For Karlie Kennedy of Adams County, winning Grand Champion Market Barrow at the 2025 Ohio State Fair was more than a trophy, more than a ribbon and more than a place in the record books. It was the pinnacle of a dream her family had been chasing for more than a decade — a dream built on early mornings, long drives, late nights, and the kind of grit that only comes from raising livestock year after year.

“It’s definitely not an easy thing to do,” Karlie said, still sounding a little surprised. “We’ve been working toward this for many years. Last year we were thrilled to be fourth overall, and this year, to come out with Grand Champion… I’m honestly speechless.” Her win is even more remarkable given the scale of the competition. Over 1,000 hogs were entered in the show, with 749 making it t

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