The Montgomery County Fair and Rodeo named its Grand and Reserve Champion Market Barrow Exhibitors on Friday, April 10, during the 2026 Market Barrow Show Grand Drive.

Judge Jordan Leatherman awarded the title of 2026 Grand Champion Market Barrow to Skylar Johnson of the Magnolia West FFA chapter. Johnson reflected on what the moment meant to her and the work it took to get there.

“I don’t even have the words,” Johnson said. “I put so much time, money and effort into this pig, and I wouldn’t be here without my support system.”

Kamlynn Mason of Champion 4-H earned Reserve Grand Champion honors. A seasoned showman, Mason shared what it took to reach this milestone.

“You have to be dialed in with your pig and be on the same team as them,” Mason said. “Every day it takes hard work, education and dedication even when you don’t want to do it.”

Young exhibitors invest months of time, care and money into their animals. These animals require attentive management, including daily feedings, walks, baths and other care.

The next step for Johnson and Mason is the livestock auction, scheduled for Wednesday, April 16, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. at the Lone Star Convention Center. Of the nearly 250 hogs entered in the show, only 42 will be sold at auction. Buyers and supporters will have the opportunity to bid on the exhibitors’ animals, helping fund future livestock projects, college expenses and other opportunities for youth participants.

The Montgomery County Fair and Rodeo brings together families, youth exhibitors and visitors each year for livestock shows, rodeo events, live entertainment and family-friendly attractions. This year’s event opened Thursday, April 9, at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds in Conroe and runs through Sunday, April 19.

For more information about the fair, visit mcfa.org or follow the Montgomery County Fair and Rodeo on Facebook and Instagram.