A limited number of 4-H members have the opportunity to catch a calf each January during the National Western Stock Show.

Winners will receive calves in May 2009, feed them to a market finish, and show them at the National Western Stock Show in January 2010. These calves are bought with money donated by sponsoring businesses.

To qualify for the contest, 4-H members must be between the ages of 12 and 18 on Dec. 31, 2008, and must remain a 4-H member throughout the year if they successfully catch. Participants must have access to facilities adequate for feeding and handling a calf for a year. Previous participants who have caught and shown calves are not eligible.

Eligible 4-H members from western Nebraska, Colorado, Wyoming, and western Kansas can obtain applications from their county UNL Extension Educators. Forms must be completed, signed by a parent or guardian and the local Extension Educator, and submitted to Suzanne Thacker, Livestock Support Staff, 4502 Avenue I, Scottsbluff, NE 69361, by Nov. 17. Participants are selected in a random drawing process.

The 4-Hers who catch calves are then awarded calves in May 2009. Top achievers are recognized for their record keeping abilities, their relationships with their sponsors primarily through correspondence, plus the gain and carcass value are important in evaluating winners along with the live animal evaluation and showmanship.

Interested 4-H members should contact their local Extension Educators for more information and an application.