Division 100: Junior Beef Division 100: Junior Beef
Department Staff
Erin Alava
Co-Director
erinalavaosf@gmail.com
Cell: 937-901-1965
Kim Herman
Co-Director
kimhermanosf@gmail.com
Cell: 918-697-2233
Phone: 614-644-4506 (July 26–August 9 only)
Online Entry
Enter online at www.ohiostatefair.com. Exhibitors should keep their exact login information (username/password).
You must provide information for either your FFA advisor or 4-H County Extension Professional. The junior exhibitor's entry will not be finalized until the information is received back from either the FFA Advisor or 4-H County Extension Professional.
No advance entry is required to enter skillathon.
Showmanship entry will be made at the time of online entry. Verification of entry will be made at check-in. Deadline for additions and corrections for showmanship will be 10 a.m. July 27 (Session 1), July 31 (Session 2), and 2 p.m. August 6 (Market Beef).
There will be no late entry for any junior animals at the Ohio State Fair in 2026.
Entries close June 21 at 1 p.m.
Entry Procedure
You must enter online at www.ohiostatefair.com. Exhibitors should keep their exact login information (username/password).
All terms and conditions are subject to change, including, but not limited to premiums and awards.
All entries close June 21 at 1 p.m. NO late entries for the junior division.
Junior show entry fees are $35 per head.
A program for each show will be posted, listing animals to be exhibited and appropriate data. It is the responsibility of the exhibitor to ensure corrections are provided to the office by their requested deadline.
Exhibitors may make as many entries in individual classes as they choose from their projects but only two animals per class can be shown.
Do not make entries in champion classes.
Exhibitor Information
Social Media: There are two Facebook groups for livestock information to be shared. The Ohio State Fair Livestock & Animal Exhibitors page will have general information that is relevant to all species. The Ohio State Fair Beef Department page will have more species specific information. These, and other species social media pages, are for information to be shared to assist exhibitors. These pages are not to be used to promote sales or non Ohio State Fair events.
Band App: There is a Band App channel for the beef department. It can be found under Ohio State Fair Beef Department.
Junior Breeding Cattle Eligibility
All registered cattle must have tattoos and EIDs. Any cattle that are checked in without tattoos matching registration papers will be disqualified. Exhibitors with registration papers that have been tattoo verified and stamped by their respective breed associations will be accepted.
Exhibitors must present a hard copy of Registration Papers (to include: an original or a printed electronic copy with visual confirmation of electronic copy) of the registration paper at the time of check-in for each animal. Presentation of the registration paper on an electronic device alone will NOT be accepted. This means the office will not be able to print copies for exhibitors.
The name on the Registration paper MUST match the entries made and must be in the junior exhibitor's name (NOT Farm Name). Exception in the case of joint ownership between two junior exhibitors who are siblings, where both are permitted to be listed.
Proof of negative BVD status is mandatory at check-in. BVD negative status should be linked with correct EID. (EID tag or animal description alone will not be acceptable).
Ownership deadline of all breeding beef females is May 22, 2026.
Crossbred breeding heifer DNA kits must be received by June 1, 2026.
Crossbred heifers may NOT be shown in both the breeding crossbred show and the market heifer show. The exhibitor must be enrolled in the corresponding 4-H or FFA project at the county level.
Breeding Sessions Stalling
Breeding: Stalling Information will be forthcoming.
Skillathon
Proctored Virtual Breeding Beef Skillathon: Monday, July 27, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. and Friday, August 1, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Proctored Virtual Skillathon MUST be completed for those wishing to participate in Outstanding Breeding Exhibitor.
In Person: Thursday, August 6, Noon – 3:00 p.m.
In Person Skillathon required for those wishing to participate in Outstanding Market Exhibitor program.
Recognized Breeding Beef Breeds
Session 1: Angus, Hereford, Simmental, Percentage Simmental
Session 2: AOB, Charolais (Junior Only), Chianina, Chiangus, Crossbred (Junior Only), Gelbvieh, Limousin, Maine-Anjou, Maine Angus, Mainetainer, Shorthorn, ShorthornPlus
Session 3: Santa Gertrudis
Breed Eligibility — Heifers / Steers
Angus — Heifers: Purebred / Steers: Purebred
Charolais — Heifers: Purebred / Steers: —
Charolais Steer — Steers: 50%
Chianina — Heifers: 6.25% breed minimum / Steers: Breed minimum
Chiangus — Heifers: 1CA, 2CA & PCA with 6.25% Chianina or more
Gelbvieh — Heifers: 1/2 / Steers: 1/2
Hereford — Heifers: Purebred / Steers: Purebred (must have registration)
Limousin/Lim-Flex — Heifers: 75% orange papers, purple papers / Steers: 1/2
Maine Angus — Heifers: 3/8 to 5/8 – Blue papers
Maine-Anjou — Heifers: 3/4 – Brown papers
Mainetainer — Heifers: 1/4 to 5/8 – Green papers
Maine-Anjou Steer — Steers: 1/4
Shorthorn — Heifers: 15/16 / Steers: 15/16
Shorthorn Plus — Heifers: 1/2 / Steers: 1/4
Purebred Simmental — Heifers: 7/8
Percent Simmental — Heifers: 1/2 to less than 7/8
Simmental Steer — Steers: 1/2
AOB — Heifers: Junior National Eligible / Steers: Junior National Eligible
Breeding Cattle
Maintaining Recognized Breed Participation Rules
Breed is defined as either the purebred or percentage breed recognized by the national breed association. Registered cattle are only eligible to show under a specific breed if it qualifies to be exhibited in their Junior National shows.
Junior Show
Recognized breeds are required to have an average of five (5) head exhibited OR a minimum average of three (3) participating exhibitors using a three-year rolling average in the junior show. For the 2027 Ohio State Fair, data from 2024, 2025, and 2026 will be used. At the culmination of each fair, this number will be evaluated, and breed representatives will be notified of their status in writing no later than September 1st. Should the number of head or exhibitor fall below the required minimums, the breed representative will be notified that the following year the breed is on probation and breed representatives will be able to determine the following result for the subsequent fair: 1.) the breed will show in the AOB division or if eligible 2.) Recognized Parent and Percentage breeds may elect to show as one division.
Eligible breeds include: Parent breed–Maine-Anjou, Percentage breed–MaineTainer and/or Maine Angus; Parent breed–Chianina, Percentage breed–Chiangus; Parent breed–Simmental, Percentage breed–Percentage Simmental; Parent breed–Shorthorn, Percentage breed–ShorthornPlus.
For probation breeds, the breed association or breed representative must submit decisions of show status in writing to the Beef Directors (email: erinalavaosf@gmail.com and kimhermanosf@gmail.com) by December 1st.
Number of head shown and exhibitor number by breed will also be tracked if exhibiting in the AOB division or as a combined Parent-Percentage breed division for future recognized breed qualification status. A recognized breed on probation may move from AOB or combined division back to a recognized breed show if minimum numbers are met for the subsequent fair.
The AOB division will be composed as necessary of a.) any recognized breed who are determined to be on probation status and/or b.) any registered animals without a recognized breed show.
Open Show
Recognized breeds are required to have an average of fifteen (15) head exhibited OR a minimum average of ten (10) participating exhibitors in the open show using a three-year rolling average. For the 2027 Ohio State Fair, data from 2024, 2025, and 2026 will be used. At the culmination of each fair, this number will be evaluated, and breed representatives will be notified of their status in writing no later than September 1st. Should the number of head or exhibitor fall below the required minimums, the breed representative will be notified that the following year the breed is on probation and breed representatives will be able to determine the following result for the subsequent fair. The breed association or breed representative must submit decisions in writing to the Beef Directors (email: erinalavaosf@gmail.com and kimhermanosf@gmail.com) by December 1st. Payment for sponsorship (if applicable) must be submitted to the Livestock Department by December 1st.
Checks can be made payable to “Ohio State Fair”; include in memo which show is being sponsored. Mail to 717 E 17th Ave, Columbus, Ohio 43211, Attn: Andrea Hershey.
Breed Probation
Breeds placed on probation will have the following options:
Recognized Parent and Percentage breeds may elect to show as one division. A recognized breed on probation may move from a combined division back to recognized breed status in the subsequent year if the minimum head or exhibitor is attained.
The breed association may elect to sponsor the show and continue as a recognized breed show. Notification and payment of sponsorship must be made by December 1st. One check must be remitted to the Livestock Department. Sponsorship will be $1,000 annually and include ribbons, banners, and premiums. A recognized breed electing to sponsor a breed show during probation may return to recognized breed status in the subsequent year if the average minimum head or exhibitor is attained. The breed association may elect to sponsor the show and remain a recognized breed in perpetua if breed minimums are not attained.
The breed may elect to show in the AOB category the following year. A recognized breed electing to show as AOB during probation may return to recognized breed status in the subsequent year if the minimum head or exhibitor is attained.
Number of head shown and exhibitor number by breed will also be tracked if exhibiting in the AOB division or as a combined Parent-Percentage breed division for future recognized breed qualification status.
Proposing New Breeds
A breed organization may submit a proposal to request addition of new breeds. Requests (open and junior shows) should include the following at a minimum: Statement of support from state or national breed association executive team representative (i.e. president) and a strong justification for breed addition (may include data such as number of breeders, petition signatures for addition, recent show data, etc.). A breed request to be added as an exhibition show is at the discretion of the Beef Directors and may be denied for any reason and could include (but is not limited to): lack of space, insufficient justification, etc. Requests should be received in writing to the Beef Directors (email: erinalavaosf@gmail.com and kimhermanosf@gmail.com) no later than November 1st for the following years’ fair.
New breeds will enter a two-year process in which the breed will show in exhibition status.
Junior Division: During the two-year exhibition period a breed must attain a 2-year average of five (5) head exhibited AND have an average of three (3) or more individual exhibitors.
Open Division: During the two-year exhibition period a breed must attain a 2-year average of fifteen (15) head exhibited AND an average of ten (10) participating exhibitors.
Exhibition Status is defined as: The same entry fees shall be paid by all livestock exhibitors regardless of show status. No premiums, banners, or ribbons will be provided (but breeds may elect to provide). No Outstanding Breeder or Exhibitor will be awarded. Animals are ineligible for Supreme Drives. The Ohio State Fair will provide a judge and coordinate the show.
If a breed meets the criteria after the conclusion of the 2-year exhibition period, the breed will be moved to a recognized breed for the subsequent fair. Decisions on status will be sent to breed notice in writing no later than September 1st. Should a breed not meet the criteria to be moved to a recognized show after the two-year period, the breed will show as an AOB.
Note: It is potentially possible for a breed to qualify for Junior Show, but not Open Show. Exhibitors would be eligible to show as a recognized breed in the Junior Show and AOB for the Open Show.
Breed Declaration
Declaration for show division must occur by check-in. Once designated the animal must keep the same designation for both junior and open shows (if applicable) AND if multi-registered, it is only permitted to show under one division for the duration of the Ohio State Fair.
Show division is used to define which show the animal will show under. This includes recognized breeds by the Ohio State Fair, AOB, as well as the crossbred breeding designation. Example: If an animal declares as a Chianina, it must show in both Open and Junior shows as a Chianina and it may not switch to any other designation during the Ohio State Fair, to include any other purebred, percentage, or crossbred breeding show.
**Exception: If a breed is on probation (in Junior, Open, or both) and the showing status for that breed is different between the Junior and Open Divisions the exhibitor may be eligible to show in different show divisions across the Junior and Open Shows. NOT eligible: Crossbred Junior Division, AOB Open Division.
Eligible examples include: Junior Show: shows in Recognized breed show, Open Show: shows in AOB or Exhibition Show due to probation. Junior Show: shows in AOB, Open Show: Shows in Exhibition Show.
Rules — All Junior Cattle
BVD testing will be required for ALL cattle (including Prospect Cattle, and calves from Cow/calf pairs). NO EXCEPTIONS. This will be denoted at the time of entry with a checkbox. Check the box if you have had a BVD test done on your cattle. BVD tests will not be provided on site. Exhibitors who fail to provide evidence of a negative test at check-in will not be permitted to show and will be dismissed from the fairgrounds.
All Cattle MUST have a scannable electronic RFID (EID) tag to be eligible to show, NO EXCEPTIONS (this is to include Prospect Cattle). The RFID will have a unique 15-digit number beginning with “840” and will be used to confirm identification. Correct EIDs must be provided during the online entries process. No EIDs will be available for exhibitors on site. Exhibitors with registration papers with tattoo verified and stamped by their respective breed associations will be accepted.
Registration papers, negative BVD test, EID, and tattoos will be confirmed at check in. Breed representatives will be expected to assist with the check-in process.
The Ohio Department of Agriculture Veterinarians will conduct animal health checks at check-in and through daily barn/viaduct walks. Animals may be ineligible to show if they display visible illness or disease and exhibitors may be asked to remove animals from the fairgrounds or move them to a quarantine location. Routine evaluation for communicable and/or zoonotic diseases will include but is not limited to presence of lesions (i.e. warts and ring worm). Official notification and documentation of ineligible animal will be provided. During vet check all animals are to be in the tie outs and a family member must be present.
Animals in each class will be placed on a 1-2 basis and the premiums to be determined will be paid on the numerical placings. First and Second place animals in each class are eligible for championship classes.
Purebred animals must list breed, sire name, sex, birth date, name of animal, registry number, EID, and tattoo.
Junior Exhibitors must show their own animals, and must be exhibited in the ring independently. Exceptions will be made only for exhibitors who may be physically impaired, who have two animals entered in the same class, or an exhibitor is absent on show day due to other commitments. In case of these exceptions another boy or girl who is eligible to be an Ohio Junior Division Exhibitor and must be resident of the State of Ohio, may exhibit the animal with the authorization of the department director.
If a Junior Fair Livestock Exhibitor cannot be present at the time of judging the exhibitor will need to present to the department director a written permission notice signed by the football coach, band director or any other person in charge of an activity that is in conflict and prevents the exhibitor from being present at the time of judging. This notice must be on official letterhead of the organization and given to the department director 24 hours before show day and must include name, county, birthdate, home phone number, and complete address of the exhibitor’s, home and work of the person in charge of the event (i.e. football coach, band director, etc.). Also include a brief description of the conflict.
Bred and Owned: To qualify for Bred and Owned, the entered junior exhibitor must be listed as the Breeder and Owner. Siblings who are co-breeder and co-owners will qualify as long as both are listed on the registration as such. A farm name for breeder and junior exhibitor for owner does not qualify. Bred and Owned will be identified at entry and cross checked at check-in.
Breeding: One entry substitution per exhibitor will be permitted at the time of check-in. This can include within or across breeds, but must be within the same entry division (i.e. junior to junior show or open to open show).
No farm tags will be permitted. PLEASE remove prior to check in. Any farm tags observed at check-in will be removed by staff.
UNETHICAL FITTING — Please read Junior General Rules and Regulations. These can be found in the Junior Beef Guidelines.
All Junior Fair Breeding Beef shall be groomed under the viaduct.
Any product which changes, enhances or alters the natural color of an animal will not be permitted. (Including but not limited to: Paint, dye, powder, nonclear adhesive, and foam or shoe polish.)
Equipment, gates, tarps, etc. MAY NOT block the view of cattle front to back in the viaducts on show days. Transparent or mesh shade tarps are permitted if they don’t obstruct view.
Management has the right to request each bay to have a minimum of 14 head, depending on space needs. Any bay not holding the minimum of 14 head may be asked to make room for additional animals.
The show management have the right to remove unruly cattle. During the show, a “three strike” policy per class will be implemented. This is to include unruly cattle behavior or animal getting loose during a class, and will be up to the discretion of show management.
Within any breed that has both a “purebred and percentage class” and also includes a cow/calf pair class, if either the cow or calf are less than “purebred standards” the pair will show in the percentage class.
Within the Junior show, cow/calf pairs are not eligible for the Supreme Heifer Championship. Therefore, breeds that include a cow/calf pair class will choose a cow/calf champion when there is more than one class.
All exhibitors must comply with any Ohio State Highway Patrol regarding viaduct, drives, and barn usage.
Judging Times
Times listed are approximate start times for each show. Management reserves the right to alter show times base upon completion of preceding shows in the arena.
Beef Cattle Schedule
1st Session — Angus, Hereford, Simmental, Percentage Simmental
Saturday, July 25
After 6 p.m. Breeding Session 1 may begin to arrive. NO EARLY ARRIVAL of tack or cattle permitted.
Sunday, July 26
All Day: Breeding Session 1 arrival
1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Registration paper check
Monday, July 27
8:00 – 9:00 a.m. Registration paper check
9:00 a.m. All cattle must be in place, Exhibitor Meeting begins, Tattoo, EID and Vet check to follow
10:00 a.m. Showmanship additions and corrections deadline
2:00 – 4:00 p.m. Proctored Virtual Breeding Beef Skillathon
4:00 p.m. Session 1 Junior Showmanship (18-year-olds begin the show)
Tuesday, July 28
8:00 a.m. Session 1 Open Breeding Show
There will be a picture break prior to the start of a new show.
Show order: Angus, Hereford, Simmental, Percentage Simmental.
Open Show Cattle released at conclusion of all shows for the day.
Wednesday, July 29
8:00 a.m. Session 1 Junior Breeding Show
There will be a picture break prior to start of new show.
Show order: Angus, Hereford, Simmental, Percentage Simmental.
Junior Show Cattle released at conclusion of all shows for the day.
2nd Session — AOB, Charolais, Chianina, Chiangus, Crossbred, Gelbvieh, Limousin, Maine-Anjou, Maine Angus, Mainetainer, Shorthorn, ShorthornPlus
Thursday, July 30
8:00 a.m. Session 2 may begin move-in. NO EARLY ARRIVAL of tack or cattle permitted.
1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Registration paper check
5:00 p.m. Commercial Cattle may begin to arrive
Friday, July 31
Breeding Session 2
8:00 – 9:00 a.m. Registration paper check
9:00 a.m. All cattle must be in place, Exhibitor Meeting begins, Crossbred heifer weigh-in, Tattoo, EID, and Vet check to follow
10:00 a.m. Showmanship additions and correction deadline
12:00 p.m. Commercial Cattle in place
2:00 – 4:00 p.m. Proctored Virtual Breeding Beef Skillathon
4:00 p.m. Session 2 Junior Showmanship (18-year-olds begin the show)
Saturday, August 1
8:00 a.m. Session 2 Open Breeding Show
There will be a picture break prior to the start of a new breed show.
Show order: Chianina, Chiangus, Gelbvieh, Limousin, Maine-Anjou, Maine Angus, MaineTainer, ShorthornPlus, Shorthorn, AOB.
Open Show Cattle released at conclusion of all shows for the day.
Commercial Cattle (Viaducts)
8:30 a.m. Weigh-in
2:00 p.m. Show begins
Sunday, August 2
8:00 a.m. Session 2 Junior Breeding Show
There will be a picture break prior to start of new show.
Show order: Charolais, Chianina, Chiangus, Gelbvieh, Limousin, Maine-Anjou, Maine Angus, Maine Tainer, ShorthornPlus, Shorthorn, AOB, Crossbred.
After 6:00 p.m. Santa Gertrudis Arrival.
Junior Show Cattle released at conclusion of all shows for the day.
3rd Session — Santa Gertrudis
Monday, August 3
8:30 – 10:00 a.m. Registration paper check
10:00 a.m. Session 3 in place and Veterinary Check
3:00 p.m. Unofficial Junior Show
Tuesday, August 4
9:00 a.m. Session 3 Open Breeding Show
Show order: Santa Gertrudis.
Release time to follow show.
Market and Prospect Beef Session
Tuesday, August 4
After 6:00 p.m. Market Beef and tack are permitted on the grounds. NO EARLY ARRIVALS. Prospect calves can only tie out with Market Beef if space allows.
Wednesday, August 5
All Day: Market Beef Arrival
4:00 p.m. Charity Steer Show
Thursday, August 6
10:00 a.m. Market Beef must be in place
10:00 a.m. Exhibitor Meeting
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Weigh-in
12:00 – 3:00 p.m. Market Beef Skillathon
2:00 p.m. Weight declaration must be submitted
6:00 p.m. Breeding Champions and Reserves may begin to arrive
Friday, August 7
8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Prospect Calves Arrive (cattle will be stalled as they arrive)
9:00 a.m. Market Beef Showmanship (18-year-olds will begin show)
12:00 p.m. Prospect late entry deadline
6:00 – 7:30 p.m. Prospect Calves Weigh-in
Saturday, August 8
8:00 a.m. Market Beef Show
9:00 a.m. Breeding Champions and Reserves must be in place
Market Beef cattle released after show
5:30 p.m. OBE, OME, and Skillathon Awards; Breeding Heifer and Market Beef Final Drives to follow
Release to follow show
Sunday, August 9
8:30 a.m. Pre-4-H Prospect Showmanship; Prospect Calf Show immediately to follow
119: Showmanship
All breeds within each rotation will be combined into a single showmanship contest and will be shown by individual age division oldest to youngest. One or more heats of each age division may be required and will be determined by Ohio State Fair management. A top ten for each age division will be awarded. All first-place winners will be permitted to show for Overall Supreme Showman.
Age Divisions (as of January 1, 2026): 18 year old, 17 year old, 16 year old, 15 year old, 14 year old, 13 year old, 12 year old, 11 year old, 10 year old, and 9 years old and under.
The purpose of showmanship is to encourage young exhibitors to acquire skill and know-how in the handling of animals and to obtain information and practice in fitting and grooming them for show.
Exhibitors must show their own animal in showmanship, and animal must be entered in Junior Show. The judge may ask that exhibitors show another exhibitor’s animal during the course of the show.
Advanced entry in showmanship is available during online entry and will be confirmed at check-in. Deadline for additions or corrections for showmanship will be 10 a.m. July 27 (Session 1), July 31 (Session 2), and 2 p.m. August 6 (Market Beef).
Showmanship will be a no-fit contest.
All animals shown in showmanship must be entered and shown in their respective breeding and/or market classes. (Bulls not eligible in showmanship.)
Judges will consider the general ability and know-how of exhibitors in training and handling of animals, the manner in which he/she presents their animal, how they handle themselves in the ring, how to fit and groom their animal (while the grooming alone will not be emphasized), knowledge and use of good show ring equipment and correct use of equipment, accepted show ring practices, customs; and exhibitors may be asked questions about their animal and the species.
Exhibitors must show in showmanship to be considered for Outstanding Market Exhibitor and/or Outstanding Breeding Exhibitor.
For each rotation, top five winners within each age division will be awarded a Rosette.
The Supreme Showman will receive a Banner.
Youth Reserve Program Showmanship Awards: Showmanship monies will be awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in each age division (10 age divisions).
Special Awards
2026 Champion Breeding Beef Female
The Breed Champions and Reserves from Session 1 and Session 2 Breed Shows (to include Champion and Reserve Crossbred Breeding Heifers) are required to return by Saturday, August 8, by 9:00 a.m. Failure to return may result in forfeiture of class and/or champion premiums.
Cow calf pairs are not eligible for Supreme Heifer. There will be NO divisional champions chosen. Supreme Heifer drive will be on Saturday, August 8 following the OBE and OME awards ceremony which begins at 5:30 p.m.
2026 Junior Breeding Beef Supreme Overall Champions
Youth Reserve Program awards will be awarded for 1st to 10th place Overall. Banners and monetary awards will be provided for 1st through 10th places.
2026 Outstanding Breeding Exhibitor
Youth Reserve Program awards will be awarded for 1st to 5th place. Awards are figured based on Proctored Virtual Skillathon, Showmanship and Class placings.
NEW in 2026 — Breeding Session 1 and Breeding Session 2 Overall Bred and Owned Champion and Reserve
All Champion and Reserve Bred and Owned for each breed will be eligible to exhibit for a Session 1 and Session 2 (as applicable) Overall Bred and Owned Champion and Reserve. The Bred and Owned Drive will follow the conclusion of the last Junior Breed Show of the day. Overall Champion and Reserve Champion Banners will be awarded for each session.
101: Angus
Arrival: Monday, July 27 (In place by 9:00 a.m.)
Judging: Wednesday, July 29
Release: Wednesday, July 29 — Cattle released at conclusion of all shows for the day
Competition Information
The American Angus Association, 3201 Frederick Boulevard, St. Joseph, Missouri, will participate in premiums offered in individual classes for junior Angus heifers, as included in its standard show classifications, according to the premium schedule based on the number of head shown. The premium assistance provided by the American Angus Association for participation in this show is in addition to the premiums offered by the show itself. The premium assistance should not be used to off-set show expenses and shall be included in the premium payments distributed by the show to the exhibitors.
A minimum of fifteen (15) head must be shown in the junior Angus heifer classes to receive American Angus Association premium participation. The show is not required to have all classes to be eligible for premiums.
Separate classes for bred and owned heifers may be held if the size of the show merits a separate class.
To be eligible for Association premiums the entries must be recorded in the sole name of the junior exhibitor and the issue date on the registration certificate must conform to the individual show’s requirements regarding ownership. The Association’s contribution is included in the total premiums listed in each class.
Premiums from the Association are paid only to registered Angus cattle and only if the registration number is a part of the show report provided to the Association. Therefore, all cattle should be registered at the time of entry to make certain they receive the Association’s portion of premiums. The Association does not pay on premiums offered in championship classes. An animal may only be counted one time toward the total count for premium participation by the Association.
Any female shown with a calf at side: the calf must be the cow’s most recent natural calf, and the calf must be registered by show day and have proof of registration at check in.
Exhibitors who participate in shows that accept premium monies contributed by the American Angus Association are subject to the Association Rules as found in the Breeders Reference Guide of the Association. (The rules relating directly with the exhibition of Angus cattle are Part 2; Association Rules; Rule 800 Series; including Rule 800-810). These rules can be found at www.angus.org.
At any show for which the American Angus Association appropriates funds toward the payment of premiums, no exhibitors, individuals assisting exhibitors or member owners at such show shall be allowed to use any coloring agents, on any animal exhibited. The Association may adopt and implement various tests designed to monitor this prohibition, including but not limited to a “white towel” or “white glove” test. No aerosol cans or other pressurized containers will be allowed in designated make up areas.
All animals exhibited are subject to DNA marker or blood type test to verify accuracy of parentage as covered under the Association Rules and for other testing as required by the individual show.
Authorized representatives of the Association have the authority to enforce the rules set forth herein as well as in the Association Rules, including the barring of a registered animal from a livestock show at which it is to be shown, if there are reasonable grounds to believe a violation has occurred.
Class Listings
Class 1 — Cow/Calf Pair, Calf at side must be born on or after Jan. 1, 2026 — Champion and Reserve Rosettes
Class 2 — Spring Heifer Calf, calved on or after March 1, 2026
Class 3 — Junior Heifer Calves, calved Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2026
Class 4 — Winter Heifer Calves, calved between Nov. 1 – Dec. 31, 2025
Class 5 — Senior Heifer Calves, calved between Sept. 1 – Oct. 31, 2025
Class 6 — Summer Yearling Female, calved between July 1 – Aug. 31, 2025
Class 7 — Spring Yearling Female, calved between May 1 – June 30, 2025
Class 8 — Early Spring Yearling Female, calved between Apr. 1 – Apr. 30, 2025
Class 9 — Early Yearling Heifers, calved between Mar. 1 – Mar. 31, 2025
Class 10 — Junior Yearling Females, calved between Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2025
Class 11 — Senior Yearling Female Sept. 1 – Dec. 31, 2024
Class 12 — YRP Angus Grand Champion — Banner
Class 13 — YRP Angus Reserve Champion — Banner
Champion Bred and Owned — Banner
Reserve Bred and Owned — Banner
103: Charolais
Arrival: Friday, July 31 (In place by 9:00 a.m.)
Judging: Sunday, August 2
Release: Sunday, August 2 — Cattle released at conclusion of all shows for the day
Class Listings
Class 1 — Cow/Calf Pair, Calf at side must be born on or after Jan. 1, 2026 — Champion and Reserve Rosettes
Class 2 — Spring Heifer Calf, calved on or after March 1, 2026
Class 3 — Junior Heifer Calves, calved Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2026
Class 4 — Winter Heifer Calves, calved between Nov. 1 – Dec. 31, 2025
Class 5 — Senior Heifer Calves, calved between Sept. 1 – Oct. 31, 2025
Class 6 — Summer Yearling Female, calved between July 1 – Aug. 31, 2025
Class 7 — Spring Yearling Female, calved between May 1 – June 30, 2025
Class 8 — Early Spring Yearling Female, calved between Apr. 1 – Apr. 30, 2025
Class 9 — Early Yearling Heifers, calved between Mar. 1 – Mar. 31, 2025
Class 10 — Junior Yearling Females, calved between Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2025
Class 11 — Senior Yearling Female Sept. 1 – Dec. 31, 2024
Class 12 — YRP Charolais Grand Champion — Banner
Class 13 — YRP Charolais Reserve Champion — Banner
Champion Bred and Owned — Banner
Reserve Bred and Owned — Banner
104: Chiangus
Arrival: Friday, July 31 (In place by 9:00 a.m.)
Judging: Sunday, August 2
Release: Sunday, August 2 — Cattle released at conclusion of all shows for the day
Animals must be registered 1CA, 2CA, and PCA with 6.25% Chianina or more.
Class Listings
Class 1 — Cow/Calf Pair, Calf at side must be born on or after Jan. 1, 2026 — Champion and Reserve Rosettes
Class 2 — Spring Heifer Calf, calved on or after March 1, 2026
Class 3 — Junior Heifer Calves, calved Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2026
Class 4 — Winter Heifer Calves, calved between Nov. 1 – Dec. 31, 2025
Class 5 — Senior Heifer Calves, calved between Sept. 1 – Oct. 31, 2025
Class 6 — Summer Yearling Female, calved between July 1 – Aug. 31, 2025
Class 7 — Spring Yearling Female, calved between May 1 – June 30, 2025
Class 8 — Early Spring Yearling Female, calved between Apr. 1 – Apr. 30, 2025
Class 9 — Early Yearling Heifers, calved between Mar. 1 – Mar. 31, 2025
Class 10 — Junior Yearling Females, calved between Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2025
Class 11 — Senior Yearling Female Sept. 1 – Dec. 31, 2024
Class 12 — YRP Chiangus Grand Champion — Banner
Class 13 — YRP Chiangus Reserve Champion — Banner
Champion Bred and Owned — Banner
Reserve Bred and Owned — Banner
105: Chianina
Arrival: Friday, July 31 (In place by 9:00 a.m.)
Judging: Sunday, August 2
Release: Sunday, August 2 — Cattle released at conclusion of all shows for the day
Animals must be registered as Chianina and must have at least 6.25% Chianina. All animals must be properly tattooed and will be checked at the show. Tattoos (which includes the herd) must be legible and must match the registration papers, which will be checked prior to the show. Farm tags must be removed.
Junior exhibitors must be current paid Ohio Junior Chianina members prior to the Ohio State Fair to be eligible for any additional prize money distributed by the Ohio Chianina Association for the Junior Show.
Class Listings
Class 1 — Cow/Calf Pair, Calf at side must be born on or after Jan. 1, 2026 — Champion and Reserve Rosettes
Class 2 — Spring Heifer Calf, calved on or after March 1, 2026
Class 3 — Junior Heifer Calves, calved Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2026
Class 4 — Winter Heifer Calves, calved between Nov. 1 – Dec. 31, 2025
Class 5 — Senior Heifer Calves, calved between Sept. 1 – Oct. 31, 2025
Class 6 — Summer Yearling Female, calved between July 1 – Aug. 31, 2025
Class 7 — Spring Yearling Female, calved between May 1 – June 30, 2025
Class 8 — Early Spring Yearling Female, calved between Apr. 1 – Apr. 30, 2025
Class 9 — Early Yearling Heifers, calved between Mar. 1 – Mar. 31, 2025
Class 10 — Junior Yearling Females, calved between Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2025
Class 11 — Senior Yearling Female Sept. 1 – Dec. 31, 2024
Class 12 — YRP Chianina Grand Champion — Banner
Class 13 — YRP Chianina Reserve Champion — Banner
Champion Bred and Owned — Banner
Reserve Bred and Owned — Banner
106: Gelbvieh
Arrival: Friday, July 31 (In place by 9:00 a.m.)
Judging: Sunday, August 2
Release: Sunday, August 2 — Cattle released at conclusion of all shows for the day
All animals must be registered with the American Gelbvieh Association and at least 25% Gelbvieh blood or higher.
Class Listings
Class 1 — Cow/Calf Pair, Calf at side must be born on or after Jan. 1, 2026 — Champion and Reserve Rosettes
Class 2 — Spring Heifer Calf, calved on or after March 1, 2026
Class 3 — Junior Heifer Calves, calved Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2026
Class 4 — Winter Heifer Calves, calved between Nov. 1 – Dec. 31, 2025
Class 5 — Senior Heifer Calves, calved between Sept. 1 – Oct. 31, 2025
Class 6 — Summer Yearling Female, calved between July 1 – Aug. 31, 2025
Class 7 — Spring Yearling Female, calved between May 1 – June 30, 2025
Class 8 — Early Spring Yearling Female, calved between Apr. 1 – Apr. 30, 2025
Class 9 — Early Yearling Heifers, calved between Mar. 1 – Mar. 31, 2025
Class 10 — Junior Yearling Females, calved between Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2025
Class 11 — Senior Yearling Female Sept. 1 – Dec. 31, 2024
Class 12 — YRP Gelbvieh Grand Champion — Banner
Class 13 — YRP Gelbvieh Reserve Champion — Banner
Champion Bred and Owned — Banner
Reserve Bred and Owned — Banner
107: Hereford
Arrival: Monday, July 27 (In place by 9:00 a.m.)
Judging: Wednesday, July 29
Release: Wednesday, July 29 — Cattle released at conclusion of all shows for the day
Exhibitors in Hereford breeding cattle classes are subject to The American Hereford Association special rule on class; must be duly recorded with the American Hereford Association.
Class Listings
Class 1 — Cow/Calf Pair, born on or after Jan. 1, 2026 — Champion and Reserve Rosettes
Class 2 — Spring Heifer Calf, calved on or after March 1, 2026
Class 3 — Junior Heifer Calves, calved Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2026
Class 4 — Winter Heifer Calves, calved Nov. 1 – Dec. 31, 2025
Class 5 — Senior Heifer Calves, calved Sept. 1 – Oct. 31, 2025
Class 6 — Summer Yearling Female, calved July 1 – Aug. 31, 2025
Class 7 — Spring Yearling Female, calved May 1 – June 30, 2025
Class 8 — Early Spring Yearling Female, calved Apr. 1 – Apr. 30, 2025
Class 9 — Early Yearling Heifers, calved Mar. 1 – Mar. 31, 2025
Class 10 — Junior Yearling Females, calved Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2025
Class 11 — Senior Yearling Female Sept. 1 – Dec. 31, 2024
Class 12 — YRP Hereford Grand Champion — Banner
Class 13 — YRP Hereford Reserve Champion — Banner
Champion Bred and Owned — Banner
Reserve Bred and Owned — Banner
108: Limousin
Arrival: Friday, July 31 (In place by 9:00 a.m.)
Judging: Sunday, August 2
Release: Sunday, August 2 — Cattle released at conclusion of all shows for the day
All animals must be registered with the North American Limousin Foundation and must be 75% Limousin or greater.
Class Listings
Class 1 — Cow/Calf Pair, born on or after Jan. 1, 2026 — Champion and Reserve Rosettes
Class 2 — Spring Heifer Calf, calved on or after March 1, 2026
Class 3 — Junior Heifer Calves, calved Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2026
Class 4 — Winter Heifer Calves, calved Nov. 1 – Dec. 31, 2025
Class 5 — Senior Heifer Calves, calved Sept. 1 – Oct. 31, 2025
Class 6 — Summer Yearling Female, calved July 1 – Aug. 31, 2025
Class 7 — Spring Yearling Female, calved May 1 – June 30, 2025
Class 8 — Early Spring Yearling Female, calved Apr. 1 – Apr. 30, 2025
Class 9 — Early Yearling Heifers, calved Mar. 1 – Mar. 31, 2025
Class 10 — Junior Yearling Females, calved Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2025
Class 11 — Senior Yearling Female Sept. 1 – Dec. 31, 2024
Class 12 — YRP Limousin Grand Champion — Banner
Class 13 — YRP Limousin Reserve Champion — Banner
Champion Bred and Owned — Banner
Reserve Bred and Owned — Banner
109: Maine Angus (Blue Registration Papers Only)
Arrival: Friday, July 31 (In place by 9:00 a.m.)
Judging: Sunday, August 2
Release: Sunday, August 2 — Cattle released at conclusion of all shows for the day
Class Listings
Class 1 — Cow/Calf Pair, born on or after Jan. 1, 2026 — Champion and Reserve Rosettes
Class 2 — Spring Heifer Calf, calved on or after March 1, 2026
Class 3 — Junior Heifer Calves, calved Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2026
Class 4 — Winter Heifer Calves, calved Nov. 1 – Dec. 31, 2025
Class 5 — Senior Heifer Calves, calved Sept. 1 – Oct. 31, 2025
Class 6 — Summer Yearling Female, calved July 1 – Aug. 31, 2025
Class 7 — Spring Yearling Female, calved May 1 – June 30, 2025
Class 8 — Early Spring Yearling Female, calved Apr. 1 – Apr. 30, 2025
Class 9 — Early Yearling Heifers, calved Mar. 1 – Mar. 31, 2025
Class 10 — Junior Yearling Females, calved Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2025
Class 11 — Senior Yearling Female Sept. 1 – Dec. 31, 2024
Class 12 — YRP Maine Angus Grand Champion — Banner
Class 13 — YRP Maine Angus Reserve Champion — Banner
Champion Bred and Owned — Banner
Reserve Bred and Owned — Banner
110: Maine Anjou (Brown Registration Papers Only)
Arrival: Friday, July 31 (In place by 9:00 a.m.)
Judging: Sunday, August 2
Release: Sunday, August 2 — Cattle released at conclusion of all shows for the day
Exhibitors are subject to all rules and regulations of the American Maine-Angus Association. When entry is made, exhibitors agree to abide with the rules and regulations established by the AMAA as well as the rules of the show management.
Class Listings
Class 1 — Cow/Calf Pair, born on or after Jan. 1, 2026 — Champion and Reserve Rosettes
Class 2 — Spring Heifer Calf, calved on or after March 1, 2026
Class 3 — Junior Heifer Calves, calved Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2026
Class 4 — Winter Heifer Calves, calved Nov. 1 – Dec. 31, 2025
Class 5 — Senior Heifer Calves, calved Sept. 1 – Oct. 31, 2025
Class 6 — Summer Yearling Female, calved July 1 – Aug. 31, 2025
Class 7 — Spring Yearling Female, calved May 1 – June 30, 2025
Class 8 — Early Spring Yearling Female, calved Apr. 1 – Apr. 30, 2025
Class 9 — Early Yearling Heifers, calved Mar. 1 – Mar. 31, 2025
Class 10 — Junior Yearling Females, calved Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2025
Class 11 — Senior Yearling Female Sept. 1 – Dec. 31, 2024
Class 12 — YRP Maine Anjou Grand Champion — Banner
Class 13 — YRP Maine Anjou Reserve Champion — Banner
Champion Bred and Owned — Banner
Reserve Bred and Owned — Banner
111: Mainetainer (Green Registration Papers Only)
Arrival: Friday, July 31 (In place by 9:00 a.m.)
Judging: Sunday, August 2
Release: Sunday, August 2 — Cattle released at conclusion of all shows for the day
Class Listings
Class 1 — Cow/Calf Pair, born on or after Jan. 1, 2026 — Champion and Reserve Rosettes
Class 2 — Spring Heifer Calf, calved on or after March 1, 2026
Class 3 — Junior Heifer Calves, calved Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2026
Class 4 — Winter Heifer Calves, calved Nov. 1 – Dec. 31, 2025
Class 5 — Senior Heifer Calves, calved Sept. 1 – Oct. 31, 2025
Class 6 — Summer Yearling Female, calved July 1 – Aug. 31, 2025
Class 7 — Spring Yearling Female, calved May 1 – June 30, 2025
Class 8 — Early Spring Yearling Female, calved Apr. 1 – Apr. 30, 2025
Class 9 — Early Yearling Heifers, calved Mar. 1 – Mar. 31, 2025
Class 10 — Junior Yearling Females, calved Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2025
Class 11 — Senior Yearling Female Sept. 1 – Dec. 31, 2024
Class 12 — YRP Mainetainer Grand Champion — Banner
Class 13 — YRP Mainetainer Reserve Champion — Banner
Champion Bred and Owned — Banner
Reserve Bred and Owned — Banner
112: Shorthorn
Arrival: Friday, July 31 (In place by 9:00 a.m.)
Judging: Sunday, August 2
Release: Sunday, August 2 — Cattle released at conclusion of all shows for the day
Class Listings
Class 1 — Cow/Calf Pair, born on or after Jan. 1, 2026 — Champion and Reserve Rosettes
Class 2 — Spring Heifer Calf, calved on or after March 1, 2026
Class 3 — Junior Heifer Calves, calved Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2026
Class 4 — Winter Heifer Calves, calved Nov. 1 – Dec. 31, 2025
Class 5 — Senior Heifer Calves, calved Sept. 1 – Oct. 31, 2025
Class 6 — Summer Yearling Female, calved July 1 – Aug. 31, 2025
Class 7 — Spring Yearling Female, calved May 1 – June 30, 2025
Class 8 — Early Spring Yearling Female, calved Apr. 1 – Apr. 30, 2025
Class 9 — Early Yearling Heifers, calved Mar. 1 – Mar. 31, 2025
Class 10 — Junior Yearling Females, calved Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2025
Class 11 — Senior Yearling Female Sept. 1 – Dec. 31, 2024
Class 12 — YRP Shorthorn Grand Champion — Banner
Class 13 — YRP Shorthorn Reserve Champion — Banner
Champion Bred and Owned — Banner
Reserve Bred and Owned — Banner
113: Shorthorn Plus
Arrival: Friday, July 31 (In place by 9:00 a.m.)
Judging: Sunday, August 2
Release: Sunday, August 2 — Cattle released at conclusion of all shows for the day
In order to show in the Shorthorn Plus show, the animal must have the AR on the registration form. Special Rule: Females competing in the Senior Yearling Female Class must meet the following criteria: 1) Be accompanied by a certificate from a non-owner licensed veterinarian stating the female is safe in calf, or 2) the female must have a natural born calf at side, that is properly recorded with the American Shorthorn.
Class Listings
Class 1 — Cow/Calf Pair, born on or after Jan. 1, 2026 — Champion and Reserve Rosettes
Class 2 — Spring Heifer Calf, calved on or after March 1, 2026
Class 3 — Junior Heifer Calves, calved Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2026
Class 4 — Winter Heifer Calves, calved Nov. 1 – Dec. 31, 2025
Class 5 — Senior Heifer Calves, calved Sept. 1 – Oct. 31, 2025
Class 6 — Summer Yearling Female, calved July 1 – Aug. 31, 2025
Class 7 — Spring Yearling Female, calved May 1 – June 30, 2025
Class 8 — Early Spring Yearling Female, calved Apr. 1 – Apr. 30, 2025
Class 9 — Early Yearling Heifers, calved Mar. 1 – Mar. 31, 2025
Class 10 — Junior Yearling Females, calved Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2025
Class 11 — Senior Yearling Female Sept. 1 – Dec. 31, 2024
Class 12 — YRP ShorthornPlus Grand Champion — Banner
Class 13 — YRP ShorthornPlus Reserve Champion — Banner
Champion Bred and Owned — Banner
Reserve Bred and Owned — Banner
114: Simmental
Arrival: Monday, July 27 (In place by 9:00 a.m.)
Judging: Wednesday, July 29
Release: Wednesday, July 29 — Cattle released at conclusion of all shows for the day
To show in the Purebred Simmental Show females must be 7/8 or higher as defined by the American Simmental Association. A heifer calf born twin to a bull is eligible to show without a registration certificate if the heifer is accompanied by a certificate from a licensed veterinarian stating she has been examined and found to be fertile. Any entry is subject to mouthing, hair samples, and blood testing. The Ohio Simmental Association Board of Trustees reserves the right to pre-assign stalls. To be eligible to show in any of the Cow/Calf classes the calf must be the natural calf of that cow and still be nursing.
Class Listings
Class 1 — Cow/Calf Pair, born on or after Jan. 1, 2026 — Champion and Reserve Rosettes
Class 2 — Spring Heifer Calf, calved on or after March 1, 2026
Class 3 — Junior Heifer Calves, calved Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2026
Class 4 — Winter Heifer Calves, calved Nov. 1 – Dec. 31, 2025
Class 5 — Senior Heifer Calves, calved Sept. 1 – Oct. 31, 2025
Class 6 — Summer Yearling Female, calved July 1 – Aug. 31, 2025
Class 7 — Spring Yearling Female, calved May 1 – June 30, 2025
Class 8 — Early Spring Yearling Female, calved Apr. 1 – Apr. 30, 2025
Class 9 — Early Yearling Heifers, calved Mar. 1 – Mar. 31, 2025
Class 10 — Junior Yearling Females, calved Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2025
Class 11 — Senior Yearling Female Sept. 1 – Dec. 31, 2024
Class 12 — YRP Simmental Grand Champion — Banner
Class 13 — YRP Simmental Reserve Champion — Banner
Champion Bred and Owned — Banner
Reserve Bred and Owned — Banner
115: Percentage Simmental
Arrival: Monday, July 27 (In place by 9:00 a.m.)
Judging: Wednesday, July 29
Release: Wednesday, July 29 — Cattle released at conclusion of all shows for the day
The percentage Simmental division is open to heifers 1/2 blood and less than 7/8 blood Simmental.
Class Listings
Class 1 — Cow/Calf Pair, born on or after Jan. 1, 2026 — Champion and Reserve Rosettes
Class 2 — Spring Heifer Calf, calved on or after March 1, 2026
Class 3 — Junior Heifer Calves, calved Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2026
Class 4 — Winter Heifer Calves, calved Nov. 1 – Dec. 31, 2025
Class 5 — Senior Heifer Calves, calved Sept. 1 – Oct. 31, 2025
Class 6 — Summer Yearling Female, calved July 1 – Aug. 31, 2025
Class 7 — Spring Yearling Female, calved May 1 – June 30, 2025
Class 8 — Early Spring Yearling Female, calved Apr. 1 – Apr. 30, 2025
Class 9 — Early Yearling Heifers, calved Mar. 1 – Mar. 31, 2025
Class 10 — Junior Yearling Females, calved Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2025
Class 11 — Senior Yearling Female Sept. 1 – Dec. 31, 2024
Class 12 — YRP Simmental Percentage Grand Champion — Banner
Class 13 — YRP Simmental Percentage Champion — Banner
Champion Bred and Owned — Banner
Reserve Bred and Owned — Banner
102: All Other Breeds
Arrival: Friday, July 31 (In place by 9:00 a.m.)
Judging: Sunday, August 2
Release: Sunday, August 2 — Cattle released at conclusion of all shows for the day
Ohio State Fair staff will facilitate the AOB check-in. The AOB division will be composed as necessary of a.) any recognized breeds on probation status and/or b.) any registered animals without a recognized breed show (e.g. Mini Hereford, Red Angus, Belted Galloway, Salers, etc.) providing they meet their breed minimum percentage for their Junior National Show. Cattle that do not meet the breed percentage requirement for their breed Junior National show eligibility will not be eligible for the AOB division. Examples: Simmental heifers less than 1/2 blood, ShorthornPlus heifers less than 1/2 blood, or Limousin heifers less than 25%. Cattle who do not satisfy the requirements to be eligible under a recognized breed or AOB show may only show in the crossbred breeding division. DNA must be submitted and on file by the provided deadline. If the animal qualifies for a recognized breed division already offered at the Ohio State Fair, it must show in that division.
Class Listings
Class 1 — Cow/Calf Pair, born on or after Jan. 1, 2026 — Champion and Reserve Rosettes
Class 2 — Spring Heifer Calf, calved on or after March 1, 2026
Class 3 — Junior Heifer Calves, calved Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2026
Class 4 — Winter Heifer Calves, calved Nov. 1 – Dec. 31, 2025
Class 5 — Senior Heifer Calves, calved Sept. 1 – Oct. 31, 2025
Class 6 — Summer Yearling Female, calved July 1 – Aug. 31, 2025
Class 7 — Spring Yearling Female, calved May 1 – June 30, 2025
Class 8 — Early Spring Yearling Female, calved Apr. 1 – Apr. 30, 2025
Class 9 — Early Yearling Heifers, calved Mar. 1 – Mar. 31, 2025
Class 10 — Junior Yearling Females, calved Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2025
Class 11 — Senior Yearling Female Sept. 1 – Dec. 31, 2024
Class 12 — YRP AOB Grand Champion — Banner
Class 13 — YRP AOB Reserve Champion — Banner
Champion Bred and Owned — Banner
Reserve Bred and Owned — Banner
116: Crossbred Breeding Heifers
Arrival: Friday, July 31 (In place by 9:00 a.m.)
Judging: Sunday, August 2
Release: Sunday, August 2 — Cattle released at conclusion of all shows for the day
Crossbred breeding heifers MUST be owned by breeding cattle ownership deadline (May 22), and be born on or after September 1, 2024. To be eligible to exhibit a crossbred heifer at the Ohio State Fair, a DNA sample must be filed. Envelopes MUST be complete and returned by June 1, 2026 to the Livestock Department. All crossbred heifers must have a USDA RFID tag (all tags must begin with 840). DNA Envelopes can be requested via email at a.hershey@expo.ohio.gov. Email requests must be made by May 17, 2026. Any animal arriving with DNA not submitted will not be eligible to show in the crossbred breeding division (NO EXCEPTIONS). You still must enter online at ohiostatefair.com by June 21 at 1 p.m. Crossbred breeding heifers will weigh upon check-in at the Ohio State Fair. Classes will be broken per the beef barn staff after the completion of check-in. Banners will be awarded to Champion and Reserve Crossbred Breeding Heifers and are eligible to participate in the Supreme Overall Breeding Beef Female Final Drive.
Open Youth Commercial Cattle show rules and entry information can be found in the Open Beef Competition Guidelines.
118: Market Beef
Market Beef Schedule
Tuesday, August 4
After 6:00 p.m. Market Beef and tack are permitted on the grounds. No early arrival.
Wednesday, August 5
All Day: Market Beef Arrival. 4:00 p.m. Charity Steer Show.
Thursday, August 6
10:00 a.m. Market Beef must be in place and Exhibitor Meeting. 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Weigh-in. 12:00 – 3:00 p.m. Market Beef Skillathon. 2:00 p.m. Weight declaration must be submitted. 6:00 p.m. Breeding Champions and Reserves may begin to arrive.
Friday, August 7
8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Prospect Calves Arrive. 9:00 a.m. Market Beef Showmanship (18-year-olds will begin show). 12:00 p.m. Prospect late entry deadline. 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. Prospect Calves Weigh-in.
Saturday, August 8
8:00 a.m. Market Beef Show. 9:00 a.m. Breeding Champion and Reserves must be in place. Market Beef cattle release after show. 5:30 p.m. OBE, OME, and Skillathon Awards; Breeding Heifer and Market Beef Final Drives to follow.
Enter steers in Class 001. Enter market heifers in Class 002. Market animals will be placed in proper classes after check-in. Virtual DUNF Form link will be forthcoming. ALL ENTRIES MUST BE MADE ONLINE.
Market Beef Stalling
Stalling Information will be forthcoming.
Market Beef Rules
BVD testing will be required for all market animals. No exceptions. Check the box at time of entry if you have had a BVD test done. Exhibitors who fail to provide evidence of a negative test at check-in will not be permitted to show and will be dismissed from the fairgrounds. EID on BVD test should match DNA submitted.
Junior market animals must weigh a minimum of 1,000 pounds at time of weigh-in. An exhibitor may enter a maximum of 8 market animals. Junior market animals are not permitted to be tied in the Commercial Cattle Area. Tarp sunshades are only permitted on the back side (West) of the Viaduct.
All market animals exhibited must have been completely and fully owned including all showing rights, and in the complete possession and continual care of the exhibitor by January 1. Ownership will be considered lost if the animal has been consigned or sold through an auction or any other type of transaction, even if the exhibitor buys back the animal.
Junior Fair market animals must be hornless. The use of muzzles is prohibited on the Ohio State Fairgrounds.
Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion must sell in the Sale of Champions, Sunday, August 9 in the Celeste Center.
EID Tags and DNA Packets: Junior exhibitors must have filed a DNA sample and USDA Official Electronic ID tag number (beginning with 840) by January 15, 2026 with the Livestock Office for each market animal to be exhibited. This does not constitute an official entry; you still must enter at ohiostatefair.com by June 21 at 1 p.m. Electronic ID tags will be scanned at the time of weigh-in and must match the DNA packet submitted. If an EID was replaced, an email must be sent to a.hershey@expo.ohio.gov and kimhermanosf@gmail.com with the original tag number, new tag number, and exhibitor name.
All steers and market heifers will cross the scales at the designated weigh-in time (11:00 a.m., August 6). Exhibitors may choose to declare the weight on their market animal. Declared weight cards must be turned in by 2:00 p.m. on August 6. Exhibitors failing to turn in their declared weight by 2:00 p.m. will show by their actual weight.
All animals entered in the market show must weigh back within 5% over or under their actual or declared weight. Animals that do not weigh back within the 5% window will not show in their designated weight class and will not qualify for Grand and Reserve Grand Champion. There will be a class provided immediately after the last division of the day for any cattle that did not meet their weigh-back requirements.
118: Market Beef Classes
Breed Classes
The Barn Directors reserve the right to evaluate all breed steers for breed discrepancy. In order to show as a breed, steers must meet their National Breed standard and must present Registration Papers and matching tattoos at the time of weigh-in. A breed class(es) will be created if five (5) head are exhibited or a minimum of three (3) participating exhibitors exist within a breed. If minimum is not met, those cattle will show as AOB.
Crossbred Steer Divisions: DIV I (declared wt 1,000–1,200) / DIV II (1,201–1,325) / DIV III (1,326–1,375) / DIV IV (1,376–1,425) / DIV V (1,426 and higher)
Market Beef Format
The animals sold in the 2026 Ohio State Fair Sale of Champions will have a top dollar cap: Grand Champion Market Beef — 5,000; Reserve Grand Champion Market Beef — 8,000. Twenty-five percent (25%), or amount over cap, whichever is greater, will be distributed among other youth exhibitors for scholarships, Outstanding Market Exhibitor Program, showmanship, skillathons, dairy cattle, breeding livestock, FFA, 4-H, Ohio State Fair Band and Choir, and endowments.
Breed Steer Shows (As Applicable)
Angus Junior Steer Show
Eligibility: Steers must be purebred Angus. Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion Angus Steer — Banner each.
Charolais Junior Steer Show
Eligibility: Steer must be at least 50% Charolais. Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion Charolais Steer — Banner each.
Chianina Junior Steer Show
Monies distributed by discretion of the State Chianina Association President. Junior Exhibitors must be paid Ohio Junior Chianina members prior to the current year Ohio State Fair to be eligible for Ohio Chianina Association prize money. Chianina Steers must be registered with the American Chianina Association. No breed percentage rules for steers. Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion Chianina Steer — Banner each.
Hereford Junior Steer Show
Special premium money and awards available only if the minimum requirement is met. Hereford and Polled Hereford steers will be placed in proper classes by number of entries after arrival. Eligibility: Any straight-bred Polled Hereford or Hereford steer sired by a bull recorded in the registry of the American Polled Hereford Association or American Hereford Association; dam may be registered or commercial Polled or Horned Hereford cow. Steers must show characteristics typical of straight-bred cattle. All steers are subject to inspection by a breeder committee. Blood may be drawn on the Champion and Reserve Champion Hereford steer. No appeals. Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion Hereford Steer — Banner each.
Limousin Junior Steer Show
Eligibility: Steers must be a minimum 50% Limousin or greater, registered with the North American Limousin Foundation, sired by a registered Limousin bull, owned by the junior exhibitor and registered in their name only. All steers subject to inspection by the Ohio Limousin Association (OLA) breeder committee. Blood may be drawn on Champions to verify parentage. No appeals. Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion Limousin Steer — Banner each. Sponsored by: The Ohio Limousin Association and The Ohio Junior Limousin Association.
Maine Junior Steer Show
Eligibility: Steers must be at least 1/4 Maine. Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion Maine Steer — Banner each.
Simmental Junior Steer Show
Eligibility: Steers must be at least 1/2 Simmental, registered with the American Simmental Association, owned by the junior exhibitor in their name only. Original Registration must be available for inspection at weigh-in. Blood or hair may be drawn on Champions to verify parentage. Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion Simmental Steer — Banner each.
Shorthorn Plus Junior Steer Show
Eligibility: Steers must be at least 1/4 Shorthorn Plus. Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion Shorthorn Plus Steer — Banner each.
AOB Junior Steer Show
Any steer who qualifies for its given breed Junior National Show eligibility and has appropriate registration papers, but does not have a designated breed division is eligible to show as AOB. Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion AOB Steer — Banner each.
Market Heifer Junior Show
Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion Market Heifer — Banner each.
Overall Awards
Youth Reserve Program awards will be awarded for 1st through 10th place Overall. Banners and monetary awards will be provided for 1st through 10th place. Crossbred Division Champions and Reserves will be awarded banners (Sponsor: Buckeye Beef Boosters).
Outstanding Market Beef Exhibitor Program
Youth Reserve Program awards will be provided for 1st to 10th place Outstanding Market Exhibitor. OME awards are figured based on in person skillathon, showmanship, and class placings.
Livestock Competitions — General Rules
The General Rules for the Ohio State Fair will be forthcoming.