Age: 15
Hometown: Oronogo, Mo.
Parents: Patrick and Amy Goodknight
Siblings: Trevor and Walker Goodknight
What is your involvement in agriculture?
“We farm 100 acres of beans and wheat. I help work the ground, prepare it for planting and help to plant the crops. My family has a saddle and wagon shop, and I help my dad with the leather work. We make bridles, reins, saddles, and other leather goods.
“We also have an 1890s three-seater buggy that we use to entertain guests at the farm. My involvement in agriculture focuses mostly on my love of horses. We have several Quarter horses on our farm, that we have raised and trained ourselves. Mom and I travel across the country competing in barrel racing and pole bending.”
What is your favorite part of being involved in agriculture/living on a farm?
“My favorite part about living on a farm is getting to ride and train my horses. I feel like they are the most powerful and dedicated animals in the world. They have helped me to have an amazing relationship with my family with all the time we spend together. They have also taught me life lessons such as, patience, responsibility, and commitment.
“My future plans are to go to a junior college in Missouri, and then on to Montana to finish my business degree. After college, I would like to be a financial advisor. I would really like to continue training and competing on my horses in the rodeo life, staying close to my family roots on the farm. But most of all, my passion is with the Lord, so I am going to help with my local church.
What’s the best advice about agriculture you have received from adults?
“The best advice I have received was from my parents. My mom taught me how to care and train horses, and how to ride. “Set your goals and believe in yourself, work hard and give all the glory to God and you will continue to do great things.
“My dad has taught me how to raise crops, and work in the saddle shop. He also says to work hard at what you like and be a good steward of your God given talents and you will have a successful life.”
What advice would you give to other young people who want to be involved in agriculture?
“The advice I would give to others is to enjoy the experience of living on a farm. The fresh worked soil, how it feels on your feet and the smells are not things that everyone will have the opportunity to experience. The world needs agriculture.”
