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A CAFNR Student Places First
in the Ag Mechanics Contest History was made at the National FFA Convention by one of CAFNR’s own. Freshman Laura Beach, representing the North Shelby FFA Chapter is only the second girl in the history of the National FFA Organization to place first high individual in the Agricultural Mechanics contest at the National Convention in Louisville, Ky., during the week of October 25.
Beach could hardly control her excitement when she was presented the award on stage. “At first I couldn't believe that I had actually won the contest,” Beach said. By placing first in the contest, Beach was able to lead her whole team to winning the entire contest. However, she knew that she would not have been in that situation without the rest of her team and was grateful to have them by her side. Beach was the second female to accomplish this feat only behind another member of the North Shelby FFA Chapter, Colleen Griswald, a Mizzou graduate. She is proud to continue to show people that Ag Mechanics is not just a contest in which guys can succeed. Joining the Ag Mechanics team has been a goal of Beach’s since her freshman year in high school. She had an early start on practicing for the contest since both of her older brothers, Matt and Chris, had been on the team. “I really enjoyed knowing I get to have bragging rights in my family because I did something that neither of my brothers accomplished,” Beach said after winning the award. This year’s Ag Mechanics contestants had to wire a start/stop station, determine fertilizer applications, use a power saw and accomplish many other tasks while answering any questions about the activities. Other members of the national champion Ag Mechanics team include Derek Willey who placed second overall and David Dunn who placed 10th nationally. Their advisor is Mr. Harold Eckler.
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