Owasso FFA shows up: Battle for the Buckle
By McKenna Worsham
Battle for the Buckle is Owasso FFA’s very own showmanship contest, specifically designed by their teachers to help improve the student’s skills in the livestock ring. Owasso High School’s FFA chapter is a community-driven organization that utilizes important leadership skills within a variety of agricultural classes. These hardworking students spend mornings, afternoons, nights and even weekends in the barn, taking care of livestock such as cattle, sheep and hogs.
Photo of BFTB Champion, Macyn Olson, alongside her hog, taken by Ms. Kenzie Cannady
A new addition to the Owasso FFA teaching staff this year, Ms. Kenzie Cannady, said, “I am excited to watch the students grow and learn the meaning of taking care of livestock.”
Just as the teachers had hoped, the Battle for the Buckle livestock show brought out the absolute best from the OHS students. Understandably, there were some nerves as well; they were showcasing their animal(s) in front of the community and their peers, many of them for the first time. Livestock showing is not for the weak.
“It is no easy task, but watching them become responsible for animals and have success is what makes our job fun,” Cannady said with pride.
Photo of BFTB Champion, Olivia Bippus with her sheep, taken by Ms. Kenzie Cannady
The nerves seemed to be pushed aside as the students and staff were welcoming and kind, even in the midst of the show chaos. This is truly what sets Owasso’s chapter apart, the friendly nature along with the intense professionalism, which is prevalent in the students, parents and staff alike. This livestock show was the ultimate showcase for Owasso FFA’s skills in the ring, as well as the personal nature of the community.
“My favorite thing about being an ag teacher is watching students succeed in and out of the classroom…being able to work with students who are motivated and determined to grow as leaders is encouraging on a daily basis!” Cannady exclaims.
These students have worked especially hard this past semester to improve their skills in livestock showing, which was evident at Friday’s show. Within all categories, whether the students had been named champions or even fourth overall, the passion for their animals and the livestock industry was clear. Although, showing is not their only specialty.
“Our chapter is involved in multiple different areas. Specifically, Owasso is known for having Public Speaking, which students excel at here in our program…we have other contests such as Vet Science, Floriculture, Livestock Judging, communications and more (too many to name honestly)!” said Cannady excitedly.
Photo (from left to right) of Sofie Cramer, Zach Hamm, Lilly Baker, and BFTB Champion Allison Tillinghast
Through perseverance, intentional movements and knowledge of their animal’s mind and body over their own, these students were able to showcase their animals, as well as their talent for livestock showing at Battle for the Buckle. Continue to support Owasso FFA at livestock shows, speech contests and even catch them out at the Tulsa Fair next summer!
Cannady gladly said, “For the chapter, our goals are to win contests, grow as leaders and become involved in our community as much as we can.”