Billie Benson Won Top State Fair Livestock Prize
A 12-year-old exhibitor earned $44,000 for her market barrow at the 78th annual Big Tex Youth Livestock Auction.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Fairs and Festivals
Live Poll
Do you believe youth agricultural programs are valuable for students in your area?
Twelve-year-old Billie Benson secured the top prize in the market barrow division at the 78th annual Big Tex Youth Livestock Auction. Her animal sold for $44,000 during the event held in Dallas.
Why it matters
The auction serves as a major platform for youth exhibitors to fund their education and future agricultural endeavors. Proceeds support both the individual participants and the broader Big Tex Scholarship Program.
The market barrow sold for $44,000 at the 78th annual Big Tex Youth Livestock Auction. Benson will receive an additional $1,000 from the Texas Pork Producers Association next summer.
The players
Billie Benson
She is a 12-year-old livestock exhibitor who has five years of experience in the field.
Brockman Farms
This Montgomery-based operation is the breeder of the market barrow that won the top prize.
Texas Pork Producers Association
This organization supports the state's swine industry and provides supplemental prize funding to youth exhibitors.
The details
Benson, who has five years of experience showing livestock, presented a barrow bred by Brockman Farms of Montgomery. The event is a highlight of the 24-day State Fair of Texas, which runs through October 18, 2026.
Timeline
The State Fair of Texas opened on September 25, 2026.
The auction occurred on October 2, 2026.
The State Fair of Texas ends on October 18, 2026.
Industry Dynamics
The Big Tex Scholarship Program provides financial assistance for student agricultural leaders in a way that aligns with the career-path funding goals of the youth auction. This story follows the established pattern of integrating competitive youth exhibitions with long-term educational philanthropy.
The State Fair of Texas remains open to the public in Dallas through October 18, 2026. Visitors can view various agricultural exhibitions and events at Fair Park throughout the remainder of the fair's 24-day run.
The takeaway
Participating in youth livestock shows provides young exhibitors with significant financial support for their future education. These auctions demonstrate the intersection of agricultural skill and long-term academic investment for Texas youth.
What happens next
Billie Benson will receive an additional $1,000 payment at a banquet scheduled for next summer.
Further reading
For more on community events, visit Dallas Fairs and Festivals.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Houston Chronicle.
Live Poll
Do you believe youth agricultural programs are valuable for students in your area?
