Wisconsin Youth Won Honors at Holstein Show
Local exhibitors secured top titles during the 2026 International Junior Holstein Show in Madison.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Large Animals
Youth exhibitors from Wisconsin earned multiple accolades at the 2026 International Junior Holstein Show held in Madison. The competition featured over 300 entries from across the region.
Why it matters
The event highlights the significant commitment of youth in Wisconsin to agricultural excellence and livestock development. These honors recognize the hard work required to prepare and present elite cattle on a major competitive stage.
The competition featured 301 total entries. The Grand Champion cow, Arolene Dempsey Ella, is 5 years old.
The players
Ben Wallace
Ben Wallace is a resident of Stoughton, Wisconsin, who served as the official judge for the competition.
Tessa and Stella Schmocker
Tessa and Stella Schmocker are youth exhibitors from Whitewater, Wisconsin, who co-owned the Reserve Grand Champion.
Kaylee and Carter Jackson
Kaylee and Carter Jackson are youth exhibitors from Barron, Wisconsin, who exhibited the Junior Champion.
Madison and Melanie Sarbacker
Madison and Melanie Sarbacker are youth exhibitors from Whitewater, Wisconsin, who exhibited the Reserve Junior Champion.
The details
Exhibitors presented their animals in the show ring, where they were evaluated by official judge Ben Wallace and associate judge Phillip Topp. Wisconsin youth earned titles including Reserve Grand Champion, Intermediate Champion, Junior Champion, and Reserve Junior Champion.
Timeline
The International Junior Holstein Show took place in September 2026.
Roadmap
This event reflects the ongoing tradition of the International Junior Holstein Show as a primary showcase for top-tier dairy genetics. The competition serves as a benchmark for young breeders aiming to transition into professional livestock management.
Residents may see increased interest in local agricultural youth programs as a result of these successes. The event provides a clear pathway for young Wisconsinites to gain experience and recognition within the state's storied dairy industry.
The takeaway
Success in the show ring requires dedication to animal health, grooming, and presentation skills that take years to master. Aspiring young breeders can look to these winners as examples of how to achieve excellence through consistent animal husbandry practices.
Further reading
Learn more about agricultural exhibition standards by visiting the Large Animals section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Madison's Country Q106.
