State Fair is excited to be doubling the size of the drive with the addition of the Breeding Animal portion. This year, along with the top five Market Animals (Hogs, Lambs, Goats, and Market Beef), the top five Breeding Animals (Heifers, Gilts, Ewes, and Wether Dams) will be selected. 

“The Championship Drive truly embodies what the Kentucky State Fair is all about — celebrating the passion, dedication, and work ethic of our young people,” said Commissioner of Agriculture Jonathan Shell. “These junior exhibitors represent the future of Kentucky agriculture, and by giving them this stage, we’re not only honoring their achievements today but investing in the next generation of leaders who will keep our farms strong and our communities thriving.” 

Being on the “big stage” in Broadbent Arena under the lights and on the green shavings during the drive is undoubtedly a dream for hundreds of junior exhibitors. Likewise, those who get to take part of the event in a different capacity say it’s the honor of a lifetime.  

“You can just feel the excitement in the building,” said Blake Nelson of his time judging the Championship Drive in 2024. “There’s a deep sense of appreciation knowing how much hard work it took for those kids to get to that spot on the shavings.” 

“The Kentucky State Fair celebrates all things Kentucky, all in one place, and the Championship Drive is a shining example of that mission,” said David S. Beck, President and CEO of Kentucky Venues. “This event not only showcases the dedication and talent of our youth but also reflects the commitment of valued partners like Farm Credit Mid-America, the Kentucky Department of Agriculture, and the Kentucky Exposition Foundation in supporting the next generation of leaders across the Commonwealth.” 

The Championship Drive presented by Farm Credit Mid-America is scheduled for Thursday, August 21, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. in Broadbent Arena.