Local Students and Competitors Excel in Talent, Equestrian, and Agricultural Events
WAYNE COUNTY, N.C. –– The Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair concluded its Thursday events with the announcement of winners across talent contests, equestrian shows, and agricultural competitions, showcasing the diverse skills of participants from throughout the region.
Talent Contest Highlights Local Performers
The fair’s talent contest featured impressive performances from students across Wayne County schools, with winners announced in multiple categories spanning grades 6-12.
Vocal and Instrumental Excellence
In the vocal solo category, Liam Rocha from Flores Academy claimed first place in the 6-8 grade division, while Sarah Gurley of Spring Creek High School took top honors in the 9-12 division. Aeryn Ortiz-Chavez from Rosewood Middle School earned first place in the instrumental solo category for grades 6-8.
The vocal group competition saw Nevaeh Goodman and Natalie Nobers from Rosewood Middle School win first place in the 6-8 division. Emma Carlyle and Alaina Lancaster of Wayne School of Engineering secured first place in the 9-12 vocal group category.
Dance and Instrumental Groups Shine
Anna Marie Cox from North Duplin Elementary captured first place in the 6-8 dance solo category, while Isaiah Blanco of Southern Wayne High School placed second in his division.
The instrumental group competition for grades 9-12 featured an exceptional performance by Rosewood High School’s ensemble, with Steven Ash, Yediel Hernandez, Avery Jones, Carlie Jones, Maxton Mooring, Tanner Reaves, Samuel Vernon, and Reagan Whitfield taking first place.
Spring Creek High School dominated the group dance category with Anahi Solis, Selena Perez, Meiling Ponce, Darlene Perez, and Saul Diaz earning first place in the 9-12 division.
Novelty Acts
Molly Grace Ezzell from Wayne School of Engineering won first place in the 6-8 novelty act solo category, while Jacoby Maniscaclo of Southern Wayne High School claimed first in the 9-12 division.
Equestrian Competitions Crown Champions
The Open Horse Show recognized outstanding horsemanship across age divisions, with Goldsboro residents sweeping top honors.
Nolan Morton won junior showmanship for ages 7-13, while Isabella Bauer took first place in the 14-19 age category. Bauer also earned Grand Champion Horse honors, with David Jordan of Goldsboro named Reserve Champion Horse.
Pony, Mule, and Draft Horse Show Results
The Open Pony, Mule and Draft Horse Show featured multiple grand champion categories:
Maggie Lancaster of Pikeville earned Grand Champion Miniature Horse, with Amy Barker of Kinston as Reserve Champion. The pony division saw Barker claim Grand Champion, while Lancaster took Reserve Champion.
Kathy Weissinger of Dunn dominated the mule categories, winning both Grand Champion Mule and Grand Champion Jack/Jennie. Barker earned Reserve Champion Mule, and Harley Graham of Dudley was named Reserve Champion Jack/Jennie.
Kyle Lancaster of Pikeville was awarded Grand Champion Draft Horse.
Agricultural Competitions Recognize Technical Skills
Tractor Operators Contest
The tractor operators contest tested participants’ precision and skill, with Leyton Taylor from Charles B. Aycock High School taking first place. Noe Pineda of Eastern Wayne High School finished second, followed by Jordan Flora of Southern Wayne High School in third place.
Best All-Around Educational Booth
The HVAC program from Southern Wayne High School earned first place for best all-around educational booth. Spring Creek’s FCCLA (Family, Career and Community Leaders of America) program placed second, while Eastern Wayne’s Electrical program took third place.
The Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair continues to provide a platform for students and community members to showcase their talents, agricultural knowledge, and technical skills across diverse competition categories.
