After an incredible first year of learning, the “Oklahoma Pork Partners Derby” is back for 2025. This experience creates a life-changing opportunity to raise pigs for 4-H and FFA students who would not otherwise have the chance.

On Wednesday, 31 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 five months as the novice livestock exhibitors work to properly raise their selected pigs. During Draft Day the students also participated in workshops, including: animal selection with OSU's Dr. Parker Henley; biosecurity with Oklahoma Pork's Matti Carlile; management with OSU's Jim Coakley; and, nutrition from OSU's Dr. Scott Carter.

Throughout the next five months, these students will gain incredible hands-on experience caring for their Derby pigs and learning the fulfilling hard 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.

The Oklahoma Pork Council is very proud to help expose more passionate students to animal care taking. As big believers in the next generation of swine enthusiasts, our board recently voted to sponsor $250 per enrolled student to cover the purchase cost of their Derby pigs. We are confident some of these students will find a passion for pork and consider staying in our industry long after the 2025 Derby Show at OYE!