A Pella High School student with a great family tradition of showing at the Iowa State Fair claimed one of the biggest prizes possible at the event. Simon Thoreson showed the Supreme Champion 4H Breeding Heifer — one of the most prestigious titles in the country, according to Bailey Boyert with Boyert-Core Show Cattle, a long time supporter of the Thoreson family and their efforts.

“I would say for any kid in Iowa, you might win every national show that there is, but unless win at the Iowa State Fair, your goal isn’t accomplished,” she says.

Simon is the youngest sibling among four Pella High School graduates and athletes (Emma, Elsie, and Reece) who have also had great success working with cattle. Boyert says the championship was a team effort among the family and several groups, including Leo and Terry Kruse, as well as Boyert-Core, Coor Cattle, Buck Creek Cattle and Zane Ward.