Auctioneering contest returns to Farmfest to raise 4-H funds

Date Modified: 08/09/2010 3:31 PM

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GILFILLAN, Minn. —The Farmfest Auctioneering Competition will be back for its third year at 3 p.m. Aug. 4 in the Forum Tent.

The contest offers amateur auctioneers the opportunity to test their skills against other auctioneers with the same level of experience.

Participants must be non-professional with less than two years of experience.

Ten to 15 contestants are expected, said Katie Kaehler, associate marketing project manager with Cygnus Farm Shows. "Past competitions have attracted 15 to 18 contestants."

Participants go through round one auctioning off prizes donated by Farmfest exhibitors, Kaehler said. Judges then choose the top five to compete for one more round. The top three contestants receive plaques.

Judging is done by a panel, including contest sponsor Scott Steffes of Steffes Auctioneers, and a few others.

"Prizes auctioned off range from tires to coolers to books to Garmin GPS systems," Kaehler said. "They really vary and depend upon the donated products by Farmfest exhibitors. Values range from as little as $35 to upwards of $500."

Proceeds are donated to area 4-H programs in Minnesota.

"We try to spread it out, and each year one local 4-H program receives the proceeds," Kaehler said.

To participate as an auctioneer, call Melissa Voight at 1-800-827-8007, Ext. 3304. Participation is limited. Farmfest visitors are invited to check out the auction, bid on prizes and help out budding auctioneers and local 4-H programs.