Three Cooke County students earn calf scramble certificates

FORT WORTH, Texas — Three Cooke County agricultural students earned calf scramble certificates at the 2026 Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo, continuing the area's tradition of success in one of the state's premier livestock competitions. Nate Becker of Cooke County 4-H in Gainesville received a $500 heifer purchase certificate sponsored by Johnson Circle 13 Ranch. Sara Henderson and Aubrey Schneider, both of Era 4-H in Valley View, also earned $500 certificates. Henderson's award was sponsored by Laramie Eppler and Ag Trust Farm Credit, while Schneider's was sponsored by Cutter Johnson. The calf scramble is among the most physically demanding and sought-after competitions at the Fort Worth Stock Show. During each of the show's 20 rodeo performances, 20 students compete to catch one of 10 calves released into the arena. Students who successfully catch and halter a calf earn heifer purchase certificates ranging from $500 to $1,500. The certificates allow students to purchase a registered heifer to raise and show at the following year's stock show, making them eligible for scholarships up to $9,000. The program teaches young agriculturalists about animal husbandry, financial responsibility and livestock management. Cooke County has a long history of agricultural achievement, with students from local 4-H clubs and FFA chapters regularly competing at the Fort Worth and Houston stock shows. The three winners add to that legacy as they prepare to raise their heifers for the 2027 show season.