Cattle for college

Not all kids that attend El Paso County Fair go for the delicious sticky cotton candy or the rides. Some go for the business to learn how to become future ranchers and community leaders.

For Ireland Vandergriff, her day at the county fair is more work than fun.

“I love steers,” said Vandergriff as she brushes her brown cattle Booger.

She washes Booger, that weighs 1,239 lbs everyday.

“They need to be clean and they can’t be filthy the entire time because or else it doesn’t look on taking care of your steer,” said Vandergriff.

Vandergriff is one of many kids at the fair that participate in the 4-H Program. It’s a rural staple that teaches kids leadership and responsibility.

“Sometimes he’s a little hoot and something like that but I feel confident that I can do it,” said Vandergriff.

“It’s taught me such a great work ethic. It’s a lot of hours that goes into it but it’s really fun,” said Nathalie Hlatki who’s been part of the program for eight years.

The spend hours of work that pay off in Calhan, Colo.

“They’re out here showing their animals they’ve worked really hard to raise and to get ready for the fair,” said Matt Seiner with El Paso County Fair.

All of the cattle by the pens go to the live stock arena for the market show where the animal will be judged in market and showmanship.

“Judges the animal itself and judges how well it’s built and how much meat it has, and the muscling. Showmanship, judges the exhibit itself and how well you handle the animal,” explained Hlatki

If they manage to sell their animal the money goes towards their college fund.