COLUMBUS, Ohio (AVC News) — Several local junior livestock exhibitors are being celebrated for their achievements after the 2026 Ohio State Fair of Champions Livestock Auction.
The auction featured top market animals exhibited at the State Fair that were sold off to buyers on Sunday.
The livestock auction brought in a total of $369,500 in sales to be split between the champions and the Virgil L. Strickler Youth Reserve Program – an organization that creates opportunities for kids through scholarships, agricultural education, and leadership development.
The Sale of Champions represents a statewide investment in Ohio agriculture, recognizing the accomplishments of each champion exhibitor while creating opportunities for thousands of youths in the state.
Local champions at this year’s auction include:
- Reserve Grand Champion Market Beef: Addie Wilson from Harrison County
- Reserve Grand Champion Market Lamb: Payton Courtright from Fairfield County
- Grand Champion Swiss Cheese: Pearl Valley Cheese in Coshocton County
The Ohio State Fair commends all junior livestock exhibitors for their hard work and dedication to the auction.
