Showing market hogs wasn’t always part of Hayley Unger’s plans. In fact, she said she became involved with the project because of a friend. Today, it’s one of the highlights of her fair experience.
Hayley recently joined WNZR’s Josiah Styer to talk about preparing for the Knox County Fair, serving as a 2026 Junior Fair Queen nominee, and the lessons she has learned through six years in 4-H.
Click HERE to hear the full conversation!
A Utica native, Hayley is a senior at Utica High School and a member of the Animals R Us 4-H Club. Along with preparing for her livestock projects, she has also taken on the responsibilities that come with being a Junior Fair Queen candidate.
Hayley explained that getting ready for the fair takes plenty of planning. In addition to preparing for the Queen competition, she spends time training and washing her market hogs to have them ready for the show ring.
When fair week comes to an end, Hayley doesn’t plan on slowing down. She serves as president of the Utica FFA Chapter and expects to stay busy with those responsibilities before spending time with family and friends.
Looking back on her years in 4-H, Hayley said one of the biggest lessons she’s learned is that making mistakes is part of the process. She also said the program has taught her how to rely on the people around her when challenges arise.
Some of her favorite memories have come from the friendships she’s made. Hayley said one memory that stands out is meeting new people when she first joined the Junior Fair Board.
Click HERE to learn more about the Knox County Fair!
(Photo Credit: Jenelle Doup, Saved by Grace Photography)
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