University of Arkansas Poultry Judging Team Places Third in 2024 National Contest

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From left: Crystal Velazquez, Hailey Andrews, Dennis Mason, Delaney Roberts, Taylor Schubauer, McKayla Williams, Rena Coen de Peck and Cayla Wilson.

The University of Arkansas poultry judging team recently competed at the 75th USPOULTRY Foundation Ted Cameron National Poultry Judging Contest in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and finished third in the country.

The contest was hosted by Louisiana State University, and the U of A team, included Taylor Schubauer, Delaney Roberts, Crystal Velazquez, McKayla Williams, Hailey Andrews (alternate), Rena Coen de Peck (alternate), Cayla Wilson (assistant coach), and Dennis Mason (head coach).

Schubauer recently graduated with her bachelor's degree in poultry science and a minor in agribusiness. She placed fourth in individual production, first in individual breed selection and fourth overall individual.

She is originally from Gibbon, Nebraska, and enjoyed her time on the team.

"My favorite part of the judging team was how close we got during the competition," Schubauer said. "I could safely say that I became extremely close with everyone and can call them my friends."

Roberts is a rising junior majoring in poultry science, and she is originally from Keller, Texas. She placed third in individual market products. Her favorite part of judging was meeting new people.

"Poultry judging provided me with the opportunity to meet people in the department on campus and students across the country pursuing careers in poultry science," Roberts said. "It has allowed me to continue pursuing a competitive activity that I am interested in and enjoyed in high school."

The team also placed second in production, fourth in breed selection and fourth in market products.