Giant zucchini? Colossal carrots? How about a magnificent quilt or the perfect photograph (a category to be judged by the Cochrane Eagle)? The Old Tyme Bench Show is back at the Cochrane Fair this Aug. 18 to 19 and is on the hunt for new entries into its endless categories of all things baked, crafted, canned, sewed, created and grown. It's year 50 for the annual country competition, presented by the Bearspaw District & Community Fair Association, where the community call is out to children, adults and seniors to put their talents to the test and vie for a prize. Families are also encouraged to take part together – with a $200 cash prize for the top family award (the family who earns the most points through first, second and third-place ribbons). There will also be a $100 scholarship for the 13- to 19-year-old category and a $100 for the best of the "Happy 50th" theme. There will also be gift prizes up for grabs. "We're always looking for new entries," said Sylvia Kovacevic of the Old Tyme Bench Show. "We take entries on the Saturday (Aug. 18) morning until noon and the judging gets started at 1 p.m." Redneck rides (old truck competition), zucchini races, an egg toss and a petting zoo are among the old-fashioned fare on deck for families. This is the third year the Old Tyme Bench Show has been held in conjunction with the Cochrane Fair at the Ag Society grounds. To learn more about the different events and categories of the old-fashioned fair, visit bearspawfair.com. To learn more about the everything going on at the Cochrane Fair, visit cochranefair.com.
