Natrona County 4-H projects underway

Carter and Cooper Cox of Natrona County are working hard to prepare their show animals for the big day, which is quickly approaching. The twin brothers make a great team, working closely to take care of a barn full of lambs, steers and heifers. 

The brothers have been stepping foot in the show ring for about seven years now, and their experience grows greater with every milestone they reach.  

They both share showing livestock means a lot to them, and when asked what their favorite part is, there is no hesitation.

“My favorite part is getting to see the animal I bought progress and grow to the animal I want them to be,” Carter states. 

“My favorite part is getting to hang out with friends and seeing the final product I have worked for all year. The hard work really pays off,” Cooper expresses. 

Carter’s perspective 

Carter, who has been showing since eight years of age, will be exhibiting four animals this year – one steer, one lamb and two heifers. 

He notes showing is one of his favorite things to do and it has taught him many life lessons, including hard work, dedication and a desire to accomplish things. He goes on to say because of the amount of time exhibitors have tied up in their projects, they need to be passionate and devoted to their animals and their success.

“I’ve learned more about cattle and sheep – how to take care of them and how to show them correctly,” he says. “Showing has also taught me if you’re lazy, you will begin to lose and fall behind.” 

Cooper’s experience 

Like his brother, Cooper has shown livestock since he was eight. 

Cooper explains he and Carter got their start in the showing industry after helping their grandparents raise bum lambs. One day, they were asked if they wanted to try 4-H, and the rest is history.

Cooper notes he has also learned a lot through being involved in FFA. He explains livestock exhibitors must get up earlier, work harder and be a lot more dedicated. He also mentions he doesn’t have a lot of extra time for anything else during the summer because of the amount of time his animals need. 

Cooper states, “I have learned different techniques, and how to deal with hardship. I’ve been faced with problems and learned a lot about problem solving.”

Advice from the brothers 

When asked what advice they would give to young, incoming exhibitors or fellow experienced exhibitors, the boys had a lot of ideas. 

“Just remember it gets easier every year. When you gain more experience, showing gets easier. We have figured out how to solve problems that might arise before they arise,” Cooper states. 

“You’re going to have to set things aside to make time for your animals. You are not always going to be able to go out with your friends or take vacations,” Carter adds. 

In conclusion, both brothers express through dealing with hardship, dedicating their time and a lot of hard work, being involved in fair and a part of something bigger than oneself has been nothing but beneficial for them. 

Preslee Fitzwater is an intern for the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.