We caught up with Payten Kienholz, exhibitor of the Champion Barrow at the Tulsa State Fair.

What’s your all-time favorite fair food?
My all-time favorite fair food is funnel cakes.

What’s your biggest win or proudest moment so far?
My biggest win so far is winning the Tulsa State Fair.

How do you stay motivated during the tough days in the barn?
During the tough days in the barn, I stay motivated by reminding myself that it will get better — it’s just a rough patch that I’ll get through.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to a first-year exhibitor?
Showing is a privilege, not just something everybody can do. My advice to a first-year exhibitor would be to appreciate the little things — like winning your class — and work with your animals a lot. If you keep at it, you’ll get better and better each year, and one day you might even be a state champion like me!

What do you look forward to most about your state fair?
The thing I look forward to most about my state fair is getting to miss school, making memories, and showing my animals.