Approximately 200 students from 16 schools in the South Central FFA district evaluated broiler carcasses, identified cuts of chicken, candled eggs, and judged live birds as part of a poultry career development event Oct. 18 at Marion County Fairgrounds in Hillsboro.

The Marion FFA Chapter hosted the South Central District FFA contest officiated by Dennis Mason from the University of Arkansas. Cal-Maine Foods of Chase provided some of the chickens used in the contest.

In addition to evaluating chickens and processed parts, participants took a written test and completed team problem solving activities.

Marion FFA members served as group leaders, and helped set up and take down the contest.

Marion’s A team placed sixth overall in the event. Team members competing from Marion included Aaron Molleker, Brody Carroll, Ericka Herzet, Zac Lewman, Brandon French, and Adam Janzen. Marion also fielded a B team in the competition.