This is an incredible event! So fun and a big honor the families involved and MOST IMPORTANTLY raises immense money for the Iowa Ronald McDonald Houses. We have been in it three times, so can speak from experience...2006 was our first time, 2008 we were Grand Champions and this year our steer was chosen to be shown as the Governor's steer. Simply for logistics they try to keep it around 25 steers so no, not every county gets a steer in. Once one of sponsors (usually big businesses, alumni associations, county coalitions, etc.) picks your steer, they pay you for it...then it becomes the property of the event. After the show there is then an auction where all 25 steers are sold again to businesses and supporters ...usually around $3000 to $15,000...some higher. All the money goes to the Ronald McDonald Houses of Iowa and usually the steers go to Iowa State to be used in their judging program.
The Charity and promotion of the Iowa Beef industry are the main purpose of the event. The show is simply that.....a entertaining show. A great event all around for everyone involved.
And btw.....it is not political to get chosen...we are basically Joe schmoe nobodies...you just need a good calf