March 29, 2024

Shade River Ag Service and Taz’s Marathon providing a cookout for livestock exhibitors. Photo by Carrie Gloeckner.

ROCKSPRINGS, Ohio – On Sunday before the fair officially begins, youth with livestock projects begin moving the animals and their gear onto the fairgrounds. It is a hectic day that is made a little easier with a tradition of having lunch served in the Ridenour Livestock Arena.

Shade River Ag Service and Taz’s Marathon team up to provide the lunch for exhibitors and their families. Last year 400 were served at the cook out.

In addition to Shade River Ag Service and Taz’s Marathon, Pepsi and Powell’s Foodfair help with providing the food. Mike Roberts, owner of Taz’s Marathon, said the tradition has been going on for years. Prior to their involvement, Athens Landmark provided the lunch.

The cookout also provides time for youth to spend time together and with their families before the busy week of shows and judging gets underway.