“Terrific” 126th Clark County Fair Planned
It’s going to be terrific!" stated Clark County Fairboard member Jeff Arnold. "We (Fairboard) have worked very hard this past year and we have new events for this year. Those events are an increased offering with a four-event rodeo on Thursday night beginning at 7:30 the rodeo will feature Saddle Bronc Riding, Bareback Riding, Bull Riding, and Barrel Racing. This is a larger rodeo than in the past. We are also having an Antique Tractor Pull on Saturday afternoon, and on Sunday there will be the Bone Digger Blow out Pick-up Mud Run." The fair will also see the return of long time favorites such as Demolition Derby on Saturday night, and Camper Lighting Contest, BBQ Cooking contest and back from last year the washer tossing contest. Fellow Board member Kevin Nixon added, "We will be having the same carnival as last year’s fair and they were pleased with how that went. They have also stated that they will be bringing more rides geared to the older kids or at least those still young at heart."
The 126th Annual Clark County Fair kicks off Tuesday morning, July 24 at 10:00 a.m. with the 4-H & FFA Horse Show with lots of events both fun and challenging. On Wednesday, July 25th beginning at 5:00 p.m. man’s best friend will be spotlighted in the annual Dog Show. Wednesday is also free admission night at the fair. The Art Hall will be open showcasing the various talents of Clark County’s young people. At 6:00 p.m. the return of last year’s surprise hit will return with the washer toss.
Thursday, July 28 begins a full day of Fair action. Beginning at 8:00 a.m. the judging of swine will start. At 5:00 p.m. the judging of sheep and goats will occur and as will all judging, it can be interesting. But, if your seeking a true walk on the wild side, be sure
to attend the Heartland Rodeo from Downing, Missouri. The action begins at 7:30 and there will be Saddle Bronc Riding, Bareback Riding, Bull Riding, and Barrel Racing.
Friday morning begins early at the Fair with the 8:00 a.m. Beef and Cattle judging. From 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. the Fair will observe Kid’s Day with all rides at a reduced price. The Poultry Show begins at 4:00 p.m. and at 5:00 p.m. the BBQ Contest Judging begins although the two are not connected. Later in the evening beginning at 7:00 p.m. the Twin States Pulling Association will be sponsoring a Truck & Tractor Pull with six tractor classes and two truck classes. The final event on Friday evening is the 6th Annual Camper Lighting Contest with judging from 9-10 p.m.
On Saturday, July 28th the Fair hops off to an early start with the Rabbit Show beginning at 8:00 a.m. A Fair favorite Volleyball Tournament begins at 9:00 a.m. Another challenging contest begins at 11:00 a.m. with the Super Farmer Contest and an hour later at 12 noon the Antique Tractor Pull begins. The pull classes are open to all, with the exception of the 10,000 lb. Farmer Class that is for Clark County residents only. For information concerning the Antique Tractor Pull that is a new event for this year contact Miles Cameron at 660-727-1331. From 2-4 p.m. the Stockholder’s Election will be held at the Secretary’s Office below the grandstand. There is one definite seat open on the board and perhaps two, as Ralph Plenge Jr. will be stepping down after 15 years. The livestock & art hall sale begins at 5:00 p.m. "Missouri Breaks" will be performing free of charge on the Midway from 8:00 p.m. to 12:00 midnight. Saturday also sees the return of one of the most heavily attended event with the Demolition Derby as drivers put their driving skills to the test as well as their cars as they try to be the last car running when the smoke clears. The action begins at 8:00 p.m.
The final day at the Fair will feature the Bone Digger Blow Out with registration beginning at 9:00 a.m. and the mud begins to fly at 1:00 p.m.
For a savings on Fair tickets, Fair goes should purchase their season tickets and advance carnival tickets before noon on July 25th. Plan now on attending and supporting this Clark County tradition right here in your own back yard. If you have questions or concerns about the Fair or are interested in box seating feel free to call any Board member. Board members are Jeff Arnold – President, Adam Frazee – Vice President, Secretary – Mike St. Clair, Treasurer – Karl Hamner, Marshal – Kevin Nixon, Superintendent of the Grounds – Ralph Plenge Jr., Assistant Superintendent of Ground – Harold Harper, Superintendent of Gates – Rick Hunziker, and Superintendent of Tickets – Natalie Carroll.