This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Fort Worth Stock Show Syndicate, and nothing more exemplifies its mission to positively impact Texas 4-H and FFA youth than its annual Junior Sale of Champions.
Since its inception in 1980, the Fort Worth Stock Show Syndicate has purchased more than 8,800 animals for a total of more than $59.5 million — and every dollar goes to the youth who raise the award-winning animals.
For each of the past seven years, the Syndicate has raised more than $3 million for youth exhibitors at the annual Junior Sale of Champions, including an all-time high of $3.96 million in 2019.
The 2020 sale is expected to set a new record.
The goal, however, is not to hit a certain dollar amount, but rather to make the most meaningful and lasting impact possible on all of participating youth.
“For 40 years, our mission has been steadfast,” says Fort Worth Stock Show Syndicate chairman Trey Gordon. “This is all about the young men and women who are the future of agriculture. Our members work tirelessly on their behalf all year long because that’s what these young people do each and every day.”
The Grand Champion — which has sold for at least $195,000 in the past eight years and has averaged a price of $215,000 — kicks off the sale as the first on the auction block, followed by the Reserve Champion. In all, nearly 300 steers, lambs, barrows, and wether goats will put up for bid, and the Syndicate works to secure the highest dollar figures possible for each and every one — by acquiring hundreds of sponsors and donors.
“Our sponsors and donors are incredibly generous, and we are so grateful for them,” Gordon said. “Year in and year out they are dedicated to the cause. They do so much for so many.”
This year’s Junior Sale of Champions will be broadcast LIVE on The Cowboy Channel Saturday, February 8, beginning at 10:00 PM EST.
