When Tropical Storm Alberto came huffing and puffing toward Alabama, the Memorial Day Classic Steer and Heifer Show at the Lee County Fairgrounds was forecast to be a washout. Competitors were coming from long distances so the decision was made to cancel the show.

And, perhaps, Alberto beefed up the entries in this weekend’s Pike County Invitational Steer and Heifer Show, which is sponsored by the Pike County Cattlemen’s Association.

“The cancellation of the Memorial Day Classic might have helped us a bit,” said Ashley Johnson, a member of the assisting Pike County Cattlewomen’s Association. “Probably, we picked up some entries from those who had planned to participate in the Auburn show and are taking this opportunity to show their animals. We have 70 kids showing and that’s the largest number we have had. Also, we have 101 calves entered and, if they all show up, that will beat last year’s 99, which was our largest number.”

Johnson said the 12th Annual Pike County Cattlemen’s Invitational Steer and Heifer Show will open with the junior showmanship event at 7 p.m. Friday at Cattleman Park Arena. The steer and heifer show is set for Saturday morning and should conclude around noon.

“The Pike County Cattlemen’s Invitational is open to the public and there is no admission charge,” she said. “This show is not a fundraiser. It’s an opportunity for these young people to show their calves. We have some little kids, ages three to five, that are going to show. It’s a great learning experience for all ages under 21. And, the entry money goes back to the kids.”

The Cattlemen’s concession stand will be open on Saturday morning and hamburgers will be the special of the day. The stand will also have beverages and snack items.

Those who want to come and see these kids compete can enjoy the competition and lunch as well, Johnson said.