Now in its third fun year bringing eager young people into the pork pipeline, the “Oklahoma Pork Partners Derby” is back for the upcoming show season. This experience creates a life-changing opportunity to raise pigs for 4-H and FFA students who would not otherwise have the chance.

47 first-time swine exhibitors-to-be took part in “Derby Draft Day” at Oklahoma State University (OSU) where they selected their pigs from the OSU swine farm animals specifically raised for the program. Participants were all nominated by their local 4-H or FFA advisors who have pledged hands-on assistance over the next several months as the novice livestock exhibitors work to properly raise their selected pigs. During Draft Day the students also participated in workshops, including: biosecurity with Oklahoma Pork's Matti Carlile; nutrition with OSU's Dr. Scott Carter; animal selection with OSU's Dr. Parker Henley; and more.

Throughout the next five months, these students will gain incredible hands-on experience caring for their Derby pigs and learning the hard but meaningful work it takes to raise livestock. The Pork Partners Derby program will culminate next spring at the Oklahoma Youth Expo (OYE) with a specialty swine show specifically for the Derby students and their pigs. Derby participants will also take part in a knowledge test, experience interviews, and other enriching activities to round out their Derby involvement through next March.

The Oklahoma Pork Council is very proud to help expose more passionate students to animal care taking. We are confident some of these students will find a passion for pork and consider staying in our industry long after the 2026 Derby Show at OYE! Click here to learn more about the third annual Oklahoma Pork Partners Derby!