Local rancher Emily Puch does well in National Junior Angus Showdown

Toni Lucas, Pincher Creek Voice

Emily Puch and her prize-winning heifer "Red"

Emily Puch, of the Porcupine Hills northwest of Pincher Creek, entered two yearling heifers in the National Junior Angus Showdown in Weyburn Saskatchewan, held July 21 - 23. The heifers, Lucy and Red, did well in the competition, with Lucy winning Reserve Commercial Female.  Both animals will be shown again at the Alberta Junior Angus Show in Bashaw, Alberta, August 7 - 9.


Puch has had a long involvement with cattle, growing up in a ranching family.  She joined the 4-H at the age of nine, and was an active member for the next nine years.  "I was involved in all aspects of 4-H ... there were years when I had every beef project possible." Her involvement has included community service, judging, workshops, and activities at the district, regional and provincial level.  "4-H is a very rewarding experience and I would encourage anyone to get involved,” said Puch.  “4-H taught me many life skills that I find very useful, from teamwork, to organization, to responsibility, public speaking, volunteering/community service to name a few. I also made many friends and connections in the community and across the province. and 4-H isn't just about the beef animal or livestock. There is just about every kind of project available out there for kids to do and try."

"Lucy" and Emily Puch

Puch is still involved in 4-H, volunteering and helping out at various events and activities.  "It was through 4-H that eventually lead me to doing junior shows,” relates Puch.  “Junior cattle shows are similar to a 4-H show but no 4-H kids and animals can compete in them.”  A "junior" is someone 21 years old or younger.  Junior shows are often have representation from many different breeds and there are even shows designated for specific breeds.  “Showing at junior shows also led to my involvement on the Board of Directors for both the Alberta Junior Angus Association and Canadian Junior Angus Association."

Puch is a studying at the University of Lehbridge, and has her own agricultural blog at thefarmgirl.blogspot.com

Lucy and Red at home in the Porcupine Hills