Ellis County youth win at FWSS&R scramble

FORT WORTH – Cade Nolen of Waxahachie, a member of Ellis County 4-H, caught a calf during the 2024 Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo’s Calf Scramble, earning a $500 purchase certificate for a show heifer and the chance for up to $16,000 in scholarship awards. 

Nolen’s parents are Katy and Charlie Nolen. His award was sponsored by ValleyView Energy LLC.

Two members of Midlothian FFA, Clara Hein and Ella Lonsford, each caught a calf.

Hein’s parents are Wendy and David Hein. Her award was sponsored by Jake Richter – Cowtown Financial Planning. 

Ella Lonsford’s parents are Jennifer and John Lonsford. Her award was sponsored by AgTrust Farm Credit.

One of the stock show’s most iconic and popular events, the Calf Scramble gives 20 students an opportunity to catch 10 calves during one of 22 performances of the legendary Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo. 

Those not catching calves receive a pair of Justin Boots courtesy of the iconic western footwear maker. 

Justin Boots and Texas Mutual Insurance Company are overall underwriters for the legendary Calf Scramble Program.

Since the Fort Worth Calf Scramble began in 1987, nearly 8,000 4-H and FFA members who have caught a calf have been awarded a combined $4.1 million in Heifer Purchase Certificates. 

Students will use the purchase certificate toward the cost of a heifer that they will raise and exhibit at next year’s stock show.