William Head with his Grand Champion Steer. (Photo submitted)
William Head is more than the 4-H member behind this year's Grand Champion Market Steer for Richland County. A sophomore at Richey, he's a dedicated member of the Richey FFA chapter, a proficient welder, a future rancher, and an upstanding role model. Only his second year showing a steer, he pulled all his knowledge and work ethic together to bring a champion to the fair. A Black Angus and Simmental cross, Dumpy, was an easy gainer who converted feed well on William's program. William's mother, Laramie Head, said he spent time daily with the steer and puts that level of effort into all his projects. He loves to see the changes and improvements as his animals grow and learn and works on himself just as rigorously.
On Aug. 26, William was invited to Miles City, MT, for the Champion of Champions show. While he did not add it as a win, he no doubt took a learning experience away. Wyn Reimann, a neighbor and friend who helps William and others with her wealth of livestock knowledge, said he is extremely competitive and always aims to be the best he can be. Last year William's market lamb won Grand Champion at the Richland County Fair, and then placed in the top 5 at Western Junior Nationals, Rapid City, SD. She said great genetics, when a great feed program and a hard-working kid are added, is a recipe for success. William also works for Wyn's father, Bobby Walker, as a farm hand and makes himself indispensable. Both Bobby and William's mother shared William's love for learning all that comes with ranching and the range. Tinkering with equipment, fencing, identifying plants, haying and finding out what it takes to raise the best animals possible all are passions of his.
William doesn't limit his efforts to himself. This fall, he could be found at several local fairs, helping friends and fellow 4-H youth with their animals. He exemplifies the values at the heart of 4-H and FFA and enjoys pouring his quickly growing knowledge into the younger generation. Border Steel purchased his 2023 Grand Champion Steer, and William already has others started for next year's projects. He plans on continuing with the 4-H steer program, and his family and friends look forward to seeing his future successes and growth.
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