Largest Youth Livestock Show Could Be Hurt By Winter Weather

By Colleen Chen, NEWS 9

OKLAHOMA CITY -- The largest youth livestock show in the world is in full swing in Oklahoma City, but the predicted snowstorm could complicate the event.

The Oklahoma Youth Expo brings in kids and their animals from all 77 counties of Oklahoma.

"We have about 7,000 kids participating. We have about 12,000 animals from all across the state. When we talk about 7,000 young people, we also have 7,000 families who are here," said event director Jeramy Rich.

Rich said the startling switch in temperatures expected overnight from Friday to Saturday is a concern.

"Anytime you have weather related issues when this many people and animals are together, it's certainly a concern. You don't want to put any stress on the animals. The spectrum of change in temperature is hard on people and certainly hard on animals," Rich said.

Annie Jo Gilbert, a 16-year-old from Tecumseh, traveled to show cattle at the expo.

"I've shown cattle for 8 years. If it wasn't for that I probably wouldn't be the person I am today," said Gilbert.

Gilbert said she's concerned about the possible snow.

"I'm nervous to be honest. I'm really nervous. We have to walk them out on concrete and when it's wet, they slip. It's going to be a huge challenge," Gilbert added.

The events at the expo are expected to go on as planned. The director said he hopes the weather clears by Sunday evening which is when many families begin to make their way home.