WILBURTON, Oklahoma – The Eastern Oklahoma State College meat judging team claimed the championship title at the Southwestern Contest, held in conjunction with the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo. The competition took place at Columbia Packing Co. in Ennis, Texas, with the awards banquet following at the stock show in Fort Worth.

EOSC dominated the contest, earning first place in total beef, beef judging, lamb judging and placings. The team also secured second place in beef grading and questions, as well as third place in pork judging.

Several team members placed among the top competitors. Eli Whitney (Clinton) finished third overall, placing second in beef judging and placings, fourth in questions, and tying for fifth in both beef grading and lamb judging. Hannah Morphis (Boswell) placed seventh overall and finished third in beef grading. Gracie Ward (Indianola) took tenth place overall and won first in beef grading. Cadence Myers (McCurtain) finished eleventh overall with a first-place finish in lamb judging, third in placings, and tied for fifth in questions and pork judging. Averie Bain (Valliant) was named high alternate and Robert Kincade (McAlester) placed as the fourth alternate. Other team members included Dylan Neely (Okemah) and Bailyn Hill (Antlers).

“I am very proud of these students' performances so far this spring,” said Jade Edwards, meat processing & food safety instructor and meat judging coach. “It takes a lot of discipline and dedication to win multiple contests. Our meat judging program is known for its tradition of success, and we are pleased that it remains one of the premier programs in the nation. The kids and their hard work are what set Eastern up so well for success.”

The Southwestern Meat Judging Contest is a prestigious event that brings together collegiate teams from across the country to showcase their expertise in meat grading and selection. EOSC’s strong performance highlights the team’s dedication and the college’s commitment to excellence in agricultural education.

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