I guess it really depends on what you "need" in order to benefit.
For us
1-Great way for family to spend time together doing an activity that we love
2-Great way to hang out and catch up with friends in the business
3-The calves change so much from show to show, it is a great way to get differing opinions on your animals so that you can go back home and work to improve them, either through feed rations, exercise or what have you.
4-One judge may not like your calf at all and the next one may love it. Going to multiple shows gives you a chance to succeed.
5-Great way for the juniors to work on showing and showmanship. Travelling to multiple shows has improved our juniors abilities as showman and people at the county notice it. Why not constantly practice to improve your craft? It makes a difference in the showring.
4-Good way to experience parts of the state we wouldn't otherwise.
I guess if someone is in this to make money, or get "stuff" then no it would not be beneficial but if you are in it for the big picture and the joy of raising cattle and trying to improve, there is a not a better way for a family to spend time together.
It all depends on what you are looking for and how you approach it. For us it is an amazing experience.
Yes, I would agree with an earlier post that numbers are down in general this year, and I think the economy has so much to do with it.
