Youth Exhibitor Shows 1,700-Pound Bull in Little Rock

A local youth handler demonstrates the results of multi-year training at the Arkansas State Fair.

Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Large Animals

Screen-print poster illustration of a youth handler and a large bull in an arena, depicting youth agricultural traditions. — Hazel Burns showcases her 1,700-pound Red Angus bull, Bandit, at the Arkansas State Fair, highlighting years of animal husbandry training. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you believe livestock showing programs offer valuable development opportunities for young people in your community?

Hazel Burns, a 60-pound youth, is showcasing her 1,700-pound Red Angus bull, Bandit, at the Arkansas State Fair in Little Rock. This appearance marks her fourth year participating in livestock competitions.

Why it matters

Youth livestock programs, like those featured at the state fair, provide long-term training in animal husbandry and showmanship. Developing these skills over multiple years helps young participants manage large animals safely and effectively.

Hazel Burns is currently in her second year showing Bandit, a 1,700-pound Red Angus bull. She brings four years of total livestock experience to this year's Arkansas State Fair competitions.

The players

Hazel Burns

A youth livestock exhibitor in her fourth year of competition at the state level.

Arkansas State Fair

An annual Little Rock exhibition that serves as a primary venue for regional agricultural and livestock judging.

The details

Handling a 1,700-pound animal requires consistent training and a clear understanding of livestock behavior. Participants like Hazel Burns work to develop a rapport with their animals, ensuring they remain calm and responsive in the high-activity environment of a state fair arena.

October 2026

The Home Front

Participation in state-level livestock shows follows a long-standing trend of youth agricultural education in Arkansas. These programs remain a cornerstone for families interested in developing rural skill sets and maintaining traditional husbandry practices.

Families interested in livestock showing should document their progress annually to track the development of both the handler and the animal. Consistent training schedules help maintain safety during fairground events and public exhibitions.

The takeaway

Building a successful relationship with a large animal is a multi-year commitment that requires dedication to daily routine and consistent practice. Keep a logbook of training milestones and growth data to track your animal's performance over consecutive fair seasons.