When Sedan High School sophomore Lakyn Sutton steps into the show ring, she knows the work that goes into getting there started long before the judge ever calls her name.

Sutton has found success in the show ring with her heifer, SMLD Nadia, also known as “Dolly.”

At the Kansas State Fair on Sept. 13, Sutton and Dolly were named Champion Fall Heifer Calf. Dolly is sired by BKMT Just a Dream and out of a Data Bank x 3OAK dam. She was bred by MAD Cattle Company, owned by Dexter and Maddix Small.

The pair also earned Champion Fall Heifer Calf at the Inter-State Fair & Rodeo. Sutton had another individual accomplishment at the event, being named Champion Senior Showman and Champion Maine Heifer.

“I’m really thankful for everyone who has supported me and helped me along the way,” Lakyn said. “My family and Dexter and Maddix have all put a lot of time into helping me with Dolly, and I really appreciate everything they do for me. I wouldn’t be where I am without them.”

Showing livestock requires more than simply leading an animal around a ring. Exhibitors spend time working with their animals, preparing them for competition and learning how to present them to a judge.

Livestock showing is just one of many ways Sutton stays involved in her school and community. She is an All-A Honor Roll student, serves as president of the Sedan FFA chapter and is the secretary of STUCO. She is also the president of Prairie Pride 4-H and participates in volleyball, basketball and softball at Sedan High School.

Between academics, leadership activities, athletics and livestock, Sutton stays busy throughout the year. Her involvement in FFA and 4-H also gives her opportunities to continue developing the skills she uses in and out of the show ring.

Chelsea Dickens, Lakyn’s mom, said she is proud of Lakyn’s accomplishments, but also of the work she puts in to get there.

“We’re always proud when she does well, but we’re even more proud of all the work she puts in to get there,” Dickens said. “We see it at home, at practice and with her schoolwork. She works hard to keep her grades up and be involved in so many different things. When she does well, we know how much time and effort she put into getting there.”

Sutton and Dolly will return to the show ring Oct. 2 at the 94th Kansas Junior Livestock Show in Hutchinson.

Sutton’s success in the show ring has been supported by her family and those who have helped her along the way, including her mom, Chelsea Dickens; dad, Jake Sutton; Robyn and Mary Sutton; sister, Landree; and Dexter and Maddix Small of MAD Cattle Company.

With another major livestock show ahead, Sutton and Dolly have another opportunity to put the work they’ve done together into the ring.