Local Teenager Achieves Grand Champion Status at Barlow Fair, Embodies Future of Agriculture
A dedicated young woman from Stanleyville, Ohio, has emerged as a rising star in the agricultural community, securing top honors at the Barlow Autonomous Fair in late September. Maci Zimmer, 13, was awarded the title of Grand Champion feeder calf steer, adding to her accolades which also included Reserve Champion feeder calf heifer.
Zimmer, an eighth-grader at Fort Frye, comes from a long line of agricultural enthusiasts. Raised on a family farm south of whipple, she’s been immersed in the world of livestock since birth. “My dad and uncle used to show and they thought it’d be something I was interested in,” she explained.
Her commitment extends beyond the show ring. Zimmer dedicates a important portion of her day to animal care, tending to cows, calves, and pigs.”We’ll wake up early in the mornings, feed them and wash and walk them,” she said, detailing the rigorous routine she shares with her twin sister, Madi.While she enjoys showing pigs for their distinct personalities – having participated in pig shows for the past five years and calf shows for four – Zimmer’s recent success at the Barlow, Washington County, and Waterford fairs highlights her expertise in beef cattle. She especially enjoys the Barlow Fair due to its strong community atmosphere and the presence of friends.
This year marked Zimmer’s frist foray into FFA, complementing her five years of experience with 4-H. She noted that FFA offers a more school-oriented approach, with a greater emphasis on conventions and agricultural education. “it got me more involved and I wanted to try new things,” she stated, adding that she is currently enrolled in an agricultural class at Fort Frye.
Zimmer’s dedication has not gone unnoticed. She has consistently earned titles like Grand Champion and Reserve Champion at various fairs over the years,and shows no signs of slowing down. Beyond her agricultural pursuits, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, often engaging in outdoor activities like riding four-wheelers on their property.
Looking ahead, zimmer is already planning for next year’s fair season. “I’d like to show lambs next year or a fat steer because the lambs have a lot of personality and they get really attached to you,” she shared. For now, however, she remains focused on her studies and the continued care of her animals.
Zimmer’s story is a testament to the power of dedication, family tradition, and a passion for agriculture. She embodies the future of the industry, demonstrating a commitment to excellence and a deep connection to the land.
