MONTGOMERY, AL — The 2026 Junior Livestock Exposition (JLE), held March 16–18 in Montgomery, brought together youth exhibitors from across Alabama for a multi-day event showcasing agricultural skill, dedication, and tradition. Coordinated annually by the Alabama Farmers Federation and Alfa Insurance in conjunction with the Southeastern Livestock Exposition , the expo featured beef, swine, and dairy competitions in newly reintroduced and expanded venues.
Among the highlights of the swine show were the Senior and Intermediate Showmanship contests, recognizing top youth exhibitors for their skill in handling and presenting animals.
Senior Showmanship Contest winners included:
- Champion: Colton Simpson (DeKalb County)
- Reserve Champion: Katelynn Dummar (Calhoun County)
- Third Place: Addison Payne (Randolph County)
- Fourth Place: Philip Belcher (Lee County)
- Fifth Place: Ella Alldredge (Blount County)
Intermediate Showmanship Contest winners included:
- Champion: Hunter Smith (Calhoun County)
- Reserve Champion: Makenna Martin (Tallapoosa County)
- Third Place: Kendall Castleberry (St. Clair County)
- Fourth Place: Macie Simpson (DeKalb County)
- Fifth Place: Aubrey Pilgrim (Randolph County)
Winners were recognized during the March 16 event and pictured alongside Federation Executive Director Paul Pinyan …