Whitmus Serves As Role Model At Fair
When it comes to the Roosevelt County Fair, Tiara Whitmus of Wolf Point has definitely been a winner. She has earned several overall grand champion honors at the fair held in Culbertson throughout the years. In 2020, She stood out by being overall grand champion as well as claiming champion titles for her market steer, sheep and pig.
Yet, heading into her final Roosevelt County Fair this week, winning isn’t the top goal for the recent Lustre Christian High School graduate.
“Winning is nice, but winning doesn’t show your character,” Whitmus said.
Instead, she hopes that her 12 years of excelling at fairs proves as an inspiration to younger girls.
“I honestly just want to be an ambassador for 4-H and show young girls you can do anything you put your mind to,” she explained. “As long as I can help somebody, I accomplish more than winning grand champion.”
She encourages younger students and families to talk with her about the positive influence that 4-H can play in a person’s life.
“I pretty much talk to anyone,” the outgoing Whitmus laughed. “There are many people who help you out to get where you want to go. If you’re interested, just ask for help.”
Something new this year for Whitmus is having an entry in the cow/calf pair competition, “I have a cow that had a baby that was born on 7-11,” Whitmus explained. “It’s how well they resemble the cow showing. I really like him, he’s super cute.”
Her primary entries will include a steer, three pigs and two sheep. The sheep show will take place on Thursday, Aug. 12. The swine and cattle shows along with the parade of exhibits are scheduled for Friday, Aug. 13.
“I should do well. I have been putting in the work,” Whitmus said. “By the time the fair rolls around, it’s the finishing touches of what I worked to accomplished. It’s always what you put into it. It’s your effort.”
The 4-H/FFA livestock auction begins at 6 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 13.
Whitmus explained how important the auction is for 4-H participants. She notes that she takes out a farm student loan and counts on the auction to pay the amount back.
“Go out and support your local fairs whether it’s just visiting or buying an animal,” Whitmus urge area residents.
It’s been a busy summer for Whitmus. After winning the Miss Rodeo Wild Horse Stampede title, she has attended fairs in Scobey, Glasgow, Helena, Miles City and Circle.
She thanks family and friends for assisting her throughout the summer. She has also been working two jobs during the time.
“Luckily, I have the support of my family and friends,” she said.
Whitmus expects competing in her final Roosevelt County Fair to be a little on the emotional side.
“I do love what I do. I love showing. I love animals,” she said. “It’s definitely going to be bittersweet.”
Because of her interest of animals, she plans to study livestock management and veterinary science in college. She will finish her general studies at Fort Peck Community College.
