Brown County’s own Sadie Wilhelmy and Rylie Cahall proudly represented Ohio at the National 4-H Food Challenge held at the State Fair of Texas. After completing the preliminary round, they advanced to the finals and placed an impressive 6th in the nation!
Their team, The Spice Girls, qualified for nationals after winning the Ohio 4-H Food Challenge in August—marking the first time Ohio has sent a team to this event. Sadie was part of the original team, and Rylie joined as an alternate when an additional team member was needed. Despite being the only team of two and one of the newest teams in the contest, they held their own against groups that had been competing together for years.
Just like at the Ohio 4-H Food Challenge, participants work in teams to create dishes using a predetermined set of ingredients and cooking equipment while calling upon their collaboration and communication skills. Sadie and Rylie dedicated time before the national contest to practice and prepare, showcasing their teamwork, creativity, and quick thinking that the challenge demands of participants. While in Texas, the team also had the chance to explore the State Fair and enjoy some well-earned fun.
Special thanks to Julie Rogers, Brown County 4-H Food Challenge coach, and Kristi Wilhelmy, assistant coach, for their support and guidance to The Spice Girls. Gratitude also goes to the Ohio 4-H Foundation, Bob Evans Farms, and local Brown County donors for making the trip possible.
4-H members who are interested in getting involved as a Food Challenge participant can be on the lookout for more information early next year. For more information on the Ohio 4-H Food Challenge, visit our website.