Competition was tough, quick and determined, and that was just the eight year old’s and under class.
Thursday afternoon the Richland County Show Arena was transformed into an Olympic stadium. Competitors from all over Richland County brought their strength, speed and giggles to the games.
Sponsored by the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation (OFBF) and organized by Dale Hewlitt, president of OFBF and his wife Pam, the annual event is in its 15th year at the fair.
“I just love watching the kids laugh and have fun,” said Pam Hewlitt.
Participants were broken down into four age groups: eight years old and under, 9-11, 12-14 and 13-18 years old.
The first event was an obstacle race. The course consisted of bales of hay strategically stacked and placed was designed by Pam Hewlitt. The objective for each two-man team was to fill a feed pale with water and carry it as they maneuvered the course trying not to spill the water. Once they reached their partner at the other end they had to fill the partners feed pail and the partner ran the course back trying to beat the other team in speed.
The obstacle race was followed by a sack race and egg toss.
Pam Hewlitt shared her pleasure in being apart of the barnyard Olympics every year. “More kids enter every year, its just great,” she said.
