The competitions and social calendar is gearing up for a busy winter/ spring 2010 season.
So far, we've had debate, ten-pin bowling, swimming and now it is the turn of the quiz in the competitions limelight. It always amazes me the array of general knowledge YFC members have, both juniors and seniors, and the satisfaction of picking an answer out of thin air adds to the competitive edge.
Examples of questions so far include---
- What piece of sporting equipment is 4inches wide and 38inches long?
- What is the only American state to end in the letter 'k'?
- Which river goes over the Niagra Falls?
- Which English county borders only one other county?
- Which mammal has 4 knees?
On the social side, dinner dances, club parties and county rallies loom on the horizon. As I only joined YFC when I was 20, I've never been on the other side of the fence as a junior member, and so have always been old enough to attend such events.
Within my YFC, the majority of members are now between the ages of 15-19, so hopefully there is now a good succession plan in place to keep the senior members at a healthy number.
I am nearing the upper age limit of YFC, with only a couple of years of eligibility left. However what I have noticed, coming from a non-farming background, is the sense of community and friendship. These are values that seem to be inherent within the industry.
I went to a NFU council meeting the other day and what struck me foremost was the banter and camaraderie between the presidential election candidates. In essence a Young Farmers Club a few years down the line.
If any of the following are in attendance--late night drinking, topical risque jokes and a keen interest and opinion on all matters farming--then it's a good chance YFC has been of an influence!
Oh and if you still need the answers to the above questions, they are---
1. cricket bat 2. New York 3. Niagra 4. Cornwall 5. elephant
