BIG ISLAND, Nebraska — In the heart of the Beef State, a livestock victory at the Nebraska State Fair brings some bragging rights.

The fair hosted 4-H livestock competitions on opening weekend and is gearing up for FFA on Labor Day. But the days in between are no break for livestock manager Amy Kelley and her staff.

“We have open classes throughout the week, so there’s always something to do,” Kelley said.

Kelley praised her team for their efforts to keep the stables running.

“They turn everything three times and we turn it at the end of the state fair in preparation for Aksarben, so actually four times,” she said.

The livestock team works hard to provide people with the opportunity to exhibit their cattle, pigs, sheep and goats.

“That’s the core of the livestock portion of the show: giving exhibitors and breeders a chance to showcase their breeding programs and compete with each other,” Kelley said.

Whether it is 4-H, FFA or Open class, each show ends with a final ride and the selection of a Grand Champion or Supreme Champion.

“This is their sport, this is their championship, this is how they make a living as a family,” Kelley said.