The 2020 JNHEfrom a Junior’s Perspective

by Mason Collins

From the constant announcements to wear your masks to the socially distanced stalls, the 2020 Junior Nationals were definitely something to remember. The 9-hour trip to Kansas City was even longer because of a flat tire, but that never stopped us from having a good time.

We got set up at just before midnight and started bright and early the next morning. As soon as the Junior Nationals started, Foster Wingler and I received gifts from the candidates running for the Hereford Board. That was just the start.

With the absence of contests and the inability to mingle due to COVID, I missed out on being able to meet new people from all over the country. But the group from Tennessee made the best of our situation.

We all came together in support of Libby Rushton’s campaign for the Junior Hereford Board, especially highlighted when we were all surrounding the TV anxiously waiting to see if she would receive the prized maroon

jacket. We watched Tennessee be well-represented in showmanship, the bred and owned show, and the owned show.

The one big difference to this year’s Junior Nationals was the downtime we encountered -a big difference from the past years-highlighted by the absence of in-person contests (ranging from the judging contest to the fitting contest and everything in between). Even with the downtime, I had a great time, ate very well, and enjoyed spending time with my cow showing family.

As I close, I would like to give a special shoutout to Thomas Coop and Dee Peppers for coming out and helping me. I also want to thank my Granna and Pappa (Tommy and Linda Nipper) and especially my parents (Matt and Meredith Collins). Without them, I would not be able to do what I love and be a part of such a great organization in the AHA and be able to compete in the JNHE.