WEST ALLIS, Wis. – Aug. 12, 2026 – The 2026 Governor’s Blue Ribbon Livestock Auction generated $405,036 to support Wisconsin State Fair junior livestock exhibitors, continuing a tradition of investing in the next generation of agricultural leaders. Hosted by the Blue Ribbon Sale of Champions Foundation in partnership with Wisconsin State Fair, the annual event brought together buyers, businesses, agricultural organizations and community supporters to celebrate the accomplishments of Wisconsin youth and invest in their future. In 2026, the Foundation awarded $57,000 in scholarships to Wisconsin State Fair junior exhibitors and launched its new Youth Impact Grant program, providing financial assistance to youth participating in beef, swine, sheep and goat projects. The Foundation also contributed $30,000 to support Wisconsin State Fair Junior Exhibitor Showmanship, Knowledge Master Showman and Reserve Champion awards. “The Governor’s Blue Ribbon Livestock Auction represents so much more than a sale of champion animals. It reflects the countless hours of work, dedication and passion Wisconsin’s junior exhibitors invest in their projects and the community’s commitment to their success,” said Jenny Gehl, president of the Blue Ribbon Sale of Champions Foundation. “The generosity of our buyers, sponsors and supporters helps young people pursue their educational goals, develop leadership skills and continue their involvement in Wisconsin agriculture.” During the evening, attendees further demonstrated their commitment to Wisconsin youth, raising a combined $7,786 through the paddle raise and silent auction to support and advance the Foundation’s mission.
Congratulations to all of the Wisconsin State Fair Junior Exhibitors who sold their animals in the 2026 Governor’s Blue Ribbon Livestock Auction.
Below is a list of participants from Southwest Wisconsin
- Grand Champion Barrow (Crossbred) exhibited by Brayden Bowers of Belmont, Winning bid of $19,000 by Molson Coors and Beer Capitol Distributing
- Grand Champion Market Lamb (Crossbred) exhibited by Brayden Bowers of Belmont, Winning bid of $14,000 by Meijer
- Reserve Grand Champion Barrow (Crossbred) exhibited by Lincoln Russell of Benton, Winning bid of $13,500 by Lafayette Buyers Group
- Reserve Grand Champion Market Lamb (Hampshire) exhibited by Landen Leibfried of Platteville, Winning bid of $9,000 by Meijer
- Champion Oxford Lamb exhibited by Maicy Norgard of Darlington, Winning bid of $11,500 by Conserv FS
- Champion Hereford Steer exhibited by Atley Potterton of Mineral Point, Winning bid of $5,500 by Saz’s Hospitality
- Champion Poland China Barrow exhibited by Rita Achenbach of Eastman, Winning bid of $10,000 by Crawford Country’s Big Red
- Champion Shorthorn Steer exhibited by Maggie Kershner of Lone Rock, Winning bid of $16,000 by Kenosha Beef International / Birchwood Foods Krautland- Ron & Karla Schurman
- Champion Simmental High % exhibited by Riley Sennhenn of Mineral Point, Winning bid of $8,000 by Meijer, Cargill
- Champion Hereford Barrow exhibited by Jace Mcreynolds of Mineral Point, Winning bid of $11,000 by Meijer
