CHILLICOTHE— As friends and family members cheered, Raegan Gilliland was overcome with emotion as she heard her name announced as the 2026 Ross County Fair Queen. Her win comes after a yearlong reign as the 2025 4th attendant to the fair queen.
Look back at the 2025 Winners: New King and Queen crowned to kick off the 2025 Ross County Fair
The annual Queen and King Competition brought 4-H members from around the county on stage, where they competed against each other for the chance to represent Ross County.
The contestants were:
Contestants introduced themselves to the crowd and answered questions about how 4-H has shaped them and how they would help younger members. Questions were asked by emcee Kenton Richter, who said he is proud of all the competitors who have the courage to get on the stage.
“This contest is a really great way to get kids out there, push them out of their comfort zone and help them grow,” said Rickter.
After the questioning was over, the judges tallied their scores and the winners were announced.
The 2026 Ross County Fair King’s Court is:
With only four competitors, Lambert knew he would at least win a seat on the King’s Court, but after what he calls a “botched” interview, he was surprised to hear his name be called as the new king.
The 2026 Ross County Fair Queen’s Court is:
Gilliland said she was not expecting to win but was extremely happy to be crowned queen.
The new King and Queen are looking forward to being part of the event happening this week at the Ross County Fair. Throughout the next year, they will attend various other fairs representing Ross County.
This article originally appeared on Chillicothe Gazette: New Ross County Fair King and Queen named
Reporting by Shelby Reeves, Chillicothe Gazette / Chillicothe Gazette
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Shelby Reeves, Chillicothe Gazette | USA TODAY Network
