Buckeye Baa-ttle at Ohio State Fair

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COLUMBUS — The Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) and the Ohio Sheep Improvement Association (OSIA) today celebrated the inaugural Buckeye Baa-ttle at the Ohio State Fair, where legislators, cabinet members, and media representatives joined Ohio’s talented 4-H and FFA sheep exhibitors in the show ring.

Following an evening of friendly competition, State Representative Haraz Ghanbari (R‑Perrysburg) was named Grand Champion, while Kevin Miller, Director of Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities, earned Reserve Champion.

“Our 4-H and FFA exhibitors are some of the best ambassadors for Ohio agriculture,” said ODA Director Brian Baldridge. “The Buckeye Baa-ttle gave them the opportunity to share their knowledge with Ohio’s leaders while showcasing the dedication, responsibility and hard work that goes into raising livestock. That’s what the Ohio State Fair is all about.”

The Buckeye Baa-ttle paired each participant with an experienced 4-H or FFA sheep exhibitor who served as their coach and mentor throughout the competition. Together, they demonstrated the teamwork, communication, and animal care skills required to successfully exhibit livestock.

The event highlighted Ohio’s sheep industry while giving participants an inside look at the preparation and commitment behind every show ring appearance.

“Our exhibitors spend countless hours caring for their animals and preparing for competitions like this, and the Buckeye Baa-ttle gave them an opportunity to share that experience with Ohio’s leaders,” said Roger High, executive director of the Ohio Sheep Improvement Association. “We appreciate everyone who stepped into the ring and helped shine a spotlight on Ohio’s sheep producers and the next generation of our industry.”

Awards/Superlatives:

Ewe look maaavelous!, Director Tia Moretti, Ohio Department of Behavioral Health

Ewe rocked it!, Teri Geiger, Chief of Staff, Congressman Troy Balderson (OH-12) 

Ewe were baaad to the bone!, Congressman Dave Taylor (OH-02)

Ewe were a natural!, State Representative Angie King (R-Celina)

Ewe kept your Cool!, Anna Staver, Statehouse Reporter, Cleveland.com

Ewe made a great team!, Director Mary Mertz, Ohio Department of Natural Resources

Ewe tried!, State Senator Tim Schaffer (R-Lancaster)

Ewe blew us away!, State Representative Johnathan Newman (R- Troy)

Ewe Stood Out from the Flock, State Representative Melanie Miller (R-Ashland)

Ewe were Wooly Awesome, Director Lyndsay Nash, Director of the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities

Shear Perfection!, Director Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff, Ohio Department of Health

Flock Star!, Director Kimberly Murnieks, Office of Budget and Management & Assistant 

The Buckeye Baa-ttle joins Battle for the Bacon as part of ODA’s efforts to highlight Ohio livestock, youth exhibitors and the importance of agriculture through hands-on experiences at the Ohio State Fair. Battle for the Bacon will take place on Wednesday, August 5 in the O’Neill Swine Barn.