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Early last week the Navajo County Fairgrounds welcomed the Arizona Livestock Camp for the 10th year, followed by the fourth annual two-day Jackpot show on later in the week.
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In 2009, Jimmie Crosby of St. Johns started the camp with just 15 attendees according to Steven Lackey. Lackey explained that when the camp was started, each participant was responsible for a $250 entry fee. With his son being one of the campers and knowing how expensive it could get for larger families, Lackey wanted to try and help lower the fee.
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Over the years, Lackey, along with other committee members and volunteers acquired enough sponsorships and donations, that there is no longer a fee to attend the camp, with the number of campers reaching a monumental 215. Clinicians who help with the education portion are paid and provided lodging accommodations.
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Clinicians from Arizona and Texas met with the campers and their animals throughout the event according to Lackey, who explained that the clinicians would be “teaching them everything from selection to daily care, feeding nutrition, washing, grooming and learning showmanship.”
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With livestock shows all over the state, this one proves to be the most unique. Lackey explained that of the livestock camps that take place in Arizona, this is the only one to show all four species at once: cattle, swine, goat and lamb.
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This year’s show had 267 entrees to show and just under 500 animals who were brought to camp. Lackey stated that during his conversation with members of the fair board, he was informed that the camp nearly quadrupled the number of animals who show for the Navajo County Fair.
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The camp’s core consists of a committee of just 10-12 members who help in retrieving donations and sponsors. When asked if the event was open to the public, Lackey expressed his hopes that more of the public will participate. Adding that there are many ways for the people to contribute and benefit during the event, such as raffles and silent auctions. With more than $19,000 in cash and prizes awarded during the event, he assures that it all goes back to the youth.
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Lackey recognized the parents of campers who return every year to contribute to the camp’s growing success. He thanked local citizens of Holbrook, the Navajo County Sheriff’s Office, the Navajo County Fair Board and the City of Holbrook for their continued support, donations and work. Pointing out the banner with more than 100 sponsors Lackey said, “Without these sponsors, there is no way this would be possible.”
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