posted on Sunday, August 21, 2016
“This is the last pig I will ever show and I have always wanted to get to the Sale of Champions,” said Lexi Marek, who broke an Iowa State Fair record today when her calico barrow, Phillip, brought $53,500 in the Winners Circle. The pig was bought by Michael Hansen with Iowa Select Farms and Lynch Livestock/Premium Iowa Pork, along with tremendous local support.
“We’re glad to be able to help young leaders like Lexi who have worked hard to accomplish a lifelong dream,” said Jen Sorenson, communications director for Iowa Select Farms. Iowa Select Farms supports youth involved in agriculture through scholarships and supporting numerous 4-H and FFA projects and programs.
Lexi said her family not only raised Phillip, but also Phillip’s mom, dad and their parents too, creating a successful genetic improvement strategy for the Marek’s. Lexi, who is a senior at Iowa State University studying ag communications, said her sister helped feed Phillip during the week days, then she would go home on the weekends to wash, walk and help with feeding. “It was an entire family effort,” said Lexi. “We work really well together and help each other out.” Congratulations Lexi!